Spicy chicken aficionados in San Diego can look forward to a Texas-sized dose of heat with the arrival of Houston TX Hot Chicken, set to spice up the Gaslamp Quarter from Saturday, August 24. According to FOX 5 San Diego, the new spot at 238 Fifth Avenue promises a medley of piquant poultry dishes, including a fan-favorite: a cheesy hot chicken sandwich and an inventive rendition featuring hot chicken wedged between Belgian waffles. Franchise owners Christian & Melissa Couch expressed their excitement, saying, "We cannot wait to bring our distinct flavors and organic, quality chicken to San Diego".
Boasting a menu that ranges from no spice to the daredevil "Houston We Have A Problem" or HWHAP — the latter requiring diners to sign a waiver due to its intensity — HHC's San Diego franchise will also celebrate its opening with an HWHAP Spice Challenge Contest. As reported by San Diego Eater, contestants can compete for a $1,000 prize by finishing three of the restaurant's spiciest chicken tenders within a three-minute cooldown, during which no liquid is allowed.
The Houston-based chain has been swiftly expanding since its inception in 2021 by race car driver Edmond Barseghian, with 20 locations now dotting the U.S., including two others in California. The chain presents a quirky blend of the traditional and the experimental: chicken paired with slaw, fries, or a surprising side of Belgian waffles and an array of housemade lemonade flavors to temper the fire of their offerings.
For those looking to satiate their cravings at all hours, Houston TX Hot Chicken will cater to night owls and early birds alike, operating from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and extending to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. In addition to their signature chicken delights, the menu will feature other less incendiary choices, such as chicken tortilla soup and Texas Caesar salad, complete with white corn and sun-dried tomatoes, recounted San Diego Eater.
Looking forward, HHC's roadmap includes launching at least two more establishments in San Diego for 2025, eyeing neighborhoods like Kensington, North Park, and La Jolla among possible locations.
