Dave's Hot Chicken has quietly slid into Gastonia, opening a new spot on East Franklin Boulevard yesterday and bringing its Nashville-style tenders, sliders and milkshakes a little closer to Charlotte-area fans who chase the chain's seven heat levels and late-night hours.
According to the Charlotte Observer, the restaurant is now serving at 2230 E. Franklin Blvd. The Gastonia outpost runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and stays open until midnight on Friday and Saturday. The paper also reported that this is Dave's fifth location in the greater Charlotte area, and noted the shop's Instagram hype post, which declared, "we're super excited about this one, so tag absolutely EVERYBODY who needs to know and see you on Friday."
What's on the menu
The chain's calling cards are its sliders and tenders, which come in seven spice levels that range from "no spice" all the way up to "reaper." Diners can round things out with sides like mozzarella sticks, saucy nuggets, loaded mac and cheese and fries. There is also a thick-cut breaded cauliflower option on the menu, aptly named "Dave's Not Chicken," according to Dave's Hot Chicken.
Where this fits locally
The Gastonia restaurant joins existing Dave's locations in Wedgewood, University City and Plaza Midwood, along with a nearby shop across the state line in Rock Hill, South Carolina, the Charlotte Observer reported. Industry coverage has framed the Gastonia debut as part of a larger growth streak for the brand. QSR Magazine noted that Dave's opened eight restaurants in a single day this week.
Inside the Gastonia shop
Local reporting describes the interior as a mashup of bold graffiti-style artwork and subtle nods to Gaston County's textile roots, a design meant to stitch the national chain into the neighborhood's story. Store leaders told reporters they are eager to get to know regulars and settle into the East Franklin corridor, according to the Gaston Gazette.
