Dave’s Hot Chicken Debuts Its First Chicago Restaurant | Eater Chicago

"An LA-born, celebrity-backed chain that started as a 2017 parking-lot pop-up has opened its first location in Chicago proper, bringing Nashville-style spicy fried tenders and seasoned fries to the Midwest. The menu centers on fried tenders offered in seven heat levels—from “no spice” up to the ominous “reaper” (which requires a waiver)—with sides like macaroni and cheese, fries, and kale slaw plus three milkshake flavors (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) to cool the heat. Operators say the birds are halal-certified and come from the company’s longtime supplier; the 2,500-square-foot counter-service spot seats about 40 inside with some outdoor seating, offers online ordering, and features playful murals of the chain’s mascot in Bulls and Cubs gear. The opening at this North Center address is part of an aggressive local expansion plan (16 Chicago-area sites and additional suburban openings) and ties into a larger franchising push that has already placed locations across the U.S., Canada, and other markets." - Naomi Waxman