Dave’s Hot Chicken Fires Up Expansion in Kansas

May 15, 2026 // Franchising.com // WICHITA — Dave’s Hot Chicken is turning up the heat in Wichita and Manhattan, Kansas. The new locations located on the East Side of Wichita in the Greenwich Place shopping center, with an anticipated opening in August 2026. Additional restaurants are planned in Manhattan, Lawrence, Topeka, and West Wichita, Kansas, with openings expected throughout 2026.

The fast-casual concept, which originated in Los Angeles, is bringing its Nashville-style hot chicken to the category’s founding market, while continuing to expand its presence across Kansas. As the brand enters Wichita, it aims to honor the roots of hot chicken while introducing its own take on bold flavor and fast-casual execution.

Longtime Dave’s Hot Chicken operators and brothers Jason and John Hotchkiss, alongside their brother-in-law, Paul Gorman, are leading the expansion of the group’s portfolio. The multi-generational group also includes Paul’s son, Pierce Gorman, and his wife, Hannah, who will support the new venture and oversee the entire operations of the new restaurants.

“This opportunity represents a major step forward for our family as we continue to build a multi-generational business together,” said Jason Hotchkiss. “What started as a new venture to grow with Dave’s Hot Chicken has evolved into something much bigger, establishing a lasting family legacy. We’re thrilled to expand into Manhattan and Wichita and to bring the energy and culture of Dave’s Hot Chicken to each of these communities.”

Dave’s Hot Chicken has captured the hearts and taste buds of guests worldwide with its crave-worthy menu. Specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken tenders, sliders, and bites with spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to “Reaper,” each restaurant also serves sides of house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac & Cheese, and crispy, seasoned Fries or Cheese Fries.

“Expanding into three different regions with an experienced team is a vast milestone for us,” said Jim Bitticks, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “Jason, John, Paul, and Pierce bring a deep understanding of the local market and a passion for great food and customer service. Their ability to scale operations and build strong community connections makes them the perfect partners to introduce Dave’s Hot Chicken to these areas, and we can’t wait for new communities to experience our bold flavors and mind-blowing hot chicken.”

Founded by Arman Oganesyan and classically trained chef Dave Kopushyan, along with brothers Tommy and Gary Rubenyan in early 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken opened as a parking lot pop-up and later established brick-and-mortar locations. The brand offers a robust business model, including national and local marketing support, proven systems, manuals, operating procedures, and assistance with site selection.

SOURCE Dave’s Hot Chicken

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