The sizzle of something new is cooking in Rochester, and it's not just hype—it’s Dave’s Hot Chicken. With its roots in a pop-up parking lot stand and a recipe that blends bold spice with cult-like fandom, the Nashville-inspired brand has officially landed in southern Minnesota.
The restaurant, now open near Candlewood Suites on Broadway Avenue, brings more than just heat to the local food scene. It represents a blend of entrepreneurial grit and real estate savvy, thanks to a collaboration with longtime broker Roger Lenihan. “He’s been in the game forever and had all the contacts to help make this real.
But this isn't just a story about fried chicken—it’s a story about connections. “Every Dave’s story you’ll see… that’s the magic: friends helping friends.” The location and opportunity came together through relationships built over decades.
As customers stream through the doors, some for the spice and others for the story, it’s clear that Dave’s Hot Chicken isn’t just a trendy new tenant. It's a symbol of how vision, timing, and a good network can bring bold flavor—and big business—to Rochester.
This article was made with assistance from AI