Massachusetts: Dave’s Hot Chicken Continues To Expand
Let’s check back in on the fastest growing restaurant chain in America. The last we spoke about this, Dave’s Hot Chicken had four Massachusetts locations with another on the way. A few short months later and that number is now up to eight locations.
“A California-based chain of dining spots focusing on Nashville hot chicken has opened yet another outlet in the local area, and this is its second within Boston itself,” NBC Boston reported. You can’t help but put the emphasis on “yet another.”
A simple Google search of Dave’s Hot Chicken will produce dozens of news results detailing their restaurants opening in cities all around the country. This is all part of a massive expansion effort launched last year. In fact, last May, NWI Times had reported that Dave’s Hot Chicken had plans to open 70 new locations globally.
The Menu
Dave’s Hot Chicken stays in its lane, and simply masters the chicken game. They offer only tenders and sliders. However, this is where the differentiator kicks in. Hungry guests then choose a heat level. The options range from “no spice” to “reaper,” which is the hottest option, and requires a signed waiver. In between the scale has five additional options. Fries, mac and cheese, and slaw can also be added.
Here Are The Dave’s Hot Chicken Locations In Massachusetts
- Boston – 10 District Ave
- Boston – 123 Stuart Street
- Braintree – 30 Forbes Blvd
- Chelmsford – 40 Drum Hill Rd
- Framingham – 341 Cochituate Road
- Newton – 141 Needham Street
- Saugus – 890 Broadway
- Woburn – 300 Mishawum Rd
Dave’s Hot Chicken can’t be missed. Literally. The artistic design of each location features colorful graffiti and loud signage that make the experience both fun and engaging.
In addition, some serious investors have supported their efforts. A-List celebrities, including Drake, Michael Strahan, Samuel L. Jackson, and Maria Shriver are among the famous names who have backed Dave’s so far.
Foods You Should Probably Skip Air Frying
Some people can’t live without their air fryers, while others consider them to be glorified convection ovens. First things first, air fryers aren’t deep fryers. Many people use them as an alternative that can have similar results, but they’re just not the same. Air fryers circulate very hot air around your food, and that heat penetrates the food, achieving crispiness without a lot of or any oi at all.
Why do some people choose not to hop on the air frying train?
Some experts have identified cancer risks related to high levels of certain chemicals found in some air fryers. Consumer Notice reported that Several models of air fryers contain polyfluorinated molecules, also known as “forever chemicals,” in the nonstick coating of the basket. They also mention that scientific studies have established the health risks of exposure to high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), showing links to health problems including infertility, hormone disruption, and some types of cancer.
They do suggest purchasing an air fryer with stainless steel or glass coatings to reduce PFAS exposure.
WebMD reported that in one study air frying fish raised the amount of a substance called “cholesterol oxidation products” (COPs). COPs form when the cholesterol in meat or fish breaks down during cooking. Studies connect these substances to coronary heart disease, hardening of the arteries, cancer, and other diseases. But there is a workaround. You can lower the amount of COPs when air frying fish by adding fresh parsley, chives, or a mixture of the two. They said that these herbs act as antioxidants to reduce the COPs in air-fried foods.
Then some people may avoid air fryers altogether due to mess and buildup that’s hard to clean or get to, uneven cooking, limited food space, or the fact that there are better or more efficient ways to cook.
On the other hand, many people love air fryers because they are quick, easy to use, and use less oil than deep frying.
If an air fryer is the latest addition to your kitchen appliance lineup, you may want to skip using it with certain foods.
Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.