WHAT CAME FIRST: THE CHICKEN OR THE DREAM?

Like so many American dreams, ours had a humble beginning. Three childhood friends in their 20’s who scraped together $900. Our not-so-grand opening was in 2017, in a parking lot in East Hollywood, with a couple of folding tables and a portable fryer under the night sky.

But thanks to Instagram, people came. And tasted. And came back with their friends. Then, the buzz brought a reporter from EATER/LA. He took a bite of his first Dave’s Hot Chicken tender, and our world changed. The next day he posted, “East Hollywood’s New Late Night Hot Chicken Stand Might Blow Your Mind.”

So much was born for us in that moment. The lines went down the street and around the block.

To all the people who stand in line for hours, outside, waiting for that insane taste, do this: Reach out. Keep us honest. And keep coming back for that addictive, mind-blowing experience, just like the first bite.

Oh, and if you ever wonder whether your dreams can come true, remember us. Some guys in an East Hollywood parking lot, who started with $900 and a dream of our own.

Dave, Arman, Tommy, Gary