Houston TX Hot Chicken, the Las Vegas-based chain specializing in sandwiches, salads, and loaded fries, is preparing to debut in San Diego at 238 5th Ave.
After expanding throughout the West Coast for the past three years, the company is finally ready to enter San Diego. Franchise owners Christian and Melissa Couch recently submitted a liquor license application to open the first Houston TX Hot Chicken in Gaslamp Quarter. The company’s website lists this location as under construction and expected to open in Spring 2024. The next closest locations are Bakersfield, Fresno, Las Vegas, and Tempe.
When the location opens, customers can expect mouthwatering hot chicken sandwiches smothered in signature house sauce, served on a brioche bun with fries, pickles, and slaw. The restaurant offers seven different spice levels, ranging from ‘no spice’ and ‘honey butter’ to ‘liftoff’ and ‘Houston, We Have a Problem.’ Houston TX Hot Chicken also offers eight dipping sauces, four made fresh daily, and beverage options that include milkshakes, beer, and cocktails.
Last month, Savory Funds, a food-focused venture capital firm, announced that it is adding Houston TX Hot Chicken to its portfolio, allowing the restaurant to fund further expansion, according to a press release. Founders Houston Crosta and Edmond Barseghian have already grown to 11 locations in six states with the help of franchising, but with this investment, the company will be able to reach more parts of the country faster than before.
“Savory has been monitoring this flavor segment for the past five years. We have met with and evaluated many brands attempting to do what HHC has already accomplished, and we are thrilled to make this strategic investment,” Andrew K. Smith, co-founder and managing partner of Savory Fund, said in a press release. “We are confident in HHC’s potential to lead the Nashville hot chicken wave, particularly as we look toward franchising. Edmond and his team are ready to turn a local hotspot from Las Vegas into a national success story through additional corporate growth and franchising.”
