The fried chicken craze sweeping Tampa Bay is heading north, with Dave’s Hot Chicken set to open its fourth regional location in Pasco County in April.
Local franchise owner Ian Liberman confirmed the upcoming location at 13446 Pine Gap Spur in Odessa, marking the second Dave’s in Pasco, joining the existing Wiregrass Mall spot. Tampa is already home to two locations, making the new opening another step in the chain’s rapid expansion across the Bay area.
Liberman and his brother Adam, who also own several Fuzzy’s Taco Shops, previously announced plans to launch eight Dave’s Hot Chicken franchises in Tampa Bay. The popular west coast chain, known for its fiery fried chicken and bold flavors, first landed in the area in July 2023, debuting on Fowler Avenue near the University of South Florida. A second Tampa location followed later that year on Dale Mabry Highway, just south of Raymond James Stadium.
The Bay area is just part of Dave’s growing Florida footprint, with 14 locations statewide listed on its website.
Dave’s Hot Chicken is famous for its customizable spice levels, ranging from mild to the daunting Reaper, which comes with a warning: “(Yes it is hot!) Eat it at your own risk.” Customers can dial up the heat on any of the chain’s tenders, sliders, or bites. For those who take on the challenge, relief comes in the form of loaded milkshakes, featuring indulgent flavors like Oreo, M&M, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
With its signature spicy chicken and growing popularity, Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to bring the heat to Tampa Bay.