★★★☆☆ (3 stars)
Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a fiery and flavorful experience that may satisfy the chicken enthusiast. But, does it live up to all the hype it’s received since coming to Omaha? Let’s dive into my recent visit!
I typically make and bring a salad to work for lunch on workdays, but was unable to on the day I chose Dave’s. By 1:00 pm I was getting very hungry and decided to give this popular chain a try. Because of the long lines (and wait) I had heard about I decided to order my meal online and take it home where I would finish the workday. Their online ordering was clear, simple, and quick – that’s a BIG plus for me as other restaurants make it more work than it’s worth.
When deciding what to try, I thought the Dave’s #1 (Two Chicken Tenders with Fries) would give a good sampling of what they offer.
When I arrived around 1:15 I found no line, though the parking lot was completely full. The service that welcomed me was efficient and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. The honey I requested online was missing from the bag and container, but I wasn’t going to let that affect my experience much.
Dave’s #1 comes with a side order of fries, a few pickles, and the tenders sit on two pieces of plain white bread. A container of “Dave’s Sauce” is included for dipping the chicken and sides. More about that sauce later.
First and foremost, I have to applaud their chicken strips. They were large, juicy, and packed with a delightful burst of flavor. There are six levels of heat from which you can order at Dave’s as well as plain. Because it’s called Dave’s HOT Chicken, I chose the “Hot” spice level and wasn’t sure if it was a dry spice or a sauce like wings.
Aside from the mouthwatering chicken strips, I found their sides to be a bit hit-and-miss. Unfortunately, the fries were a letdown as they were rather limp and somewhat soggy. I would have preferred them crispy to complement the succulent chicken. Also, the bread served alongside the meal was unremarkable. Unlike the amazing carb-filled crack that compliments meals at Raising Cane’s, Dave’s bread was plain and similar to the old Wonder Bread we grew up eating as kids. Had it been as special as Cane’s toasted bread, it may have elevated the overall dining experience.
Nonetheless, the stellar chicken alone makes Dave’s Hot Chicken a worthwhile destination for those craving a spicy kick. And I mean “SPICY!” I drank almost two full tall containers of ice water. Yowza!
Dave’s Sauce – If I were to name a sauce after myself I would put more imagination and energy into it. The sauce is bland when compared to the chicken. I tried it on the fries as well and was unimpressed. In a day when sauces are an important draw to the chicken meal (ala “Cane’s Sauce” and “Chick-fil-A Sauce”), Dave’s Sauce failed.
This all said, if you’re in the mood for bold and fiery chicken strips that pack a punch, Dave’s Hot Chicken is definitely worth a visit. Not worth waiting in line for, though, and be sure to manage your expectations when it comes to the sides. From what I hear, Dave’s chicken sliders are even more delicious and if I return, I will likely just order one or two of them without fries.
What do you think of Dave’s? I would love to hear your experience and thoughts!
