I had just finished picking up a few things at Trader Joe's and, by that point, I was absolutely starving. As I was leaving, I noticed a newly opened restaurant--Dave's Hot Chicken. It's clearly a chain, but somehow I'd never heard of it before. Lucky me, because I had no idea what a treat I was in for. I placed my to-go order at the self-service kiosk and waited about 10 minutes in a lively dining room covered in colorful graffiti-style artwork while an eclectic mix of rock and country music played in the background. When my name was called, the real experience began once I got back to my car. First, the fries. They were perfectly golden, crispy, crunchy, and seasoned just right. I dipped them into what I quickly learned is Dave's famous, highly coveted sauce, and the combination was absolutely delicious. I'm not a big bread person and I'm notorious for deconstructing my sandwiches, so I took the chicken from the slider--more like an oversized, juicy chicken tender than a nugget--dipped it in the sauce, and paired it with the fries. It was the perfect bite every time. ***Correction, my order was four sliders ! Had to edit because I forgot to mention the price surprisingly wallet friendly in this current economy!! I was full by the third slider. I ordered the #4 meal, which comes with 4th small sliders and fries. The sliders are served with slaw, pickles, kale slaw, and Dave's sauce unless you customize them. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and satisfying without being too heavy. It turned out to be the perfect snack, and I'll definitely be back. I was not charged for an extra sauce! And the staff were friendly smiling and v professional. You have a great Saturday crew! read more

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This Dave's location isn't bad, but I wouldn't say they're good either. Based on my experience my opinion is that they haven't quite found their operational flow yet. I know this location is fairly new, I'm hoping it improves over time. My review is based on my to-go experience. I was a little pressed for time so I ordered ahead on the app. I wanted to be able to grab food once I was done grocery shopping. I arrived 2-3 minutes before the time given in the app so I anticipated that they'd still be wrapping my order up. After about 10 minutes they let me know that they hadn't made enough of the item that I ordered, and asked if I was okay with them substituting the missing portion with a tender. I didn't really want a tender (thus why there were none in my order), but I was pressed for time so I agreed. I thought that would be a quick fix but it really wasn't, it took another 7 minutes or so. The employees were nice. They communicated the issue and offered an alternate option (the tender). They also apologized for the wait and offered a free drink. I declined the drink because I didn't want the extra sugar, but that was a nice gesture. What was disappointing was that all of the food was cold once I got it. I checked the order quickly to make sure I had everything, but I didn't check the temp. When we started eating the food in the car we realized that everything was cold. Cold chicken, cold fries, cold / solid moz stick. The flavor also tasted off on my chicken. I usually get the hot spice level and this batch didn't have the heat or the flavor that I'm used to with other Dave's locations. I'll probably wait until next year for a follow-up try. read more

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This was my first Dave's Hot Chicken experience at the beginning of the year. While stopping at nearby Trader Joe's on our way home from Lake Tahoe, saw this brand new place that had just opened up. I wasn't too familiar with Dave's so I decided to mosey on in and give them a try. (I had my second experience several weeks later, which was my first review of Dave's.) I got their chicken sliders as they come in pairs and a side of fries and some pickles. Since it was their "Grand Opening" promotion, they were offering a free side to go along with my order. I decided on the deep-fried cauliflower side they called Cauli Bites. While waiting for my order, the interior decoration inside really stands out. It's graffiti-type artwork using spray paint with vibrant colors and themes that are local to the area. It really pops and pleasant to the eyes. I also decided to do some digging about Dave's and this is what I found out: Established in 2017 in the East Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles. Childhood friends were inspired by In-N-Out and decided to do a version for fried chicken. Dave Kopushyan - the chain's namesake - worked and trained under Thomas Keller at The French Laundry and came up with the recipes. The friends scraped up $900 together and started selling them in a parking lot with a portable fryer, picnic tables and a limited menu. They were featured by food blog Eater Los Angeles, and their popularity grew by spread-of-mouth as the lines stretched around for blocks to try their menu. They eventually moved into a brick-and-mortar store in 2018, secured some deals to set for expansion and opened stores all over the country. That's pretty much there is in a nutshell and the rest is history. Oh, and let's not forget about the food. The chicken tenders are cooked exceptionally well as they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The spice level (or lack of) is determined by your preference of your choosing so you can definitely spice things up. If you can handle the heat, then more power to you. The sides of Cauli Bites were nice....and FREE. I'mma leave it at that, but overall, I was impressed. They do chicken right and it's better than KFC. Note: After having my second Dave's experience in another location, I can definitely say they are consistent. It's good fried chicken sammich. read more

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My first time trying Dave's! I love fried chicken sammiches and was happy for the new addition in the TJ's plaza. Interior was spacious with eye-popping, in your face vibrant comic book style art. There were several self order kiosks and ample indoor and outdoor seating. I ordered the mild single slider with cheese fries. It took a while for it to come but there were several ppl before me and glad to know the food was made to order and fresh. I enjoyed my meal - the chicken strip was huge! I do wish they used dark meat but it was tasty and flavorful. Cheese fries were ok, I wanted more cheese. Nice spot to get your fried chicken fix! read more

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I have had better Hot chicken in the past the Mozzarella sticks however are so good! We ordered at the kiosk available and they were very busy so it took about 25 min for us to get our order. We also got the loaded fries which in my opinion were a bit bland. I would comeback just for the mozzarella sticks alone. There is seating available indoors, but we ordered to go. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Pop Rocks Top-Loaded Blue Mixed Berry - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

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So I reviewed this location on an unclaimed Yelp location. Definitely have to bring it over here. So here goes: What a beautiful space. So different from the previous location. We made it for the grand opening. Even tho it was packed, service was quick and courteous. The staff were very friendly and polite enough to explain the menu to first timers. We ordered the Slider with Fries & Dave Bites. Drinks are separate (heads up). No spice still had a little kick, mild was too much for me but Kiddo loved it. Overall a 10/10 experience, the merch with your order takes it to a 20/10. Definitely worth it and will be back. Welcome to Pinole Adding to the review: time your visits when it's not PVHS dismissal. The parking lot, while huge, is always crowded with cars; going around dismissal is a hectic mess- with the addition of teenagers and their parents picking them up. read more

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Visiting when the middle and high schoolers get out of school is the worst time to go to Dave's Hot Chicken. It was crowded and the parking lot was chaos because this location recently opened. I wanted to see what all of the fuss was about. We waited in a line for a while, which gave us a chance to look at the menu and decide. They are a little pricey to me. Check out the prices on the wall menu photo. We ordered a chicken slider with fries to try it out. I took a bite, which was tasty, then went a few doors down for a different type of option. They had great music playing and the inside was decorated with bright and welcoming colors. Check them out. They serve lots of chicken with different levels of heat, sugary drinks, milkshakes, lots of different fries and more. These are definitely calories for teenagers to consume. I'm glad they have another place to go. Enjoy read more

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Food is okay. Price is fair. Service is nice. French fries are hot and crispy, which is my favorite. The chicken isn't anything spectacular, not seasoned enough and kind of dry. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

If you are craving hot chicken sandwich come over. For me the chicken was a bit salty. We ordered #3 - tender and 1 slider with fries. They just opened and the restaurant was very clean and had plenty of seating. The staff was friendly amd helpful. You can order at the counter or at a kiosk inside. Peking is available as well. December 2025. read more

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This was my first time here. I placed my order through the app. Once I received my order it was hot and tasty. I ordered the chicken sliders with fries with mild heat. The service was quick and friendly even during the lunch rush. Parking can be difficult with so many popular businesses nearby so come later before or after dinner to find plenty of parking. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Dining area - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

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I can't believe that there is a Dave's Hot Chicken in Pinole. It is amazing that the shopping center has another eatery place in the busy area. students coming from Pinole Valley High School will enjoy eating at Dave's Hot Chicken. Pinole location has a self kiosk where you can order your food. The El Cerrito location doesn't have a self kiosk. A big advance for Pinole to have a self kiosk instead of going to the counter. The location is a lot bigger than El Cerrito. A busy parking lot just like El Cerrito Plaza. Keep up the good work Dave's Hot Chicken. You will do a great job in Pinole. read more

My man had been dying to try this spot and they did not disappoint. Chicken is dang tasty and giant portions! The restaurant is clean and the staff friendly and helpful. Don't go there if you're in a rush though, this place is always packed and the parking lot is a nightmare. read more

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First time at Dave Hot Chicken in Pinole, I used the app to order, the staff was very friendly and helpful. My food was ready when I arrived. The place was clean very bright and inviting. I got a tender slider combo, tried to get it with Mac & cheese ( didn't have it) settled with fries. The chicken was tender and had a lot of flavor, even the fries had flavor and very crisp. The milkshake were thick and tasty and the slushes were refreshing. It wasn't too busy when I went on a Saturday around 5:30p. Just beware and not go when school lets out it'll be busy. If you're looking for some chicken tenders with a lot of flavor get it hot or not, also I forgot the tenders are big. Check out Dave's Hot Chicken. read more

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Came in on a Friday night with the family. I am guessing this was the grand opening night. It was very busy. Lots of people inside. We were greeted and had our orders taken right away. After paying we noticed a sign about getting merchandise with purchases and inquired we got some reusable bags and some chickens you can attach to your phone. My family got the slider meals. They were happy with them. I got the top loaded fries they were good. Manager was nice and gave my son a beanie cap when he inquired about them. Overall we were happy with our meal and experience we will be back read more

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Came in with a friend to check out this new Dave's Hot Chicken location, and I'm glad we did. I've been to Dave's before, but I wanted to see how this local spot compared and it definitely delivered. Ordering was super easy since they offer both kiosks and the option to order with someone at the counter. The seating is casual with plenty of space, making it a great spot to hang out without feeling crowded. I ordered the chicken slider with fries and extra pickles (because I love pickles). The chicken was juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. Dave's is always consistent with their seasoning, and this location kept that same quality, plus it's halal! The service was great, too. The woman who helped us at the register was friendly and welcoming I believe she runs this location. She even ended up making a cameo in one of the photos I took, which honestly added a fun and authentic touch to the experience. Overall, great food, smooth service, and a solid local addition. I'll definitely be back. read more

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Parking in the area is a bit congested. Nice customer service. Spacious artsy interior. Thumbs down to the high top tables as the chairs are uncomfortable. Small menu which is primarily chicken tenders. Seasoning is added outside of the batter. The light mild seasoning is still kind of hot and there is a bit of sweetness that I was not a fan of. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Chicken - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

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I ordered a mild chicken tender slider. It was not at all mild. The menu should include mild, like no heat, for those dining with people who enjoy the spice. Also chicken tenders are not usually as large as these. Not sure where they get their chicken. But the place was clean and staff was polite. Metal chairs with side supports look new and pretty but are very uncomfortable. read more

I've been wanting to try Dave's forever so I was pleasantly surprised to see one opening one opening in Pinole. I finally made it in and I wasn't disappointed. I was warmly greeted upon entering. There was a bit of a line, but order kiosks were available so I ordered there. I waited for about 5 minutes for my food. I had the regular loaded bites with slaw and sauce on the side. The chicken was good with a bit of spice and crunch. There was a lot of cheese sauce on the fries so they were a little soggy but that's to be expected. The slaw was actually pretty good. I will definitely be back. read more

Ordered through DoorDash the fries are suppose to be subbed for Mac and cheese I also ordered an extra Mac and cheese and it was not in my bag Barely any sauce read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - This is how it came barely any sauce and the fries are suppose to be Mac and cheese - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

I have been a Dave's Hot Chicken customer for about two years and order a few times a week. Today, I placed an order with the 2714 Pinole Valley Rd location--my first time ordering from this specific branch. I asked for two extra Dave's Hot Chicken sauces, just as I always do at other locations, but the employee was not polite like the staff at the other branches; she told me she couldn't give me more than one and that I would have to pay for them. I explained that this wasn't the usual policy and that I order frequently. The employee was a woman who acted quite unprofessionally--as if she were new to the job--and was not courteous. I don't think I'll be visiting this location again. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

I was at Rasing Cane's in Fairfield.. So, the next week my son wanted to try Dave's.. I did some research before going. When I did arrived I was at kiosk about to order.. But after looking through the kiosk I rather order with a real person glad I did.. She was very pleasant even thou she was busy got straight to the point.. I would have rated it 5 stars if that Macaroni & cheese wasn't that watery big miss.. The chicken was on point juicy & very flavorful.. The fries was seasoned very heavy but I like that taste.. My son which was 8 yrs old I ask him did u like Dave's more then Cane's he said I like Cane's sauce but I rather have Dave's chicken..Lmao Both places is good if u like less flavor then Raising Cane's but for me u can't go wrong either or.. Dave's is alot pricer for drinks & 2 meal combos but Dave's gives u more for what your paying for.. read more

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Goated dave's place with the best owners! Would come again!! The chicken was cooked really well. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Vibes - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

Good to have Dave's in the Pinole El Sob area. Solid sandwich, and detail spiced levels help with getting it just right. Fries are undernoticed but of the chicken sandwich spots theirs have the most flavor. Decor also nice per usual. Only challenge is parking in this busy shopping center that includes Trader Joe's. But that also makes it convenient for other errands. read more

First time trying this place out. I ordered the dave's trio. Everything from the mozzarella and chicken was VERY SALTY like tasting the beach water. But customer service in the front was A+. She was very attentive and nice. Kudos to her. read more

Roniyah was so awesome and very nice. She was detailed and explained the menu when questions came up. The food is great and restaurant very clean. Love the chicken!!!!! read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

I went to Dave's Hot Chicken thinking "How spicy could it be?" Dave looked me in the eyes and said, "Bet." My mouth is on fire, my soul left my body, and I'm somehow already planning my next visit. The chicken is crispy, juicy, and seasoned like it's holding a personal grudge. Fries were solid emotional support. Pam was chill while I questioned all my life choices. 10/10, would suffer again. read more

Service is amazing. Food came out fresh, hot, and flavorful. Amazing spicing and fries. Will definitely come here when craving it!! The vibe is incredibly amazing and the music playing is always rocking. Good store all around read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Daves Hot Chicken. Tender and fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Pinole, California

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$16.52 for 1 slider with fries and 1 mozarella stick. Food tasted excellent, value was average, service was POOR. Ambiance was above average. Renaya, the shift leader on 4/24/2026 9:24p, let my order sit on the counter before calling it out. When I asked her why she let my food sit so long before calling it out, she said she was busy working her station. "Busy eating?" I said, because she kept scooping more toppings into her custom top-loaded shake and eating it while my takeout order sat there. She said the food was only sitting there 3 or 4 minutes and it shouldn't be cold but if it was, they would remake it. I didn't have another 30 minutes to wait for that. TLDR: local service is poor with no accountability, but food tasted excellent! For the optimal Dave's Hot Chicken experience, I recommend the locations at El Cerrito Plaza, or Midtown Oakland. read more

Food: 5/5 Service: 5/5 Ambiance 5/5 Had the two sliders w/cheese = fire. Mac and cheese was okay. But the stars of the show were Ruby and Ellie. Amazing service and the restaurant was immaculate, not a single piece of trash or anything disorganized, at all. Ellie also let me try the orange cream (highly recommend) and gave a wonderful run down of the menu since it was my first time there. I hope the manager sees this so they know how great of a job they did! read more

Knocking this down to a 4 stars because the service lady was really pushing for a 5 stars even though it wasn't deserved.

So glad to finally have a Hot Dave's in the area, and that it stays open late! The food is delicious and the staff is so friendly, especially Rubi at the front register! read more

Came in on a late Tuesday night and Cam took our order. We didn't know what to get and he was extremely helpful with presenting options to us. I would 100% recommend this location. Not only is the food great, but the service is out of this world. Thanks Cam! read more

Fellow Muslims be warned, they will try to entice you to come in under the premise of being "100%" halal, which is true, but a major caveat exists as it is MACHINE SLAUGHTER meat, which is basically haram to real practicing Muslims. To each their own but just thought I would put it out there. read more

Food is fresh and very good. Will definitely go again. The food is spicy and that's what you like then go for the hot

Great service provided my Pam H. She was friendly and helpful. The food was great and the place is clean. Great job

First time at Dave's and it was good. Megan was awesome! She was super friendly and helped me with my order, I got the hot chicken strips and fries. The fries are good Check Em out! read more

Came here twice. Both time took over 30 minute for my take out. The second visit was on a Wednesday night, only 1 cashier doing it all. Smdh read more

The music is way too loud. Cannot even hear my family members. Service is fine, and the food tastes good.

Dave's hot chicken has better customer service than any restaurant in the Pinole plaza. A young lady helped us at the register she was awesome! Don't forget to tip everyone! read more

The food here is delicious. It isn't super greasy and they aren't stingy with sauce or honey packs like other places are. My family and I have ordered three times from here. On opening night we signed up for the Dave's app to get loyalty rewards and accumulate points but sadly it doesn't work. I made a complaint to management about this and all I got was a "sorry to hear that" with no resolve or any offer for a solution. Hence why I cannot give 5-stars with confidence. The app even tracks my previous orders but I have no loyalty rewards points which defeats the purpose of even having the app to begin with. The place is kept clean and employees are always on top of cleaning tables after the customers leave as I observed upon waiting for my orders. read more