I LOVE me some Dave's and was sooo happy to see one open in my hometown of Tustin! Now I can get my fix whenever I feel the craving coming! I popped by the new location opening weekend and everything was running like a well oiled machine! The food came out promptly, lots of smiles from staff and everything tasted as yummy as it always has! Definitely a bit win for Tustin! read more

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Yes I know, ANOTHER one of these chicken places popping up like wildfire or pesky weeds however you want to look at it. Although oops, now that I'm thinking about this during the light of day, both these analogies are negative, especially in So. Cal, but you get what I mean. I saw that it was the grand opening and saw photos of rubber chicken key chains posted on yelp so we wanted to get in on that. Of course, when I finally got in, they were all out, booo. We normally don't eat at these places too often because 1. we are so sick of these places and 2. It's all deep fried and unhealthy. However, we were in the area and saw a good sized crowd and decided to give it a try. To-go -Dave's #2 $13: 2 sliders 1 Extra hot and 1 Medium Price wise, it's a good deal! There are 2 sliders but the chicken size was big and generous making one meal shareable for 2. My medium wasn't spicy for me, so I could've gone up to Hot. The Extra hot was really hot! So next time I know the spicy level. At first bite I didn't feel the heat, but it definitely builds with each bite. Lover wants Reaper next time, neither of these were hot enough for him. I love how the exterior of this chicken, it was unlike any other spicy chicken sandwiches I've had. The exterior wasn't a typical heavy batter but more like it was lightly coated with corn starch maybe? The batter is light and crisp, I love it! Even the white meat chicken was juicy and I hate white meat! My only complaint is the batter is salty, but again, we eat light on the salt so I think it's perfect for the average person. I don't say this often with these spicy chicken sandwich places but I would say it for this place. Although, I'm not sure how much weight that carries because I don't normally eat at any other chicken sandwich places. The price, the batter light and crisp, and the chicken juicy! My 3 criteria for chicken sandwiches. read more

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Hello , Dave....I'm not sure how this chains are opening everywhere. We were so excited that it finally opens a store in Tustin. We ordered one slider and one tender with medium spicy. OMG, that was the most salty + over paprika fried chicken I have ever had. The sandwich is ok with pickles and sauce, the saltness didn't hit me yet. The bread is just ok, the sauce is nothing special, can't compete with canes chicken or chicken fill A at all. Then when i started to take a bite of the tender, full mouth of salt and paprika....... I couldn't eat it. During this pregnancy, I had multiple cravings to fried chicken and this is the first time i puke twice because of fried chicken. Food came out quickly and service is very good but never again, sorry. read more

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

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ITS FINALLY HERE!! We've been anticipating the opening ever since we saw it getting built... finally, the day had come! Menu consists of 3 "main" orders: chicken tenders, 2 sliders, or 1 slider & 1 tender. Sides include: fries, Mac n cheese, slaw, etc. You can pick your spiciness level.. reaper (hottest) to none (no hot). Mild was waaaaaaaaaaay to hot for me, BUT SO GOOD. It was burning my mouth but I kept wanting more. Definitely worth the wait!!! read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - 2 chicken sliders - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

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This is my second time at a Dave's. The first was during COVID when there was no inside dining. It was nice eating inside to enjoy my meal. Today is the official grand opening day. People were lined up an hour early. I ordered the two piece tender with fries and a side of Mac and cheese. The heat level was extra hot and Reaper. The tenders were juicy and flavorful. The Reaper spice was weak. It needs to be kicked up a notch or two. The Mac and cheese was very good. Service was great. All the employees had a high energy level and were happy. There's plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Parking is no problem too. I'll be back. read more

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Good chicken, got it to go, medium spice, the bread was wonderbread with a little butter on it. For the size of the meal I wouldn't say it's bad, it's not great either. They do have some good options, wanted a little spice and didn't really get it, I was sad considering it's Dave's hot chicken. But now I know you have to go up in spice level if you actually want spice read more

Dave's, you've changed...why??! If you consider it to be one of the pioneers in the spicy chicken sandwich game before all the mom-and-pops got in on it, their current product doesn't even stand a chance. The chicken pieces are diminutive, the spice level below Reaper is medium-spicy at best, and, most of all...what happened to the slider buns??? Untoasted, un-buttered, absolutely zero memorability factor. Like the bland version of Hawaiian buns...not good. There's just so much competition now that if Dave's doesn't revise its standards soon, the chain is going to become a dying breed with all the local joints bringing their absolute A-game. Thanks for reading! ^-^ read more

The service was good. And the food was also good. I was in & out quickly. My order was ready when I arrived.

This place was absolutely delicious! Simple menu! The food was fire, the service was great a last-minute stop turned into a delicious meal! I will absolutely be coming here again! read more

This is such a bummer, have eaten here several times before and I was so disappointed tonight. I always get the tenders no spice, before that ment the same seasoning with no spic, now they don't even put the seasoning. No spice equals no flavor. Not even salted and it was hard on the outside. I am very sad to know that this is now how they making the chicken with no spice. read more

I was over the moon when I saw Dave's opening in my area. As a double bonus, it replaced Togo's, which I never liked anyway! I wrote extensively about the Dave's in Santa Ana, off of Bristol. All the goodness applies here as well, so I'll try not to be too repetitive. A while back, I made a weekly trip to try a different Nashville hot chicken joint and reviewed as many as I could. Many were good, a few were meh, and in the end Dave's came out on top. I don't mind a visit to Jay Birds or Hotties (even if just for the pancake biscuits!) and I'm waiting for Clyde's grand opening... but I LOVE DAVE'S!!! The staff is always super friendly, the graffiti art is incredible, the food is reasonably priced relative to its competitors, and the food is consistently good. The ratio of chicken to bun is perfect, the comeback sauce is spot on, the pickles are tangy and crunchy, and the chicken is crunchy on the outside and tender inside. I've been nearly a dozen times and it's always better than I remembered. Yesterday was a rough day and I headed to Dave's to brighten my mood. The day still sucked, but at least it ended in a high note. Thanks Dave's!!! read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Two Dave's #2 2 Sliders w/ Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

Wowww!!! First time ordering chicken fingers here. I noticed it didn't come with the dipping sauce. I asked the girl for some sauce and she said it's $.49 What the hell? read more

I've seen this place popping all over. Finally stopped by to try one of their spicy sandwhiches and I'm so glad I did! It's spicy, crunchy, juicy and satisfying. It's one of those casual fast luxury that I'm happy they exist that will be considered my happy comfort food when I have cravings. read more

This was my first time coming, I definitely would come back Brittney was super helpful she gave me a variety of Options to eat, she made feel comfortable and pleasant the whole time she was helping she had a smile on her face. 10/10 would try again. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Yummy! - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

I've been very impressed with this location of Dave's Hot Chicken. It's a large chain but the quality of food and service has been amazing the three times I've picked up food from them. And I'm not easy to please when it comes to fried chicken especially hot chicken. Every time I've ordered from them, the meat has been juicy and flavorful (I don't even like white meat), and the heat level has been what I expect. I usually get very hot and sometimes reaper to have some fun. When I lived in LA/Pasadena, I only got hot chicken from Howlin Ray's. But now that I'm in OC, Dave's has been the best substitute. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - The very hot sandwich. Just the right amount of heat for me. Too much for my wife though. - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

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When I first had Dave's I thought it was delicious well seasoned and sloppy but quality. It's been about a year and a half since the last time I had it. I decided to order it for my family through the Dave's Hot Chicken app. - Food pickup 2:24 - arrived at 2:30 ( 2) 2slider combo - (L) M&M chocolate Shake - (L) Oreo vanilla Shake - (2) Orange creamsicle drink - (L) drink - $70 including Tax. Picking up my food was a breeze and left home. I was splitting the two shakes into four cups so my kids can share. Both shakes were completely melted and the toppings were completely stuck together at the bottom. I called the store and the girl told me that they don't come Frozen like Ice Cream but more like a milkshake. I explain to her that it's extremely runny and it looks like milk. She said yup that's the consistency. I was so confused. she said if I wanted to go back and get a refund for the Shakes. I decided not to go back because if that's how them come then it's not her fault. Even though it was completely melted. The Orange creamsicle was very mid. Fries were overly seasoned and same with the chicken. I didn't enjoy any of it. I'm I the lame one who can't handle it anymore and my taste buds just suck. I sent my feedback to DHCfeedback.com. read more

Yummy food and great service! The restaurant was clean and ordering was quick and easy. I ordered Dave's #4 which is a slider with fries. You can pick your desired spice level; I got medium and it was the perfect amount of spice. Portion size was great and my order came with extra pickles. Would definitely recommend Dave's! read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - #Dave's #4 1 Slider with Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

The Service was great, I got the Mild sliders and fries and it was amazing. The chicken was perfectly cooked and the fries were crispy. The dine in area has a bunch of cool art and neon signs and the music is poppin'. read more

I ordered loaded fries thinking they're going to stuff it like last time and gave out the right of condiments but today what on earth is this this isn't "LARGE LOADED"fries what am I going to do with ONE ketchup and ONE Honey packet read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Large Top Loaded Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

Come here every time I stop by renz. I've been here many times but Mason, your employee that works the counter, absolutely stood out as someone that appreciated being here and takes providing good service personally. 10/10 thanks to Mason read more

I regret ordering these for $15.49. It would have been better to buy two hamburgers, and the fried chicken is a bit tough. read more

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

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It's just a fun place to eat chicken My girls love this place. Retro and colorful. Clean and well maintained. The menu is super small and easy to order from. Quick service, the staff is attentive and super outgoing . The chicken can be mild to super hot, and the eating ambiance with all the art is very cool. A must visit for chicken read more

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Love this place family enjoys the atmosphere! Different levels of spicy upto Reper level. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Awesome artwork! Teen kids love Dave's Chicken Dave's #3 1 Tender & 1 Slider w/ Fries Dave's #3 1 Tender & 1 Slider w/ Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

I was waiting for my to go order for over 20 minutes terrible I asked for my money back they didn't even apologized I was in my 30 minutes lunch I had to go back to work hungry read more

Never been disappointed with the food here. It's always served fresh, hot, ready to eat. The flavors are wonderful and it's always consistent. Dave's sauce is to die for. Knocking off the one star for customer service. I usually order online for pickup and it feels like almost every time I come in, I have to awkwardly stand there before the cashier notices I'm even there to help me. Cuz they're usually too busy chatting with the kitchen workers. I understand it being slow enough to wanna chat with coworkers but there were a few times where it felt like I was more of a nuisance to them that I was there to pick up my order. read more

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

I tried Dave's Hot Chicken for lunch today. Parking was easy as it's located in a shopping center. The inside is vibrantly colorful with cool artwork and signage. The young man who helped us was very friendly. We got two orders of Dave's #3: 1 Tender + 1 Slider w/ Fries. Both the heat level for the combos were Medium. We also added cheese to each slider and one combo was with Cheese Fries. In addition, we ordered a side of Mac & Cheese. Everything was delicious. The chicken tenders were crispy and juicy, and the heat level on them were just right. The pickles paired very nicely with them. The dipping sauce was also good. read more

They told me I could get a free shake for a 5 star review! Shake was bomb!!! So I have to say that was not a bad idea!!! Thank you Dave's hot chicken!! read more

I 100% recommend this location if you find yourself in the area. Food was made to perfection, and the cashier Miguel made sure I got everything I needed and helped whenever he could! This made the visit beyond exceptional and comfortable to enjoy your meal. read more

Cali was so amazing! She helped me get a good understanding of the menu and was super helpful! It was my first time at Dave's and she made it feel so welcoming!! She's amazing with her customer service!! read more

This place is A-1. I came with my daughter for a bite and ordered #1 combo. Good came out hot and quick. We had a slight issue with the chicken and when brought up to their attention, man they wet above and beyond to make it right. They not only refunded but also replaced out meal, brought it to the table. It's hard to find places now a days to eat where you are treated with respect and this place is it!! read more

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

Not bad chicken sandwich. I think I still like Popeyes spicy chicken sandwich but if you don't have one of those nearby Dave's is solid.

Dave's Hot Chicken is a relative newcomer to a crowded if not oversaturated field of places offering fried chicken sandwiches. It just might be the best of the bunch. Read on: Dave's wisely keeps it simple. - You have two choices chicken wise: sliders and tenders. The sliders are more like full size sandwiches with a sizable tender placed between the bun along with pickles, kale slaw, and sauce. - Available sides include kale slaw, mac and cheese, fries, and cheese fries for those of us watching our weight. A big, big plus is you can select how spicy you want your chicken. The choices range from no spice, light mild, mild, hot, extra hot, and "reaper." I prefer the mild; for me it has just the right amount of kick. For the Tustinites reading this, this location can be found in the Larwin Square shopping center. It occupies the space previously occupied by a Togo's. Inside and outdoor seating is offered. I don't recommend the outdoor seating, however, because it immediately adjacent to Newport Avenue, which is a busy street. read more

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

sliders (4/5) - sliders are a handsome portion size - I split this with my brother and we were both stuffed after. i'm not a huge hot chicken girl because it's always so heavy but must say i'm big fan of dave's! the chicken was super tender and juicy and the spice level was tolerable. I got a medium, not super spicy but had a nice kick and my brother got hot as the spice level but said he would go hotter next time. the sauce, pickles, and slaw used for sandwiches was delish in combination with each other!! fries (2/5) nothing special side of kaleslaw (1/5) wouldn't get it again! super dry and flavorless. should've opted for a side of mac and cheese instead consensus: will definitely come back! they're good at what they're known for read more

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

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The food is great! Delicious chicken tender sliders with cheese, pickles, slaw, and special sauce!! Not to mention the best fries in the industry. And of course a small mention of tiny ice spheres being dispensed into my fresh Diet Coke. The service was good and quick! The ambiance was very chill. Lots of cool graffiti on the walls to make for a good vibe. Overall one of the best chicken spots that will leave you full and spreading the word on the experience your taste buds encountered. read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Juicy mild in heat chicken Dave's #1 2 Tenders w/ Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

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Food sooooo good. SERVICE IS OVER THE TOP HERE. will be coming back here. Super clean and the spot to be on a hot day. read more

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

Delicious authentic hot chicken. Huge portions. I was happy with my mild spice level, the Hot made my hubby sweat! Our kids enjoyed the No spice tenders too. Good fries, slaw, and pickles! It is very expensive. And they don't have ranch! I get that they want you to use their house sauce, which is really good, and I loved the honey on my chicken, but I really love ranch with my fries! Oh and the pickup window is great! read more

Dave's Hot Chicken - Mild Dave's #1 2 Tenders w/ Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Tustin, California

Great customer service order was messed up the first time but it was understandable since they were real busy but they fixed it up with no problems whatsoever and kept it professional. Thanks Lucas! Made my day when it was going not so well to begin with. Hope you guys continue to work hard and continue to give excellent service in the future! Will be ordering many times to come in the future! read more

So yummy I never knew about this place first time in Santa Ana will be back with my family

Got to try it on its Grand Opening! First timer here and it was pretty good. Some pieces where way smaller than other. The reaper was our favorite followed by mild. The reaper got hubby sweating but in a yum way. Bread and pickles are ok Te sauce was awesome! Love the free swag!! Lol read more

I have been wanting to try this place for a while now and finally got to try it a few days ago. I had the chicken filet combo #1 and it didn't disappoint! You can pick the different levels of spice. I had mild and it wasn't spicy at all! The chicken tenders are moist and goes well with the Dave's sauce. However, I feel it's on slightly salty side; it would be perfect if they decrease the salt levels a bit. The French fries were very good too! Crispy outside and soft inside. Will definitely return to try a more spicy level! read more