Dave’s Hot Chicken To Open Fort Myers Location in February

Dave's Hot Chicken will open its first Southwest Florida spot by mid-February at 7925 Dani Drive, Unit 150, in Fort Myers. The restaurant plans to bring on 40 to 50 workers.

Tampa-based franchisee FTB Services holds the rights to the brand across Southwest Florida. Ian Lieberman and his brother Adam run FTB Services. TWT Restaurant Design, Construction & Development Co. is working on the interior space at the southern end of a building that also houses Chicken Salad Chick.

A few years ago, the chain only had about 20 locations. Currently, around 380 locations are operating. 

"When Dave's comes to any market, it's really exciting," said Lieberman, according to Gulf Shore Business. "It's a really fun vote of confidence. These stores are really busy. It's a real vibe. We try to make it a fun, lively atmosphere."

The franchisee plans to open one store and wait to see how people respond before pushing forward with more. Lieberman said the group wants to build three or four in Southwest Florida and 10 to 12 in Tampa Bay. The next location will sit closer to North Naples.

"I feel very strongly we serve the best chicken tender in the market right now," Lieberman said. "You don't need sauce to flavor it. Most restaurants are serving different versions of the same thing."

Southwest Florida's fast-casual chicken segment has grown in recent months. Huey Magoo's opened earlier this year in Cape Coral, while PDQ operates in south Fort Myers, and Raising Cane's plans an expansion there.

The Dani Drive location offers access to retail and entertainment options. The area includes a Publix and Top Golf.

"Fort Myers doesn't always get the newest stuff right away," Lieberman said. "But with the growth of the region, the population is getting younger. There are so many people who want the new concept."