Hot Chicken Takeover

Hot Chicken Takeover

Hot Chicken Takeover (HCT) is a popular American fast casual restaurant chain known for its Nashville-style hot chicken. Founded in Columbus, Ohio, the restaurant has gained acclaim for its unique take on the spicy dish, community engagement, and its commitment to fair chance employment practices.

History

Hot Chicken Takeover was established in 2014 by Joe DeLoss. The concept was inspired by the traditional Nashville hot chicken, a type of fried chicken that is marinated in a water-based blend of seasoning, floured, fried, and finally sauced using a paste that has been spiced with cayenne pepper. Starting as a pop-up window in Olde Towne East, a neighborhood in Columbus, HCT quickly garnered a dedicated following. The success of the pop-up led to the opening of a permanent location in the North Market in Columbus. Since then, Hot Chicken Takeover has expanded to multiple locations across Ohio.

Menu

The menu at Hot Chicken Takeover focuses on Nashville-style hot chicken, offering various levels of heat from "Cold" (no heat) to "Holy" (extremely hot). The chicken can be ordered as quarters, halves, or in tender form, and is accompanied by traditional Southern sides such as macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw. The restaurant also serves banana pudding as a dessert option.

Business Model

Hot Chicken Takeover is noted for its unique business model, which includes a strong emphasis on community and social responsibility. One of the cornerstone policies of HCT is its fair chance employment practice, which aims to provide job opportunities to individuals who have been previously incarcerated or faced significant barriers to employment. This approach not only supports workforce development but also contributes to reducing recidivism rates.

Community Engagement

Beyond its business operations, Hot Chicken Takeover actively engages with the communities it serves. The company has been involved in various charitable activities and partnerships with local organizations to support community development and social causes.

Locations

As of the last update, Hot Chicken Takeover has expanded beyond its original Columbus location to include several more outlets across Ohio. Each location maintains the brand's focus on community engagement and fair chance employment.

Reception

Hot Chicken Takeover has received positive reviews for both its food and its social impact. Customers often praise the quality of the chicken, the friendly atmosphere, and the company's commitment to social responsibility. The restaurant has been featured in various local and national media outlets, highlighting its success as both a culinary destination and a model for social enterprise.

Hot Chicken Takeover Resources
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