The nashville chicken wars: dave’s hot chicken vs angry chickz – which chains will survive?
What To Know
- Both Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz offer a wide range of heat levels to cater to all spice enthusiasts.
- The signature sauce is made with a combination of cayenne pepper, vinegar, and spices, resulting in a tangy and spicy flavor.
- The signature sauce is made with a blend of cayenne pepper, honey, and spices, creating a sweet and spicy glaze.
When it comes to Nashville hot chicken, two names reign supreme: Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz. Both restaurants have gained a cult following for their spicy and flavorful fried chicken. But which one is the true king of the hot chicken scene? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the similarities and differences between Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz, helping you decide which restaurant is the perfect fit for your taste buds.
Heat Levels
Both Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz offer a wide range of heat levels to cater to all spice enthusiasts. Dave’s Hot Chicken’s heat scale ranges from “No Heat” to “Reaper,” while Angry Chickz offers levels from “Mild” to “Death.”
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- No Heat: No spice, perfect for those who can’t handle any heat.
- Mild: A light dusting of cayenne pepper, providing a subtle kick.
- Medium: A moderate heat level with a noticeable spice.
- Hot: The perfect balance of heat and flavor, suitable for those who enjoy a spicy challenge.
- Extra Hot: A serious level of heat, recommended only for experienced hot chicken enthusiasts.
- Reaper: The hottest level available, made with the infamous Carolina Reaper pepper.
Angry Chickz:
- Mild: A mild heat level, suitable for those who prefer a less spicy experience.
- Medium: A moderate heat level with a noticeable spice.
- Hot: A significant level of heat, recommended for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- X-Hot: An intense heat level, designed for those who crave extreme spice.
- Death: The hottest level available, made with a blend of the hottest peppers on the planet.
Flavor Profiles
While both restaurants are known for their spicy chicken, they offer distinct flavor profiles.
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- Savory and spicy, with a focus on the heat.
- The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and cayenne pepper before being fried.
- The signature sauce is made with a combination of cayenne pepper, vinegar, and spices, resulting in a tangy and spicy flavor.
Angry Chickz:
- Sweet and spicy, with a balance between heat and flavor.
- The chicken is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce before being fried.
- The signature sauce is made with a blend of cayenne pepper, honey, and spices, creating a sweet and spicy glaze.
Chicken Quality
Both Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz use high-quality chicken for their dishes.
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- Uses all-natural, free-range chicken that is hand-breaded and fried to perfection.
- The chicken is juicy and tender, providing a satisfying bite.
Angry Chickz:
- Uses fresh, locally sourced chicken that is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
- The chicken is cooked to order, ensuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Sides and Sauces
In addition to their signature chicken, both restaurants offer a variety of sides and sauces to complement their dishes.
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- Sides: Coleslaw, fries, mac and cheese, green beans
- Sauces: Ranch, honey mustard, comeback sauce
Angry Chickz:
- Sides: Fries, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, fried pickles
- Sauces: Angry sauce, honey mustard, ranch
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz is casual and inviting.
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- Industrial-chic décor with exposed brick walls and metal accents.
- Counter-service style with communal seating.
- Lively and energetic atmosphere.
Angry Chickz:
- Modern and rustic décor with wooden accents and bright colors.
- Table service with a more upscale feel.
- Relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Pricing
Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz offer similar pricing for their chicken and sides.
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- Chicken tenders: $4.99-$7.99
- Chicken sandwiches: $6.99-$9.99
- Sides: $2.99-$4.99
Angry Chickz:
- Chicken tenders: $5.99-$8.99
- Chicken sandwiches: $7.99-$10.99
- Sides: $3.99-$5.99
Final Verdict
Both Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz are excellent options for Nashville hot chicken. The ultimate decision depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a more traditional and spicy flavor profile, Dave’s Hot Chicken is the better choice. If you prefer a sweeter and more balanced flavor profile, Angry Chickz is the way to go.
Dave’s Hot Chicken:
- Pros: Savory and spicy flavor, high-quality chicken, reasonable prices.
- Cons: Limited sides and sauces, no table service.
Angry Chickz:
- Pros: Sweet and spicy flavor, high-quality chicken, upscale atmosphere, table service.
- Cons: Slightly higher prices, fewer heat levels than Dave’s Hot Chicken.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which restaurant is hotter, Dave’s Hot Chicken or Angry Chickz?
Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a wider range of heat levels, including the extremely hot “Reaper” level.
2. Which restaurant has better sides?
Dave’s Hot Chicken has a smaller selection of sides, while Angry Chickz offers a wider variety, including mashed potatoes and fried pickles.
3. Which restaurant has a better atmosphere?
Dave’s Hot Chicken has a more casual and industrial-chic atmosphere, while Angry Chickz has a more upscale and modern atmosphere with table service.
4. Which restaurant is more expensive?
Dave’s Hot Chicken and Angry Chickz have similar pricing for their chicken and sides.
5. Which restaurant is better for large groups?
Angry Chickz has a more spacious dining area with table service, making it better suited for large groups.