A Spring Break Drive from Kingwood to Valley Ranch
With my son off for Spring Break from Kingwood High School and currently learning how to drive, we decided to leave The Livable Forest for a short trip north up Highway 59. Our destination? Dave’s Hot Chicken in Valley Ranch Town Center, Porter, Texas—a growing hotspot for food, shopping, and entertainment.
As we pulled into the bustling shopping center, we were excited to try Dave’s Hot Chicken for the first time. The brand has been expanding rapidly, earning a reputation for its spicy, crispy chicken and bold flavors.
The History of Dave’s Hot Chicken
Dave’s Hot Chicken started as a humble late-night pop-up in an East Hollywood parking lot in 2017. Four friends, including the namesake Dave Kopushyan, pooled together $900 to launch their hot chicken venture. Thanks to their dedication to quality and heat-infused flavors, the brand quickly gained a cult following. By 2022, it had expanded to over 100 locations worldwide, with more openings planned.
Our Dave’s Hot Chicken Experience
Ordering and Menu Choices
When visiting Dave’s Hot Chicken, guests choose from sliders and tenders, each with their preferred heat level. The spice levels range from:
- No Spice
- Lite Mild
- Mild
- Medium
- Hot
- Extra Hot
- Reaper (waiver required!)
We both opted for the Slider and Tender Meal at medium heat, which includes:
✅ One Hot Chicken Slider on a soft potato bun with kale slaw, pickles, and Dave’s Sauce
✅ One Tender, served with pickles and a slice of white bread
✅ Crinkle-Cut Fries
✅ A side of Dave’s Sauce
I also grabbed honey packets to drizzle over the chicken—an excellent way to balance out the heat with a touch of sweetness.
How Spicy is Medium at Dave’s Hot Chicken?
For those wondering how medium spice compares, I’d equate it to the Spicy Chicken Sandwich at Chick-fil-A. It has a noticeable kick but isn’t overwhelming. While I feel comfortable going a notch or two higher next time, the infamous Reaper level is where I draw the line—its name says it all!
Taste and Value – Is Dave’s Hot Chicken Worth It?
The chicken was incredibly crispy on the outside and juicy inside. The combination of Dave’s Sauce, crunchy pickles, and toasted bun made for a fantastic bite.
However, pricing is on the higher side. Our meal for two cost $40, which is more than your typical fast-food spot. Given the quality and hype, it’s understandable, but for frequent visits, it might not be the most budget-friendly option.
Other Dining Options at Valley Ranch Town Center
If you’re exploring Valley Ranch Town Center, there are plenty of other restaurants to check out, including:
- Gringo’s Tex-Mex – A favorite for fajitas and margaritas
- Shogun Japanese Grill & Sushi Bar – Perfect for hibachi and fresh sushi
- Five Guys – Juicy burgers and hand-cut fries
- Olive Garden – Classic Italian dishes
- Cinemark Theatre – Dinner and a movie? Why not!
Valley Ranch is an excellent spot for a family outing, date night, or a quick bite after shopping.
Proximity to Kingwood and The Highlands Master-Planned Community
Valley Ranch Town Center is conveniently located at the intersection of Highway 59 and Grand Parkway (99), making it easily accessible from:
- Kingwood, Texas – Just a short 10-minute drive
- The Highlands – A growing master-planned community nearby, offering new homes and modern amenities
This location provides residents of these communities with top-tier shopping, dining, and entertainment options without venturing into Houston’s busier districts.
Thinking of Moving to Kingwood or The Highlands?
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