With more than 32 million visitors a year, Mall of America remains one of the biggest destinations in Minnesota.
At 5.6 million square feet, the Bloomington landmark is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in North America, drawing guests from right down the road and from around the world since it opened in 1992.
Obviously, there’s no shortage of things to do. Between up to 500 stores and restaurants, the 7-acre Nickelodeon Universe theme park, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, FlyOver America, and the Crayola Experience, you could spend days there and still not see it all.
However, if you’re only thinking about shopping bags and roller coasters, you’re missing half the fun. Plenty of us plan an entire MOA trip around where we’re going to eat.
Now, one of the trendiest chicken spots in the country is getting ready to give MOA guests a reason to bring a bigger appetite, and maybe a glass of milk.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Is Coming To Mall of America
Mall of America announced on October 19, 2026, that Dave’s Hot Chicken will open a new location at the mall. The restaurant will be on Level 3, North, near Culinary on North, and is expected to open sometime this winter.
“Dave’s Hot Chicken has built an incredibly passionate following through its bold flavors and memorable dining experience, and we look forward to welcoming the brand to our growing mix of restaurants,” said Carrie Charleston, Vice President and Head of Leasing at Mall of America.
The new spot will be hard to miss. Like other Dave’s locations, it will feature colorful graffiti-style murals, bold colors, and neon lighting for a high-energy vibe that matches the food.
Getty ImagesGetty ImagesWhat’s On The Menu At Dave’s Hot Chicken
Dave’s keeps things simple. The menu centers on jumbo, hand-breaded hot chicken tenders and sliders, with every piece spiced to order. By the way, a slider at Dave’s is a full-size sandwich, so plan accordingly.
Guests can pick from seven heat levels, ranging from No Spice all the way up to Reaper, the brand’s hottest option.
The Reaper is so intense that it requires a signed waiver for anyone brave enough to order it. For sides, fan favorites include house-made kale slaw, creamy mac and cheese, and crispy seasoned fries.
There are even options for non-chicken eaters, like fried mozzarella planks and battered cauliflower.
From A $900 Parking Lot Pop-Up To A Billion-Dollar Brand
Dave’s Hot Chicken got its start in 2017, when four friends pooled $900 to buy a fryer and launched a parking lot pop-up in East Hollywood. It didn’t take long for the lines to start wrapping around the block.
In 2019, the founders partnered with former Wetzel’s Pretzels CEO Bill Phelps to begin franchising the concept, and the growth exploded from there. Along the way, the brand attracted big-name investors like Drake, Samuel L. Jackson, and Usher.
In 2025, private equity firm Roark Capital, whose restaurant lineup includes Midwest favorite Culver’s, bought the chain in a deal valued at about $1 billion.
Today, the company’s website lists roughly 390 stores in 44 states, plus locations in Canada and Dubai. Not bad for a couple of folding tables in a parking lot.
Dave’s Keeps Heating Up In Minnesota
The Mall of America location adds to a growing presence in the state. The first Minnesota Dave’s opened in 2023, brought here by the family of Minnesota native and former NBA player Kris Humphries. The family has since signed an agreement to bring as many as 30 locations to Minnesota.
Restaurants are already open in Apple Valley, Coon Rapids, Edina, Rochester, St. Paul, Minnetonka and Minneapolis, with more on the way in places like Mankato and St. Cloud.
Whether you’re fueling up between stores, grabbing a quick bite after a day at Nickelodeon Universe or planning a full meal with family and friends, Dave’s adds another reason to make a day of it at MOA. J
Just remember, there’s no shame in starting at No Spice. That waiver isn’t there for decoration. For a look at everything else that’s new or coming soon, check out the latest Mall of America additions.
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