Savory Fund announced its strategic investment in Houston TX Hot Chicken—a standout star of the “hot chicken” phenomenon.
This move signals Savory’s notable confidence not only in the rising profile of these popular flavors in the American culinary scene, but also in the successful business model of Houston TX Hot Chicken (HHC)—one ripe for franchising opportunities.
The brainchild of entrepreneur and founder Edmond Barseghian, HHC currently has 11 locations across six states (Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Texas and Utah). Founded in 2021, the brand embodies both authenticity and commercial appeal, a culinary combination that has heat-seekers all over making HHC their new go-to dining destination.
“HHC has been a manifestation of my relentless dedication to crafting a concept that marries the nostalgic allure of home-style quality recipes with a colorful, modern and warm industrial atmosphere all guests can appreciate,” Barseghian says. “This collaboration with Savory Fund transcends a merger; it signifies the harmonious convergence of two passionate forces, both driven by a shared vision of uncompromising excellence.”
Barseghian continues: “Together, we’re primed to amplify our operational capabilities. The journey ahead is electrifying, and I cannot wait to share the HHC experience with every corner of the country.”
HHC is known for its hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, salads, soup, waffle shakes and loaded fries. Its seven signature sauces range from “No Spice” to “Honey Butter“ and “Liftoff” to “Houston, We Have a Problem!”
The market for Nashville hot chicken, a niche previously catered to by local, family-run businesses, is experiencing a mainstream renaissance. Savory’s investment aligns with this momentum, signaling a future where Nashville hot chicken transitions from trend to staple in American dining.
“Savory has been monitoring this flavor segment for the past five years. We have met with and evaluated many brands attempting to do what HHC has already accomplished, and we are thrilled to make this strategic investment,” says Andrew K. Smith, co-founder and managing partner of Savory Fund. “We are confident in HHC’s potential to lead the Nashville hot chicken wave, particularly as we look toward franchising. Edmond and his team are ready to turn a local hotspot from Las Vegas into a national success story through additional corporate growth and franchising.”
The landscape of fast-casual dining is set for a spicy shakeup. Consumer preferences are shifting toward dining experiences that offer both authenticity and novelty, and innovative industry players like Savory are taking the lead by elevating unique, region-specific cuisines.
It’s a shift that has always been in Savory’s DNA: Swig. Via 313. Hash Kitchen. PINCHO. Mo’ Bettahs. Savory’s investments have consistently offered regional charm with national appeal.
“HHC has all the ingredients ripe for a successful scale: strong unit economics, a solid leadership team and an experience that resonates with guests,” says Taylor DeHart, principal of Savory Fund. “That impressive foundation, coupled with Savory’s growth expertise and capital, is an unstoppable combination. We foresee HHC establishing a powerful national presence in the years to come.”
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Harrington Park Advisors served as exclusive financial advisor to Houston TX Hot Chicken. Mayer Brown LLP served as legal advisor to Savory Fund, and Greenberg Traurig served as legal advisor to Houston TX Hot Chicken.
