The New Jersey chicken scene is about to get a southern makeover. Daddy’s Chicken Shack, known for filtering the titular poultry through a southern lens, has big expansion plans for the Garden State, reports local media outlet NJ.com.
The fast-casual chain has partnered with the Esperto Hospitality Group to bring its distinctive menu to Jersey. Esperto is signed onto open 13 new Daddy’s Chicken Shack locations over the next three years. While no locations have yet been decided upon, Esperto’s director of guest services Kyle Richardson states that the majority of the restaurants will likely be in Monmouth County.
Daddy’s Chicken Shack has made a name for itself by using antibiotic and hormone free non-GMO chicken for its dishes. The menu features crowd-pleasing options such as chicken and waffles and Nashville hot chicken.
This sophisticated approach to fast-casual fare matched the Esperto ethos well. The hospitality group has built its portfolio around upscale dining, a perspective Richardson believes will translate well to this newest venture. He states: “What makes a fine dining place really go is consistency. We wanted to bring a premium dining experience to the fast-casual category. … I just think it’s a perfect brand for the market of the Jersey shore, especially.”
