Like many American dreams, theirs had a humble beginning. Four childhood friends in their 20s scraped together $900. Their not-so-grand opening was in a parking lot in East Hollywood, with a couple of folding tables and a portable fryer under the night sky.

But people came. And tasted. And came back with their friends. Then, the buzz brought a reporter from Eater/LA. He took a bite of his first Dave’s Hot Chicken tender, and their world changed. The next day he posted, “East Hollywood’s new late night hot chicken stand might blow your mind!”

So much was born for them in that moment. The lines went down the street and around the block. And their goal became clear. Make juicy, hot, spicy chicken that will “blow your mind!”

Over 200 restaurants later, Dave’s is blowing people’s minds across the globe.