The London opening will follow the brand’s first UK restaurant, which was announced earlier this year and which is due to open in Stevenage this autumn.
The US-born fried chicken concept will make its UK debut as part of Pizza Express’ plans to launch three Houston Hot Chicken restaurants this year and 50 locations over the next three years, following its acquisition of the brand’s UK franchise rights.
The brand is backed by restaurant-focused private equity firm Savory Fund, which has invested in a number of US foodservice brands, including Swig.
The chain specialises in Nashville-style hot chicken, offering tenders, waffles, nuggets and a range of sandwiches. Customers can choose from a variety of spice levels, including the signature ‘Houston, We Have A Problem’ heat level, which the company says measures two million Scoville Heat Units and requires diners to sign a waiver before ordering.
Founded in 2020, Houston Hot Chicken has expanded rapidly across the US and was ranked No. 217 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies.