Brits face waiver requirement to try 650 times hotter than Tabasco Reaper burger

American fast-food chain, Dave's Hot Chicken, is set to enter the UK market, with its first locations opening soon, including one in central London on December 7, 2024. This restaurant has gained fame in the US since its establishment in 2017 by childhood friends Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, and Tommy Rubenyan in an East Hollywood parking lot. The chain has seen rapid growth and popularity, particularly for its Reaper burger, made from the extremely spicy Carolina Reaper pepper, which has an average of 1,641,183 Scoville heat units, making it significantly hotter than Tabasco sauce. The hype surrounding this burger led British taste testers to experience tears and intense heat, prompting the company to implement a waiver that customers must sign before ordering it. This decision is part of the chain's effort to cater to demand while ensuring that customers are aware of the potential risks involved. The Reaper burger will be available on the menu from the day of the restaurant's opening despite the warnings provided by the company. Jim Attwood, Managing Director of Dave's Hot Chicken UK, commented on the popularity of the burger, emphasizing that the choice to bring it to the UK was made because of the overwhelming requests from potential customers eager to try it. Bill Phelps, the CEO of the chain, expressed pride in how far the business has come since its humble beginnings. He also reassured fans that they would deliver the bold flavors and spicy experiences that have made the chain a cult favorite in the US as they expand internationally. As they prepare to launch, they are also focusing on other menu items, including jumbo chicken sliders and crinkle fries, which have garnered their own followings.