The Shack Is Finally Back Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack Re-Opens in
West Asheville on July 1, 2011
Asheville, NC (June 24, 2011) —A little more than a year after closing its doors in Arden, local Rocky Lindsley’s hot chicken shack is finally back and set to re-open on July 1 in its new West Asheville location at 1455 Patton Avenue.
Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack first opened its doors in 2009 and quickly gained a cult following as word spread about a hole-in-the-wall that served mercilessly hot chicken with a ghost chili sauce that was rumored to induce psychedelic experiences.
In fact, the shack became so popular that many evenings, late-comers and repeat offenders were greeted by a closed door and Rocky’s hand-written note: “Sorry, ran out of chicken.”
Demand became so great, that Rocky’s one-man operation couldn’t keep up. In April 2010, Rocky closed the shack to avoid burnout. What he didn’t anticipate was the public outcry (and downright begging) that ensued.
Fortunately for Asheville’s hot-chicken lovers, Rocky’s devout following included a former restaurateur and retail designer who partnered with Rocky to re-open the shack with a more sustainable business model. Six months after closing his doors, a plan to reopen them was in place.
Rocky and business partner Lauren Cundiff and their crew have spent the past several months renovating the new shack, installing pressure fryers, and researching home-cooked sides, local brews and wines. Although the new building seats over 100 and has an expanded menu of sides and drinks, the heart of the shack—face-melting chicken—remains exactly the same.
Rocky’s hot chicken is still mercilessly hot (with Plain for the timid), served three ways (breast, legs or wings) with pickles on white bread to soak up the addictive sauce.
Now Open Everyday
11:00 AM to 9:00 PM — Sunday – Thursday 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM — Friday & Saturday
