The First Flame
Joe Martinez opens the original Hangry Joe's at 200 Paris Dr, Franklin, IN. A 12-seat counter, one fryer, and a recipe that stops people in their tracks. Day-one lines prove the city was ready.
Our Story
The Hangry Joes Story — Fired Up From Day One
From a single backyard grill to one of the most talked-about hot chicken spots in the United States, Hangry Joe's was built on bold flavors, honest ingredients, and a hunger that never quits. Discover the story behind every crispy, fiery bite.
10+
Years of Heat
50K+
Happy Customers
12
Signature Recipes
4
Spice Levels
2014
Est. Franklin, IN
Where It All Began
A Kitchen Obsession That Became Hangry Joe's
It started with a craving that couldn't be ignored. Joe Martinez had spent years perfecting his family's hot chicken recipe — a closely guarded blend of spices passed down through generations, refined over hundreds of Sunday cookouts in Franklin, Indiana. What began as a neighborhood obsession quickly outgrew the backyard.
In 2014, Joe took the leap. With a small storefront on Paris Drive, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, and more confidence than capital, Hangry Joe's opened its doors. The line stretched around the block on day one — and it hasn't really stopped since.
Today, hangry joes is more than a restaurant. It's a community gathering place where heat lovers, foodies, and first-timers all find something to crave. Every dish we serve carries the same DNA as that original backyard recipe: real heat, real flavor, and zero shortcuts.
What We Stand For
Our Mission & Core Values
Behind every piece of hangry joe's hot chicken is a commitment to quality, community, and craft. These aren't just words on a wall — they're the standards every team member holds every single day.
Real Heat, Always
We never tone down our flavors to play it safe. Every spice level is exactly what it says — from Southern Mild to the legendary Inferno. Authenticity is non-negotiable.
Fresh, Quality Ingredients
We source locally where possible and never compromise on freshness. Our chicken is hand-marinated daily and our sides are made from scratch — every shift, every day.
Community First
Hangry Joe's exists because of Franklin and the greater Indiana community. We give back through local partnerships, sponsorships, and feeding those who need it most.
Relentless Craft
Good enough is never enough. Our kitchen team constantly tests, refines, and elevates every recipe. That obsession with improvement is what keeps guests coming back.
Our Journey
A Decade of Bold Flavor
From a single hot pan to a full-service dining experience loved across the United States — here's how hangry joes grew one fiery plate at a time.
2014
2016
Hangry Joe's Hot Chicken Goes Viral
A local food blogger's review of the hangry joe's hot chicken sandwich spreads across social media. Weekend waits hit 90 minutes. The brand finds its identity: unapologetically spicy, unapologetically bold.
2018
Dining Room Expansion
Demand pushes Hangry Joe's to double its footprint. A full dining room is added, seating grows to 80, and the kitchen gets a major upgrade. Catering services launch to serve corporate and event clients.
2020
Adapting & Giving Back
When challenges hit the industry, Hangry Joe's pivots to contactless pickup and delivery without missing a beat. The team donates over 2,000 meals to healthcare workers and local shelters throughout the year.
2022
National Recognition
Hangry Joe's is featured in a national food publication's "Best Hot Chicken in America" list. Reservations surge. The team grows to 35 staff, and an online ordering system launches for seamless pickup and delivery.
2024
A Decade of Hangry
Ten years in, hangry joes celebrates 50,000 customers served, 12 signature dishes on the menu, and a community that keeps growing. The next chapter? More locations, same fire.
The People Behind the Heat
Meet Our Team
Hangry Joe's is built by passionate people who care deeply about food, flavor, and the guests they serve. Meet the crew that keeps the kitchen fired up.
Founder & Head Chef
Joe Martinez
The man behind the legend. Joe's family-recipe hot chicken sparked a movement in Franklin, IN. He still personally approves every new dish added to the menu.
Operations Manager
Maria Chen
Maria keeps everything running like a well-oiled machine. From supplier relationships to shift scheduling, she ensures every guest experience is flawless from door to table.
Executive Sous Chef
Derek Thompson
A culinary school graduate with a love for Southern heat, Derek joined Hangry Joe's in 2017 and has been instrumental in developing our seasonal specials and catering menus.
Customer Experience Lead
Priya Patel
Priya is the voice of the guest inside Hangry Joe's kitchen. She manages feedback, online reviews, and the loyalty program — making sure every visitor feels like a regular.