Daddy’s Chicken Shack acquired by New Jersey multi-concept group

Daddy’s Chicken Shack has a new owner.

The fast-casual chicken chain previously owned by Colorado-based private-equity firm Area 15 has been acquired by Esperto Hospitality Group, based in Holmdel, New Jersey.

John DiLeo, president of Esperto, and Anthony DiLeo, vice president, plan to open their first Daddy’s location in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, in the third quarter this year, with more expected to follow in the Garden State.

Their goal is to plant the flag on the East Coast and then open the brand to franchising.

Daddy’s was founded in 2018 in Pasadena, California, and was acquired by private-equity firm Area 15 in 2023.

The concept is known for buttermilk-brined, hand-battered chicken, house-made pickles and sauces.

Area 15, founded by RE/MAX co-founder Dave Liniger, has been working on the concept’s economic model over the past year to prepare for expansion.

Now it’s ready, said Adam Contos, Area 15’s managing director, in a statement.

“We’ve always believed that the right operator with the right team in the right market is how you grow a brand,” he said. “John and Anthony DiLeo have built something genuinely impressive in New Jersey. They understand hospitality at a level that is rare, and they’re exactly who you want carrying this brand into a new region.”

Esperto operates six concepts across New Jersey, including COVO Italian Steakhouse, Local House Kitchen + Bar, Catezza Italian Kitchen & Bar, Café Pari and The Office Restaurant & Lounge.

“Daddy’s is a brand that does things the right way, with real ingredients, real craft and no shortcuts,” said John DiLeo of Esperto. “That’s the same standard we hold ourselves to across every concept we operate. This is a natural fit, and we’re committed to building it the way it deserves to be built. Carefully, with the right team, in the right markets.”