We had the good fortune of connecting with Rich and Lauren Cundiff and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rich and Lauren, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
In 2008, my husband Rich and I met Rocky Lindsley, a musician who had spent time in Nashville where he discovered a love of hot chicken. He hung a shingle at a small place on Hendersonville Rd. in Arden and was a one man show, offering a simple lunch menu of spicy fried chicken with a few southern sides. His concept quickly caught on, but overwhelmed, he closed after about a year in business. He came to regret that decision and asked us if we would help him re launch in a new location. We had a background in business and food service. We took the concept, expanded the menu, and opened the first location on Patton Ave. in West Asheville in the Summer of 2010. We have been in business for fourteen years now with three locations in the Carolinas. We are proudly an unchained and independent restaurant group and are still involved in the day to day operations.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Rich and I both worked for Whole Foods Market for many years in the early days of the company. We learned many valuable lessons there on shared fate, equal opportunity, and how it makes a difference when team members are happy at work. We have worked hard to create that environment in our own company. We also recognize the importance of our guests and treat them with courtesy and respect.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hiking in the mountains and time at the blue ridge parkway would be at the top of the list. We would do our homework on the best places to go for eat and drink and make that an important part of the itinerary.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Rocky Lindsley deserves the credit for being the founder of the concept and coming up with the spice recipe for the chicken. Over the years, many talented folks have worked with us who contributed recipes and ideas, making our menu offerings and our business the success they are today.

Website: www.rockyshotchickenshack.com

Instagram: @Rockyshotchickenshack

Facebook: Rockys Hot Chicken Shack

Image Credits
Tony Maurer of The Branding House

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.