When childhood friends Berk and Vic set out to create the best fried chicken sandwich in California, they didn’t know their backyard pop-up would turn into a full-blown flavor phenomenon. But with a little heat, a lot of hustle, and a shared love of music, skateboarding, and Southern comfort food — World Famous Hot Boys was born.
Now, their newest location in Hamilton Marketplace, is turning up the heat in Novato — and locals are here for it.
A Chicken Sandwich With Swagger
The signature “sando” is a masterclass in texture and flavor: brined, breaded (with a secret, dairy-free recipe), fried to crispy perfection, dipped in house-made chili oil, dusted with a custom dry seasoning blend, and served on a classic Martin’s potato roll. Add coleslaw, pickles, and their cult-favorite “money sauce,” and you’ve got a sandwich that’s juicy, crispy, and — in Berk’s own words — unforgettable.
And for those who crave a challenge? They’ve got a heat scale that ranges from mild to “hot hot hot,” described as “a two-day experience” that’s not for the faint of heart. But don’t worry — whatever your spice level, you’re welcome at Hot Boys. “If you’re a mild boy, you’re still cool with me,” Berk laughs.
From Pop-Ups to a Bay Area Brand
Hot Boys started small — just two friends experimenting with recipes in the kitchen, inspired by Berk’s college days in Nashville. After catering gigs and pop-up events around Oakland, the buzz began. Lines grew longer, their sando became a sensation, and World Famous Hot Boys quickly earned its place among California’s must-try chicken joints.
The Novato shop is their seventh location, and the first in Marin County. “We wanted to do something on this side of the bridge,” Berk says. “Novato seemed like a really cool community. We’re still learning and exploring, but it already feels like home.”
More Than a Meal — It’s a Lifestyle
Step inside World Famous Hot Boys Novato and you’ll find more than just comfort food with a kick. The space is filled with local art, arcade games, music, and character. Stickers cover the napkin dispensers. Walls invite signatures. There’s comedy night, open mic, even a “kids eat free” evening. It’s a space meant to be lived in and loved — a true community hub.
“We’re not just a food brand,” Berk says. “We think of Hot Boys as a lifestyle brand. We support artists, musicians — we want this place to feel like yours.”
Support Local, Eat Legendary
World Famous Hot Boys is proudly locally owned and Bay Area-grown. From Southern-style breakfast burritos with house-made gravy, to swamp fries loaded with collard greens and money sauce, to Berk’s childhood-favorite dessert “bonuts” (a biscuit-donut hybrid dusted with cinnamon sugar), everything on the menu tells a story.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a heat-level veteran, pull up to Hamilton Marketplace and find out why this sando is gaining a cult following — and why locals are calling this place a new Novato favorite.
World Famous Hot Boys Novato is located at 5800 Nave Dr Suite D, Novato, CA 94949.
