Joe Marcello
Founder & Head ChefThe man behind the heat. Joe's lifelong passion for bold food and Southern cooking traditions sparked the creation of hangry joes. He still personally tests every new recipe before it hits the menu.
Our Story
About Hangry Joe's
From a small kitchen dream to a beloved hangry joes destination — discover the passion, the people, and the flavors that define who we are.
How It All Started
The Story Behind Hangry Joe's
"We started hangry joes because we believed every person deserves a meal that truly satisfies — bold, unapologetic, and made with real care."
It began in a backyard in Franklin, Indiana. Joe Marcello, a self-taught cook with an obsession for heat and flavor, spent years perfecting his hot chicken recipe — testing spice blends, brines, and fry techniques until every bite delivered something unforgettable. Neighbors started lining up. Friends drove hours. Word spread.
In 2018, Hangry Joe's opened its first brick-and-mortar at 200 Paris Dr, Franklin, IN. The line on opening day wrapped around the block. Since then, hangry joe's has grown into a full dining experience rooted in the same values that started it all: quality ingredients, bold flavors, and genuine hospitality.
Today, Hangry Joe's serves thousands of guests across the United States, each plate a direct expression of Joe's original vision — food that doesn't just fill you up, but makes you feel alive.
Explore Our Menu
2018
Est. Franklin
Indiana
Indiana
6+
Years of Flavor
50K+
Guests Served
40+
Menu Items
4.9
Avg. Rating
What Drives Us
Our Mission & Vision
At hangry joe's, we believe food is more than sustenance — it's a moment of joy, connection, and bold self-expression.
Bold Flavors
We never compromise on taste. Every recipe is crafted to deliver a punch — layers of heat, depth, and satisfaction in every single bite.
Fresh Ingredients
From our hand-mixed spice blends to locally sourced produce, freshness isn't optional — it's the foundation of everything we make.
Community First
Hangry Joe's is more than a restaurant. We're a gathering place — built for families, friends, and neighbors across Franklin and beyond.
Unmatched Quality
From kitchen to table, our standards are non-negotiable. Every plate that leaves our kitchen reflects the pride we put into our craft.
Our Journey
Hangry Joe's History
Every great restaurant has a story. Here's how hangry joes grew from a backyard obsession into the brand you know and love today.
2015
The Backyard Beginning
Joe Marcello begins experimenting with Nashville-style hot chicken recipes in his Franklin, Indiana backyard. Friends and neighbors become his first loyal customers, lining up every weekend for a taste of something special.
2017
Pop-Up Success & Local Buzz
Hangry Joe's launches as a weekend pop-up at local markets and events. The response is overwhelming — consistently selling out within hours. Local food blogs and regional media take notice, putting the brand on the map.
2018
Opening the First Location
Hangry Joe's opens its first permanent restaurant at 200 Paris Dr, Franklin, IN. Opening day draws a line around the block. Within six months, the location becomes one of the most talked-about dining spots in Johnson County.
2020
Adapting & Growing Stronger
During a challenging period for the restaurant industry, Hangry Joe's pivots to a robust online ordering and delivery model. The hangry joe's hot chicken family stays connected with the community through catering and contactless service.
2022
Menu Expansion & Catering Launch
Hangry Joe's expands the menu with new signature items, sides, and seasonal specials. A dedicated catering division launches, bringing the hangry joe's experience to weddings, corporate events, and private parties across Indiana.
2024
Today & Beyond
With a fiercely loyal fanbase, multiple regional accolades, and a growing digital presence, Hangry Joe's looks ahead to new horizons — more locations, more flavors, and an even deeper commitment to the community that made us who we are.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
These aren't words on a wall — they're the principles that guide every decision we make at hangry joe's, from our sourcing choices to how we treat every guest who walks through our door.
Passion in Every Plate
We cook with genuine love for the craft. No shortcuts, no compromises — just honest food made by people who care deeply about what lands on your table.
Honest Hospitality
Every guest is treated like a neighbor. We're not transactional — we're relational. Your experience matters from the moment you arrive to the last bite you take.
Integrity in Sourcing
We partner with trusted suppliers who share our commitment to quality. Fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients aren't a marketing claim — they're a non-negotiable standard.
Always Evolving
We stay curious. New flavors, new techniques, and feedback from our guests continuously shape what we create — because standing still is never an option.
"Made with fire. Served with heart."
— Joe Marcello, Founder of Hangry Joe's
The People Behind the Heat
Meet Our Team
Hangry Joe's is built on the dedication of extraordinary people who show up every day to make something great.
Maria Santos
Operations DirectorMaria keeps everything running like a well-oiled fryer. With a background in hospitality management and a sharp eye for quality, she ensures every guest experience at hangry joe's exceeds expectations.
Derek Webb
Executive Sous ChefA culinary school graduate with a flair for innovation, Derek brings creative energy to the hangry joe's kitchen. He leads the team through peak service and is the driving force behind our seasonal menu expansions.
Aisha Patel
Guest Experience ManagerAisha is the warm face of hangry joe's hospitality. She trains the front-of-house team to deliver service that feels personal, attentive, and genuinely welcoming — because every guest deserves to feel at home.
Love great food and great people? We'd love to hear from you.
Join Our Team