Two New Restaurants to Open in Seattle Alaska Junction
The Keshap Group is dividing a storefront to bring Dave's Hot Chicken and Gong Cha to West Seattle this November.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Dave's Hot Chicken and Gong Cha will open at 4706 California Ave SW in Seattle's Alaska Junction neighborhood in November 2026. The Keshap Group is converting the former Haymaker space into two storefronts to accommodate the franchise expansion.
Why it matters
The development signals ongoing investment in West Seattle's retail corridor by the Keshap Group. The dual-storefront model at a single address highlights how operators are maximizing high-foot-traffic real estate to scale multiple quick-service concepts.
The Keshap Group is dividing one location into two storefronts to house the brands. Gong Cha operates over 2,000 stores worldwide, while Dave's Hot Chicken adds to its regional presence following a 2,000-customer turnout during its Capitol Hill opening.
The players
Keshap Group
A Kirkland-based franchisee operating multiple fast-casual restaurant brands in the Washington region.
Dave's Hot Chicken
A national fast-casual restaurant chain known for its specialized hot chicken menu.
Gong Cha
A global bubble tea franchise network with over 2,000 locations worldwide.
The details
The project involves splitting the former Haymaker site into two distinct spaces at 4706 California Ave SW. To maintain efficiency, the Gong Cha location will utilize a Super Wu machine, which automates drink preparation by reading QR codes generated at the point of sale. Dave's Hot Chicken will bring its standardized menu featuring seven levels of spiciness to the West Seattle market.
Timeline
November 12-13, 2026: Gong Cha soft opening.
November 13, 2026: Dave's Hot Chicken grand opening deadline.
December 3-4, 2026: Gong Cha grand opening.
Market Landscape
This project aligns with the broader quick-service restaurant trend of co-locating multiple franchise concepts to maximize high-traffic real estate. The strategy follows the pattern of local operators scaling regional footprints by consolidating physical infrastructure.
Operators in the Alaska Junction area should monitor local hiring competition as the Keshap Group scales operations for the November and December launches. The use of automated ingredient-dispensing technology at the new Gong Cha site serves as a benchmark for potential labor-saving investments in drink service.
The takeaway
The Keshap Group's expansion highlights the viability of high-density retail conversion in West Seattle. Operators should review the operational efficiency of the Super Wu dispensing system as a potential model for reducing manual beverage preparation time.
Further reading
For more news on local commercial property changes, see Seattle Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by West Seattle Blog....
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