Joe Martinez
Founder & Head Chef
The original Hangry Joe himself. Joe's obsession with Southern spice culture and Texas hospitality started this whole fiery journey back in 2018.
From a bold idea in a Texas kitchen to a hot chicken destination — discover the passion, people, and flavors behind hangry joes.
Hangry Joe's was born from a simple truth — great food has the power to turn hunger into happiness. What started as a passion project in a small San Marcos, TX kitchen has grown into a beloved destination for bold, fiery flavors that leave guests coming back for more.
Our founder Joe discovered the magic of Nashville-style hot chicken on a road trip through the American South and knew instantly he had to bring those electric flavors to Texas. Every recipe was tested, retested, and perfected with one goal: to create chicken so good it silences the hanger.
Today, hangry joes is synonymous with quality ingredients, housemade spice blends, and a commitment to serving food that genuinely excites people. We're proud to be a part of the San Marcos community and beyond.
These core values guide every decision we make — from sourcing our ingredients to serving your order.
Every dish starts with our signature spice blends, crafted from scratch. We never cut corners on taste — heat, flavor, and balance are our obsession.
We source fresh, quality chicken and produce daily. No freezer shortcuts — what you taste reflects our commitment to real, wholesome ingredients.
We're proud Texans. From supporting local suppliers to giving back to San Marcos, community isn't just a buzzword — it's baked into who we are.
We treat every guest like family. Friendly service, a welcoming space, and food made with real care — that's the Hangry Joe's experience every time.
From a kitchen experiment to a Texas hot chicken institution — every milestone tells a story.
Joe discovers Nashville hot chicken on a Southern road trip. Returning home to San Marcos, TX, he spends months perfecting a signature spice blend in his home kitchen, testing on willing friends and family.
Hangry Joe's launches as a weekend pop-up at local San Marcos markets. Lines wrap around the block. The response is overwhelming — locals can't get enough of the bold, fiery flavors.
Despite global challenges, Hangry Joe's opens its first permanent location at 301 N Guadalupe St in San Marcos. The community shows up in force — we serve over 2,000 orders in our first month alone.
Hangry Joe's is named "Best New Restaurant" by the San Marcos Gazette and featured in Texas Monthly's guide to the state's best hot chicken spots. The brand earns regional recognition.
We launch our hangry joe's hot chicken sandwich lineup, catering services, and a family meal program — bringing the fire to more tables across central Texas. Online ordering goes live.
With over 50,000 happy guests served and a loyal following across the Lone Star State, Hangry Joe's continues to grow — staying true to the original mission of bold flavors and real hospitality.
Our passionate crew brings the heat every single day — meet the people who make Hangry Joe's special.
Founder & Head Chef
The original Hangry Joe himself. Joe's obsession with Southern spice culture and Texas hospitality started this whole fiery journey back in 2018.
Operations Manager
Maria keeps the kitchen and front of house running like clockwork. Her experience in high-volume Texas restaurants ensures every order is perfect.
Pitmaster & Spice Dev
Darius is the architect of our legendary heat levels. From Mild to "Reaper's Wrath," every spice blend is his masterwork — crafted with patience and passion.
Catering Coordinator
Priya brings the Hangry Joe's experience to events, weddings, and corporate gatherings across Texas. Her attention to detail makes every catered event unforgettable.
Passionate about great food and Texas hospitality? We'd love to hear from you.
Join Our TeamStop reading about us and start tasting. Order your first plate of our legendary hot chicken today — available for pickup or delivery in San Marcos, TX.