​From Hottie Sauce to Franchise Boss: Megan Thee Stallion’s Popeyes Empire Takes Over South Beach

"Thee Megan Meal," and why this partnership is a game-changer for artist ownership in 2026.

In the world of celebrity brand deals, most stars are content with a limited-edition meal or a 30-second Super Bowl spot. But if we’ve learned anything about Megan Thee Stallion, it’s that she doesn’t just want a seat at the table—she wants to own the restaurant.

As of January 2026, the Grammy-winning artist and entrepreneur has officially transitioned from brand collaborator to Popeyes franchise owner, opening her flagship location in the heart of Miami’s South Beach. This isn't just a marketing gimmick; it’s a masterclass in long-term wealth building and brand integration.

The Evolution of the "Hottie" Brand: A Timeline

To understand why Megan’s move into the fast-food game is so significant, we have to look back at the foundation.

 * October 2021: The world was introduced to the Megan Thee Stallion Hottie Sauce. A sweet and spicy blend of honey, cider vinegar, and Aleppo pepper, it became an instant viral sensation.

 * The "Thee Heat" Merch Drop: Alongside the sauce, Megan released a line of "Hottie" branded apparel, proving that the intersection of food and fashion was a goldmine.

 * April 2025: Megan teased fans on TikTok with a walkthrough of a Popeyes location under construction, declaring, "When I'm in the booth, I wear that hat. When I'm at Popeyes, I wear this hat."

 * January 2026: The official grand opening of her first franchise at 1427 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach.

Inside "Thee Littest Popeyes" in South Beach

The Miami location isn’t your average Popeyes. Megan has infused the space with her signature "Hot Girl" energy, creating a destination for both locals and tourists.

1. Custom Aesthetic and Design

The South Beach restaurant features custom "Hottie" neon signage, stylized wall art, and a vibrant mural curated by Megan herself. It’s designed to be "Instagrammable," catering to a generation that eats with its eyes (and its camera) first.

2. The "Hot Staff" Culture

One of the most viral moments from the opening was Megan’s insistence on meeting every employee. When a manager suggested she didn’t need to learn everyone’s name, her response was firm: "Oh, yes, I do." This hands-on leadership style highlights her commitment to creating a positive, inclusive workplace culture.

3. Exclusive Menu Items

While the Hottie Sauce is the star, the Miami location also debuted "Thee Megan Meal," a curated combo featuring the iconic chicken sandwich, tenders, and sides, all served with her signature sauce.

Why This Matters: The Business of Artist Ownership

For decades, artists were the "face" of products they didn't own. Megan is flipping the script. By becoming a franchise owner, she is securing recurring revenue that isn't tied to album sales or touring schedules.

This move puts her in a rare category of artists, like JAY-Z or Rihanna, who leverage their cultural capital to gain equity in global corporations. It’s a blueprint for Black female entrepreneurs looking to scale their brands beyond the entertainment industry.

Philanthropy and Community Impact

True to her roots, the partnership isn't just about profit. Megan’s Popeyes venture includes a commitment to philanthropic community outreach. Her previous work with Houston Random Acts of Kindness set the tone, and her new Miami location is expected to partner with local South Florida charities to support food security and youth empowerment.

What’s Next for the Hottie Empire?

With one successful launch under her belt, rumors are already swirling about a second location—possibly in her hometown of Houston, Texas.

Megan Thee Stallion has proven that she is more than a "Hot Girl"—she’s a cold-blooded businesswoman. By merging the spicy flavor of Louisiana chicken with the unstoppable force of her personal brand, she’s rewritten the rules of the fast-food game.

Are you ready to try "Thee Megan Meal"? If you find yourself in South Beach, head over to Washington Avenue and see for yourself why this is officially "Thee Littest Popeyes" in the world.