Indian-American opens third pot-themed sub shop in DFW area
Denton’s first Cheba Hut, a laid-back marijuana-themed sandwich shop known for its “toasted subs,” opened Monday at 1611 West Eagle Drive.
Owner Bhavik Bhakta, a first generation Indian-American whose parents came to the U.S. in 1985, says Cheba Hut allows customers to embrace their individuality and come as they are. Growing up in the Texas cities of Gainesville and Quinlan, the 27-year-old says he watched his parents start from nothing and work tirelessly to achieve their goals. This fueled Bhakta’s passion to work hard and build his family’s legacy through a brand he believes in.
“It’s real people serving real food. We want people to feel like themselves and we want people to enjoy what they do. And that’s the environment that we want to create,” Bhakta says.
Cheba Hut was founded in 1998, becoming the first marijuana-themed sandwich shop, though there’s no pot in the food. It pairs locally sourced ingredients with a chill, eclectic environment. The joint offers over 30 signature sub sandwiches, as well as a variety of Rice Krispies Treats, salads and munchies. A full-service bar serves Cheba Hut signature drinks like the Dirty Hippie, Hot Box and Cheba Rita, as well as national and local beer favorites including Silver Star Liquors. Bhakta’s favorite meal combo is the Kali Mist (spicy club), with a side of garlic bread and jalapeno cream cheese, nachos or pretzel nuggets, along with a Goo Ball for dessert.
Over the summer, the chain opened a shop in Fort Worth, after opening locations in Dallas, Austin, Houston and San Antonio. The Denton Cheba Hut will be its sixth location in Texas and third in the Metroplex, and Bhakta says he plans to open at least three more stores in the area.
“People aren’t doing what we’re doing,” he said. “I want to bring this vibe to Texas, and Texas deserves this type of culture.”
Bhakta knew Denton would be a great location for a new shop because it is “stoner-friendly” and fits the expressive atmosphere of Cheba Hut with its artwork and music festivals. The shop is also located less than a mile away from the University of Northern Texas, which could make it a hot spot for students, faculty and parents.
“They have accepted us very well so far, and they’re ready for us to open and serve them,” Bhakta said.
This story was originally published October 17, 2022 at 3:02 PM.
