Raising Cane’s is showing no signs of slowing down in 2026.
The fast-growing chicken finger chain plans to open nearly 100 new restaurants this year, matching the rapid pace that helped it become one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands in America. The company is also preparing to open its 1,000th restaurant, a major milestone for the Louisiana-founded chain.
Expansion reaches new states and markets
Raising Cane’s growth strategy includes both deepening its presence in existing markets and entering new ones.
Among the markets receiving new restaurants this year are Florida, California, Texas, Washington, Illinois, Maryland and Idaho. The company has also identified newer markets such as Birmingham, Alabama; Ocala, Florida; and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho as expansion targets.
In May, the chain celebrated its first-ever restaurant in Arkansas, while additional openings have expanded its footprint in New York and other key growth regions.
California and Florida remain major growth engines
California continues to be one of Raising Cane’s most important expansion states. Multiple locations are scheduled to open throughout Southern California, including new restaurants in Inglewood and Lemon Grove. The company is also preparing its landmark 1,000th restaurant on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles.
Florida is another priority market. New restaurants have opened or been announced in Miami, Ocala and other communities as the chain strengthens its presence across the state.
Washington sees continued growth
The Pacific Northwest is also benefiting from the expansion. A new Raising Cane’s restaurant is scheduled to open in Lynnwood, Washington, in June, creating approximately 170 jobs and marking the company’s fourth location in the state.
With nearly 100 new restaurants planned in 2026 and additional international expansion on the horizon, Raising Cane’s appears determined to remain one of the restaurant industry’s fastest-growing success stories.
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