Kentwood Welcomes Raising Cane’s First West Michigan Location

News Summary

Kentwood, Michigan will be the site of Raising Cane’s first West Michigan location, set to open in December 2025. The restaurant will occupy a smaller footprint than its predecessor, featuring dual drive-thru lanes and outdoor seating. This new establishment will create approximately 55 jobs and is part of Raising Cane’s ambitious plans to expand across Michigan with over 20 new locations proposed. The fast-food chain is renowned for its chicken finger meals, which have garnered a loyal following nationwide.

Kentwood Welcomes Raising Cane’s First West Michigan Location

Kentwood, Michigan will soon see a new addition to its community with the upcoming opening of a Raising Cane’s restaurant, marking the fast-food chain’s first location in West Michigan. The new restaurant is slated to begin operations in December 2025 at the site of a former Outback Steakhouse located at 3650 28th Street SE.

The Outback Steakhouse building, which originally opened its doors in 1974, has already begun demolition. The closure of this Outback Steakhouse was part of a larger initiative by Bloomin’ Brands, which shut down a total of 41 locations in February 2024. Factors such as outdated leases, subpar sales performance, and the high costs associated with future renovations heavily influenced the decision to close.

Plans for the New Raising Cane’s Location

Raising Cane’s will construct a smaller establishment that measures 3,400 square feet, a reduction from the Outback’s original 6,700 square feet. The new restaurant will include enhanced features to serve its customers better, such as dual drive-thru lanes, ample on-site parking, and a comfortable patio for outdoor dining.

The restaurant is anticipated to create approximately 55 new jobs within the Kentwood area. Once opened, Raising Cane’s will operate from 9:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, providing a late-night dining option for local residents.

Menu Offerings and Expansion Plans

The menu at Raising Cane’s focuses on simplicity and quality, featuring their well-known chicken fingers, Texas toast, coleslaw, fries, and more. This straightforward menu has contributed to the chain’s popularity across the United States.

This Kentwood location is just the beginning for Raising Cane’s in Michigan. The chain has ambitious plans for expansion, looking to open over 20 locations throughout the state over the next decade. Potential sites under consideration include cities such as Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Sterling Heights, and Novi.

Background on Raising Cane’s

Founded in 1996 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Raising Cane’s has grown to become a popular fast-food chain known for its focus on chicken finger meals. The concept has been well-received in many regions, leading to rapid expansion. The decision to open a location in Kentwood highlights the company’s commitment to establishing a presence in Michigan, demonstrating confidence in the market and local demand for their offerings.

As the new restaurant takes shape, Kentwood residents are likely eager to welcome this addition to their community and explore the menu items that have made Raising Cane’s a favorite among chicken lovers nationwide.

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Additional Resources

• WZZM 13: Raising Cane’s Coming to West Michigan
• Google Search: Raising Cane’s West Michigan
• MLive: Demolition at Outback Site for Raising Cane’s
• Wikipedia: Raising Cane’s
• WOOD TV: Raising Cane’s to Open in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo
• Google News: Raising Cane’s Michigan
• WGRD: Raising Cane’s Grand Rapids Soon
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Fast Food
• WGRD: Raising Cane’s Portage, MI
• Google Scholar: Fast Food Industry