Tuscaloosa residents will have a new spot to enjoy chicken tenders when Raising Cane’s opens its standalone restaurant at 1241 McFarland Boulevard East, corner of 13th Street, on Monday, August 24. The venue marks the chain’s second location in the city, joining the long‑standing campus outlet that has served students and locals for more than a decade.
Opening‑day festivities
Doors are scheduled to swing open at 10 a.m., but the celebration begins early. From 8 to 9 a.m., anyone 13 years or older can enter a drawing for the “Lucky 20” – a chance to receive free Cane’s meals for an entire year. Winners will be announced before the restaurant officially opens, and participants must be present to claim the prize.
The first 100 guests will also receive a branded Cane’s hat and a complimentary combo box card, while supplies last. A ribbon‑cutting ceremony will follow, hosted by the Tuscaloosa Chamber of Commerce and other community partners. The University of Alabama’s beloved mascot, Big Al, will make an appearance alongside a live DJ to add to the festive atmosphere.
Community support and job creation
Raising Cane’s is contributing $2,000 to the West Alabama Food Bank as part of the opening celebration, underscoring the company’s commitment to local charitable efforts. “Tuscaloosa has an incredible sense of community, and we’re excited to deepen our presence here,” said Anthony Petro, Raising Cane’s Area Leader of Restaurants. “We look forward to building lasting relationships, supporting local organizations, creating new jobs, and becoming a place where friends, families, and students can gather for years to come.”
The new restaurant will operate Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to midnight, providing extended hours for late‑night diners and weekend crowds.
Raising Cane’s national growth
The Tuscaloosa opening is part of a seven‑location nationwide expansion tied to Raising Cane’s 30th anniversary. The chain, founded in 1996 by Todd Graves, now runs more than 1,000 restaurants worldwide and plans to add nearly 100 new sites in 2026, including its first restaurant in Mexico and a forthcoming location in the United Kingdom in early 2027.
Local business leaders and residents can look forward to the added economic activity, new employment opportunities, and a fresh gathering place for families and students alike.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
