West Michigan is about to get a new fried chicken favorite. Raising Cane’s, the national chicken finger chain with a devoted following, is officially opening its FIRST-EVER West Michigan location in Kentwood later this year.
Known for its streamlined menu and signature Cane’s Sauce, Raising Cane’s specializes in chicken finger meals served with crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast. The brand also offers chicken finger sandwiches, kids’ meals, sweet tea, and hand-squeezed lemonade.
The new restaurant will be located at 3650 28th Street SE in Kentwood, replacing the former Outback Steakhouse that closed in early 2024. According to city records, the Outback location was one of 41 restaurants closed due to outdated lease agreements and changing investment priorities. The building, originally constructed in 1974, has already begun demolition to make way for the new eatery.
At a planning meeting, the Kentwood Planning Commission approved Raising Cane’s site plan and special land use request for a drive-thru restaurant. The new structure will be significantly smaller than the former Outback Steak House, The build will include dual drive-thru lanes and updated landscaping.
Once open, this Kentwood restaurant will become the third Raising Cane’s in Michigan, joining current locations in East Lansing and Canton. A fourth location is also expected to open in Ann Arbor around the same time.
About Raising Cane’s
Founded by Todd Graves in 1996, Raising Cane’s began as a college business plan that many doubted would succeed. Graves eventually opened the first location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, naming the restaurant after his Labrador Retriever, Raising Cane. From a late-night opening that stayed busy until 3:30 a.m., the concept quickly grew into one of the most recognizable names in fast food.
Despite its nationwide success, Raising Cane’s has stuck to its core philosophy—serve high-quality chicken finger meals and do it well. The brand refers to this mission as its “One Love.” With a simple menu focused entirely on chicken fingers, Cane’s has built a loyal customer base drawn to its consistency, speed, and flavor.
Planning a visit?
With Raising Cane’s coming to Kentwood, West Michigan is about to get its first taste of the popular chicken finger chain. Whether you’ve been to a Cane’s before or this will be your first time, we want to hear from you. Are you planning to stop by when it opens? What’s your go-to order?