Slim Chickens plans a grand reopening in Bloomington, Illinois, on September 25.

Bloomington is the third of three Illinois reopenings to be completed in September—the first and second of which took place earlier this month in Plainfield and Champaign—in what is scheduled to be a 50-unit area development deal in Illinois and Missouri.

“Our staff is very proud of the work they have put in to get this location up to the highest possible standards of service. We’re excited to bring Slim Chickens’ fresh and delicious food to the Bloomington community,” says Andrew Buscher, the District Manager for central Illinois. “We’re looking forward to showing off our southern hospitality and really becoming a vital part of the community.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will kick off at 4 p.m on Wednesday, September 25 at the restaurant located at 1515 N Veterans Pkwy., Bloomington, Illinois 61704, at which time, Slim Chickens will announce its month-long charity partnership with The Bloomington Cardinals Youth Football and Cheer Association. Throughout the month of October, guests have the option to “Round Up” their total amount spent to the nearest dollar in order to benefit championship-winning youth football and cheer programs in the Bloomington area.

Tastings of Slim Chickens signature chicken and waffles, chicken tenders and jar desserts will be offered immediately following the Chamber of Commerce hosted ribbon cutting ceremony. Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, 107.7 THE BULL will begin setting up for their live broadcast and games. Radio host Andy Roberts will be offering a game to listeners who come to Slim Chickens giving them a chance to win Miranda Lambert and Maren Morris concert tickets, as well as 4 sets of tickets to Six Flags Fright Fest. Grand reopening events will continue through Sunday and are as follows:

  • September 26: Enjoy a parking lot tent party from 4 to 6 p.m. The party will feature prize giveaways including ZZ Top Concert tickets and a live radio broadcast from BOB 97.9 FM.
  • September 27: Musician Kyle Yap will perform from 4 to 7 p.m.
  • September 28: Illinois State Radio Station 103.3 WZND will be on site for a live broadcast from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Later that day, Susan Saunders from the Susan Show on 101.5 WBNQ-FM will be broadcasting from 4 to 6 p.m.
  • September 29: Come take pictures with Cinderella and Belle, who will be singing and telling stories from 2 to 4 p.m. while kids eat free all day, with the purchase of an adult meal.

The Bloomington reopening is only one piece in Slim Chickens’ larger growth story. Since its founding in 2003, the “better chicken” brand has celebrated over 90 openings in 14 states, with an overall goal of opening 600 restaurants by 2025. In Illinois, the brand has proudly established three locations and is poised for further expansion in the years to come.

“Our freshly made southern dishes and homemade recipes create loyal guests who feel good about the food they’re eating and we’re proud to be able to grow our loyal fan base into the Bloomington market,” says Slim Chickens Chief Operating Officer, Sam Rothschild.

By focusing on providing only 100% fresh, all-natural chicken tenders that are buttermilk-marinated, hand-breaded and always cooked fresh-to-order, the brand has committed to providing a “better chicken” experience that can’t be found anywhere else. In addition, a choice of 17 housemade sauces adds exceptional flavor and has earned admiration from both guests and critics. Slim Chickens also offers fresh sandwiches, salads, wraps and its signature chicken and waffles. To offset the savory side of the menu, rotating desserts served in Mason jars are also available.

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