Melissa Donovan
Raising Cane’s is expanding its Orlando footprint with the opening of a new restaurant in Alafaya on Tuesday, January 13, bringing its signature Chicken Finger meals to East Orlando. Located at 625 N. Alafaya Trail in the Waterford Lakes Town Center, the new restaurant marks another milestone for one of the nation’s fastest-growing restaurant brands.
The Alafaya location will officially open its doors at 10 a.m., offering guests Raising Cane’s made-to-order menu featuring hand-battered Chicken Fingers, buttery Cane’s Toast, crisp coleslaw, crinkle-cut fries and the brand’s well-known Cane’s Sauce. All items are prepared fresh daily by in-restaurant Crewmembers, reinforcing the brand’s focus on quality and consistency.
Raising Cane’s ONE LOVE® Chicken Finger Meals® start with premium chicken breast tenderloins that are marinated for at least 24 hours and cooked fresh for every order. According to the company, there are no heat lamps or warmers used in the process. From mixing Cane’s Sauce and grilling toast to salting fries and brewing tea, each step is handled in real time to deliver a fresh experience across the full menu, from Kids Combos to the Caniac Combo.
Inside the restaurant, guests will find décor that reflects both Raising Cane’s history and the surrounding Orlando community. The interior features photos of the brand’s yellow Labrador mascot, Cane III, alongside images highlighting founder Todd Graves’ path from boilermaker and salmon fisherman to restaurant owner. Local pride is also on display through memorabilia from Orlando-area sports teams and references to notable figures connected to the area, underscoring the brand’s emphasis on community connections.
To celebrate the grand opening, Raising Cane’s is hosting a series of events and giveaways before doors open on January 13. Festivities will begin early, encouraging guests to line up in advance for a chance to participate.
Highlights of the opening-day celebration include a “Lucky 20” drawing, where 20 customers age 13 and older will receive Free Cane’s for a Year. Entries will be accepted from 8 to 9 a.m., with the drawing held shortly after. Winners must be present to claim the prize.
Additionally, the first 100 combos purchased in-restaurant will receive a Cane’s branded trucker hat and a free Box Combo Card valid for a future visit, while supplies last. Customer No. 1 in line will be recognized with a special gift basket and a welcome from the Crew.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for approximately 9 a.m. and will feature the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce, Miss Florida Paris Richardson and Miss Florida Teen Noelle Schnacky. A check presentation benefiting the East Orange Community Center will also take place around the same time.
“Opening in Alafaya means a lot to us,” Sahul Flores, Area Leader of Restaurants, said in a press release. “This Community feels like one big family which brings incredible energy to the area. We’re excited to be part of that and to serve hand-battered, cooked-to-order Chicken Fingers to students, parents and locals who make this neighborhood such a special place.”
The new Raising Cane’s Alafaya restaurant will operate Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., with extended hours on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., catering to late-night diners in the area.
For updates and additional information, guests can follow @RaisingCanes on TikTok, Instagram, X and Facebook or visit the official location page online.
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