Dallas's Cowboy Chicken Is Coming to Atlanta

— Dallas-based chain Cowboy Chicken is looking east to open more restaurants, and the Atlanta market is a prime target. The fast-casual chain has a five-location agreement in place with franchisee Jakes Management 22 Company, which will "expand the concept to Atlanta and surrounding areas," according to a press release. Jakes Management is operated by National Football League veteran Van Jakes.

Cowboy Chicken's first location launched in the Lone Star State in 1981, and there are 18 outposts in operation today. The chain specializes in "real wood-fire rotisserie chicken," "signature sourcream-tomatillo enchiladas," and "abundant home-style sides." Eater Dallas has classified the chain as a healthy option for Big D.

There's no word yet on what parts of the Atlanta area Cowboy Chicken is targeting, or when the restaurants might open. Eater Atlanta has reached out for more information.

— Smashburger, the Denver-based burger chain with restaurants across America, is eyeing another big push into the Atlanta market. The company hopes to open 20 new East Coast locations, reports Meat & Poultry, and 15 of those will settle in Atlanta and and Savannah. Smashburger already operates local outposts in Buckhead, Kennesaw, Johns Creek, and Alpharetta.

Smashburger is partnering with Robison Peck Group LLC and PCM Food Services LLC on the expansion. A spokesperson for the chain tells Eater Atlanta 12 of the 15 Georgia-bound locations will come to metro Atlanta, and the restaurants will open over the next seven years. Targeted areas include Locust Grove, Peachtree City, Newnan, Smyrna, and Roswell.