CHATHAM — The South Side is gearing up to welcome a Raising Cane’s restaurant to the bustling Chatham Ridge Shopping Center. This development is expected to bring more dining options and job opportunities to the community, marking another step in the chain’s expansion across Chicago.
The new Raising Cane’s will open at 8652 S. Lafayette Ave., replacing the former Seaway Bank location. With dine-in and drive-thru services, the restaurant is poised to cater to both locals and passersby in the busy shopping district.
A $3 Million Investment in Chatham
City Council recently approved the $3 million project, which will transform the vacant Seaway Bank property into a modern fast-food destination. Designed by ADA Architects, the new restaurant will feature Raising Cane’s signature layout, known for its efficient drive-thru and welcoming dine-in areas.
The development is projected to create 50 permanent jobs, providing much-needed employment opportunities for residents in the area. This aligns with Raising Cane’s commitment to contributing to the communities it serves.
The Legacy of Seaway Bank
The site’s history is significant to the Chatham community. Seaway Bank and Trust Company, once celebrated as America’s largest Black-owned bank, was a symbol of financial empowerment for decades. Unfortunately, the bank closed in 2017 after being sold to the State Bank of Texas.
The 87th Street branch ceased operations in 2021, and a new branch under the name Seaway, a Division of Self-Help Federal Credit Union, was established at 645 E. 87th St. the same year. While the closure marked the end of an era, the new Raising Cane’s offers a fresh chapter for the location, blending economic activity with community engagement.
Raising Cane’s Expansion in Chicago
Raising Cane’s is rapidly expanding its presence in Chicago. In addition to the Chatham location, a South Loop restaurant is slated to open this year. Plans are also in the works for a new location in Lincoln Park, at one of the neighborhood’s busiest intersections.
The chain’s growth reflects its popularity among Chicagoans, thanks to its focus on simple, high-quality offerings like chicken fingers, Texas toast, and its signature Cane’s sauce.
What the Chatham Location Will Offer
The Chatham Ridge Raising Cane’s will feature:
- Dine-in Services: A comfortable space for families and friends to enjoy meals.
- Drive-Thru Convenience: A quick option for customers on the go.
- Community Impact: The creation of 50 jobs and a revitalization of a key commercial space.
The addition of Raising Cane’s to the shopping center is expected to increase foot traffic and complement existing businesses, further enhancing the area’s economic vitality.
Why Chatham?
Chatham is a vibrant South Side neighborhood known for its strong community ties and active shopping districts. The decision to open a Raising Cane’s here reflects the brand’s recognition of the area’s potential and its commitment to serving diverse communities.
With its accessible location and high visibility, the Chatham Ridge Shopping Center is an ideal spot for Raising Cane’s to attract both loyal customers and new visitors.
Anticipated Impact on the Community
The opening of Raising Cane’s in Chatham is about more than just food; it’s about economic development and community growth. Here’s what the new location brings to the table:
- Job Creation: The estimated 50 permanent jobs will provide employment opportunities for local residents, including young adults and those looking for flexible work.
- Revitalization: Transforming the former Seaway Bank into a thriving business space contributes to the area’s ongoing development.
- Accessibility: With both dine-in and drive-thru options, the restaurant will cater to a wide range of customer needs.
What Makes Raising Cane’s Special?
Raising Cane’s is known for its straightforward menu focused on quality. Their offerings include:
- Fresh Chicken Fingers: Hand-battered and cooked to order.
- Crinkle-Cut Fries: Always crispy and perfectly seasoned.
- Texas Toast: Soft, buttery, and toasted to perfection.
- Cane’s Sauce: A secret recipe that keeps customers coming back for more.
This simplicity, combined with exceptional service, has earned the chain a loyal following nationwide.
A Promising Future for Chatham Ridge
The arrival of Raising Cane’s is a positive development for Chatham Ridge Shopping Center and the surrounding community. By bringing jobs, delicious food, and renewed activity to the area, the project highlights the potential for growth and revitalization on the South Side.
As construction begins and the opening date approaches, excitement is building among residents and local businesses alike. Raising Cane’s is not just a new restaurant; it’s a symbol of progress and opportunity for Chatham.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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Raising Cane’s to Open at Chatham Ridge Shopping Center, Creating 50 Jobs
Raising Cane’s to Open at Chatham Ridge Shopping Center, Creating 50 Jobs
Raising Cane’s to Open at Chatham Ridge Shopping Center, Creating 50 Jobs