Downtown: Aggie Chicken Chain Debuts

In Houston, Layne’s Chicken Fingers opened a downtown location at 609 Main Street, its 11th in the Houston area as the chain continues its expansion across Texas and beyond.

Founded in College Station in 1994, the brand became a Texas A&M favorite known for its crispy chicken fingers and flavorful sauces. Layne’s expanded outside of College Station in 2018 and entered the Houston market when it began franchising in 2021.

Texas A&M alumnus Masroor Fatany was the first franchisee for Layne’s Chicken Fingers, which has grown to 44 locations in nine states so far.

“Houstonians know good food, and they appreciate a brand that keeps things simple and does it right,” said Fatany. “We started with our first store in Katy in 2021 and I’m excited to continue to develop the brand in the Houston-area.”

Fatany’s other ventures include The Halal Guys, which previously operated at 609 Main.

Developed by Hines, the 609 Main office tower is anchored by United Airlines and home to several national law firms. The 48-story building’s other street level retail includes Mendocino Farms and Prelude Coffee and Tea. The property occupies the block bounded by Main, Texas, Fannin, and Capitol.

Layne’s new downtown location follows other recent Texas openings in Palestine and Rockwall. Another 35 locations are planned in 2026, as stated by the Frisco, Texas-based company.

“We’ve been strategic about our growth to ensure that as we step on the accelerator, every guest gets the same iconic experience that started in College Station back in ’94,” said Garrett Reed, Chief Executive Officer of Layne’s Chicken Fingers. “This Downtown location is a major milestone in our mission to make Layne’s a staple across the entire Houston metro.”