Raising Cane’s Set to Open in Portage, MI

News Summary

A new Raising Cane’s restaurant is on the way to Portage, Michigan, situated at the busy intersection of Milham and Westnedge avenues. In preparation for this opening, several local businesses will be demolished, including Rollup Ice Cream and Little Caesars. After facing initial delays, the developers received the green light for the project without further approvals. This move is part of Raising Cane’s expansion plans in Michigan, aiming to establish over 20 locations in the next decade.

Exciting Changes in Portage, MI: Raising Cane’s Making Its Move!

Portage, Michigan is buzzing with excitement as plans unfold for a brand-new Raising Cane’s restaurant at the bustling intersection of Milham and Westnedge avenues. Yes, you heard that right! The popular chicken chain known for its crispy chicken fingers is gearing up to make quite the splash in this growing community.

Old to Make Way for New

Before the ribbon can be cut on this highly anticipated eatery, a couple of local establishments will be saying goodbye. Two buildings are set to be demolished to clear the way for Raising Cane’s. This includes Rollup Ice Cream and Tea, Little Caesars, Betty Bella Braids, and Art and Soul Tattoo. Rollup Ice Cream has already announced that their last day of operation will be March 2, 2025. Art and Soul Tattoo will, however, be relocating to a new space at 951 Milham Ave. on March 14.

A Bumpy Start But a Clear Path Ahead

The journey to bringing Raising Cane’s to Portage hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing. Initially, plans faced some delays due to a rezoning request that was turned down last year. However, developers rolled up their sleeves, revised the proposed layout, and got the green light to move forward without needing any additional City Council or planning commission approvals. Smart thinking!

Growing Expansion in Michigan

Raising Cane’s has already opened its first Michigan location in East Lansing back in October 2022, and just recently followed that up with a second spot in Metro Detroit in early February 2025. In fact, the company has big dreams for the state, as they plan to open more than 20 new restaurants across Michigan in the next ten years. How fantastic is that for chicken lovers?

Location Location Location

The Portage restaurant will be strategically located just 0.3 miles north of a nearby Chick-Fil-A, which could mean even more hungry diners flocking to the area. How will they decide between chicken fingers and chicken sandwiches? It’s a delicious dilemma!

Backing Up the Plans

The properties chosen for demolition are already zoned for commercial use, conveniently making way for a drive-thru facility—perfect for those on the go. The property owner, Meyer C. Weiner Company, has already applied for a demolition permit, though a specific date for the demolition hasn’t been set just yet. Local residents may recall the previous plans, which included rezoning two nearby residential properties for parking. That proposal didn’t sit well with everyone, so those properties were sold off to Village Pines Apartments LLC for a total of $215,000 in August 2024.

What About the Neighbors?

While several businesses are closing their doors, not every establishment in the vicinity is leaving. Vac World, a beloved family-run business located just up the road at 6027 S. Westnedge Ave., will continue to operate since they own their property and have no plans to sell.

Timeline Still TBA

Although the demolition of the old buildings is just around the corner, there’s still no word on when construction for the new Raising Cane’s will actually begin. The city hasn’t yet released an approved site plan or permitting details, leaving locals in eager anticipation. Will this new dining option be ready in time for summer fun later this year? We’ll just have to wait and see!

As Portage gets revved up for this exciting addition to the local dining scene, it’s clear that change is on the horizon. Stay tuned for what happens next, and be prepared to chow down on some tasty chicken once the doors swing open!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• MLive: Raising Cane’s is Coming to Portage
• Google Search: Raising Cane’s
• WRKR: Raising Cane’s Portage
• Wikipedia: Raising Cane’s
• Crain’s Grand Rapids: Raising Cane’s Restaurant Plans
• Google News: Raising Cane’s Portage