Zaxbys Opens Its First Illinois Location in Plainfield Near Chicago

Zaxby’s Opens Its First Illinois Location in Plainfield Near Chicago

If you’re a fan of Southern‑style fried chicken and crave new food destinations in the Chicago area, 2026 just got more exciting. The wildly popular fast‑casual restaurant chain Zaxby’s has officially opened its first Illinois location in Plainfield, marking a major milestone for fans across the Chicagoland area.

For years, Chicago lovers of crispy chicken, Chicken Fingerz, wings, and bold sauces have watched Zaxby’s expand through the South and Midwest. Now locals and visitors can finally enjoy this beloved menu right here in the heart of Illinois’ Western Suburbs.

A Southern Favorite Arrives in the Chicago Area

Zaxbys

Zaxby’s began in Statesboro, Georgia in 1990 and has grown into a major fast‑casual franchise with nearly 1,000 restaurants across the U.S. known for hand‑breaded chicken, flavorful sauces, and a loyal fan base.

The Chicago‑area grand opening took place on January 19, 2026, at 13429 Illinois Route 59 in Plainfield, just a short drive from many communities in the Western Suburbs such as Bolingbrook, Naperville, and Aurora.

The new Zaxby’s location features:

  • Indoor dining with seating for roughly 60 guests.

  • A drive‑thru lane, convenient for commuters heading to Southwest Chicago or westbound into the suburbs.

  • Mobile ordering and delivery, perfect for busy locals across Chicagoland.

Whether you live in Downtown Chicago and want a day trip to the suburbs, or call the North Shore and Western Suburbs home — this new Zaxby’s is a must‑try destination for a taste of Southern comfort.


What Makes Zaxby’s Stand Out

What sets Zaxby’s apart from other chicken restaurants is its unique menu and flavor profile. Fans rave about the signature Zax Sauce, crispy Chicken Fingerz, and delicious wings that are both filling and flavorful.

Other menu favorites include:

  • Hand‑breaded chicken sandwiches and wraps.

  • Fresh Zalads with house toppings.

  • Assorted sides like Texas toast, fries, and more.

Zaxby’s also offers a loyalty rewards program through its official mobile app, making it easy for repeat customers in Chicago and the surrounding region to earn points and enjoy exclusive deals.

Why This Matters to Chicago & Surrounding Communities

The arrival of Zaxby’s is more than another restaurant opening. It shows that high‑demand brands are acknowledging the tremendous food scene growth in the Chicago metropolitan area, including the Western Suburbs, Southwest Chicago, and even communities reaching toward the North Shore.

This expansion highlights:

  • A growing appetite for diverse dining options near major commuter corridors.

  • Increased local employment opportunities.

  • Expanded hospitality offerings for families, visitors, and food lovers alike.

Whether you live near Plainfield, are commuting from Aurora to Downtown Chicago, or are exploring eateries near Naperville or Bolingbrook, this Zaxby’s location is now on the map.

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Ranked as a top 1% team in the Chicagoland market, Cory Tanzer and the Cory Tanzer Group specialize in the Chicago, North Shore, and Western Suburbs real estate market. With deep local market expertise and a proven track record, Cory and his team help clients buy and sell with clarity, confidence, and results.