Robert Layton, who says he’s affiliated with the Harold’s Chicken Shack (which just celebrated 70 years of business on September 30, 2020), is opening up a similarly titled Harold’s Bar & Grill. Representatives with Harold’s Chicken Shack reached out to What Now Atlanta (WNA) to clarify there’s no affiliation to their knowledge. Layton disputed these claims, citing ongoing discussions with the popular Chicago chicken restaurant franchise. In any case, the restaurant doing business as Harold’s Bar & Grill is set to open on 3755 Carmia Dr. SW #430.
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Harold’s Bar & Grill will put a lot of emphasis on chicken, but will also serve things like shrimp and catfish, along with healthier, additional sides like grilled zucchini and squash. Layton told WNA that Harold’s Bar & Grill will offer a dine-in area that will feature a lounge and bar, a more intimate experience for people who just want to relax, unwind, and have a drink after work.
Layton told WNA that he runs two locations of Harold’s Chicken Shack in Chicago — where the restaurant originated — at 1711 E 87th St. and 2142 E 71st St. As for Harold’s Bar & Grill, Layton is looking at two neighborhoods: Camp Creek and Cascade Heights. “This is going to be my startup location,” Layton said. “I really wanna expand in the restaurant business in the Cascade area, when the opportunity presents itself.”
Layton loves the community, how “up-and-coming” it was, and the ambition that goes along with it. He’s always wanted to do business in Camp Creek, where Harold’s Bar & Grill will open up in an old Cricket Wireless store after a full renovation converts the space into a usable restaurant. As for an opening timeline, Layton is hoping for December. WNA reached out to Harold’s Chicken Shack’s corporate office on Friday for further comment and is currently awaiting a response.
[Editor’s note: this article was updated after Harold’s Corp reached out to WNA to dispute Layton‘s affiliation to the company.]