Starbird Plans 36 New Texas Locations in Largest Expansion Yet

A decade after its launch, Starbird is making its boldest move yet. Partnering with Mac Haik, the chain eyes Texas as the next frontier for its culinary-driven growth.

, and Administrator

2026 March 12 . 3:02 AM

1 min read

The image shows a chicken star restaurant on the corner of a street, surrounded by buildings,... — The image shows a chicken star restaurant on the corner of a street, surrounded by buildings, trees, poles, wires, and a fence. The sky is visible in the background, and there is a road at the bottom of the image.

Starbird Plans 36 New Texas Locations in Largest Expansion Yet

Starbird, a San Francisco-based chicken chain, is set to expand into Texas with a major deal. The company will open 36 new locations across Houston, Austin, and San Antonio starting in 2027. This marks the largest development agreement in Starbird's history as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The expansion comes after Starbird opened its first franchised location in Denver last year. As of March 2026, the chain operates 19 units, mostly in California, with others in Nevada, Texas, and Colorado. Further growth is planned for Austin, Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Miami, Seattle, and Chicago.

Mac Haik Restaurant Group, a division of Mac Haik Enterprises, will lead the Texas rollout. The group already manages First Watch locations in Houston and has invested in other fast-casual brands like Slapfish and ChopShop. It is also developing two original concepts: Kirkwood, a full-service restaurant, and Flourish Daily Fare, a lunch-focused brand.

Dan Anfinson, COO of Mac Haik Restaurant Group, highlighted Starbird's culinary quality and operational strength as key reasons for the partnership. Greg Levin, Starbird's recently appointed CEO, called Texas a critical market for the chain's future. While the state presents challenges, Mac Haik's deep local experience is expected to support the expansion.

The 36-unit deal will bring Starbird's 'premium fast food' model to major Texas cities beginning in 2027. The chain's growth follows a decade of steady expansion, with plans now extending beyond California. Mac Haik's established presence in the region aims to ensure a smooth entry into the competitive market.