Metro Detroit’s First Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Has Arrived

As part of a nationwide expansion effort, chicken finger chain Raising Cane’s is making its metro Detroit debut. Located at 144218 Ford Road in Canton, a grand opening celebration is taking place on Tuesday, February 4, during which time visitors are invited to brave the frigid temperatures for a chance to be among the first to dip their chicken fingers into Cane’s sauce. The dining room at the Canton spot is adorned with memorabilia from local high schools and other decor relevant to the area, including a pennant from Willow Run Airport. Detroit Lions star punter Jack Fox will be on hand just ahead of service to help with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, sign autographs for fans, and serve the first customer in the drive-true window. Fox is scheduled to make his appearance at 8:45 a.m. and as part of the festivities, he will accept a $2,500 donation on behalf of the Kirk Gibson Foundation. So what’s all the fuss about? Check out Eater’s FAQ on Raising Cane’s. What is Raising Cane’s? Founded in 1996, the Baton Rouge, Louisiana-headquartered Raising Cane’s is one of the fastest-growing fast food chains in the country, with nearly 900 locations in more than 40 states, and plans to open more than 100 new restaurants in new markets in 2025. According to QSR Magazine, the company was projected in 2024 to earn more than $4.5 billion in sales, finish with more than 850 restaurants, and was on pace to debut more than 90 restaurants — including a flagship location set inside the historic Paramount Building in Times Square. The Canton location is a second for Michigan, the first one having launched in 2022 in East Lansing (the chain loves college campuses, like Michigan State’s). What’s so special about the chain? Cane’s chicken fingers are hand-battered and cooked to order. However, not everyone is so keen on the chain’s seasoning, calling it bland at best. Fanatics will point to the chain’s dipping sauces. The meals also come with a slice of Texas toast. Sides include crinkle-cut fries and coleslaw. There’s also lemonade. Who are the chain’s main customers? You’ll find Raising Cane’s around college campuses and high schools. More Raising Cane’s locations are headed to Michigan in the coming months as part of its nationwide expansion, including an Ann Arbor outpost at 1116 South University, and locations in in Grandville and Sterling Heights. The brand seems to resonate with young people, Videos featuring curious fans dipping their chicken fingers or toast into full-sized cups filled with Cane’s Sauce have gone viral and countless recipe sites feature dupe recipes for exploration at home. The chain has plenty of money for publicity stunts, like this one in suburban Chicago, hoping to reach older fans who know Chevy Chase. They also have no problem taking on competitors, even locally owned restaurants. Raising Cane’s, 144218 Ford Road in Canton, open 10 a.m. to midnight Sun. through Thursday and 10 a.m.-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.