An ongoing argument in Kansas City and many other places is whether Raising Canes or Chick-fil-A is the better fast-food chicken restaurant. To me, the answer is clear. I understand there are many different criteria when it comes to choosing which establishment truly comes out on top, and I have reviewed many of those aspects. I am confident that Chick-fil-A is the winner.
The menu and the chicken are among the most critical aspects of this debate. Although Raising Canes has exceptional chicken tenders and Texas toast that warms the soul, that is all they have to offer. The menu is extremely limited, and the only meal option is tenders. Meanwhile, Chick-fil-A has wraps, salads, sandwiches, and nuggets while still holding true to its passion for chicken. Every day evokes a different mood, and people must have various options, especially for groups of people.
On a different note, Cane’s sauce is extremely well-curated, but once again, Chick-fil-A offers a variety of quality sauces. Some days, I want the signature sauce, but other days, I want the Buffalo Ranch combo. This also ensures a dynamic menu that covers more people’s needs.
Rewards programs are something that people tend to ignore. As someone with both a Raising Canes and Chick-fil-A loyalty program membership, I feel qualified to give my opinion on this. Of every app or rewards system I have on my phone, Chick-fil-A is by far the most beneficial. As of today, I have two free rewards that were randomly sent to me from the manager of my home location on the app. You can upgrade your status for higher points reciprocal and then redeem those for free meals. I found myself using this app far more than Canes’ because it offers me much more savings.
I must say Raising Canes is hugely supported for a reason. An episode of the podcast “How I Built This” by Guy Raz explores the founder of Canes’ story. I have great respect for his business ideals and food because they are both undeniably impressive. In this episode, Todd Graves shares that his reason for a limited menu is to control quality and perfect the food they serve.
With all of this being said, I still strongly vote for Chick-fil-A as the better chicken establishment. It has more to offer, from the menu to marketing campaigns with cows. I think the answer is clear, and I hope you do, too.
