ATLANTA — Zaxbys® is continuing its expansion into the western U.S. with the opening of its first-ever Phoenix, Ariz. location. Located at 37756 N. Gantzel Rd., the new Zaxbys is owned and operated by Brian and Jessica Nelson of Bockbock LLC. It will be open for dine-in and drive-thru service starting on Aug. 13.
In celebration of the opening, on Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring opening remarks from Zaxbys Chief Operating Officer Sharlene Smith, as well as franchisee owner and operator, Brian Nelson. The first 100 guests to visit the new Phoenix Zaxbys location will receive free Zaxbys for 6 months, guests will also be able to enjoy Zaxbys fan-favorite menu items, a special 360-degree photo booth experience and selfie photo ops with Zaxbys props, a live DJ and a spin the Zaxbys prize wheel for the chance to win items.
“Following the tremendous success of our Las Vegas opening, we’re proud to announce Zaxbys newest location in Phoenix, Arizona,” Sharlene Smith, Zaxbys chief operating officer, said. “Thanks to the dedication of our franchise partners, Brian and Jessica Nelson, we’re accelerating our growth out West and continuing to introduce the Zaxbys famous Fingerz and signature sauces to new fans across the country.”
On the heels of a successful Las Vegas opening this past spring, the brand is excited to bring its fan-favorite crispy Chicken Fingerz, signature sauces and full line-up of menu items to an entirely new western market in Phoenix with an already vibrant and evolving food scene, the company said, adding that Arizona marks the second new state entry for Zaxbys in 2025 as the brand continues to build awareness amongst new consumers and attract more franchisee partners. Zaxbys is on track to eclipse its 1,000th new store opening in 2025.
Spanning 3,000 square feet, the new location is equipped with 56 seats for dine-in guests, as well as a dual drive-thru and curbside pickup door for expedited service. The new location’s Modern Farmhouse design features prominent branding with Zaxbys signature colors, logo, and sauce medallions, as well as a cohesive brand story showcased through vibrant elements and sauce-inspired art, the company added.
“We are thrilled to introduce Zaxbys to Arizona!” Brian Nelson, owner and operator, said. “While we may represent a trusted national brand with craveable, high-quality chicken and sauces, we are truly just regular people, determined to bring smiles to our guest’s faces and help create meaningful lasting memories with our food and hospitality at the center.”
The Nelsons are working to open additional locations in Phoenix in the coming years. To help build this first location, they contracted local contractor Marsh Development Inc. The new restaurant is expected to provide up to 70 new employment opportunities.
