A rapidly growing fast-casual franchise has big plans to bring delicious, cooked-to-order chicken and Southern hospitality to Northern Virginia. Local entrepreneurs Oubab and Lama Khalil have signed on to open five Slim Chickens restaurants across the region.
Franchisee Oubab Khalil spoke with What Now DC about bringing the expanding brand to Virginia. He explains that while no leases have been signed, he is currently scouting out the perfect locations. “I am very actively pursuing a deal in Fredericksburg.” he states, adding that he is additionally pursuing Winchester and Stafford spaces.
Khalil brings a great deal of passion and enthusiasm to the project. The restaurateur believes the high quality of Slim Chickens’ product ensures it will succeed in Virginia. He says “Personally, I think all markets are great for Slim Chickens. They provide value and great product to any community.”
Khalil is as much a brand ambassador as a Slim Chickens’ owner. His history with the franchise goes back to 2006. “I was a customer and a fan before they even went into franchising.” he explains. “After I started franchising with Tropical Smoothie Cafe, I was visiting my hometown in Arkansas and I saw they went from being owned by a couple of guys to being able to franchise.” Khalil saw an opportunity and seized it. “I started talking to them and I pursued an agreement with them.”
Khalil anticipates opening the first of the five locations in late 2024 or 2025. He assures future customers that once the restaurant opens, they can expect “friendliness, speed, Southern hospitality and a great tasting product.” He encourages patrons to try the chicken sandwiches, tenders, and slim sauce. Any visitor hoping to indulge a sweet tooth should try the brownie jar. “We make them in house” Khalil states, adding “they’re fresh, good, tasty. They will blow you away!”
While Khalil is dedicated to ensuring the best roll-out for the Virginia Slim Chickens, he sees the market as an opening salvo in a larger expansion. “I’m hoping that we can take Slim Chickens into more urban markets.” he says. “I would love to be the Slim Chickens guy inside the beltway, to look into introducing the concept into more urban markets.”
