A Connecticut-born fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken is making its first move into Massachusetts.
BIRDCODE is opening a new location just north of the Route 3 intersection at 1978 Washington Street in Hanover, according to a Facebook post from realtor Sean Murphy (via Boston Restaurant Talk). The new outpost will be the brand’s seventh location overall and first outside of Connecticut.
A franchisee and their team are leading the expansion and will become the first BIRDCODE operators in Massachusetts. In a statement to What Now Boston, they said they are thrilled to bring the concept to the state.
The concept was founded by husband-and-wife duo Phil and Brandi Killoran with a simple mission to serve freshly prepared fried chicken and Southern-inspired sides in a welcoming, hospitality-driven environment where kindness comes first. Drawing on Brandi’s Southern upbringing and family recipes, the brand blends bold flavors with a focus on genuine guest connection.
The first location opened in West Hartford in November 2020. Since then, the eatery has become known for its Nashville-style chicken sandwiches, tenders, and nuggets offered across five escalating spice levels. These range from the no-heat “Country” option to Mild, Medium, and Hot, culminating in the fiery “Code Breaker,” which comes with an “eat at your own risk” warning. Sides include Southern staples such as fries, mac and cheese, and slaw, and desserts like milkshakes, cookies, and banana pudding are also on offer.
Fan favorite menu items include The Sando—featuring hand-breaded chicken, vinegar slaw, pickles, and a mayonnaise-based Comeback Sauce—the Classic Sandwich with pickles and sauce, and the Hot Honey 2.0, which balances heat with a drizzle of honey for a sweet-spicy finish.
The upcoming location is currently slated to open in mid-to-late September 2026 and will offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery service. Brandi also noted that the Hanover outpost represents the first step in a broader Massachusetts expansion, with the team actively pursuing franchise growth opportunities across the state. They currently anticipate opening between seven and ten Massachusetts locations by the end of 2027.
