Chef T’s Chicken Express Brings Flavor to Franklin

Todd Gross knows good food. More importantly, he knows that a great meal is about more than just taste. It’s about community, family, and the experience of sharing something delicious with the people you love.

That’s why, in March, he will open Chef T’s Chicken Express in Franklin, a fast-casual restaurant dedicated to high-quality chicken, bold flavors and affordable prices.

With 14 different sauces, a fiery ghost pepper creamy mac and cheese, crispy fried cod, and a promise of fast service, Chef T’s Chicken Express is set to bring something unique to Franklin’s already thriving food scene. But for Gross, this venture is about more than just feeding people. It’s about giving back.

“I’ve always loved the sense of togetherness that food brings,” Gross says. “Franklin has that small-town warmth where people look out for each other, and I wanted to be part of that.”

A Dream Built on Family and Flavor

Gross has spent years in the food industry. Along the way he has learned the ins and outs of running a restaurant efficiently, from managing operations to ensuring excellent customer service. His experience has given him a deep understanding of what people look for when they dine out, allowing him to craft a restaurant experience that meets their expectations.

Food is often at the heart of family and friend gatherings. It’s where we catch up, celebrate and just enjoy being together. Gross wants Chef T’s Chicken Express to bring that same joy to the families of Franklin.

The menu reflects a love for homemade flavors and comfort food, featuring crispy, golden-brown chicken made fresh to order, paired with signature sauces varying in flavor and intensity. Alongside the chicken, guests will find sides like rich, cheesy mac and cheese and flaky fried cod, a nod to traditional Midwestern fish-fry favorites.

Choosing Franklin: A No-Brainer

When it came time to choose a location for Chef T’s Chicken Express, Franklin stood out immediately. The town’s strong sense of community, support for small businesses and appreciation for quality food made it the perfect fit.

“Opening a business in Franklin has been a delight,” Gross says. “The people here are welcoming, supportive and genuinely excited when a new business comes to town. The process has been so much easier than I expected because everyone – city officials, other business owners and even customers – wants to see you succeed.”

Gross has found inspiration in Franklin’s many family-run businesses, which have built loyal followings through consistency, quality and a commitment to the community. He hopes to do the same, ensuring that every meal served at Chef T’s Chicken Express meets the highest standards.

“I want people to walk in knowing they’re going to get great food, fast service and fair prices,” he says. “We’re not cutting corners. We’re making food the way it should be: fresh, flavorful and made with care.”

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond serving up delicious meals, Gross is dedicated to making a difference in Franklin. Each month, Chef T’s Chicken Express will donate 10% of its profits to a local charity, helping to support those in need.

“This community gives so much and I want to give back,” Gross explains. Whether it’s helping a local food pantry, supporting youth programs or assisting families facing hardship, Gross wants this restaurant to be more than just a place to eat. He wants it to be a part of something bigger.

For Gross, the decision to give back is personal. As a family man, he understands the struggles that many face and believes that businesses have a responsibility to help where they can. He hopes that by making generosity a core part of Chef T’s Chicken Express, he can inspire others to do the same.

A Place for Families, Friends and Flavor

The buzz around Chef T’s Chicken Express is growing, with locals eager to try the menu and experience the welcoming atmosphere Gross is creating. He aims to have a go-to spot for busy families looking for a quick, satisfying meal, as well as a gathering place for friends who want to enjoy good food together.

Chef T’s Chicken Express will operate as a carry-out-style restaurant, offering quick and convenient service for customers on the go. However, during the warmer months, guests will have the option to enjoy their meals in a welcoming outdoor seating area. This space will provide a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, allowing diners to savor their food while enjoying the fresh air.

“I want people to feel at home here,” Gross says. Whether you’re grabbing dinner after a long day, bringing the team in after a game or just craving some really good chicken, Chef T’s will be ready for you.

With a commitment to the community and emphasis on family-friendly dining, Chef T’s Chicken Express is set to become a Franklin favorite. Gross hopes that his restaurant will not only satisfy cravings, but also strengthen the bonds that make the town so special.

At the end of the day, for Gross it’s all about what food has always meant to him: bringing people together, one meal at a time.