A new chicken chain opened in town on Monday, March 3, 2025, sparking excitement amongst students and teachers alike. Many Fauquier community members were eager to try the new spot, hoping it would meet their expectations. According to their website, the Layne’s Chicken Fingers franchise started in 1994 in College Station, Texas. Contrary to popular assumption, the restaurant opened two years before its competitor, Raising Cane’s. After seeing the “Coming Soon” sign in town, many believed that Laynes was a knock-off of the trendy restaurant as the menu and name are similar, however, that is far from the truth.
The flagship restaurant was opened by Mike Layne, but the company was then taken over by Texas A&M graduate Mike Garratt, who still owns it. There are currently only 50 locations across the country, with the majority of them in Texas, yet anyone who’s tried the restaurant hopes it will become even more popular. The Layne’s in Warrenton is the first in the state and the fifth across the entire East Coast.
Regardless of the history, what really matters is the food. Layne’s menu features an array of chicken-based dishes and is famous for its special sauce and fries. They also offer a variety of sandwiches, including a chicken club, grilled cheese and a grilled chicken wrap. All meals can be ordered with either original or spicy chicken, and the sides include fries, Texas toast and potato salad.
The portions are generous, and the chicken is fresh and crispy. The flavors are nothing groundbreaking, but most dishes are enjoyable to try. Their fries are well salted, and the sauces are unique and flavorful. The chicken pairs nicely with their toast, making a delicious comfort food. Opinions of Layne’s sauces are subjective, but the majority of people have had positive feedback. In comparison to other similar restaurants, students felt it was on the same level but not necessarily better. It was very delicious, but will not likely replace other restaurants in town.
Price-wise, the restaurant is relatively reasonable. Their family deal for $50 could easily feed a party of six, despite being advertised for four. For a single person, a meal runs for around $12-$15, with a side and drink. “Compared to other places in town where I normally eat, it was less expensive, and I got a good amount of food,” senior AJ Lamper said. All things considered, the meals were substantial and priced accordingly but not unrealistically.
The location itself is well-kept and welcoming. The staff is friendly and extremely accommodating to all despite the many customers. The opening night was packed, and the whole building was full of energy. Many students came to check it out on its first night open, all of them very pleased with the food and brand as a whole. Freshman Rosie Lawerance thoroughly enjoyed the restaurant, stating, “I [would] eat it every single day if I could… I loved it all.”
Overall, Layne’s is a great new addition to Warrenton and will definitely be a favorite spot for members of the school community.
