Dozens Camp Out for Novato Chick-fil-A Opening

No, it’s not Black Friday. It’s chicken Thursday.

If you’ve seen some people camping in out in a parking lot in Novato for the last day or so, it’s because the group of approximately 100 people are anxiously awaiting the opening of one of the newest eateries in town— and free meals for a year.

The first Chick-fil-A in Novato opens around 6 a.m. Thursday at 35 Rowland Way. Representatives tell Patch that the first 100 adults through the door will win free Chick-fil-A for a year (a number one combo meal each week for 52 weeks) which can be redeemed at any location.

“The crowd has come from as far away as Los Angeles and Sacramento but also includes a large number from the Novato, Mill Valley and San Rafael areas,” a rep told Patch by email Wednesday. “About 40 of them are participating for the first time, but the others have camped out at previous Chick-fil-A grand openings, including one woman from Sacramento who has participated 35 times.”

The restaurant is hiring a total of 70 people, and there are still positions open.

Here’s some more info on the new restaurant from Chick-fil-A:

**Novato’s first Chick-fil-A restaurant features the chain’s newest interior and kitchen design which includes subway tile and metals in a variety of finishes and patinas all complimented by an abundance of window to allow plenty of natural light. Offering dining room seating for 102 with the convenience of free Wi-Fi, the new restaurant also features a vintage-inspired interior complete with light fixtures made from recycled wine barrels and Coca-Cola bottles along with a community table made of reclaimed timber. Drive-thru service is also available.

**The new Novato location includes many environmentally features such as low-flow water fixtures in the kitchen and restrooms, energy-efficient light fixtures and additional windows to provide natural light, and the use of building materials with recyclable content such as the tile floors and stainless steel.

**The new Novato restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., serving a full breakfast menu until 10:30 a.m.

Photo of campers on Wednesday, July 30, 2014. Courtesy: Brian Woodson