Southern Chain Zaxbys Is Opening Its First Manhattan Restaurant On The UES

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — Zaxbys, the Georgia-based chicken chain, is opening its first Manhattan restaurant on the Upper East Side later this summer.

The fast-casual chain said Monday that it will open at 1267 First Ave., near East 68th Street, marking its second New York location. The chain will take over the space previously occupied by Le Gourmet, a grab-and-go buffet and salad bar spot.

The Upper East Side restaurant will span more than 2,800 square feet and include 16 dine-in seats, self-service ordering kiosks and the brand's "modern farmhouse-inspired design," according to the company. An exact opening date has not yet been announced.

Founded in Statesboro, Georgia, in 1990, Zaxbys has grown from a single chicken restaurant into a chain with more than 1,000 locations across 24 states. The company is known for its chicken fingers, wings, salads and a dozen signature dipping sauces.

"New York is one of the most influential food cities in the world, and we're incredibly proud to introduce Zaxbys to this market," CEO Bernard Acoca said in a statement.

The Upper East Side opening represents another step in the company's expansion across the Northeast.

Additional details about the Upper East Side restaurant and its grand opening are expected closer to its debut.

Know of a business opening or closing on the Upper East Side? Email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.