Harold's Chicken Relocates to Downtown Cedar Rapids
The popular franchise has moved its operations from 16th Avenue SW to a new space on Third Street SE.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Harold's Chicken recently completed a move to a new location at 209 Third St. SE in Cedar Rapids. The restaurant, which originally launched in the city in early 2025, has vacated its previous site on 16th Ave. SW.
Why it matters
The relocation places the Chicago-based chain in the downtown area, marking a shift for the restaurant after operating at its former location for nearly two years.
The franchise operates 45 total locations across 8 states and has a 70-year history as a brand. The new storefront at 209 Third St. SE occupies the former location of Taco Gato, which shut down in November 2024.
The players
Harold's Chicken
This Chicago-based restaurant franchise is known for its fried chicken and has expanded to include 45 locations across eight states over its 70-year history.
Taco Gato
This restaurant previously occupied the commercial space at 209 Third St. SE before ceasing operations in November 2024.
The details
The restaurant moved from its former address at 4330 16th Ave. SW to the downtown site. The new facility replaces the space previously held by Taco Gato.
Timeline
Taco Gato closed its business at the downtown location in November 2024.
Harold's Chicken opened at its first Cedar Rapids location in early 2025.
Harold's Chicken opened at 209 Third St. SE on October 24, 2026.
Market Landscape
The relocation of Harold's Chicken into the downtown core mirrors the broader trend of brands seeking to capture high-traffic urban foot traffic in mid-sized markets. This shift positions the restaurant to compete more directly for local downtown patronage than it did at its former suburban site.
Customers who previously visited the restaurant at its 16th Avenue location will now need to travel to the new downtown site for service. Residents and workers in the Third Street area gain a new dining option in the space formerly occupied by Taco Gato.
The takeaway
The brand continues to grow its national footprint by optimizing its local real estate strategy. Residents should note the new downtown address as the primary location for the restaurant moving forward.
Further reading
For more on local developments, visit the Cedar Rapids Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Gazette.
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