Chick-fil-A Will Open Newark Restaurant in Fall 2026
The fast-food chain plans to launch its 72nd New Jersey franchise at 2 Clay St. by the fall of 2026.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Dining Out
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Chick-fil-A is slated to open a new location at 2 Clay St. in Newark by the fall of 2026. The site, which replaces a former Burger King, is set to become the 72nd franchise in the state of New Jersey.
Why it matters
The expansion brings a new fast-food option to the corner of Broadway and Clay Street in Newark. It continues the chain's growth across the state, marking the 72nd location within the New Jersey franchise network.
The new 2,936-square-foot facility features two drive-thru lanes. The company plans to hire between 60 and 80 workers for the location.
The players
Brian Madalion
He is the designated owner and operator of the upcoming Newark Chick-fil-A franchise.
Newark Central Planning Board
This municipal agency is responsible for reviewing and approving land development and zoning plans for the city.
The details
The restaurant is being developed by owner and operator Brian Madalion on the site of a former Burger King. The Newark Central Planning Board granted approval for the site plan two years ago.
Timeline
The Newark store is scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.
The Newark Central Planning Board approved the site plan in 2024.
Culture Shift
The introduction of this location reflects the ongoing proliferation of major fast-food brands in dense urban corridors. This shift highlights a departure from independent dining toward standardized national chains that prioritize high-volume drive-thru efficiency.
Residents can anticipate the addition of 60 to 80 local jobs once the location begins its hiring process. Interested job seekers may apply for positions by texting 1ERY to 31063.
The takeaway
The transformation of the Broadway and Clay Street property underscores how suburban-style fast food infrastructure is increasingly integrated into city layouts. Job applicants should monitor the official recruitment portal as the 2026 opening date approaches.
Further reading
For more information on the local culinary landscape, visit the Dining Out section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WMTR AM.
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