San Francisco — Starbird, the Bay Area-based super-premium fast-casual brand, is launching its first Texas locations through a 36-unit franchise agreement with Mac Haik Restaurant Group. The partnership will bring locations to Houston, Austin and San Antonio beginning in 2027, marking a pivotal milestone in the 10-year-old brand’s broader national expansion strategy.
The agreement represents the largest development deal in Starbird’s history and a significant step in the brand’s long term growth strategy as it enters its second decade.
“This agreement reflects the strength of our business model and the clarity of our long term vision,” says Greg Levin, CEO of Starbird, who was recently appointed to lead the brand into its next phase of growth. “As we mark our 10th anniversary, this is shaping up to be our biggest year yet in terms of expansion. Texas is a critical market for us moving forward, and partnering with an experienced organization like Mac Haik Restaurant Group allows us to grow thoughtfully while staying true to what makes Starbird special.”
A division of Houston-based Mac Haik Enterprises, Mac Haik Restaurant Group was selected for its operational rigor, cultural alignment and deep understanding of Texas markets. The group oversees a growing portfolio of original and franchised concepts across the Lone Star State. With proven multi-unit experience, the group is positioned to thoughtfully expand brands across the state.
“We evaluate opportunities through the lens of long term brand relevance, not just unit growth,” says Dan Anfinson, chief operating officer of Mac Haik Restaurant Group. “Starbird delivers a level of culinary quality and operational sophistication that we believe is still underserved in the premium fast-casual chicken category, particularly in Texas. The brand has a clear point of view and the systems to scale responsibly — that combination is rare. We’re excited to introduce it thoughtfully across our markets and build a meaningful presence over time.”
Born in San Francisco in 2016, Starbird is a super-premium fast food brand founded by restaurant entrepreneur Aaron Noveshen through his firm, The Culinary Edge. Today, the brand operates 19 locations and continues to expand into new markets. For more information, visit www.starbirdchicken.com.
Mac Haik Restaurant Group (MHRG) is a division of Mac Haik Enterprises (MHE) LTD, a diversified holding company headquartered in Houston. MHRG oversees a growing portfolio of original and franchised concepts, including Kirkwood, a modern clubhouse-style restaurant opening in Houston’s Energy Corridor, and Maggie’s Coffee. MHRG is also the largest franchisee of First Watch Daytime Café Restaurants. For more information, visit www.machaik-enterprises.com.
SOURCE: Starbird