Atomic Wings, established in 1989, has carved out a notable place in the competitive wing market, renowned for its fresh, never-frozen chicken and unique, bold flavors. This year marks a significant turning point for the brand, as it prepares to expand aggressively with over 20 new locations anticipated to open by the end of 2026. Presently, Atomic Wings operates 24 restaurants and is set to nearly double its footprint in just a year’s time, particularly in its primary markets of New York and New Jersey.
Plans for Expansion
The ambitious expansion strategy includes the addition of five new locations in New York, featuring two restaurants in Brooklyn, two in Queens, and one sports bar in Manhattan. Simultaneously, Atomic Wings aims to introduce six new establishments in New Jersey. Beyond these core markets, the brand is also set to expand into Texas, South Dakota, Minnesota, Ohio, and Illinois, revealing a growing appetite for quality chicken offerings beyond its traditional northeastern base.
Zak Omar, CEO of Atomic Wings, shared insights into the brand's vision: “We are at a pivotal moment as a brand... New York and New Jersey are where our story began, and we see tremendous opportunity to continue building density there while also introducing Atomic Wings to new communities across the country.” This strategy not only underscores the brand's origins but also aims to connect more deeply with community roots.
The Personal Touch
The forthcoming openings in Queens hold special significance for the Omar family. Plans for a location in Fresh Meadows, where Zak's brother attended high school and engaged in ROTC, and another in Maspeth, Zak's childhood neighborhood, bring a personal touch to the expansion. “These locations mean a lot to our family...bringing the brand into neighborhoods that helped shape who we are,” Omar stated.
Local Operators Driving Growth
Atomic Wings' New Jersey expansion will be spearheaded by local operators like Moe Moustafa, who has successfully managed two Brooklyn locations. Moustafa recognizes the quality and consistency of Atomic Wings as key factors driving its popularity. He stated, “Having the opportunity to grow with Atomic Wings speaks to the strength of the brand and the opportunity we see ahead.” This local involvement not only fortifies the brand's reach but also cultivates a sense of community ownership and engagement.
A Broader Vision
While the focus remains on New York and New Jersey, the broader pipeline for 2026 highlights a significant national interest in Atomic Wings. With substantial openings planned across various states, the brand aims to leverage the increasing demand for high-quality chicken concepts. This strategic expansion reflects the brand's ongoing commitment to exceptional quality and customer satisfaction.
Commitment to Authenticity
As Atomic Wings moves forward with its growth strategy, the emphasis is on maintaining sustainable practices, strategic franchise partnerships, and an authentic brand identity. The company prides itself on offering all-natural, hormone-free chicken, and hand-tossing their wings in a remarkable array of proprietary sauces. They are also recognized as the first halal-certified wing franchise, further setting them apart in a crowded marketplace.
For anyone keen to explore what Atomic Wings has to offer, or those interested in franchise opportunities, additional information can be found at
atomicwings.com/franchising. With a rich history and an exciting future ahead, Atomic Wings is certainly on a trajectory to make a significant impact in the dining landscape of America.