TL;DR
Birdcall signs a five-unit franchise agreement for Indianapolis, marking its Midwest debut. The agreement is led by Nikunj Patel, an experienced franchise operator, who is partnering with a multi-unit, multi-state restaurant group to develop the locations.
Leading the development is Nikunj Patel, an experienced franchise operator and owner of multiple Nekter Juice Bar locations in the Chicagoland area. He is partnering with an accomplished multi-unit, multi-state restaurant group with a proven track record of successfully developing and operating dozens of franchise locations across the Midwest.
Their agreement covers the greater Indianapolis area, with active site selection underway in the Carmel-Fishers-Westfield corridor. Additional areas in the southern portion of the metro area are also being considered.
"This partnership represents exactly where Birdcall is headed," said Justin Livingston, Vice President of Franchise Development for Birdcall. "Nikunj has built an impressive business of his own and shares our passion for operational excellence and thoughtful growth. Combined with the depth of experience within his broader ownership group, we're confident they are the ideal partners to introduce Birdcall to Indianapolis."
Patel added, "Our team has developed and operated restaurants for years, and we've learned to be selective about the brands we invest in. Birdcall stood out because it delivers on both sides of the equation. Guests love the food and experience, and the business model is backed by a leadership team with a clear vision for sustainable growth. We're excited to introduce Birdcall to Indianapolis and look forward to building something that becomes part of the community for years to come."
Each new restaurant will feature Birdcall’s signature atmosphere, combining modern design, vibrant artwork, family-friendly dining spaces, and convenient self-order kiosks designed to create a fast, seamless guest experience.
The made-to-order menu features eight signature chicken sandwiches, hand-cut tenders, gluten-free nuggets, and chef-inspired salads—all made with all-natural chicken—alongside a variety of sides such as fries, tater tots, loaded tots, and slaws, complemented by hand-spun specialty milkshakes and an array of house-made sauces and dressings. Guests also enjoy draft beer and house-made margaritas, with Happy Hour specials.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Birdcall emphasizes community engagement by supporting and partnering with local nonprofits and organizations. This includes meal donations, school partnerships, and fundraiser nights in which a portion of sales are donated back to participating organizations.
"Birdcall has built a brand that's about more than great food," Patel added. "Its commitment to quality, innovation, and community aligns perfectly with how we've always approached our businesses."
Birdcall's expansion into Indianapolis follows the company's recent announcement to add nearly 100 restaurants across six Midwestern states over the next five years. The initial franchise growth efforts are focused on Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin, with Indianapolis representing its first franchise development agreement in the region.
Birdcall currently operates 17 restaurants across Colorado, Arizona, and Texas, with more than 20 additional locations in various stages of development nationwide. In the coming months, Birdcall will celebrate the opening of its first franchised restaurant in Starkville, Mississippi, while franchise partners continue advancing new locations throughout the greater Boise, Idaho, market and the Denver metro area.
A premium fast casual restaurant brand serving all-natural chicken sandwiches, tenders, and salads, powered by innovative tech and designed for an elevated guest experience.
In this story
This story was originally published in Franchising.com on July 22, 2026. Burnaze summarizes and links to the original reporting.
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