A Raising Cane’s representative attended Monday’s Johnston Town Council meeting, carrying a chicken gift basket topped with a bright red bow.

The restaurant chain missed their spot on the agenda last month, but made it just in time to secure a business license for their official grand opening next week, Jan. 17.

The day before, the chicken finger specialists plan to hold a “Cainiac Celebration,” with VIPs from the community.

“We will be opening on Jan. 17,” said Hannah Henderson, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Senior Manager, Public Relations, Fry Cook & Cashier.

Earlier this week, the restaurant lobby was packed, likely with employees and trainers, working hard to prepare for launch. Cane’s boasts more than $20 per hour starting pay.

Last year, Henderson promised a big surprise for customers on opening day: “I can tell you we will be giving away ‘Free Cane’s for a Year’ to 20 lucky customers! That usually draws a crowd!”

The restaurant at 1386 Atwood Ave. will occupy a key spot in the shopping plaza along Atwood Avenue, sharing the complex with Burlington, Pet Smart and Aldi.

The Cane’s representative, Philip Yost, stood before Town Council and accepted their unanimous approval of the finger joint’s business license. But for some reason, he left the meeting room after the vote, with the gift basket under still his arm, ungifted.