This hot Colorado chain even has a Red Rocks restaurant. Ready for five, Boise?
You know that saying about birds of a feather?
Invading the Boise area, a certain type of chain definitely is flocking together.
Birdcall, an expanding, fast-casual chicken brand from Denver, has inked a deal to enter the Treasure Valley. Caleb Randall, owner of local Guru Donuts, has signed a franchise agreement to develop five restaurants, according to a press release. Guru Donuts operates at 928 W. Main St. in Boise. Its Eagle store closed earlier this year.
Birdcall would join a Boise market filled with poultry newcomers such as Dave’s Hot Chicken, Houston TX Hot Chicken and Guthrie’s Chicken, plus soon-to-open competitors Raising Cane’s and El Pollo Loco.
Founded in 2016, Birdcall is in the midst of an expansion surge. Known for colorful, modern branding — and “all-natural crispy chicken” — the chain even opened a location this year at Colorado’s legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Arguably, that adds a slight coolness factor, right?
No leases have been signed in Idaho, but “Randall is eyeing Boise, Meridian, Nampa and Caldwell for potential sites,” the press release says. “His first Birdcall restaurant is expected to open in 2026, with all five locations set to roll out over the next few years.”
Chick-fil-A diehards might be the first to be intrigued. Rather than specializing exclusively in tenders or hot chicken sandwiches, Birdcall offers an array of options. Its “made-to-order menu is highlighted by eight award-winning chicken sandwiches,” according to the release, “including the Southern with pimento cheese and southern coleslaw; the Rancher with bacon onion jam, white cheddar and Bird-B-Q Sauce; and the Deluxe with bacon, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, and mayo.”
(Naturally, there’s a Nashville Hot, too — with chicken tossed in hot or extra-hot sauce.)
“The menu also features sliders, handcut tenders, gluten-free nuggets and several chef-inspired salads. Guests can complete their meals with a selection of sides including fries, tater tots, loaded tots and coleslaws, as well as numerous housemade sauces and dressings.”
As for restaurant atmosphere? “Vibrant interiors, outdoor seating, free arcade games, bold art and unique features like outdoor putting greens deliver a welcoming and lively atmosphere.”
Birdcall operates 15 locations in three states: Colorado, Arizona and Texas. Four of those restaurants opened this year, and the chain is planning for as many as 200 nationwide by the end of 2028, according to the release.
This story was originally published August 1, 2025 at 4:00 AM.