By: Audrey Ring
University of Maryland students are eagerly anticipating the Dec. 9 opening of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers on Baltimore Avenue, the latest addition to the growing number of food options on Route 1.
The new restaurant is replacing Nando’s Peri-Peri and will add to the late-night dining options for students. Marathon Deli, Popeyes and Blaze Pizza are currently the go-tos. But the arrival of Cane’s offers students another affordable and much needed choice on weekends, when many places close early or are overcrowded.
“I’m so excited to have another affordable food option in College Park,” sophomore biology major, Gianna Bevivino, said. “I think it will be a great option especially when the lines get so long at other places nearby where the Cane’s is opening.”
While excitement is high, some students are concerned about the potential traffic and long lines on the already busy stretch of Baltimore Avenue, which already faces congestion from construction and weekend crowds.
“I’m super excited for the new Cane’s to open, but I know everyone is just as excited about it, so I’m a little worried it might be crowded for the first few weeks,” sophomore marketing major, Kate Kreisle, said.
For students and residents, the closest Cane’s locations have previously been in Washington, D.C., making this the first within walking distance of the College Park area. The chain restaurant is known for their chicken fingers, Texas toast and signature Cane’s sauce. The restaurant also provides tailgate specials, with 25 to 100 chicken fingers.
“I absolutely love Cane’s,” sophomore business major, Connor Niehaus, said. “I have one in my hometown that I go to all the time, so I am excited for this one to open up. I live in the Union, so soon I’ll be able to go down the elevator and get the best sauce and fries whenever I want.”
With opening day approaching, Raising Cane’s appears as though it is going to become one of the most popular late-night spots on Route 1.