Church’s Texas Chicken has been serving up its iconic fried chicken and Southern-inspired comfort food for over 70 years. Since its humble beginnings in San Antonio in 1952, the chain has expanded to over 1,500 locations worldwide. While many restaurants maintain a familiar look, some Church’s Texas Chicken locations stand out with their unique designs.
From eye-catching exteriors to innovative interior layouts, these 12 Church’s Texas Chicken restaurants showcase architectural creativity while staying true to the brand’s Texas roots. Each location offers a distinct dining experience that goes beyond the menu, incorporating local influences and modern design elements. These standout restaurants demonstrate how Church’s Texas Chicken continues to evolve its image while maintaining its commitment to quality food and Southern hospitality.
1) Church with a Floating Roof, Austin
One of the most striking Church’s Texas Chicken locations can be found in Austin. This unique restaurant features an innovative floating roof design that appears to hover above the building.
The roof’s distinctive structure creates an illusion of weightlessness, drawing the eye upward. Large glass windows surround the dining area, allowing natural light to flood the interior.
Steel beams and cables support the roof, cleverly concealed to maintain the floating effect. This architectural feat required precise engineering to ensure stability while achieving the desired visual impact.
The restaurant’s exterior showcases a blend of modern and industrial elements. Sleek metal panels contrast with warm wood accents, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners.
At night, subtle lighting accentuates the floating roof, making the building a local landmark. The innovative design has garnered attention from architecture enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
This Church’s Texas Chicken location demonstrates how fast-food restaurants can incorporate unique architectural elements. The floating roof design sets it apart from typical franchise buildings, offering customers a memorable dining experience.
2) Heritage Style Outlet, San Antonio
The Heritage Style Outlet in San Antonio pays homage to Church’s Texas Chicken’s roots. This location features a design reminiscent of the original 1952 restaurant on San Pedro Avenue.
The exterior boasts a retro facade with vintage signage and a color scheme that evokes nostalgia. Red and white stripes adorn the building, mimicking the classic look of early fast-food establishments.
Inside, customers are transported back in time with checkerboard flooring and chrome-accented seating. Historical photographs of San Antonio and Church’s early days line the walls, creating a mini-museum atmosphere.
The counter area showcases an old-fashioned menu board, complete with replaceable letter tiles. This touch adds authenticity to the vintage ambiance while still offering modern menu options.
Despite its throwback design, the Heritage Style Outlet incorporates contemporary amenities. Modern kitchen equipment ensures efficient food preparation, while digital ordering kiosks provide convenience for tech-savvy customers.
This unique location serves as a bridge between Church’s past and present, offering patrons a taste of history alongside their favorite fried chicken meals.
3) Modernist Echoes Design, Dallas
The Church’s Texas Chicken location in Dallas showcases a striking modernist design that sets it apart from typical fast-food establishments. Clean lines and geometric shapes dominate the exterior, creating a sleek and contemporary aesthetic.
Large glass panels make up much of the building’s facade, allowing natural light to flood the interior space. This transparency also creates a visual connection between the interior and exterior, inviting passersby to glimpse the activity inside.
The structure features a bold use of concrete and steel, with exposed structural elements that pay homage to mid-century modernist architecture. A flat roof with extended overhangs provides shade and adds to the building’s horizontal emphasis.
Inside, the restaurant continues the modernist theme with minimalist furnishings and a carefully curated color palette. Neutral tones are punctuated by pops of the brand’s signature colors, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment.
The Dallas location’s unique design demonstrates Church’s Texas Chicken’s commitment to innovating within the fast-food space. It offers customers a dining experience that goes beyond the typical, blending architectural interest with functional restaurant design.
4) Retro Diner Aesthetic, Houston
A Church’s Texas Chicken location in Houston embraces a retro diner aesthetic, transporting customers to a bygone era. The restaurant’s exterior features chrome accents and neon signage reminiscent of 1950s diners.
Inside, the decor includes classic red vinyl booths and chrome-edged tables. A black and white checkerboard floor complements the vintage ambiance. The walls are adorned with nostalgic advertisements and photos of old Houston.
The counter area showcases a traditional diner setup with swivel stools and a long countertop. Behind it, stainless steel equipment and vintage-style menu boards complete the look.
Lighting fixtures mimic those found in mid-century diners, with pendant lamps over booths and counter-mounted jukebox selectors. The color scheme incorporates muted pastels and bold reds typical of the era.
This unique design creates a nostalgic atmosphere while serving Church’s Texas Chicken’s modern menu. It offers customers a blend of contemporary flavors in a setting that celebrates Houston’s dining history.
5) Art Deco Heritage, Fort Worth
The Church’s Texas Chicken location in downtown Fort Worth stands out with its striking Art Deco-inspired design. This unique restaurant pays homage to the city’s architectural heritage from the 1920s and 1930s.
The building’s facade features geometric patterns and sleek lines characteristic of the Art Deco style. Bold colors and metallic accents adorn the exterior, creating a visual feast for passersby.
Inside, the decor continues the Art Deco theme with elegant light fixtures, mirrored surfaces, and streamlined furnishings. The dining area showcases custom murals depicting Fort Worth’s history and famous landmarks.
This location seamlessly blends modern fast-food convenience with a touch of vintage glamour. It offers a distinct dining experience that sets it apart from typical quick-service restaurants.
The Art Deco Church’s Texas Chicken has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It serves as a testament to Fort Worth’s commitment to preserving its architectural legacy while embracing contemporary dining trends.
6) Victorian Charm Location, El Paso
Church’s Texas Chicken in El Paso boasts a unique location with Victorian-inspired architecture. The restaurant stands out with its ornate exterior featuring intricate gingerbread trim and a wrap-around porch.
Large bay windows allow natural light to flood the dining area, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Inside, patrons are greeted by high ceilings adorned with decorative moldings and period-appropriate light fixtures.
The color scheme incorporates muted pastels and rich wood tones, typical of Victorian design. Vintage-style wallpaper and framed historical photographs of El Paso add to the nostalgic ambiance.
Seating areas feature plush upholstered booths and chairs, providing comfort while maintaining the Victorian aesthetic. The counter area showcases custom millwork with elaborate detailing, blending functionality with period charm.
This Church’s Texas Chicken location offers a dining experience that transports guests to a bygone era while serving up the brand’s signature fried chicken. The unique Victorian design sets it apart from typical fast-food establishments in El Paso.
7) Minimalist Glass Structure, Plano
The Church’s Texas Chicken location in Plano stands out for its striking minimalist glass design. This unique structure features floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the entire building, creating a sense of openness and transparency.
The glass walls allow natural light to flood the interior, enhancing the dining experience for customers. At night, the illuminated restaurant becomes a beacon, drawing attention from passersby on the busy streets of Plano.
Inside, the space is thoughtfully designed with clean lines and a simple color palette. The minimalist aesthetic extends to the furniture and fixtures, with sleek tables and chairs complementing the modern architecture.
Despite its contemporary appearance, the restaurant still incorporates subtle nods to Church’s Texas Chicken’s brand identity. Tasteful signage and strategically placed brand elements remind diners of the chain’s heritage.
This Plano location demonstrates how fast-food architecture can be elevated beyond the typical. The glass structure creates a unique dining environment that sets it apart from other Church’s Texas Chicken restaurants in the area.
8) Tudor Revival Style, Arlington
The Church’s Texas Chicken location in Arlington boasts a unique Tudor Revival architectural design. This unexpected style choice for a fast-food restaurant sets it apart from typical franchise buildings.
The structure features steep gabled roofs and decorative half-timbering, hallmarks of Tudor Revival architecture. Dark wooden beams contrast against light-colored stucco walls, creating a striking visual effect.
Large, multi-paned windows allow ample natural light into the dining area. The entrance is marked by a prominent arched doorway, reminiscent of medieval English manors.
Inside, exposed wooden beams on the ceiling complement the exterior design. Wrought iron chandeliers and wall sconces add to the Tudor ambiance while providing warm lighting.
This Arlington location seamlessly blends modern fast-food functionality with historic architectural charm. The Tudor Revival style creates a distinctive dining experience for customers seeking both tasty chicken and unique surroundings.
9) Ranch-style Building, Corpus Christi
Church’s Texas Chicken in Corpus Christi features a unique ranch-style building design. The location embraces the local Texan architectural heritage with its low-slung profile and wide-open front facade.
Wooden beams and a gabled roof add rustic charm to this Church’s outlet. The exterior walls are clad in natural stone, giving the building a rugged yet inviting appearance that fits well with the Corpus Christi landscape.
Large windows allow ample natural light to fill the dining area. The interior layout incorporates elements of traditional ranch house design, with an open-concept floor plan and exposed wooden trusses.
A covered porch area provides outdoor seating for customers to enjoy their meals in the Texas sunshine. The restaurant’s signage is integrated seamlessly into the ranch-style aesthetic, using weathered wood and metal accents.
This Church’s Texas Chicken location stands out from typical fast-food architecture. It offers a dining experience that pays homage to the state’s rich ranching history while serving up the brand’s famous fried chicken.
10) Mediterranean Influence, Lubbock
Church’s Texas Chicken in Lubbock boasts a unique Mediterranean-inspired design. The restaurant’s exterior features warm terracotta hues and arched windows, evoking the architectural styles of coastal Mediterranean towns.
Decorative tiles with intricate geometric patterns adorn the walls, adding a touch of elegance to the dining area. Wrought iron light fixtures and rustic wooden accents further enhance the Mediterranean ambiance.
The seating area incorporates comfortable booths upholstered in rich, earth-toned fabrics. Potted olive trees and fragrant herbs scattered throughout the space bring a hint of Mediterranean flora indoors.
Large windows allow ample natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and airy atmosphere reminiscent of sunny Mediterranean locales. The open kitchen concept allows guests to observe the preparation of their meals, adding to the authenticity of the experience.
This Church’s Texas Chicken location seamlessly blends the flavors of Southern fried chicken with the aesthetic charm of Mediterranean design. The result is a unique dining environment that transports patrons to the shores of the Mediterranean while enjoying their favorite comfort food.
11) Southwestern Flair Spot, Irving
Church’s Texas Chicken in Irving embraces the Southwestern aesthetic with its unique design. The exterior features warm, earthy tones reminiscent of adobe buildings, complemented by terracotta roof tiles.
Large windows allow natural light to flood the interior, creating an inviting atmosphere. The dining area showcases rustic wooden furniture and colorful Southwestern-inspired artwork on the walls.
Decorative wrought iron accents add an authentic touch to the space. Potted cacti and succulents strategically placed throughout the restaurant further enhance the Southwestern ambiance.
The ordering counter incorporates elements of traditional Mexican tile work, adding a vibrant pop of color. Pendant lights with intricate metal designs hang from the ceiling, casting interesting shadows.
This Irving location’s thoughtful design elements transport diners to the heart of the Southwest while they enjoy Church’s famous fried chicken and sides.
12) Gothic Revival Architecture, Garland
A unique Church’s Texas Chicken location in Garland, Texas showcases Gothic Revival architectural elements. This distinctive design stands out among fast food restaurants, blending historical aesthetics with modern functionality.
The building features pointed arched windows and doorways, characteristic of Gothic Revival style. Steep gabled roofs and decorative bargeboard trim add to its picturesque appearance.
Inside, vaulted ceilings create an airy atmosphere, while exposed wooden beams pay homage to traditional Gothic construction techniques. Stained glass accents provide colorful touches throughout the dining area.
The exterior walls incorporate a combination of brick and stone, mimicking the materials used in classic Gothic churches. Buttresses along the sides of the building contribute to its authentic look.
This Gothic Revival-inspired Church’s Texas Chicken location offers customers a unique dining experience. It demonstrates how architectural styles from the past can be adapted for contemporary commercial use.
Architectural Influence
Church’s Texas Chicken locations incorporate distinctive design elements that reflect local culture and embrace sustainable materials. These architectural choices create unique dining environments that resonate with customers while promoting environmental responsibility.
Incorporation of Local Culture
Many Church’s Texas Chicken restaurants feature design elements that celebrate local heritage. In San Antonio, some locations showcase Spanish colonial architecture with stucco walls and terracotta roof tiles. Restaurants in coastal areas may incorporate nautical themes with weathered wood and porthole-inspired windows.
Some urban locations integrate street art or murals by local artists, adding vibrancy to the dining space. In rural areas, restaurants might feature barn-inspired structures or use reclaimed materials from local farms.
Use of Sustainable Materials
Church’s Texas Chicken has embraced eco-friendly construction practices in several locations. Recycled steel and reclaimed wood are used for structural elements and interior finishes. Some restaurants utilize low-VOC paints and energy-efficient lighting systems to reduce environmental impact.
Solar panels have been installed on the roofs of select locations to harness renewable energy. Water-saving fixtures and drought-resistant landscaping are common features in regions prone to water scarcity.
These sustainable design choices not only reduce the restaurants’ ecological footprint but also create a modern, environmentally conscious atmosphere for diners.
Design Innovations
Church’s Texas Chicken has embraced modern design concepts to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. These innovations blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating inviting spaces for diners.
Open Kitchen Concepts
Several Church’s Texas Chicken locations now feature open kitchen designs. This layout allows customers to view food preparation, fostering transparency and trust. Large glass partitions separate the dining area from the kitchen, providing a clear view of the cooking process.
The open concept also improves kitchen workflow. Strategically placed equipment and workstations enable staff to move efficiently, reducing preparation times. This design often incorporates advanced ventilation systems to manage cooking odors and maintain a pleasant dining atmosphere.
Some locations have introduced interactive elements. Digital screens near the open kitchen display menu items being prepared, creating an engaging visual experience for customers waiting in line.
Modern Aesthetic Elements
Church’s Texas Chicken has updated its visual identity with contemporary design elements. Many locations now feature sleek, minimalist interiors with clean lines and a neutral color palette. Accent walls in bold colors add visual interest and reinforce brand identity.
Lighting plays a crucial role in the new aesthetic. Pendant lights and LED strips create a warm, inviting ambiance. Some restaurants incorporate natural light through large windows or skylights, brightening the space and reducing energy costs.
Seating arrangements have been reimagined to accommodate various dining preferences. High-top tables, booth seating, and communal tables offer flexibility for different group sizes. Durable, easy-to-clean materials ensure longevity and maintain a fresh appearance.
Digital menu boards have replaced traditional static displays in many locations. These screens allow for easy menu updates and can showcase promotional items or limited-time offers.