A HUB-Robeson Center staple and cornerstone of Penn State much like the Willard Preacher, the HUB Chick-Fil-A is a well-known fast-food dining option that has dealt out chicken sandwiches and nuggets with a side of their famous waffle fries for nearly 20 years.
The beloved destination for all things fried chicken will be leaving the HUB after the spring semester and will be replaced by “Slim Chickens” a similar establishment.
Founded in 2003 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Slim Chickens is a restaurant chain that serves chicken tenders, wings, sandwiches, salads, wraps, chicken & waffles, and other items. Its new State College location will be the latest in its recent expansion efforts.
In a release to the public, Jackie Lobdell, vice president of the restaurant Slim Chickens, said “From our hand-breaded tenders, students will get a taste of southern comfort food at University Park. We know that Slim’s will be a welcome addition and that Nittany Lions will have a new, fresh choice on campus.”
Our menu is a sure college dining favorite
Jackie Lobdell
Although Slim Chickens offers similar food options, Penn State students widely disapprove of Chick-Fil-A’s sudden departure.
According to reports, Chick-Fil-A informed Penn State that they would not be renewing their contract within the HUB-Robeson Center unless the location would be converted into a full-service restaurant. The change would have been “a significant change in the restaurant’s footprint along with a significant capital renovation to the HUB Dining Food Court.”
Although Chick-Fil-A will be leaving the HUB, State College locals will still be able to dine at the location at 1938 N. Atherton St.
Slim Chickens has 104 locations as of March 24, 2021. The franchise plans to open more than 50 restaurants this year in various states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
One thing is for sure, Penn State students will be watching Slim Chickens closely.
You can find your closest Slim Chickens location and menu here.
