Sacramento-based chicken chain Kiki's Chicken Place is closing 10 locations across the region as part of a strategic restructuring following what founder Santiago Gonzalez acknowledges was too-rapid expansion.
According to ABC10, the family-founded restaurant announced today that 10 locations will be shuttered over the next month, with those sites undergoing rebranding and severing ties with the Kiki's brand. The closures affect locations across Sacramento and surrounding areas, including spots in Roseville, Carmichael, Antelope, and Stockton.
The decision comes after a period of aggressive growth that ABC10 reports occurred mostly during the post-pandemic era. "While we're proud of our growth, we recognize that we grew too fast without the structure and systems necessary to ensure the best operation for our guests," Gonzalez stated in the announcement.
From Family Recipe to Regional Chain
As detailed on Kiki's website, the restaurant was founded with a desire to build a future for the family and share grandma's recipes with the public. The chain's first location opened in December 2015 and was immediately embraced by the community, eventually expanding to multiple Sacramento-area locations and a food truck.
According to ABC10, the restaurant was founded by Santiago and Summer Gonzalez in 2015 and named after their youngest daughter, Kiana. Tragically, co-CEO Summer Gonzalez passed away in January 2022 from COVID-19, as reported by CBS Sacramento.
Quality Over Quantity Strategy
The closures represent a shift toward what ABC10 describes as building a better, more consistent experience at remaining locations. Gonzalez emphasized that not all partners shared the same vision for the company's future direction, stating "We understand that not all our partners share the same vision or values for where we're headed-and that's okay."
The brand has maintained a devoted following for its signature items, particularly the famous Kiki fries topped with mozzarella, parmesan, and buffalo sauce. Customer reviews on TripAdvisor consistently praise the generous portions, with one reviewer noting that "portions are huge and tender, I was thinking little bitty and it was like a half breast per tender."
The restructuring reflects broader industry trends where restaurant chains are prioritizing operational excellence over rapid expansion. Remaining Kiki's locations will continue serving the family recipes that made the brand popular while the company implements stronger operational systems across its smaller network.
