Mac Haik Restaurant Group Signs 36-Unit Starbird Deal

Mac Haik Restaurant Group is bringing Starbird to Texas in a 36-unit deal that marks the brand's largest franchise agreement to date with development planned across Houston, Austin, and San Antonio beginning in 2027.

For the Houston-based operator, the decision came down to long-term brand fit as much as growth potential. The group, part of Mac Haik Enterprises, has experience building both original and franchised restaurant concepts across the state and saw an opportunity in the premium fast-casual chicken segment.

"We evaluate opportunities through the lens of long-term brand relevance, not just unit growth," said Dan Anfinson, chief operating officer of Mac Haik Restaurant Group. "Starbird delivers a level of culinary quality and operational sophistication that we believe is still underserved in the premium fast-casual chicken category, particularly in Texas. The brand has a clear point of view and the systems to scale responsibly; that combination is rare. We're excited to introduce it thoughtfully across our markets and build a meaningful presence over time."

The 36-unit agreement gives the group a significant runway to establish the brand in three major Texas markets with the potential to expand further as Starbird looks toward Dallas-Fort Worth and other priority regions.

Starbird, a San Francisco Bay Area-based concept, is entering its second decade and expanding beyond its California roots, including a recent debut in Colorado. CEO Greg Levin said the partnership with Mac Haik Restaurant Group is key to that next phase of growth.

"This agreement reflects the strength of our business model and the clarity of our long-term vision," Levin said. "Texas is a critical market for us moving forward, and partnering with an experienced organization like Mac Haik Restaurant Group allows us to grow thoughtfully while staying true to what makes Starbird special."