Our Story | Sunset Chicken - Born in Marco Island, Florida

From a small coastal kitchen to a growing family of flavor-lovers, Sunset Chicken was built on one simple belief:

great food makes people happy!

Welcome sign with a black rooster silhouette in front of a yellow sun and palm leaves, text reads 'WELCOME! We're so glad you're here.'

The Heart Behind the Crunch

Sunset Chicken began with a simple idea from founders Mike and Iris Mayer:

Serve unbelievably good chicken tenders in a laid-back, feel-good spot where everyone feels welcome.

What started as Island Chicken, a cozy take-out-only spot on Marco Island, Florida, quickly became a local favorite for its crispy, lightly-breaded tenders, seasoned fries, buttery toast, and that one-of-a-kind Sunset Signature Sauce. Mike’s passion for scratch-made food and Iris’s dedication to creating a friendly, welcoming experience shaped every detail — from the recipe testing to the smiles at the counter.

In the third quarter of 2025, Sunset Chicken opened its first full-service location in Cape Coral, Florida, marking the next chapter in a journey built on faith, family, and flavor — and setting the stage for exciting growth ahead.

As the brand grew, so did its identity. The Mayers re-imagined their beloved concept as Sunset Chicken — a name that captures everything they stand for: golden-hour energy, bold flavor, and food that brings people together.

The Sunset Chicken Promise

Premium, Made-to-Order Tenders

We don’t cut corners when it comes to flavor. Every tender starts with premium, marinated chicken tenderloins, seasoned and hand-battered, then cooked fresh to order throughout the day. Each batch is made hot and fresh, delivering a crisp bite on the outside and juicy, flavorful chicken inside. Because real food—made the right way—speaks for itself.

Community at the Heart

Sunset Chicken is built on connection — between food, family, and the people we serve. Whether it’s feeding a local team, supporting a neighborhood event, or sharing a jug of lemonade after a long day, we’re here to spread good vibes and great flavor. Every location is part of the community it serves, bringing folks together one tender at a time.

Served with Sunshine

Every order that leaves our kitchen comes with a side of sunshine — not just in flavor, but in spirit. We take pride in creating a friendly, upbeat experience that turns an ordinary meal into a bright spot in your day. Good food and good moods go hand in hand at Sunset Chicken, where smiles are shared freely and every visit feels warm, welcoming, and worth savoring.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick meal, feeding the family, or dreaming of opening your own Sunset Chicken, you’re part of something special.

We’re here to serve more than food.

We’re here to serve Tender Goodness in Every Bite.

Now Franchising!

Own a proven fast-casual concept built for growth.

Sunset Chicken taps into America’s love for premium, made-to-order chicken tenders with a simple, efficient operating model designed for strong returns. Our focused menu, streamlined kitchen, and limited staffing requirements make it easier to operate while delivering consistent, craveable food guests love.

With flexible investment options and growing brand momentum, now is the time to join the Sunset Chicken family as a franchise owner.

Learn More