City of Gary Celebrates Grand Opening of New Popeyes Location

Gary, IND. On Friday, January 16, 2026, the City of Gary hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen located at 3450 Richard Gordon Hatcher Boulevard, Gary, Indiana 46408. The location restores a popular dining option that has been absent since the previous Broadway location closed several years ago.

“We are pleased to welcome Popeyes back to Gary,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “This opening reflects growing confidence in our local economy and our continued efforts to revitalize the city’s business corridors.”

The new Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is owned and operated by Aby Groups of Munster, which manages multiple franchise locations across Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan. With fifteen years of experience in the franchise restaurant and retail industry, Aby Groups has developed and currently operates several Popeyes stores in Northwest Indiana.

“We believe our Hatcher Boulevard site is positioned to serve both residents and travelers from I-80/94. Based on the success of this new store, we look forward to exploring additional opportunities in Gary to continue serving the community.”

“Aby Groups’ investment on this site demonstrates confidence in Gary’s potential for growth,” stated Christopher Harris, Executive Director of the Redevelopment Department. “Their expertise in operating successful franchise locations ensures this Popeyes will be a quality addition to our city’s expanding retail and dining landscape, and it represents the first phase of a broader vision for redevelopment at 3450 Hatcher Boulevard.”

The new Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen has created approximately 30 full-time positions. The 2,400-square-foot restaurant features a drive-thru and dine-in seating for up to 24 guests, serving the full Popeyes menu of Louisiana-style fried chicken, seafood, and signature sides.