BATESVILLE, Ark. — A highly anticipated addition to the local dining scene became a reality recently as the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Slim Chickens. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of community leaders, Chamber Ambassadors, employees, and eager patrons.
Amanda Roberts, membership engagement specialist for the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees before leading a countdown to officially open the restaurant. Speaking to those gathered, Roberts underscored the importance of the project to the city’s ongoing development. “The Davis family continues to invest in Batesville, and that investment is making a lasting impact on our community,” Roberts stated. “Their commitment to economic growth, job creation, and enhancing the quality of life in Batesville is something we deeply appreciate.”
Scott Davis, whose family owns and operates the new Slim Chickens franchise, shared that the project has been more than two years in the making. “This development began with our Sonic Drive-In on the corner, followed by Slim Chickens, and soon Waffle House will complete the vision for this location,” Davis explained. He credited Mickey Powell and Jane Powell for their roles in shaping the development and also expressed gratitude to the city of Batesville for its collaboration.
A Batesville native, Davis reflected on the significance of bringing new businesses to the city he still considers home. “This is home for me,” he said. “Our family has deep roots here, and we take tremendous pride in investing in Batesville because we believe in this community.”
The restaurant, located at the corner of St. Louis Street and Lawrence Street near Sonic Drive-In, offers Slim Chickens’ signature menu items, including hand-breaded chicken tenders, wings, sandwiches, fresh salads, Southern sides, desserts, and house-made dipping sauces. Catering services are also available for businesses, meetings, and special events.
According to Davis, the restaurant marked record-breaking opening days and has already garnered strong support from customers. He praised General Manager Cara Mourer and Director of Operations Trey Harris for their leadership and noted that many of the company’s top leaders, some of whom now oversee multi-state operations, began their careers in Batesville. “Our people make the difference,” Davis said. “What may start as an entry-level job can become an incredible career. We want to provide opportunities for people to grow, develop leadership skills, and succeed wherever life takes them.”
Davis also emphasized Slim Chickens’ commitment to supporting the community through event partnerships and catering services. “We are proud to be part of the growing momentum in Batesville,” he added. “Between the leadership, the businesses, and the community support, this is one of the best communities in Arkansas.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by several Chamber Ambassadors, including representatives from Citizen’s Bank, First Community Bank, Lyon College, Lifeplus, Myers-Davis Life Coaching, Peco Foods, Mossy Oak Properties, UACCB, and other local organizations. The show of support underscored the restaurant’s role as a welcome new player in Batesville’s thriving business landscape.