Williamson County is no stranger to growth, but lately, a new kind of boom is stirring up excitement, and it's all about food. The arrival of popular national chains like Swig and Raising Cane's has already created a buzz, and with Whataburger and In-N-Out Burger on the way, the fast-food craze is heating up.

One of the more unexpected newcomers is Swig, a Utah-based soda shop known for its “dirty sodas”. It mixes soda, flavored syrups, fruit purees and cream. It’s been a hit out West, and now it's making its way to Tennessee with several locations planned for the area, including Brentwood and Spring Hill.

Another chain causing a stir is Raising Cane’s, famous for its crispy chicken fingers and Cane’s Sauce. When the first Williamson County location opened in Franklin, it was a madhouse. The drive-thru line stretched down the street, with fans waiting for hours to get their chicken fix.

 

For a lot of people, Raising Cane’s isn’t just about the food. It’s about finally having a local spot to grab something they used to have to travel for. The hype is real, and if the nonstop crowds are any indication, it’s not dying down anytime soon.

For years, people have been asking for Whataburger to come to middle Tennessee. The Texas-based chain, known for its giant burgers, spicy ketchup and Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits, has a cult following. Now, it’s finally happening. The first Williamson County location is coming to Brentwood at 5004 Maryland Way, where Back Yard Burgers used to be. There’s no official opening date yet, but hiring is already underway, meaning it won’t be long before the community can celebrate its opening.

If there’s one announcement that shook things up, it’s In-N-Out Burger choosing Franklin for its Eastern United States headquarters. The California-based burger chain is famous for its fresh ingredients, secret menu and devoted fanbase. The first Tennessee locations aren’t expected to open until 2026, but just knowing it’s coming has people excited. Those who have only had In-N-Out while traveling are counting down the days until they can eat that famous burger without hopping on a plane.

 

These chains bring a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and exclusivity. Many people grew up eating at Whataburger or In-N-Out and have been waiting for them to finally open nearby. Others just want to try what they’ve heard so much about or seen on Instagram. These brands bring with them a sense of nostalgia and novelty, offering the community a taste of something they've heard about, traveled for or missed from another place.

 

As Williamson County continues to grow, so does its appetite. And if the lines Raising Cane's are any indication, Whataburger, Swig and In-N-Out better get ready because this community is hungry for more.