Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken draws long lines for good reason, so knowing their breakfast, lunch, and holiday opening times helps you beat the wait. If you are planning a visit to this iconic Tennessee-based chain, you need the full picture on when they open their doors each day. This guide covers the standard schedule, holiday exceptions, and the best times to walk in without a long line.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Opening Breakfast Lunch And Holiday Hours
First, lets clear up a common mix-up. Gus’s does not serve breakfast. They open late morning and go straight into lunch service. The name “World Famous” comes from their spicy, thin-crusted chicken, not from morning biscuits. So, if you were hoping for a fried chicken breakfast sandwich, you will need to adjust your plans.
Standard Weekly Opening Times
The typical hours are consistent across most corporate and franchise locations. However, you should always check your local store because some malls or food courts have different rules.
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
These are the most common hours. The kitchen usually stops taking orders 30 minutes before closing. If you show up at 8:45 PM on a Monday, you might be turned away even though the sign says they close at 9:00 PM.
Why There Is No Breakfast Service
Gus’s focuses on a simple menu. They prep fresh chicken daily, and that prep takes time. Opening at 11 AM gives the crew enough time to marinate the chicken in their signature spicy batter. Trying to serve breakfast would slow down the lunch rush. So, plan for an early lunch or a late snack, not a morning meal.
Best Times To Avoid The Line
You can use the opening hours to your advantage. The busiest window is usually 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM on weekdays. The second rush happens around 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM on weekends.
- Arrive at 11:00 AM right when they open. You will be first in line.
- Come between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This is the dead zone between lunch and dinner.
- Avoid Sunday afternoons. The post-church crowd packs the dining room.
Holiday Schedule And Closures
Gus’s is closed on major holidays. Do not assume they are open just because other fast food places are. The chain gives their staff the day off for the big ones.
- Thanksgiving Day: Closed
- Christmas Day: Closed
- New Year’s Day: Closed
For other holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and July 4th, hours may be shortened. Many locations open at 11 AM but close early at 5 PM or 6 PM. You should call ahead on these days. The phone number on Google Maps is usually the store direct line.
Special Holiday Hours For Christmas Eve And New Year’s Eve
Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are tricky. Some locations close at 3 PM, while others stay open until 7 PM. It depends on the franchise owner. If you want chicken for your holiday party, pick it up the day before. The chicken reheats well in an oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.
How To Confirm Your Local Store Hours
Do not rely on third-party apps like DoorDash or Grubhub. They often show outdated hours. Instead, use these steps:
- Go to the official Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken website.
- Click on the “Locations” tab at the top.
- Enter your zip code or city.
- Click on your specific store to see the exact hours.
You can also check their social media pages. They post holiday closures and early closing notices on Facebook and Instagram. If you are in a hurry, just call the store directly. A real person will answer and tell you the exact time.
Takeout And Curbside Pickup Timing
If you are ordering takeout, the hours are the same as dine-in. However, you should order 20 minutes before you plan to arrive. The chicken is cooked to order, so it takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you call in a large order (more than 20 pieces), give them at least 45 minutes notice. They will have the order ready at the counter when you walk in.
What To Do If You Arrive Late
If you get there 15 minutes before closing, you can still order. But the staff might be cleaning the fryers. Ask politely if they are still taking orders. Most locations will serve you until the official closing time. Just do not expect to sit down and linger. They need to wipe down tables and count the register.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gus’s serve breakfast at any location?
No. Every Gus’s location opens at 11 AM. There is no breakfast menu anywhere in the chain. The earliest you can get chicken is 11 AM sharp.
Is Gus’s open on Easter Sunday?
Most locations are open on Easter Sunday with regular Sunday hours (11 AM to 8 PM). But some franchises close for the holiday. Call ahead to be safe.
Can I order lunch during breakfast hours?
No. The doors are locked until 11 AM. There is no early access for lunch orders. The staff uses the morning hours to prep chicken and clean the kitchen.
Are the hours different at the original Memphis location?
The original location on Union Avenue in Memphis follows the same general schedule. It is open 11 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 10 PM on Friday and Saturday. Sunday closes at 8 PM.
What is the latest I can order on a holiday?
If the location is open on a holiday, they usually close at 5 PM or 6 PM. You should aim to order by 4:30 PM to avoid being turned away.
Now you have the full schedule. Plan your visit around the slow hours, skip the holidays that are closed, and always double-check with your local store. That way, you spend less time waiting and more time eating that crispy, spicy chicken.