Meet Jag Dhanju: An Edmonton native bringing over 20 years of experience to a new Chick-fil-A restaurant in his hometown

Jagdeep “Jag” Dhanju, a familiar face in Edmonton’s restaurant scene, is embarking on a new chapter as the local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A The Meadows, which is expected to open in Spring 2025. 

Homegrown Hospitality: A Legacy of Service in Edmonton
Born and raised in Edmonton, Jag’s connection to the city runs deep. He’s a second-generation Indo-Canadian who has dedicated over two decades to the local restaurant industry. His journey began at his family’s business, Meridian Banquet, where he honed his leadership skills managing large-scale events and overseeing operations for both the Indian restaurant and banquet hall.

“Edmonton has always been home for me,” Jag shares. “My family and I have been part of the restaurant industry here for 25 years, and I’m excited to continue that legacy with 
Chick-fil-A.”

From Family Business to a Fresh Start
In 2017, Jag honoured his own entrepreneurial spirit by founding Tiffin: India’s Fresh Kitchen, a fast-casual Indian restaurant that quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach. Tiffin was among the first restaurants in Edmonton to utilize fully biodegradable packaging, reflecting Jag’s commitment to environmental responsibility. As the former co-owner and operator of three Tiffin locations, Jag has already demonstrated a knack for creating thriving businesses that exemplify care for both people and the planet.

Because of his deep familiarity with the restaurant industry, Jag was especially impressed by his first visit to a Chick-fil-A restaurant. “I stopped by Chick-fil-A Yonge & Bloor in Toronto for lunch and was completely blown away by the genuine hospitality and quality food,” he explained. That introduction to the Chick-fil-A brand inspired him to pursue becoming the local Owner-Operator of his own Chick-fil-A restaurant in Canada. 

Building Community in Edmonton
As Jag prepares to take the reins of Chick-fil-A The Meadows in Spring 2025, his mission and vision for his Restaurant is clear: to be a beacon of care for the community and to become one of the most caring companies in Alberta. He aims to create a welcoming and positive environment where Guests feel safe and valued, while also providing meaningful employment opportunities for local residents.

“I find joy in helping others and serving them great food with a smile,” Jag says. “I’m looking forward to making a meaningful impact in the lives of my Team Members and the community as a whole.” 

He plans to achieve this by mentoring young Team Members and encouraging them to apply for the Chick-fil-A Remarkable Futures™ scholarship program, donating surplus food from his Restaurant to help feed those in need through the Chick-fil-A Shared Table™ program, partnering with local schools and supporting other community initiatives. 

Beyond the Restaurant
In his life outside of the Restaurant, Jag enjoys reading, working out, playing golf and spending time with his family. He and his wife, Suman, have two young daughters, Mira and Madi. When Jag’s Restaurant opens, Suman will support the business through bookkeeping and HR responsibilities. 

As Chick-fil-A The Meadows prepares to open its doors, the community can expect a warm welcome, delicious food, and a genuine commitment to service from their new local
Owner-Operator, Jag Dhanju.

Our growth in Canada
Chick-fil-A is expected to open a record eight Restaurants across Ontario and Alberta in 2025, marking the most openings in Canada in any year since Chick-fil-A opened in 2019. We are seeking franchise candidates in Canada with an entrepreneurial spirit and a CEO mindset, who are passionate about serving great food and providing exceptional hospitality in a fast-paced environment. Chick-fil-A franchisees are independent Owner-Operators who run complex, Chick-fil-A branded restaurant businesses with integrity and stewardship. Learn more about franchising opportunities by visiting our Franchising page.  
 
About Chick-fil-A, Inc.  
Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States, known for its freshly-prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. More than 200,000 Team Members are employed by local Owner-Operators in more than 3,000 restaurants across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.  

Chick-fil-A opened its first restaurant in the UK in early 2025 with the goal of launching five locations across the UK within the next two years. The first Singapore restaurant is set to open in late 2025, marking the brand's entry into Asia.

Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators live and work in the communities their restaurants serve, each supporting local efforts to address hunger, education, and making a positive impact. The family-owned and privately held company was founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.ca and @ChickfilANews.