Meet Our Founders & Leadership Team

Ryan Howard

CHIEF BRAND OFFICER

Ryan Howard, born and raised in St. Louis, MO, enjoyed a remarkable 13-year career in Major League Baseball. A three-time All-Star, he was named the National League MVP in 2006 and the NL Rookie of the Year in 2005. Married with four children, Ryan has transitioned into a successful entrepreneur since his retirement, investing in tech, real estate, and the restaurant industry. Introduced to the Colby brothers by fellow Phillies player Chad Durbin, Ryan joined Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken as a partner. Bringing his passion for the restaurant business, he has been actively involved in the brand's expansion. Since the first Colbie's restaurant opened in 2021 Ryan continues to play a significant role in the growth and success of Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken​​.

Michael T. Colby

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Michael Colby, co-owner and Chief Executive Officer of Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken, began his career in the restaurant industry with Burger King. Rising through the ranks, he eventually co-owned 15 Burger King franchises with his twin brother, Craig. In 1993, they launched their first Burger King franchise and expanded the chain to 15 locations before selling in 2005. Michael's experience includes operating various restaurant concepts such as Ground Round and Margaritas Mexican Restaurant.In 2004, Michael co-founded The Colby Restaurant Group, where he serves as Vice President. He also holds the position of President and Chief Development Officer of Chuck Lager’s Franchising. In 2020 as co-creator Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken, he brought his extensive industry experience and passion for southern cuisine to the brand. Michael's leadership ensures a menu rich in traditional flavors with modern twists, providing a high-quality dining experience for all guests​​​​.

Craig W. Colby

PRESIDENT AND CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Craig Colby, co-owner of Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken, embarked on his restaurant career after graduating from the University of Delaware in 1985 with a BS in Computer Sciences. Initially working as a consultant, Craig transitioned into the restaurant industry in 1993 with his twin brother, Michael Colby. Together, they built and acquired 15 Burger King franchises, which they operated successfully until selling them in 2005. The Colby brothers then ventured into full-service casual dining by purchasing a Ground Round restaurant, gaining invaluable experience despite the corporation’s bankruptcy.

In 2004, Craig co-founded The Colby Restaurant Group, which currently owns and operates six Red Robin Gourmet Burgers restaurants. He later expanded into other concepts, including Cosi Sandwich Shops and Margaritas Mexican Restaurant. In 2019, Craig developed Chuck Lager's America's Tavern. With his extensive experience, he co-created Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken and has been integral to the growth ever sinces, ensuring a high-quality dining experience. He also oversees Chuck Lager’s Franchising and manages Colby Management Services, LLC​​​​​​​​.

Scott Adams

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Scott Adams, a seasoned restaurant industry professional, began his career in 1979 after graduating from Madison Boro High School. Starting as a manager at Buxton’s Country Shops, he quickly progressed to roles at Denny’s and Friendly’s Ice Cream Corp. In 1989, Scott became a district manager at NBI Foods, where he first worked with Mike Colby. Moving to Pittsburgh in 1993, he served as a managing partner and area manager for Boston Market Corporation.In 2004, Scott joined Mike Colby to open new Red Robin restaurants in New Jersey and Delaware. Over his 20-year tenure with Colby Restaurant Group, Scott has been instrumental in launching and operating six Red Robin, four Cosi Sandwich Shops, and two Colbie’s Southern Kissed Chicken restaurants. Residing in Southampton, NJ, for the past 19 years, Scott enjoys gardening, cooking, golf, and supporting his favorite sports teams​​.

Our VISION

To Grow Nationally,
then Internationally.

Our Mission

Create delicious and memorable food and drinks

Always meet the highest standards of quality, flavor, and freshness

Bring creative culinary expertise and attention to detail in our restaurants

WHAT WE STAND FOR

Consistently delivering great Southern Kissed Chicken and sides

Southern Hospitality and service

Immaculately kept restaurants

History & Growth

2021

Opened in Mount Holly, New Jersey and later that same year we opened a second restaurant in Newark, Delaware

2022

Started our first season in Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies.

2024

Agreement with Aramark to add Colbie’s Southern Kissed Chicken to food service in The Philadelphia Zoo

2024

Begin regional development with franchisees in NJ, PA and DE

Inquire to Learn More and Become a Colbie’s Southern Kissed Chicken Owner.

For more information on becoming an owner with Colbie’s Southern Kissed Chicken complete the form below. We will be in touch shortly. If you are ready to get started, call 833-COLBIES (833-265-2437) now or email info@eatatcolbies.com to schedule a meeting.

Send a Franchise Inquiry

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We've received your franchise inquiry and our team will be in touch faster than you can say 'extra crispy!' Stay tuned for the delicious details coming your way.
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Dixie’s Franchising, LLC.

23 South Main Street, Suite 1, Medford, NJ 08055

Phone: 833-265-2437

E-mail: info@eatatcolbies.com

Disclaimer:

None of the communications made through this webpage should be construed as an offer to sell any Colbie's franchises in, nor is any such communication directed to the residents of, any jurisdiction requiring registration of the franchise before it is offered or sold in that jurisdiction. Please be advised that Colbie's franchises will not be sold to any resident of such jurisdiction until the offering has been exempted from the requirements of, or duly registered in, and in compliance with, and declared effective by, such jurisdiction and such offering shall only be commenced by our delivery of the Franchise Disclosure Document to you in compliance with the Federal Trade Commission Rule on Franchising and various state laws regulating the sale of franchise opportunities. If you have any questions concerning the registration status of franchises in your jurisdiction, please contact our Franchise Development Department.