Eggs Up Grill has marked a significant milestone with the opening of its 100th restaurant, located in Kingsport, Tennessee. The launch underscores the brand’s rapid growth while highlighting the commitment of local franchisees Ken Bates and his son, Ethan, who now operate three Eggs Up Grill locations in the Tri-Cities area, with additional restaurants planned for the region.
The new Kingsport location will serve breakfast, brunch, and lunch seven days a week, reflecting the franchise’s focus on delivering accessible, family-friendly dining experiences. For the Bates family, this milestone represents more than business growth. It is also a personal achievement rooted in their hometown. “This is more than just another opening,” said Ken Bates. “This brand has given our family the opportunity to build something lasting together.”
To celebrate the occasion, Eggs Up Grill Kingsport is hosting a week of grand opening festivities beginning September 29. Daily promotions range from $8 breakfast classics and complimentary coffee to free donuts and $5 mimosas. The celebrations will culminate on October 2 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m., organized in partnership with the Kingsport Chamber. Guests attending the event will be treated to menu samplings and Royal Cup coffee tastings.
The Kingsport restaurant is also the first to showcase Eggs Up Grill’s updated branding and new prototype design. The layout features improved seating, a streamlined kitchen, and a refreshed visual identity designed to enhance the guest experience while increasing efficiency. The changes reflect the company’s broader push to modernize operations and strengthen its competitive positioning.
Ricky Richardson, chief executive officer of Eggs Up Grill, said the milestone reflects both the brand’s progress and the strength of its franchisees. “Opening in Kingsport is a proud moment for our brand and for the Bates family,” he noted, emphasizing that their hospitality and leadership exemplify what the company stands for.
The opening of the 100th restaurant signals continued momentum for Eggs Up Grill as it expands across the Southeast. With more units in development, the brand is positioning itself as a growing force in the breakfast and brunch segment, appealing to both consumers and multi-unit operators seeking a scalable franchise model.




