Red chili joined green chili on the menu, deepening the New Mexican flavor profile that sets Golden Pride apart from every other chicken restaurant in the country.
1978 — A Bigger, Bolder West Central
The original West Central location closed on October 11, 1978. The very next day, a new and larger West Central store opened at 5231 Central Ave. NW, equipped with seven big fryers. First-day sales were $679. By Friday, they were at $1,300 — and climbing fast. The store was an immediate success.
1977 — First District Manager
As the company grew to multiple locations, Larry created a new position: District Manager. Eddie Montoya was appointed to the role — a sign of the trust and partnership that would define the company for generations.
1976 — Lomas Boulevard Opens
A third restaurant opened at 1830 Lomas Blvd., at the corner of Yale and Lomas. First-day sales were $263.64. By the end of that first month, the store had brought in over $9,100. Radio advertising launched soon after with the slogan: “The Chicken Man Returns.”
1974 — Growth Begins
A second location opened on East Central. The company was expanding — and the community was responding.
1973 — Sweet Roll Joins the Menu
The sweet roll was added in Golden Pride’s second year. More than 50 years later, it’s still one of the best sellers in the building.
1972 — Where It All Began
On June 15, 1972, Larry Rainosek opened the first Golden Fried Chicken at 5510 Central Ave. NW — a small restaurant tucked inside a motel near Yucca and Central. The kitchen had two 60-pound fryers and a staff of two. The menu was simple: fried chicken, French fries, dinner rolls, coleslaw, and soft drinks. Two pieces of chicken cost 49 …
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