At Just 26, Kishan Patel Is Bringing Atomic Wings to Williamsburg, Virginia

Kishan Patel isn’t new to taking risks. At just 26 years old, he’s already owned and sold a successful restaurant and launched a Marco’s Pizza franchise. Now, he’s bringing Atomic Wings to Williamsburg, Virginia, alongside his business partner and co-owner, Jevin Patel.

With a background in computer science and a passion for business, Kishan saw franchising as the best way to scale, leveraging proven systems while focusing on operations and growth. Jevin, who has years of experience owning and operating hotels in Williamsburg, was drawn to the opportunity after trying the food and decided to invest in the brand.

As the demand for fried chicken wings continues to rise, the Patels are tapping into the opportunity with Atomic Wings — a brand positioned perfectly between fast-casual carryout and a full sports bar experience.

With their first location set to open in July, the duo is already looking ahead to expansion in the Richmond area — proving that young entrepreneurs with strong partnerships can thrive in franchising.

1851 Franchise spoke to Kishan about his franchise journey and plans for the future. Here’s what he had to say:

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Kishan Patel: I'm 26 years old and bought my first restaurant during COVID. It was a Which Wich, a Texas-based sandwich shop. We faced some challenges at the time but made improvements, invested in marketing and ultimately found success. After selling it, I transitioned into owning a Marco’s Pizza franchise. While exploring opportunities, I was introduced to Atomic Wings. After trying the food and really enjoying it, I decided to invest. That’s how we’re now opening the first location.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Kishan: Before becoming a franchisee, my background was in computer engineering — I studied at Virginia Tech — so transitioning into business was a completely different experience.

What I’ve learned is that franchising provides a lot of support, from marketing to recipes and even operational tools like VR technology. It takes a significant load off the owner, allowing you to focus on local store marketing and ensuring the product meets high standards. As far as I’m concerned, franchising is one of the best ways to open a restaurant.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Kishan: I picked this brand because it’s up-and-coming, and the fried chicken wing concept is really taking off right now. There aren’t many major competitors besides Wingstop and Buffalo Wild Wings. Buffalo Wild Wings is more of a sports bar, and Wingstop is mainly carryout.

Atomic Wings sits right in the middle, offering both carryout and dine-in. At our location, we plan to serve beer and alcohol for our customers, aiming for a mix of carryout, delivery and a sports bar feel.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth? 

Kishan: My ultimate goal in business is to become a multi-unit owner. We're starting with the first location, and if all goes well in about six months, we plan to open two more in the Richmond area. The goal is to be a multi-unit operator within the next three years.

1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?

Kishan: One thing about my story is that I’m a young entrepreneur. My parents helped me with my first restaurant, which allowed me to expand my own businesses. My first Marco’s Pizza location just opened last month, and Atomic Wings is set to open on July 1.

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?

Kishan: My advice is to believe in the system. Franchisors have put in a lot of research to develop their recipes and procedures, so following them is key. Sticking to the system and trusting the process will help lead to success.

ABOUT ATOMIC WINGS

Atomic Wings was created in 1989 with a mission to share authentic New York style Buffalo wings with the world. Now, with dozens of restaurants open in the U.S., Atomic Wings is setting its sights on nationwide growth. In addition to its existing locations, Atomic Wings is targeting New York, New Jersey, Texas, Arizona and Nevada. The brand is led by owners and brothers Zak and Ray Omar, and offers customers fresh, never frozen, natural and hormone-free chicken wings hand-tossed in 14 proprietary sauces, a classic menu, a welcoming dining experience and a commitment to quality. For more information about Atomic Wings, please visit https://www.atomicwings.com/franchising.