British towns could soon look like American food courts. Here are 9 US chains making the move across the Atlantic.
From food-court classics to sit-down casual dining chains like Chili's, these American chains have their eye on the UK.
American fast-food chains are rapidly expanding their presence in the United Kingdom, bringing their menu items to British towns. Some of the notable chains joining the invasion include Wendy's, Wingstop, Raising Cane's, Dave's Hot Chicken, Jersey Mike's, Popeyes, and Chick-fil-A.
Wingstop has shown success in the UK, with its revenue surging 73% to £216.4 million in 2025, driven by the opening of new restaurants. The chain recently announced plans to open up to 30 more locations across the country. Similarly, Popeyes, which began its UK expansion in 2021, aims to have 150 locations by the end of 2026, with revenue climbing 50% to £178 million that year.
Chili's, a casual-dining chain, has been reviving its presence in the US and is now seeking a UK-based franchise partner to bring its menu back to Britain. The chain previously closed all its UK locations in 2009 but is now open to the idea of making a comeback. Jersey Mike's, known for its submarine sandwiches, plans to open 400 locations in the UK and Ireland, starting with a London restaurant in Soho and more central London locations to follow.
Dave's Hot Chicken, which started as a pop-up in Los Angeles, has gained a following in the UK with its spicy chicken offerings. The chain plans to open 57 more locations across Britain as part of its European rollout plan. Chick-fil-A, a full-service chain specializing in chicken sandwiches, has three locations in the UK and aims to add two more soon, with an initial investment of $100 million.
These American chains are taking advantage of the UK's appetite for its menu items, making London a strategic first stop for expansion.
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