Niamh Spence
When it comes to US versus UK food, the States has a lot to offer on the fast food front, being the original home of all the heavy hitters like McDonald's and Burger King.
While a number of restaurants have eventually made their way across the pond, there are still others that haven't left the American bubble - In-N-Out being the most famous example.
Those that have crept over still provide a cultural shock when we see the variety on menus, with many items not available in the UK (and vice versa).
But there's one chain, dubbed the 'McDonald's of the sea', that will finally be landing in the UK after building up a huge profile in its home country.
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Westwood Cross shopping centre in Broadstairs, Kent, will be the new home for US fast food chain Captain D's, which will open on Monday 20 October.
The new launch marks the brand’s first UK location, and guests will be able to enjoy Captain D’s famous menu of signature crispy fish sandwiches, fire-grilled fish, chicken, and sides served with a slice of classic Southern hospitality.
Founded in 1969 in Donelson, Tennessee, Captain D’s has grown to over 530 restaurants across 23 US states, with a huge and loyal following for its seafood and chicken menu. Renowned as America’s leading fast-casual restaurant brand, Captain D’s will bring a taste of the US to Thanet for the very first time.
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Fran Donovan, Centre Director at Westwood Cross, said: "Captain D’s will be a fantastic addition to Westwood Cross, and we’re thrilled to be the home to its very first UK location.
“Captain D’s is a much-loved American brand, and it brings something truly unique not just to Broadstairs, but to the country. We’re excited for our guests to enjoy its signature seafood and chicken dishes and experience its Southern-inspired hospitality for themselves, and we look forward to sharing more details soon."
UK Chairman of Captain D’s, Daryl Stutchbury, also commented: "Captain D’s isn’t just another fast-food outlet – it’s a premium experience rooted in quality, community, and innovation.
“We’re proud to be setting the stage here in Kent and can’t wait to welcome our first guests."
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Brad Reed, Senior Vice President of Captain D’s added: "We’re excited to see the momentum building. The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are confident this launch will be a great success."
But what’s the verdict of Captain D’s in the US? One person on Tripadvisor said: “This is the McDonald's of seafood and they do a great job at it. The Sebring store is clean and well maintained with a friendly and helpful staff who get your food to you quick and the prices are good.”
Someone else wrote: “Very fast friendly service....great selection...served hot....very clean...lots of space for patrons. The staff is very eager to please!!!!”.