The Cult US chain rapidly expanding across the UK
A beloved American fast-food brand continues to expand its British portfolio with a brand-new store opening in the capital.
The UK high street has been flooded with US icons like Popeyes, Wingstop, Slim Chickens, and Dave’s Hot Chicken over the past couple of years, with customers even needing to sign a waiver to eat at the latter.
And as the big dogs continue their domination, newcomers like Raising Cane’s, Chuck E. Cheese and Jersey Mike’s Subs are gearing up to begin their reign.
Houston Hot Chicken has detailed plans to open up to 50 sites across the country; Chilli’s is apparently set to make its triumphant return sooner rather than later, and now Chipotle has added another site to its ever-growing roster.
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The latest brick-and-mortar Chipotle opened on 17 September in Holborn, bringing the number of restaurants in the UK to 22.
The Mexican food chain claimed that around 30 local jobs had been created as a result of the new opening.
Anat Davidzon, Managing Director, International at Chipotle, stating: "The only ingredient that’s difficult to pronounce at Chipotle is ‘Chipotle.’
“Our food is made with real ingredients, prepared fresh every day.
"With our opening in Holborn, we’re bringing that commitment to quality closer to even more Londoners.”
Earlier this year, Davidzon said he and the rest of the company had been ‘impressed’ by Chipotle’s momentum since it landed in the UK.
He claimed that because of the ‘standout’ success, Chipotle will look to add to its growing estate.
“We had a really positive 2025 and are looking to grow the brand more in London following that.
“We will take the time to select the right units, looking at those with high street visibility, ideally locations in central London with the dense foot traffic.”
The business, which recently awarded actor Timothée Chalamet a coveted ‘Free Burrito’ card, added that it also sees mass growth potential elsewhere in Europe.
The Independent reported that ‘hundreds’ of restaurants could soon pop up across the continent, with a particular focus on London, Frankfurt and Paris.
US chains coming to the UK
Houston Hot Chicken
Stevenage has been selected as the UK home of Houston Hot Chicken, with the business set to launch in October 2026.
Specialising in Nashville-style hot chicken, the company offers customers everything from mouthwatering tenders to waffles, nuggets and sandwiches.
Houston Hot Chicken guests can customise how spicy they want their protein, with its highest level, ‘Houston, We Have A Problem’, coming with a $2 charge.
Following the Stevanage branch, the brains behind the brand plan to open a further 49 sites in the next three years as part of the Pizza Express portfolio.
“Houston Hot Chicken has attitude. It has personality. And it knows how to make an enterance,” claimed Paula MacKenzie, group chief executive of Pizza Express, Mac & Wings and Houston Hot Chicken.
"Stevenage is where Britain meets Houston Hot Chicken for the very first time and we’ve got every intention of making sure it’s impossible to ignore.”
Brian Simowitz added: “We’ve spent the last few years proving we can shake up cities across America. Now it’s Britain’s turn. Stevenage is first, and we’re excited to light the fuse.”
Chuck E. Cheese
Popular American entertainment brand Chuck E. Cheese was officially incorporated as an active company last August, facilitating a British rollout over the next 12 to 18 months.
“Bringing Chuck E Cheese to the UK is not just a business move. Creating family fun has been a passion of mine and, ultimately, my professional career,” said Alistair Burnett, the brand’s managing director.
A ‘multi-unit agreement’ is in place, with Mario Centola, COO of Chuck E. Cheese International, stating he and his team were ‘thrilled’ to bring the ‘unique magic for family fun to the UK’.
“We have partnered with an outstanding team that shares our passion for delivering unforgettable family experiences."
Items set to be available when Chuck E. Cheese hits Britain include signature pizzas, wings, and saucy chicken wings.
Raising Cane’s
A brand described as having ‘the best’ fried chicken is set to land at 22 Coventry Street in Piccadilly Circus later this year.
Yes, that’s right—Raising Cane’s is opening its UK flagship in the heart of the capital.
The chain, which initially confirmed the Central London location in September 2025, will also open restaurants around The Strand, Oxford Circus, Paddington and The Southbank, as per reports.
Drive-Thru locations across Greater London and beyond are also confirmed.
The fast-food spot is famed for its ‘secret’ Cane’s Sauce, Chicken Fingers and buttery slabs of Texas Toast.
“With each new restaurant, we extend our commitment to serving craveable Chicken Finger Meals made with premium chicken and cooked fresh to order, while creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back and gives our crews the opportunity to grow alongside the brand,” a spokesperson told Parade earlier this year.
Ella Scott