A NUMBER of US-based fast food chains are set to open branches for the first time in the UK later in 2026.
It comes amid a surge in brands making the jump across the Atlantic Ocean over the past few years.
Popular names such as Wendy's and Popeyes arrived here in 2021, and have now firmly embedded themselves with multiple locations.
Meanwhile, Wingstop came even earlier in 2018, while Dave's Hot Chicken launched in 2024 and Chick-fil-A arrived in 2025.
There appears to be no end in sight for US fast-food chains to enter a market, and a few more will be arriving before 2026 is out.
What US fast-food chains will be opening restaurants in the UK in 2026?
Chuck E. Cheese
Chuck E. Cheese is a well-known chain over in the US, which has plenty of features for children, including arcade games and soft-play.
The brand’s inaugural UK branch, which is set to open in late 2026, will also be its first in Europe.
At the time of writing, a specific location has not been revealed for this.
Alistair Burnett, the brand’s managing director, said: “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.”
Raising Cane’s
The iconic chicken chain is set to take over a former Angus Steakhouse in London.
This flagship location will open later this year, serving up the brand’s iconic chicken fingers, Texas toast, and signature sauce.
Houston Hot Chicken
Houston Hot Chicken has confirmed it will officially open the doors on its UK flagship in Stevenage this October.
The Nashville- inspired fast food chain is expected to be the first of many, as there are plans to roll out 50 stores within the next three years.
Fast food chain to return to UK after disappearing more than 15 years ago
Alongside US chains coming to the UK for the first time, a well-known name has confirmed it will be relaunching after a long absence.
Chili’s Grill & Bar originally arrived in Britain during the 1990s and operated restaurants in places including Cambridge, Reading and London’s Canary Wharf.
However, by 2009, every UK branch of the US Tex Mex chain had closed.
Recommended reading:
- US fast food chain to rival McDonald’s as it confirms UK return after 17 years
- Restaurant launches secret menu for 3 items diners can try in its 145 UK venues
- Cadbury's 'unexpected' new Dairy Milk chocolate bar flavour is dividing opinions
Now, the company is making a fresh attempt at cracking the UK market, aiming to open a flagship restaurant within the next 12 to 18 months before it aims to roll out more sites.
Potential locations currently being considered include London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow, Liverpool, Milton Keynes, Reading, and Solihull.
Will you visit any of these US fast food chains when they open up in the UK? Let us know in the comments.
Share