The UK’s appetite for American fast food shows no signs of slowing down, with another major US chain now throwing its hat into the ring.
After the successful UK arrivals of Popeyes, Dave’s Hot Chicken, and Chick-fil-A, the much-hyped Raising Cane’s has confirmed it will finally be crossing the Atlantic.
But don’t begin lining up yet Brits will have to wait until the late 2026 to try their first taste.
Raising Cane’s is launching its UK flagship store at 21-22 Coventry Street, nicely sandwiched between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The site couldn’t be more famous – and it’s also evidently a strategic springboard for the brand’s broader expansion plans.
This is the start of what the firm says will be a worldwide rollout, with additional sites to follow in London and Europe shortly after the flagship store.
Why the Fuss Over Chicken Fingers?
Never heard of Raising Cane’s? You’re not alone in the UK, but in the US, it’s a cultural phenomenon. The Louisiana-born brand has built a cult-like following since its inception in 1996.
With over 950 outlets across the US and Middle East, it’s known for doing one thing and doing it well: chicken fingers.
The menu? Minimal but memorable:
- Crispy Chicken Fingers
- Craveable Cane’s Sauce
- Buttery Texas Toast
- Crunchy Coleslaw
- Crinkle-cut Fries
With its simple yet addictive menu, Raising Cane’s has become a household name in the US – and Brits are already buzzing about the chain’s signature chicken and famously generous portions of dipping sauce.
One viral hit? In America, customers can order an entire cup of sauce instead of a measly dipping pot, and they love it. At around $7, it’s a cult favourite in itself.
What Are People Saying?
Online reviews are a mixed bag but the fans are loyal. Not everyone’s on board, though some critics dismiss the food as “mid” or “bland”. But hey, taste is subjective.
Raising Cane’s began with a dream. Founder Todd Graves built the very first restaurant himself in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, opening its doors on August 28, 1996.
Nearly three decades later, he’s preparing for the brand’s most ambitious leap yet.
“When I started Raising Cane’s 29 years ago, I never imagined we’d grow to where we are today as we announce our expansion into the UK with the opening of our UK flagship in iconic Piccadilly Circus.
The demand from our customers and fans in the UK has been incredible and I can’t wait to show London what we’re all about,” said Graves.
His passion hasn’t dimmed, and the enthusiasm at Raising Cane’s HQ is electric.
Raising Cane’s co-CEO and COO AJ Kumaran added: “Bringing Raising Cane’s to the UK has been a dream of ours for many years and we’re excited to officially open the doors to our UK flagship late next year.
“We love the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Piccadilly Circus and are looking forward to marking this milestone with a flagship in the heart of London.
With more than 950 restaurants across the US and the Middle East, Europe presents an excellent expansion opportunity as we embark on this next phase of growth, and we’re excited to begin that growth with the UK.”
Hard to say. British fast food fans can be picky. But with its no-nonsense menu, celeb fans (we’re talking Post Malone, Travis Kelce, Snoop Dogg, Halle Berry, and Cynthia Erivo), and viral social media buzz, Raising Cane’s might just hit the sweet spot.
Late 2026 might feel like a lifetime away, but if the queues in the States are anything to go by, Londoners might want to get their alarms set early.
