The trend of American fast food chains expanding into the United Kingdom continues, with Raising Cane's finally confirming its debut across the pond. Known for its chicken fingers, the chain will open its first UK flagship in London's Piccadilly Circus, between Coventry Street and Leicester Square, later this year.
When Is Raising Cane's Opening in the UK?
First announced in September 2025, the flagship location at 21-22 Coventry Street has now seen Raising Cane's branding installed. No official opening date has been set, but it is expected to launch later in 2026. This marks the beginning of a global expansion, with additional restaurants planned for central London areas such as The Strand, Oxford Circus, Paddington, and South Bank, as well as drive-thru locations in Greater London and beyond.
What Makes Raising Cane's Popular?
Founded in 1996 by Todd Graves in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Raising Cane's has grown to over 950 restaurants across the US and the Middle East. The chain has amassed five million social media followers and a loyal fanbase, with customers often queuing for up to an hour. Celebrities like Cynthia Erivo, Post Malone, Halle Berry, Travis Kelce, and Snoop Dogg are known fans.
The Menu
The menu is simple, featuring five core items: Crispy Chicken Fingers, Craveable Cane's Sauce, Buttery Cane's Toast, Crunchy Coleslaw, and Crispy Crinkle-Cut Fries. A viral sensation is the option to buy a full cup of sauce for around $7 in the US, though Popeyes beat them to a similar offering in the UK with 'mega' dips in December 2025.
Customer Reviews
Opinions on Reddit are mixed, with some calling the food 'spectacular' and 'divine,' praising the toast and sauce, while others find it 'mid' or 'bland.' On TikTok, @matthewhaywoodx said it was 'unreal' and 'the best chicken he'd ever had,' and @daisygoord gave it a 10/10, describing it as 'so crispy and not greasy.'
Founder's Vision
Todd Graves, who built the first restaurant by hand, expressed his excitement: 'I'm thrilled to finally be opening in the UK late next year. We receive more requests to come to the UK than anywhere else in the world. London is one of my favorite places.' Co-CEO and COO AJ Kumaran added: 'Bringing Raising Cane's to the UK has been a dream for many years. Europe presents an excellent expansion opportunity.'
