Opening on 20 August, the brand’s restaurant at Gateshead’s shopping and leisure destination Metrocentre will be its fourth bricks-and-mortar restaurant in the UK.
Popeyes made its debut at Westfield Stratford City in November 2021 and has since launched sites in Romford, Chelmsford and Nottingham alongside a number of delivery kitchens.
Central to Popeyes menu is its 'signature' hand-battered chicken - marinated for 12 hours in a blend of Louisianan herbs and spices.
Menu items include Louisiana chicken sandwich; chicken tenders; hot wings; mac ‘n’ cheese; and Southern biscuits with Cajun gravy.
Popeyes is also well known for its extensive sauce options, with varieties including Mardi Gras Mustard, Bold BBQ, Mango Habanero and Ranch.
Popeyes® UK chief operating officer Neil Williamson - who hails from the North East himself - says that the area has got much in common with the brand’s birthplace of New Orleans including fierce local pride; a rich history; appreciation for a good party; and a big heart.
“I believe that our legendary menu and Southern hospitality will really win the hearts and tastebuds of the North East. I am super excited to be expanding the Popeyes brand into the North East," he says.
”Most global brands that come across to the UK are keen to take over the South first and often don’t consider the North until years later, which is why we always felt it was important to establish Popeyes up North in the early stages of our UK expansion.
The brand has a number of other sites in the pipeline including Oxford, Reading, Brighton and Ealing.
Popeyes has previously said it is aiming to open 350 sites across the country over the next 10 years.
