US Chains in London – Where to Find American Fast Food

If you’re craving a classic cheeseburger, spicy chicken nuggets, or a milkshake that tastes like home, London has a solid lineup of US fast‑food chains. You don’t need to fly across the Atlantic to get that familiar taste—just hop on the Tube, walk a few blocks, and you’ll be at a familiar golden arch or red‑white‑blue sign.

Top US Chains You Can’t Miss

McDonald’s is everywhere, from Covent Garden to Shoreditch. The menu is the same basics you know, but some UK‑only items like the McSpicy and the Breakfast Wrap add a local twist. Burger King offers flame‑grilled Whoppers that many say beat the original. Look for locations near Piccadilly Circus or King’s Cross if you want a quick bite after sightseeing.

KFC has a strong presence in London, with outlets in places like Leicester Square and Canary Wharf. Their Original Recipe chicken still follows the 11‑herb blend, and you’ll find occasional UK‑only sauces like the Spicy Garlic.

Wendy’s finally opened its first UK restaurant in 2022 on Oxford Street. Expect the famous square‑shaped beef patty, fresh baked potatoes, and a Frosty that’s worth a stand‑up line.

Shake Shack brings a more upscale burger experience. Locations in South Kensington and Camden serve crinkle‑cut fries, frozen custard, and the “ShackBurger” that many say tops the usual fast‑food fare.

Popeyes landed in London in 2024, with three spots in Soho, Croydon, and Brentford. Their Louisiana‑style fried chicken and buttery biscuits have quickly become a local favorite, especially the spicy chicken sandwich.

Taco Bell is the go‑to for Mexican‑inspired fast food. Find it in areas like Oxford Circus and Stratford. The Crunchwrap Supreme and Doritos‑flavored tacos are crowd‑pleasers.

Hidden Gems and Local Twists

Beyond the big names, a few lesser‑known US chains have slipped into the London scene. Carl’s Jr. opened a flagship in Croydar​d, serving the classic Western Bacon Cheeseburger and a “Beyond” veggie patty for plant‑based fans. Hardee’s operates a single outlet near Heathrow, famous for its Thick‑Burger and hand‑breaded onion rings.

Some UK locations tweak the menu to suit British tastes. At McDonald’s, you can order a “Maccas Gourmet” line that features locally sourced beef and a cheddar cheese slice. Burger King’s “Plant‑Based Whopper” is a staple in many London shops, catering to vegans and flexitarians.

To score the best deals, download the app for each chain. McDonald’s and KFC frequently push “Meal Deals” that include a drink, fries, and a snack for under £5. Shake Shack’s “Secret Menu” items, like the “Shack Stack,” are only hinted at on Instagram, so keep an eye on their socials.

Timing matters too. Visiting between 2 pm and 4 pm often lands you in the “off‑peak” window, meaning shorter lines and sometimes surprise happy‑hour pricing. Late‑night cravings are catered to as well—most chains stay open until midnight, and some, like Taco Bell, run 24‑hour spots in the city centre.

Whether you’re a traveler missing home flavors or a Londoner looking for a quick, tasty bite, the city’s US fast‑food scene is diverse and easy to navigate. Grab a map, follow a chain you love, and enjoy that familiar bite without the jet lag.