Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, the Louisiana-born fast-food brand famed for its blockbuster Chicken Sandwich, is set to make its long-awaited debut in Ireland with the opening of its first restaurant at the Blanchardstown Centre this spring-time.
The launch marks a significant milestone for the brand as it expands into the Irish market for the first time!
Popeyes will join the other fast food joints in the D15 area, such as McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, Eddie Rockets, Subway, Boojum and Krispy Kreme. The Dublin opening is the first step in a broader growth strategy, with additional restaurants already in the pipeline across the country. Among the confirmed plans is a flagship “megastore” location in central Dublin, also scheduled to open in 2026.
Tom Crowley, CEO of Popeyes UK and Ireland, described the expansion as a major moment for the business. He said bringing the brand to Ireland has been years in the making, noting that Irish customers have long called for Popeyes to arrive on local shores. Crowley added that the team is excited to introduce the company’s signature Louisiana-inspired flavours to a new audience, including its iconic Chicken Sandwich and the brand’s distinctive “Shatter-Crunch” fried chicken.
The first Irish outlet will feature seating for 76 customers, with 52 seats indoors and an additional 24 available outdoors. Designed with convenience in mind, the restaurant will include self-service kiosks and dedicated collection points for customers placing orders through the Popeyes website or official mobile app.
The company says it aims to deliver an authentic taste of New Orleans hospitality in Dublin, combining bold Cajun flavours with a welcoming dining experience for local customers and visitors alike.
Popeyes UK holds the master franchise for the Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen brand across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Originally founded in New Orleans in 1972, the global quick-service restaurant chain has grown to operate more than 5,000 locations worldwide.
In Ireland, Popeyes Ireland manages the master franchise for the Republic of Ireland and will oversee the brand’s expansion nationally. With its first opening now confirmed and further sites in development, the arrival of Popeyes signals a notable addition to Ireland’s fast-growing quick-service dining sector.
