From California to Cardiff: Carl’s Jr Set to Open Its First UK Restaurant
Posted by Emma on 14th Jan 2025
The American fast-food giant Carl’s Jr is gearing up to open its first UK restaurant this April in Cardiff. Known for its chargrilled burgers, breaded chicken tenders, and creamy ice cream shakes, the California-based chain promises to deliver its signature West Coast charm to British diners.
The expansion is spearheaded by the Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG), a major player in the UK restaurant scene and the force behind brands such as Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Carluccio’s. BRG has signed a master licence agreement to bring Carl’s Jr to both the UK and Ireland, marking the beginning of what could be a significant footprint for the brand in the region.
The inaugural UK location will be in central Cardiff, featuring 50 covers and creating 40 local jobs. According to BRG, the site has been designed to combine Carl’s Jr’s distinctive Californian atmosphere with a warm, welcoming experience tailored to British tastes.
David Moffat, Country Manager for Carl’s Jr UK, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, stating:
“Carl’s Jr. has a reputation for delivering high-quality, crave-worthy food that stands out in the burger market. We’re thrilled to bring this iconic brand to Cardiff, our first location in the UK. We’ve had incredible interest from fans eager to experience the Carl’s Jr difference, and we can’t wait to welcome them this April.”
A Growing Global Brand
Carl’s Jr opened in 1941 in California and has grown to operate over 1,100 international restaurants across 38 countries. Its European presence is also expanding, with more than 90 locations in countries such as Spain, France, Denmark, Turkey, and Switzerland. This Cardiff opening aligns with the chain’s broader ambition to strengthen its global reach.
The brand is the latest in North American fast-food chains entering the UK market. Recent arrivals include Dave’s Hot Chicken, Five Guys, Tim Hortons, Popeyes, and Shake Shack, reflecting the growing appetite among British consumers for international dining experiences.