Captain D’s announces UK debut at Westwood Cross, Broadstairs, in October

UK – Captain D’s, the US-based seafood restaurant chain, has announced the opening of its first UK outlet on October 20, 2025, in Broadstairs, Kent.

The fast-casual diner will occupy the former Debenhams unit at Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, marking a significant expansion into the British market.

The new location will offer a menu featuring hand-breaded chicken tenders, Nashville Hot Fish, fries, hush puppies, and milkshakes, staying true to the brand’s Southern-inspired American fare.

This launch introduces a new dining concept to the region, combining quick service with bold flavors and family-friendly appeal.

Westwood Cross, a 475,000 sq ft open-air shopping and leisure destination, opened in 2005 on the site of the former Haine Hospital.

It attracts an average weekly footfall of 114,000 and serves a catchment population of over 522,000 across East Kent.

The centre hosts more than 50 stores, a 10-screen cinema, casino, bowling alley, and hotel, making it a prime location for high-visibility retail.

The arrival of Captain D’s follows a broader trend of American fast-casual brands entering the UK market, drawn by consumer demand for differentiated, value-driven dining experiences.

The brand’s focus on seafood and fried comfort food fills a niche in the current retail landscape, complementing existing food offerings at the centre.

Captain D’s UK debut is part of a strategic international growth plan initiated in 2025 with a 20-unit franchise agreement for the United Kingdom.

The company has already signed agreements for Canada and is targeting expansion into Central and Latin America, the Caribbean, Spain, the Philippines, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Two additional UK locations are planned for Sussex and Hampshire, signaling strong momentum in its international strategy.

The brand’s flexible restaurant prototypes allow adaptation to diverse real estate opportunities, supporting scalable growth.

The restaurant will operate with extended hours to align with shopping and entertainment schedules, aiming to capture both daytime visitors and evening diners.

Its central location within the complex ensures strong visibility and accessibility for locals and tourists alike.

The brand’s entry is expected to create over 50 local jobs and stimulate further interest in international foodservice tenants at regional shopping centres.

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