Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Captain D’s seafood restaurant set to make its European debut in Kent

British diners hungry for new experiences as Captain D’s makes its UK debut

Captain D's

Captain D’s has been a staple in the American casual dining scene

iStock

Captain D’s, a popular American seafood restaurant chain, is making waves as it prepares to open its first European location in Kent in August 2025. This venture marks the brand’s entry into the UK market and, more broadly, into Europe. As Captain D’s sets its sights on international expansion, it is planning to introduce 20 new stores across the UK, with additional locations in Sussex and Hampshire slated to open soon after the Kent launch.

Known for its signature seafood dishes, Captain D’s has been a staple in the American casual dining scene, with over 530 outlets across 23 states. The chain is particularly celebrated for its batter-dipped fish, grilled shrimp, and salmon, which have earned it a loyal following in the US. Now, British customers will have the opportunity to experience the restaurant’s unique take on seafood.


Bringing a taste of America to the UK

The arrival of Captain D’s in the UK is expected to add a new dynamic to the country's seafood dining scene. While the UK is home to a rich tradition of seafood cuisine, from fish and chips to fresh shellfish in coastal towns, Captain D’s offers a distinctly American twist. The chain’s menu features a variety of fried and grilled options, providing a balance between indulgent comfort food and lighter, healthier choices.

Phil Greifeld, CEO of Captain D’s, expressed excitement about the brand’s expansion into the UK, stating: “We are highly enthused to bring our unique brand to the United Kingdom. Captain D's will bring our craveable seafood to the guests of the UK.” Greifeld also highlighted that this venture is just the beginning of the brand’s global ambitions, with plans to bring Captain D’s quality seafood and hospitality to more seafood lovers around the world.

The decision to make Kent the first location is a strategic one. With its proximity to the coast and strong connections to London, Kent provides an ideal location for the launch of a seafood restaurant. The chain’s blend of affordable seafood and casual dining is likely to appeal to a broad demographic, from families to young professionals looking for a quick yet satisfying meal.

International growth with sustainability in mind

Captain D’s expansion into the UK is part of a broader international strategy aimed at sustainable and impactful growth. The company is focused on ensuring that each new restaurant aligns with its values of high-quality seafood, exceptional customer service, and environmental responsibility.

Hair Parra, Senior Vice President of International Operations and Development at Captain D’s, explained, “Our goal is not only to expand but to ensure we're building something sustainable and impactful. The UK is a key market with immense potential, and by working closely with our master franchisees, we're confident that we'll deliver exceptional results.”

The UK launch follows Captain D’s announcement of its plans to expand into Toronto, Canada, and hints at further international growth in regions like South America and Asia. The company is positioning itself as a global player in the casual dining seafood industry, with a strong focus on adapting to local markets while maintaining its core brand identity.

What’s on the menu?

British diners can expect a diverse and appealing menu when Captain D’s opens its doors. The restaurant’s signature dish, batter-dipped fish, is likely to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a crispy and satisfying take on the classic. In addition to fried fish, the menu will include grilled options such as shrimp and salmon, catering to health-conscious diners.

Batter-dipped fishiStock

Sides like hushpuppies, coleslaw, and fries will round out the offerings, giving customers a complete taste of American seafood dining. For those with a sweet tooth, Captain D’s also offers a range of desserts. The menu is designed to be both familiar and different enough to attract seafood lovers and those curious to try something new.

Captain D’s impact on the UK dining scene

The arrival of Captain D’s seafood restaurant in the UK comes at a time when British consumers are increasingly open to trying new dining experiences. With a growing focus on casual dining and an expanding appetite for seafood, Captain D’s is entering a market ripe for innovation.

By offering a fresh take on seafood in an accessible, fast-casual format, Captain D’s could carve out a niche in the UK’s highly competitive restaurant industry. As the brand begins its UK rollout, it will be interesting to see how it adapts to local tastes while maintaining the core elements that have made it successful in the US.

As Captain D’s prepares to make its European debut, seafood lovers across Kent and beyond will be eagerly anticipating the arrival of this American favourite. With a commitment to sustainability, quality, and customer satisfaction, the restaurant chain is poised to make a splash in the UK dining scene.

More For You

Indian food tours in the UK

From iconic Indian curry houses to bustling markets

iStock

Top 5 Indian food tours in the UK

The UK is filled with hidden spice trails, from iconic curry houses to bustling markets, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling spices and tempting aromas. If you’re ready to indulge your taste buds while uncovering a little piece of India, these are the best Indian food tours in the UK that you won’t want to miss.

1. Brick Lane: The iconic curry capital

Keep ReadingShow less
Top Indian dishes taking over the UK

A variety of Indian dishes served on a table.

iStock

Top Indian dishes taking over the UK

In the UK, a new wave of Indian-inspired comfort food takes over kitchens, restaurants, and street food stalls. From Keema toasties to Butter Chicken Biryani, these dishes blend nostalgia with innovation, offering a taste of home-cooked flavors in fresh and exciting ways.

So, what’s driving this trend? A mix of cultural nostalgia, global fusion, and a craving for bold, hearty flavors. Let’s take a closer look at how these Indian-inspired comfort dishes are making their way onto British plates.

Keep ReadingShow less
What makes Biryani different from Pulao? Know the uniqueness of these Indian rice dishes

What makes Biryani different from Pulao? Know the uniqueness of these Indian rice dishes

Vibhuti Pathak

The rice preparations, Biryani and Pulao are two delicious dishes loved around the world, each with its special taste. Originating in the Indian subcontinent, these dishes have changed over the years, influenced by various cultures. Even though both are made with rice, the flavours, and their history make them unique in the world of food.

It is often argued that these two dishes are the same and there is only one difference of addition of meat pieces. But in reality, these two are similar but unique in the aspects like type of rice grains, spices and the method to cook these preparations.

Keep ReadingShow less
TasteAtlas world ranking: Two Indian restaurants make it to top 6

TasteAtlas world ranking: Two Indian restaurants make it to top 6

Nayana Ashok

A pleasant turn of events has led two famous Indian restaurants, Paragon in Kozhikode and Tunday Kababi in Lucknow, to fly to international recognition that they secured their position in the world's best restaurants by the esteemed TasteAtlas. This accomplishment emphasises the flavours of India's vast and varied culinary heritage as well as its universal appeal.

TasteAtlas Worldwide Ranking

Keep ReadingShow less
Top street food spots in Mumbai

Top street food spots in Mumbai

Nayana Ashok

Mumbai, the city of dreams on the west coast of India, is a city that never sleeps and is famous for its vibrant street food culture. The roads of Mumbai offer a culinary experience like no other, with a different flavours and fragrances that enamor local people and visitors. From vada paav to paav bhaji, Mumbai's street food varieties are something to pursue for food lovers. Here is a curated list of the 8 best street food spots in Mumbai that will tempt your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Now, why are you waiting? Simply gather your napkins, focus in, and prepare for an exhilarating voyage of foodgasm on the road to Mumbai.

Keep ReadingShow less