10 popular international fast food chains that are growing in the US
Published in Slideshow World
When traveling outside the United States, it's common for Americans to spot restaurants that they know from home. McDonald's, Subway, and Starbucks are just three examples of American-founded restaurants that enjoy a large presence outside the country. However, several popular restaurant chains experienced the opposite trajectory, having expanded into the U.S. after originating in another part of the world.
Not every expansion into the U.S. market is a success story. For example, Pie Face opened several locations in New York City in 2011. But the chain and its Australian savory meat pies didn't last. By 2014, nearly all the New York franchises had shut down. Pie Face enthusiasts now have to go to the restaurant's home country to taste their smiley-faced pastries.
Restaurant chains appear to have a higher success rate when it comes to expanding into the U.S. market and beyond when they sell one menu item in particular: chicken. The love of fried chicken endures beyond borders, with restaurant-goers seeking out international takes on the classic dish. Or, at least in the case of one Guatemalan chain, a nostalgic taste of home.
New Yorkers and Californians are closest to the foreign food chains that made this list. However, there are several international restaurants located throughout the United States. Stacker compiled a list of 10 restaurant chains that started abroad and expanded into the U.S. market. See how many you're able to try in a neighborhood near you.
Visit thestacker.com for similar lists and stories.