First look at Popeyes first drive-true restaurant in Co Antrim

First look as the new Popeyes opens on Monday at The Junction
Author: Emma DicksonPublished 4th Jul 2025

Popeyes, the home of Louisiana fried chicken, is gearing up to open its second location in Northern Ireland next week - Monday, July 7 at 11am.

The Junction location will offer sit-in and takeaway options but also become the home of the first Popeyes drive-thru in Northern Ireland.

Queues of hundreds are expected on foot and by car on Monday, given how popular the brand’s first restaurant at Lesley Forestside has proved to be since its opening last September.

Jack Skidmore, Training Manager at Popeyes, is getting the new team ready to open at The Junction.

He said, “As we put the finishing touches to the new restaurant, excitement is building - not just within our team, but across The Junction and the wider community. We’re proud to be bringing the spirit and flavour of New Orleans to Northern Ireland, and the team can’t wait to welcome our first customers through the doors on Monday."

The restaurant’s interior takes inspiration from the vibrant colours and energy of New Orleans, featuring a lively, welcoming design and multiple convenient ordering options - including online ordering via the Popeyes app, self-service kiosks, counter service with our team, and a dedicated drive-thru lane.

It will be open from 8am to 10pm seven days a week. All Popeyes chicken is marinated for 12 hours in a signature blend of Louisiana herbs & spices before it is hand-breaded and hand-battered to create that famous Shatter Crunch texture.

The new Antrim restaurant will feature the full menu for dine-in and drive-thru customers including fan-favourites such as Popeyes iconic Chicken Sandwich range, Hot Wings, Tenders, Original Southern Biscuits and Gravy.

The brand’s new Saucin’ Boneless and Hot Wings range will also be available, featuring New Orleans-inspired flavours; cheesy Garlic Parm, bold BBQ, and spicy Buffalo.

Customers are invited to join the opening day queue from 9am on Monday 7 July.

Take a sneak peek at the new restaurant opening on Monday 👇






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