UK Fast Food Chains You Won't Find In The US

At first glance, the U.K. fast-food scene isn't all that different from what's available in the U.S., but there are some differences. Among the familiar faces, there are some U.K. fast-food chains that you won't find in the U.S. In some ways, Britain isn't all that different from America. You'll still find a McDonald's on every corner and people are still puzzled over KFC's 11 herbs and spices. You can also find other popular U.S. fast-food chains, including Burger King, Wendy's, Taco Bell, and Popeyes.

That's good to know if you want something familiar to eat while you're away, but you might find the differences more interesting. Perhaps you want to discover what burritos are like in the U.K. by visiting Tortilla or maybe you want some traditional British fish and chips at Harry Ramsden's. Whatever it is that you're craving, you can find it on streets and down alleyways all over England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

It's always interesting to see how countries do things differently from one another, and fast-food culture is just one of the many interesting differences. Whether you're scoping out what to eat on a trip to the U.K. or you're simply intrigued about the options, these are some British fast-food chains that aren't usually seen in the U.S.

Leon offers a modern, healthy twist on classic fast-food favorites. Its motto is "Naturally Fast Food" so you can imagine where its focus lies and what it might offer on its menu. Leon serves up fast food that's not only tasty but also healthy and nourishing.

If fast food to you is burgers and fries, Leon takes fast-food burgers to the next level. Its popular LOVe Burger is a vegan alternative to a fast-food classic, containing a mock meat patty, plant-based cheese, gherkins, and dill-heavy burger sauce all in an egg- and milk-free brioche bun. Rather than standard fries, this fast-food restaurant offers delicious baked waffle fries.

Aside from burgers, it serves wraps containing fillings such as jerk chicken and grilled halloumi. It's also known for its hot food boxes that are packed with dishes like Brazilian black beans, lentil masala, and satay chicken on a bed of wholesome rice.

And let's not forget about breakfast. Leon serves up a scrumptious morning spread with options like breakfast muffins, egg pots, and tasty porridge that'll give you the energy you need to kickstart your day.

There was a time when Leon made it over to the U.S., with branches in Virginia and Washington D.C., but its time in the U.S. has now come to an end, so you'll only find it in the U.K. and Europe. Luckily, it's easy to find in the U.K., with branches on many city high streets.

Here's one for the plant-eaters out there. Imagine a fast-food joint where everything is vegan, from the burgers and hot dogs to the thick, creamy milkshakes. Well, at Neat Burger, you don't have to. Everything is 100% vegan. This chain is all over London and is likely to expand to more parts of the U.K. soon, too.

So, what can you get at Neat Burger? As the name suggests, their signature items are their burgers, and oh boy, they're beyond fantastic. You can choose from a range of different burgers, some with faux beef patties and others filled with fried mock chicken.

They've also got a hot dog option for those craving that familiar stadium snack, as well as salads and an awesome range of sides, including fries, onion rings, tater tots, sweetcorn ribs, and cauliflower wings. You can also enjoy sweet treats in the form of milkshakes and churros.

Neat Burger is a gamechanger in the fast-food scene, offering a completely plant-based menu that's not just for vegans but for anyone who loves good food with a side of conscience.

It's not entirely accurate to say you won't find this vegan fast-food restaurant in the U.S. — there's one branch in New York City, but that still makes it inaccessible for most Americans. Still, that means that there might be more branches of Neat Burger coming to a city near you sometime in the not-too-distant future.

Home of the vegan sausage roll that stirred up controversy among the right-wing press in the U.K., Greggs is a British institution. You'll find at least one in almost every city and large town in the U.K., not to mention branches in train stations and motorway services.

You might have heard of Greggs from the aforementioned vegan sausage roll drama or the viral TikTok clip in which an American woman pronounces it "G.R. Eggs," but what's served there? Effectively, Greggs is a bakery, but it's so much more than that.

Let's start with its breakfast options. Whether you're an early riser or craving a breakfast fix at any time of the day, Greggs has you covered. It offers warm rolls and baguettes stuffed with bacon, sausage, and egg, including some vegan options.

Now, onto the all-day offerings. Greggs is famous for its savory pies and pastries, each one a pocket of flavor heaven. From the classic steak bake with its rich filling to the iconic sausage roll that's simply irresistible, you'll find yourself coming back for more. It has several veggie and vegan takes on its classic savory options, including vegan sausage rolls.

But Greggs isn't just about savory treats. It also has sweet baked goods, including donuts and Belgian buns. We mustn't overlook its coffee and hot drinks. Greggs serves up a mean cup of joe, perfect for getting that caffeine fix while you enjoy your meal.

It seems like half the population of the U.K. is obsessed with going for a cheeky Nando's — it's even approved by Prince William. Although Nando's originated in South Africa, it took off like a rocket ship in Britain and has become a national treasure.

But what exactly is Nando's and what does it serve? The restaurant specializes in peri-peri chicken, a dish made using African bird's eye chili. If you're looking for a lip-smacking blend of Portuguese-African flavors with a dash of South African spice, Nando's is the place to be.

Peri-peri chicken is marinated in Nando's secret peri-peri sauce, a blend of chilies, herbs, and spices that creates an explosion of flavors on your palate. You can choose various spice levels, from "plain" for a mild taste to "extra hot" for those who dare to take on the fire. If you're not in the mood for chicken, Nando's has got you covered with alternative protein options. Their veggie and plant-based alternatives, such as the Spiced Chickpea Burger or the Great Imitator Wrap are just as flavorful and satisfying.

But Nando's is more than just chicken and veggie alternatives. It's got a variety of sides and salads to complement your meal. From crispy peri-peri fries and spicy rice to fresh coleslaw and crunchy corn on the cob, the options are plentiful. 

Although it was once exclusively found in South Africa and Europe, Nando's has since branched out. Its U.S. presence includes locations in Maryland, Illinois, Washington D.C., Virginia, and Texas.

When you think of British cuisine, fish and chips might be one of the first things that comes to mind. And it's not just a stereotype, either — Brits really are obsessed with this tasty combination. While there are many independent restaurants that serve this iconic fast food, there's also a popular fish and chip chain: Harry Ramsden's.

This eatery has been famous for serving up classic and delicious fish and chips since 1928. It all started with Harry Ramsden himself, who opened a small fish and chip shop in a wooden hut in Guiseley, West Yorkshire, England. Ramsden's dedication to perfection and high-quality ingredients soon earned him a reputation for the best fish and chips in the region. As word spread, his business grew, and Harry Ramsden's became a household name across the U.K.

It now has many locations, some of which are takeaway-only while others offer both takeaway and seated options. In addition to chips and battered fish, it also serves other chip shop classics, such as battered sausages and burgers. It has a battered halloumi option for vegetarians. There's also the kinds of sides and sauces you'd expect to find in a British fish and chip shop, including mushy peas and curry sauce.

The restaurants maintain a traditional and nostalgic ambiance, reminiscent of the classic fish and chip shops of old. Many of them feature cheerful and vintage-inspired interiors, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for diners.