American chains we want in the Netherlands as soon as possible
You probably didn’t miss the fact that In-N-Out Burgers was in the Netherlands for a very brief moment yesterday. A pop-up was supposed to be open at Amsterdam hotspot Kanteen25 from eleven in the morning until three in the afternoon, and this only became known to the general public less than 24 hours in advance. The result: everything sold out within two hours, and the queue stretched hundreds of metres outside the door. Can you imagine if this had been announced well in advance? The chaos would have been complete.
Unfortunately, this is not a preview of a permanent In-N-Out Burgers in the Netherlands, but it did at least make it clear that demand is enormous. Burger lovers would absolutely love to see these American chains (which are only available on the West Coast) come to our little country.
But while we’re at it… Could these chains also set foot on Dutch soil as soon as possible? That might make me even happier than In-N-Out Burgers.
Can these American chains come to the Netherlands, PLEASE?
1. Raising Cane’s
If, like me, you get lots of American food videos on your TikTok feed, you’ve probably heard of this chain before. Founded in Louisiana in 1996 — still pretty ‘young’, actually. They’re known for their chicken fingers, which are also the only thing they serve: chicken. With fries, toast (obviously ask them to spread butter on both sides) and that amazing Raising Cane’s sauce. All of TikTok is raving about it: apparently, it’s the best sauce ever.
2. Wingstop
We’re sticking with chicken for a little while longer, because Wingstop is all about poultry too. Chicken wings, boneless wings or a chicken burger, in a marinade of your choice. The favourites are Mango Habanero (if you like spicy food) and Lemon Pepper — you can also ask for those spices on your fries, and it’s heavenly. Definitely order the ranch as a sauce, because that’s incredibly delicious here too. Tip: you can also find Wingstop in England.
3. Shake Shack
You can already get this one in England too, which is considerably closer than the United States. Dangerous, though… Because afterwards, you’ll only want to eat burgers here. With delicious, greasy cheese fries on the side. And not just any fries: crinkle-cut fries. Sooooo good. To be honest, I still have the greatest hope that this will be the first one to come to the Netherlands — it’s only a matter of time, right?
4. Wendy’s
The reason Wendy’s hasn’t managed to establish a foothold in the Netherlands is a striking one: the name. There is a snack bar called Wendy’s that is preventing the arrival of this American chain. Such a shame, because that means we’ll never get to enjoy the square burgers and delicious breakfast.
5. Popeyes
American looove their chicken, and Popeyes is known for it too. And good news: they have serious plans to expand worldwide. In Romania, for example, they’re opening 90(!) locations, the first of which is already open. You can also find this chain in Spain and Switzerland, and they’ll be opening locations in England too. Well, then it’s only a matter of time for the Netherlands…?
6. Chipotle
In the Netherlands, and especially in Amsterdam, we do have some takeaway places that are a little similar… But of course, we want the real thing. We want Chipotle! Those delicious burrito bowls, salads or burritos they’re known for. The perfect hangover food. This one may also be closer than you’d think: they already have several locations in England, France and Germany. Come on, we should be next.
7. Chick-Fil-A
Can you have too many fast-food chains specialising in chicken? Nooope. This is even America’s most popular chain, so why don’t we have it yet? Don’t lose hope, because the very first one is opening in England in 2025. Look… Things are moving in the right direction.
8. Panda Express
Last but certainly not least: Panda Express. A Chinese chain with delicious orange chicken — the dish they’re known for. A large box of chow mein (chow mein) or rice on the side for a very reasonable price — this would genuinely be a great addition to the Netherlands. And good news! There’s already one in Europe: in Germany. That reassures me a little, because surely more locations must follow?
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