Thunderbird Fried Chicken launches permanent site in Brixton

Published: 04 March 2019 by David Inzani

Last modified: 29 June 2021

Thunderbird Fried Chicken, founded by former Nascar driver Matt Harris, has opened its first site in Bixton, south London.

Thunderbird Fried Chicken, founded by former Nascar driver Matt Harris, has opened its first site in Bixton, south London. The wings and fried chicken restaurant has received an investment from private equity firm TriSpan in January through its dedicated fund Rising Stars. The 42-cover venue is split over two floors and also offers a takeaway service for those who wish to ‘grab and go’. Harris decided to incorporate his racing days into the décor of the restaurant, featuring stripped-back electric blue interiors. All chicken meals can be purchased as part of a box or bucket deal, the restaurant even offers veggie meals, replacing the chicken with halloumi and a selection of Veggie Buns. Drinks include American milkshakes, soft drinks and Brixton beer. Thunderbird Fried Chicken has gained a mass of fans following London Union street food locations Dinerama in Shoreditch and Giant Robot in Canary Wharf.

Founder, Matt Harris Comments: “I’m eternally grateful to everyone who has tasted my chicken and taken a chance on me. To open my first permanent site in one of London’s most exciting food destinations is an amazing opportunity.”

The TriSpan investment saw Marcel Khan, who has a great reputation for playing a key role in the launch and expansion of US better burger brand Five Guys in the UK, join Thunderbird Fried Chicken as a chief executive. As a result, Khan and Harris will be working closely together to grow the business and will be supported by a highly experienced senior team.

Former Itsu chief executive Ivan Schofield moved from executive chairman to non-executive chairman alongside Brandon Stephens, founder of Tortilla Mexican Grill; Ian Edward, non-executive director of Hippo Inns, Seafood Pub Company and Pizza Pilgrims; as well as TriSpan partners, former YO! Sushi chief executive Robin Rowland and Joseph-Patrick Dib, Kieran Sherlock, former property director at YO! Sushi, also joined the business to help build a pipeline of sites.

For more information on this topic or anything else licensing related, please contact Solicitor, David Inzani at d.inzani@popall.co.uk or call 0203 859 7753.