Ireland’s fast food landscape tells a unique story of local innovation and resilience in the face of global competition. While international giants like McDonald’s and KFC maintain a strong presence across the Emerald Isle, it’s the homegrown chains that truly capture the nation’s tastes and traditions. From Supermacs’ famous curry chips to Abrakebabra’s late-night kebabs, Irish fast food chains have succeeded by blending international fast food concepts with distinctly Irish flavors and sensibilities. These native businesses don’t just serve food – they represent a proud tradition of Irish entrepreneurship, with many chains growing from single family-run shops into national institutions. Perhaps most impressively, several have managed to not only survive but thrive against multinational competition, creating unique menu items and business models that speak directly to Irish consumers’ preferences and lifestyles. Here’s a guide to the most notable Irish fast food chains, from national powerhouses to beloved regional favorites.
MAJOR CHAINS:
Supermacs – Ireland’s Fast Food Champion
Founded in 1978 in Ballinasloe, Supermacs has become a national institution. Beyond their famous curry chips and chicken snackboxes, they’re known for their “5oz burgers” (emphasizing their larger size compared to competitors) and garlic cheese chips. Their Papa John’s and SuperSubs subsidiaries have helped them diversify beyond traditional fast food. The chain made history with their 2019 victory over McDonald’s in the “Big Mac” trademark case, which not only allowed them to expand into Europe but became a point of national pride.
Four Star Pizza (Est. 1986)
Ireland’s homegrown answer to Domino’s operates differently from other pizza chains. Each store makes fresh dough daily, and they’re known for generous toppings and their signature sauce. They’ve expanded to over 60 locations across Ireland and Northern Ireland, maintaining strong market share despite international competition.
Abrakebabra
Since 1982, Abrakebabra has been Ireland’s premier kebab chain. Their Taco Fries and famous garlic sauce have achieved cult status, especially among late-night crowds. They’ve had numerous celebrity “ambassadors” including Roy Keane and Dustin the Turkey, making them a unique part of Irish popular culture.
Eddie Rocket’s/Rocket’s
While inspired by American diners, Eddie Rocket’s brings an Irish twist to the concept. Founded in 1989, they’ve since created two distinct brands: traditional Eddie Rocket’s diners and the more modern Rocket’s restaurants. Known for their hand-pressed burgers, “atomic” wings, and authentic milkshakes made with Irish dairy.
Apache Pizza
Founded in Dublin in 1996, Apache has grown to become Ireland’s largest pizza chain with over 150 stores. They’re known for adapting to Irish tastes with unique offerings like the curry chip pizza and the full Irish breakfast pizza. Their success led to acquisition by Food Delivery Brands in 2020.
REGIONAL AND SPECIALTY CHAINS:
Hillbilly’s
Cork’s answer to KFC has developed a loyal following in Munster. Founded in 2009, their fresh chicken and secret recipe has helped them expand across southern Ireland. Their spice box and chicken fillet burger are particular favorites.
Dino’s
A Dublin institution since 1985, Dino’s specialized in traditional fish and chips before expanding into burgers and pizzas. They’re particularly known for their battered sausages and curry sauce.
O’Brien’s Sandwich Bars
While more fast-casual than traditional fast food, O’Brien’s revolutionized Irish lunch culture when it launched in 1988. Their hot sandwiches and wraps created a new category in Irish food service, and they’ve expanded internationally to markets including Poland and Saudi Arabia.
Mizzoni’s Pizza
A growing chain that started in the midlands, Mizzoni’s has expanded through small towns and villages often overlooked by larger chains. Their success comes from adapting to local tastes and offering value deals that work in smaller markets.
Mannix’s Takeaways
A Munster favorite, particularly strong in Clare and Limerick, known for their family boxes and generous portions.
NEWER ENTRANTS:
Wowburger
Though newer to the scene (founded in 2015), this Dublin-based chain has rapidly expanded nationwide. Their simple menu focused on quality burgers and hand-cut fries has helped them carve out a premium fast food niche.
Mad Egg
Specializing in chicken, this new chain has quickly developed a following for their pressure-fried chicken and unique sauces. Their expansion shows there’s still room for new players in the Irish fast food market.
THE SUPERMACS VS MCDONALD’S BATTLE:
The conflict began when McDonald’s tried to prevent Supermacs from expanding into Europe and the UK by claiming trademark infringement over the “Mc” prefix and various menu items. In 2019, Supermacs won a landmark case at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), which not only allowed them to expand but also revoked McDonald’s exclusive use of “Big Mac” in the EU.
The case revealed that McDonald’s had registered many trademarks they weren’t actively using, a practice known as “trademark warehousing.” Supermacs’ victory was seen as a win for smaller businesses against corporate giants, and Pat McDonagh, Supermacs’ founder, became known as the “David who defeated Goliath.”
The victory had broader implications beyond Supermacs, as it set a precedent for how trademark law is applied in the EU and showed how smaller companies could challenge multinational corporations’ intellectual property claims. It remains one of the most significant cases in Irish corporate history and demonstrates how local businesses can succeed against global competition.
