First it was American and Canadian fast food giants taking over the UK high streets – now a DUTCH burger brand is making waves, and it’s got big plans.
Fat Phill’s, a smash burger joint hailing from Amsterdam, has been quietly expanding and already has fans raving about its food. Dubbed the home of Amsterdam’s “best burger”, the diner launched its first UK site in Clapham Junction, London, at the end of 2024 – and it’s just getting started.
The next location is set to open in Dublin’s bustling Temple Bar this June, and there are plans to roll out across the UK and Ireland with up to 100 restaurants expected nationwide by 2034, reports the Metro.
Fat Phill’s was founded in 2019 by Armin Vahabian and already boasts 18 locations in the Netherlands. The UK and Irish expansion is being handled by Freshly Baked Ltd – the company behind Auntie Anne’s UK – and several more high street branches across London are already in the pipeline.
So what’s the fuss all about?
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The menu is full of indulgent American-style dishes – from juicy smash burgers and loaded fries to mac and cheese and Philly Cheesesteaks. If you like your portions big, you’re in luck: customers can triple any burger.
Among the most eye-catching items is the Big Belly – a whopping quadruple cheeseburger with crispy bacon. But it’s the chain’s Double Cheeseburger that’s the real star of the show.
Those after something with a fiery kick can try the Tamale Burger, made with glazed onions, grilled jalapeños, spicy mayo, mustard and a juicy double cheeseburger base.
Chicken fans haven’t been forgotten either. There’s a Nashville Hot Chicken range, including burgers and wings, alongside gooey Buffalo Wings, mozzarella sticks, layered fries, and creamy sauces like Ranch and Truffle Mayo. Milkshakes come in indulgent flavours – including pistachio.
What are people saying about Fat Phill’s
Online, Fat Phill’s has earned an impressive reputation, with one food blogger even comparing it to some fast food icons.
“I can confidently say that this restaurant beats out McDonald’s and KFC any day of the week,” wrote food blogger By Row.
On Reddit, user u/Dependent_Monitor215 agreed, posting: “Fat Phill’s Diner has the BEST burgers in Amsterdam. I’ve ordered from everywhere. Trust me on this one.”
The London launch has already attracted five-star reviews. On Google, it’s currently rated 4.7 stars.
Matt Gough wrote: “Fantastic food! We tried the meaty burger, the Nashville fried chicken burger, loaded fries and mozzarella sticks. All amazing. Deffo recommend checking this place out if you need some fried goodness!”
Minemar2 Martinez shared: “Delicious burgers, the flavor of the meat is unique, everything is very fresh and super smashed. The quality and quantity are excellent.”
And for Clapham locals, it seems McDonald’s has finally got some competition. FaithsStardust added: “Just had one of their Nashville hot burgers at their launch….demolished it in seconds, yummy! The Greeter serving the food was lovely too. It’s nice that McDonald’s in Clapham Junction, finally has a competitor.”
With rave reviews, bold flavours and ambitious expansion plans, Fat Phill’s could soon become a serious fixture on UK and Irish high streets.