The World Cup has introduced international fans to American stadiums, cities—and apparently, Popeyes. Australian comedian Nathan Ranclaud has gone viral after posting an over-the-top review of the fried chicken chain, declaring it the best fast food he's tried during his trip to the U.S. and wondering aloud why Australians still can't buy it back home.
According to KTLA, Ranclaud's now-viral video starts outside a Popeyes restaurant before he digs into a meal of fried chicken, fries, a biscuit, and coleslaw. He ordered one spicy piece and one regular, immediately raving about the chicken's crispy coating and flavor. But what really floored him was the price.
"It's the most incredible chicken you've ever seen," he said. "It's spicy and crunchy." After revealing the meal cost just $6, he laughed, "How does this business even work?"
The comedian also couldn't believe the restaurant's self-serve drink station, marveling at its touchscreen interface, unlimited refills, and what he estimated were "50 different options." While he's been documenting stops at several iconic American chains—including Golden Corral—Ranclaud said Popeyes has easily become his favorite.
His biggest surprise, though, came from an unlikely menu item. "It's the most beautiful coleslaw I've ever had in my life," he said, adding that it had a slight kick that tasted "like it has mustard or something in it."
He wrapped up the video with a plea directed at the restaurant itself: "Why is Popeyes chicken not in Australia? Popeyes, if you came here, you would own this country."
Ironically, Popeyes has been trying to expand into Australia for years.
The Louisiana-born chain first floated expansion plans there in 2000, but they never materialized. Then, more than two decades later, parent company Restaurant Brands International announced in 2024 that it was once again seeking investors to bring the brand Down Under as it seeks to challenge established chicken giants, including KFC, Red Rooster and Oporto, according to Australian outlet Delicious.
However, as of this writing, Popeyes has not announced when its first Australian restaurant will open.
