Miss Millie’s, one of the United Kingdom’s original fried chicken brands, is continuing its national expansion with a new restaurant opening in Colchester, marking its first launch of 2026. The move signals the brand’s growing confidence beyond its South West roots as it brings its updated look and menu to a high-profile Essex location previously occupied by a global fast food competitor.
The new restaurant, located at 10 High Street, is designed to balance sit-down dining with convenience. Spread across two floors, the space will accommodate around 60 seated guests while also catering to takeaway customers on the ground level. Miss Millie’s will also be available through major delivery platforms, including Uber Eats and Deliveroo, reflecting the brand’s focus on accessibility and modern dining habits.
Founded in Bristol in 1988, Miss Millie’s has long traded on familiarity and flavour, building a loyal following through its signature fried chicken. In recent years, the company has invested in a refreshed brand identity and revitalized menu, positioning itself to compete more assertively in the crowded fast casual market. The Colchester opening follows a series of successful launches in cities such as Edinburgh, Southampton, and Canterbury.
Chief executive Andy Purnell pointed to the strong customer response at recent openings as evidence that the brand’s evolution is resonating. He described the Colchester launch as a natural next step, bringing Miss Millie’s distinctive offering to a new audience while staying true to the values that have shaped the business for decades.
As the brand prepares to announce an official opening date later this spring, the Colchester restaurant represents more than another storefront. It reflects Miss Millie’s broader ambition to establish itself as a national player, blending heritage, refreshed design, and flexible service to meet changing customer expectations across the UK.
