10 Big Restaurant Tapping Into Africa’s $2.8 Trillion Economy

Africa is fast becoming a hotspot for global restaurant brands. With a population of over 1.5 billion people and a median age under 20, the continent offers a massive, young market that is hungry for new dining experiences. 

Add to that a $2.8 trillion GDP, rising urbanization, and a growing middle class, and it’s no wonder big food chains are setting their sights here.

From Lagos to Nairobi, both international brands and local champions are racing to win over African consumers. Fast food is no longer just about convenience; it’s becoming part of everyday life for millions, especially young people living in big cities. 

Franchising makes it easy for chains to expand quickly, and the rise of food delivery apps is bringing burgers, pizza, and fried chicken to even more customers. Here are the top restaurants that are making big moves in Africa.

KFC

KFC is already a major player across Africa. The famous fried chicken chain, known for its “finger lickin’ good” recipe, operates in over 25 African countries. It has more than 1,300 restaurants in the region up from just 63 new outlets opened in 2012.

You’ll find KFC in Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Angola, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, and many others. The brand sees Africa as key to its global growth, thanks to the continent’s young and increasingly urban population. With a trusted brand and strong franchise partners, KFC is poised to continue expanding across the continent.

Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut is the world’s biggest pizza chain and is steadily building its presence in Africa too. The American brand operates in more than 10 African countries, including Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya.

The company’s expansion reflects the growing demand for international food in African cities. Pizza Hut is popular for its pan pizzas and family-friendly dining style. The chain belongs to Yum! Brands (which also owns KFC) and is targeting Africa’s rising middle class by offering affordable menu options in attractive locations.

Burger King

Burger King, known for its flame-grilled burgers, is another American brand that sees great opportunity in Africa. The chain first entered the continent in 2013 with a launch in South Africa and has since spread to countries such as Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Kenya, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mauritius.

In Nigeria, Burger King is growing fast with outlets in Lagos, Ibadan, and Abuja. It now leads the country’s burger market ahead of competitors like Johnny Rockets and The Burger Place. The chain appeals to Africa’s young consumers with a menu that offers both global favorites and locally-inspired items.

Domino’s Pizza

Domino’s Pizza made its African debut in 2012, opening its first store in Nigeria. Since then, it has expanded into South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, and Mauritius.

Domino’s is known for its tech-driven approach to food delivery. In Nigeria, the brand operates in key cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, and Abeokuta. It competes closely with South African rival Debonairs Pizza. With growing demand for fast delivery and online ordering, Domino’s is well-positioned to thrive in Africa’s evolving food landscape.

Debonairs Pizza

Debonairs Pizza is one of Africa’s homegrown fast-food success stories. Founded in South Africa in 1991, the brand now boasts more than 700 outlets across 15 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Mauritius.

Debonairs is popular for its wide range of pizzas and strong delivery service. It has built a loyal customer base by offering localized flavors and affordable options. Originally created by two university students, the brand continues to lead the pizza market in many African cities.

Chicken Inn (Simbisa Brands)

Chicken Inn is a Zimbabwean fast-food chain that has grown impressively across the continent. Part of Simbisa Brands, Chicken Inn now operates in more than 10 countries, with over 120 outlets.

Its key markets include Zimbabwe, Kenya, Zambia, Ghana, Swaziland, Namibia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The brand is loved for its fried chicken, rotisserie chicken, spicy wings, and chips. Despite market challenges, Chicken Inn remains profitable and is seen as one of the strongest African quick-service brands.

Galito’s

Galito’s is a flame-grilled chicken chain from South Africa that has expanded to more than 15 countries worldwide. In Africa, you’ll find it in markets such as Kenya, Zambia, Malawi, and beyond.

Founded by former Nando’s franchisee Louis Germishuys, Galito’s offers a menu rich in bold peri-peri flavors. The brand competes directly with Nando’s but maintains its own unique identity and affordable price point. With more than 210 outlets globally, Galito’s is becoming a major force in the fast-casual chicken space.

Spur Steak Ranches

Spur Steak Ranches is a family-friendly restaurant chain from South Africa that specializes in steak, burgers, and hearty meals. The brand operates in 13 African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, Mauritius, Eswatini, and Namibia.

Founded in 1967, Spur has long been a favorite for casual dining in South Africa and is now reaching new African markets. The chain is known for its Western-style decor and warm dining experience, and it has adapted to changing consumer trends by adding takeaway and delivery options.

Nando’s

Nando’s is perhaps Africa’s best-known global restaurant brand. Founded in Johannesburg in 1987, the peri-peri chicken chain now operates in more than 20 countries. In Africa, Nando’s maintains a strong presence in South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mauritius.

Nando’s has built a global fan base with its Portuguese-inspired chicken dishes and fun, vibrant brand image. The chain continues to expand in both African and Western markets, balancing authenticity with innovation in its food offerings.

Chicken Republic

Chicken Republic is a fast-growing Nigerian brand that is rapidly expanding across West Africa. Founded in Lagos in 2004, the chain now has over 150 outlets in Nigeria and Ghana, with ambitious plans to grow to 430 restaurants.

Chicken Republic is owned by Food Concepts Plc and has seen impressive growth over the past decade. The brand is popular for its affordable meals and local flavors, with a strong focus on convenience and customer experience. It’s a standout example of how African brands are competing with global giants on their own turf.