When traveling outside the United States, Americans typically find restaurants they know from their hometown. McDonald's, Subway, and Starbucks are just three examples of American restaurants that have a large presence abroad. However, some popular restaurant chains have followed opposite trajectories, starting in other parts of the world before expanding to the United States.
Not every expansion into the US market is a success story. For example, Pie Face opened several stores in New York City in 2011. But the chain and Australia's savory meat pies didn't last long. By 2014, nearly all New York franchises had closed. Pie face lovers must travel to the restaurant's homeland to taste the smiley face pastry.
Restaurant chains appear to have a higher success rate in expanding into the U.S. market and other markets, especially when they sell one menu item: chicken. The love for fried chicken transcends borders, with restaurant patrons looking for an international twist on the classic dish. Or, at least in the case of one Guatemalan chain, a nostalgic taste of home.
New Yorkers and Californians are closest to the foreign food chains on this list. However, there are several international restaurants throughout the United States. Stacker has compiled a list of 10 restaurant chains that started overseas and expanded into the U.S. market. See how much you can try in your area.