Huge queues in Metrocentre as US chicken restaurant Popeyes opens in Gateshead

Queues stretched through the Metrocentre this morning ahead of the much-anticipated opening of US chain restaurant, Popeyes.

Eager foodies started queuing at the Gateshead shopping centre from as early as 9am to be among the first to experience the New Orleans-style chicken which made it's UK debut in London in November.

Located on the ground floor of Metrocentre's Yellow Mall Qube, Gateshead's Popeyes' is the fourth branch to open in the UK. And it opened in style at 11am on Saturday with freebies in store for the first arrivals as well as live music, children's entertainment and a full-on New Orleans party vibe.

Read more: Frist look inside Metrocentre Popeyes reveals secret of chicken chain's huge success

An orange carpet was also rolled out to welcome the first customers to the new site. The opening of all Popeyes restaurants in the UK have attracted huge attention, with reports of people queuing for three hours-plus to sample the menu.

In a first look around at the Metrocentre restaurant ahead of its opening, ChronicleLive was shown how its signature dish is made, with the chicken - having been marinated for at least 12 hours - hand-stretched and flattened - then breaded and fried.

Official opening of Popeyes at the Metrocentre in Gateshead (Newcastle Chronicle)

A secret recipe of seasonings is what gives the chicken its famous "shatter-crunch" bite, say staff. Customers can then give an extra kick to the flavour of their sandwich if they choose a spicy version of the mayonnaise that adds a finishing touch.

Also on the Popeyes menu, as first customers are about to discover, are other southern American staples such as 'biscuits' and gravy. A full rundown of Popeyes' menu can be found here.

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