HUNGRY residents queued up outside Festival Leisure Park’s newest fast-food restaurant as they eagerly waited to tuck into southern fried chicken. 

Slim Chickens, an American fast-food chain, opened its first south Essex restaurant yesterday with dozens of residents flocking to the grand opening. 

The chain, which has dozens of restaurants across the UK, specialises in Southern-style chicken and sides, with the buttermilk marinated Tender Meals being a standout favourite. 

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The restaurant's atmosphere was upbeat and excitingThe restaurant's atmosphere was upbeat and exciting (Image: George Pizani)
The first 30 customers were gifted free chicken tenders while early visitors were entered into a draw to win prizes. 

“It’s not really comparable to anything else out there,” said Emma Right, who had been to other Slim Chickens restaurants in the past and was thrilled to have one arrive in Basildon.

“I first tried it in Southampton and have been hooked ever since. It’s probably my favourite fast-food chain,” she added.

“And she’s dragged me along too!,” said Emma’s mum, Carol.

Staff had come from nearby branches to assist with the restaurant’s grand opening, which was well attended by residents from across the Basildon borough. 

Emma Right brought her mum Carol along to sample the menuEmma Right brought her mum Carol along to sample the menu (Image: George Pizani)

The restaurant is located in a unit that previously housed Firejacks restaurant before being redecorated with the chain’s eye-catching red and white branding.

Ben Blore, head of operations at Slim Chickens, discussed his excitement at the opening of a Basildon store.  

Customers queued outside of Slim ChickensCustomers queued outside of Slim Chickens (Image: George Pizani)
He said: “I want to extend my gratitude to our amazing team in Basildon and the wider openings team.

“Their dedication allows us to provide fresh, cooked-to-order chicken, ensuring our guests always have the best possible experience.”

Another of those to brave the cold and queue for a taste of Slim Chickens was Phil Lori, who had come to the restaurant on his lunch break.

“It’s a bit pricey but the food is actually very good. I hadn’t been before so didn’t know what to expect,” he said.

“If I’m feeling flush this weekend I might bring the kids.”

Up to 50 new jobs have been created by the opening of the new Slim Chickens store.