Wendy’s, the iconic US fast-food chain famous for its square burgers and Frosty desserts, will open its first Irish restaurant in decades this October at Cork’s Mahon Point Shopping Centre.
The new outlet will create 50 jobs, with recruitment already underway for full- and part-time positions. While Wendy’s briefly operated on Dublin’s North Earl Street in the 1980s, the company emphasizes this return represents a long-term commitment to the Irish market.
The Cork opening marks the first step in Wendy’s partnership with Corrib Oil, announced last year. The menu will feature items made with Irish beef and chicken, including breakfast wraps, nuggets, kids’ meals, alongside the signature square burgers and popular Frosty dessert.
Michael Dalton, Managing Director of Corrib Brands, described the opening as “a major milestone in our partnership with Wendy’s.” He expressed enthusiasm about bringing “fresh, locally sourced menu items and quality hospitality to Cork customers, who will be the first in Ireland to experience the brand.”
The Cork restaurant represents just the beginning of Wendy’s Irish expansion plans. Ten Wendy’s locations are expected to open across Ireland between 2025 and 2027 as part of the company’s broader European growth strategy.
Michael Clarke, Managing Director of Europe for Wendy’s, highlighted Ireland as “an important market for long-term growth,” while Justin Young, Centre Director at Mahon Point, welcomed the development as “great news for Cork” that creates local employment while introducing quality food options to the city.
The return of Wendy’s adds another major international brand to Ireland’s competitive fast-food landscape, offering consumers an alternative to existing burger chains with the company’s distinctive square patties and menu offerings.