Morley’s takes the unprecedented step of crossing the Thames.
Not to stir up any still-bubbling North/South arguments, but North London already has 90% of the Tube stations, so they really shouldn’t be nicking any of the South’s crown jewels. And yet, exactly such a heist appears to be underway with the news that Morley’s, the pride of South London, is making an unprecedented expansion into North London. The cult chicken chain will expand to Brick Lane and Finsbury Park, with the Brick Lane site now open for takeaway – and for any North Londoners who’ve never been, you’re in for an absolute treat.
Whilst Morley’s is a London institution, the chain has built its legendary reputation from a firmly southern base. Since being founded in 1985, their fried chicken empire has stretched across South London, with a particularly strong presence in the south east. Now with over 40 shops (and plenty of wannabe imitators), they’ve gained a legion of followers, with the likes of Big Narstie, Krept and Konan (who run their own restaurant, Crepes & Cones, down in Croydon), and Giggs all counted amongst their fans.
Unlike Alexander the Great, though, Morley’s still has worlds left to conquer – and they’re all north of the river. Bringing their wings, ribs, burgers, and fried chicken to North London gives them a new arena to play in, and whilst the competition for London’s best fried chicken is fierce (think Coqfighter, Louie’s, Mother Clucker, Jollibee, and plenty more for evidence of this), only a fool is going to bet against Morley’s beating all comers.
Find Morley’s at 60-62 Brick Lane, E1 6RF. Finsbury Park location is currently under wraps. You can also find Morley’s on JustEat, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats.