ATLANTA — Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits, a division of AFC Enterprises Inc., announced the opening of a fast-casual hybrid concept, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.
According to a news release, the restaurant expands upon Popeyes' rich history and entices guests with a variety of authentic Cajun and Creole flavors, while offering the convenience of a quick-serve restaurant.
"From the expanded menu to the atmosphere to the aromas, flavors and images, we hope our new restaurant provides our guests with that 'little something extra' the Cajuns call lagniappe," said Ken Keymer, president and chief executive of Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits.
The first Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen location opened Dec. 12 in Norcross, Ga. A second restaurant, in Fayetteville, Ga., is planned for early 2007.
Both locations will offer Popeyes' traditional menu items, along with new recipes such as New Orleans- style BBQ shrimp, Voodoo BBQ Ribs, Red Bean & Sausage Soup served in a bread bowl, signature Cajun burgers, Bayou Blackened Catfish, Big Easy Grilled shrimp skewers and N'awlins Bread Pudding. Guests also can customize their meal at the Sauce Bar.
"Consumers 
increasingly are looking for authentic experiences, while seeking out foods that are distinct, rich and bold in flavor," said Popeyes executive chef Billy Jacob. "Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen will satisfy consumers' ever-changing palate and offer a menu featuring recipes that create bold flavor experiences and embody the rich heritage of Cajun- and Creole- inspired cuisine."
Popeyes' Louisiana Kitchen also will offer innovative ordering methods, enabling guests to place orders at new, in-restaurant self-serve ordering kiosks and call ahead for car-side "To Geaux," along with traditional in-restaurant front-counter service and drive-thru ordering. In addition to these ordering options, the restaurant will feature the Cajun Connection, free wireless Internet connectivity, for guests dining at the restaurant.
