Hollywood-famous Randy’s Donuts is opening its first UK restaurant in Edinburgh as the iconic Los Angeles brand begins an ambitious expansion into Britain.
The American chain has chosen 55 Forrest Road in the capital’s Old Town for its UK debut, taking over the former Barburrito restaurant close to the University of Edinburgh and the Meadows.
Randy’s has now officially listed Edinburgh as “coming soon” on its international locations page, while plans have been lodged with City of Edinburgh Council for alterations to the shopfront.
An opening date has not yet been announced.
The arrival will bring one of Los Angeles’ most recognisable food brands to Scotland.
Randy’s Donuts was founded in 1952 and is famous for the enormous doughnut sitting on the roof of its original drive-in restaurant in Inglewood, close to Los Angeles International Airport.
The landmark has become part of Hollywood culture, appearing repeatedly in films, television programmes and advertising.
One of its best-known appearances came in Iron Man 2, when Robert Downey Jr’s Tony Stark was shown sitting inside the giant rooftop doughnut.
Randy’s own website describes the original restaurant as an “iconic LA landmark” and highlights its numerous appearances on screen.
The Edinburgh restaurant is expected to serve Randy’s extensive range of American-style doughnuts.
Its menu includes classics such as Glazed Raised, Chocolate Raised, Maple Raised and Cinnamon Crumb Cake, alongside more elaborate varieties. The US business also serves coffee, iced drinks and speciality beverages.
Edinburgh could also become the starting point for a much bigger expansion across Britain.
Randy’s announced plans to enter the UK market in 2024 and said it believed there was potential for around 50 locations.
Hospitality industry publication Propel reports the Edinburgh site is expected to be operated under franchise by Boss Donuts and that Randy’s had previously indicated it would likely establish itself with a regional opening before expanding towards London.
The company has already grown well beyond California, with restaurants across the US and international locations in countries including Japan, South Korea, Mexico and the Philippines.
Its Edinburgh arrival will add another international name to the capital’s fast-changing restaurant and takeaway scene.