A Table-Service KFC Has Landed in Downtown Auckland

The nation's go-to for fast fried chicken is undergoing a transformation. KFC's flagship "urban-style" and "fast casual" restaurant opens in downtown Auckland today as a benchmark for future openings and to give diners a more appealing environment to chow down on a bucket.

Located down Fort Street, the throbbing heart of Auckland's nightlife, the new store will fittingly operate later than usual across weekends, trading until 2am. As a New Zealand first, the restaurant will also offer table service. After ordering via automated kiosks customers can sit back and wait for their bird to land table-side.

Another new attraction will see the Colonel's infamous chip seasoning come front of house and be available for personal use. The shakers currently roam free around the restaurant — though it will be interesting to see how that format plays out with the later trading hours.

The opening also comes with a fresh new fit-out to the tune of $1.6 million. The space enters a new chicken-munching frontier  — the traditional sterile decor has been enhanced with exposed brickwork, à la mode lumber flooring and graffiti art courtesy of local artist Mr. G.

Everything else at the downtown chicken hut is business as usual. Find Auckland's new look KFC on Fort Street, Auckland CBD.