In which U.S. city was Popeyes founded in 1972?

Popeyes was founded in New Orleans in 1972.

The chain began as Chicken on the Run in Arabi, Louisiana, a suburb of New Orleans. It was founded by Al Copeland, who relaunched the business as Popeyes Mighty Good Fried Chicken in 1972. The brand later became known simply as Popeyes.

Popeyes developed a Louisiana-influenced identity, using bold seasoning and menu items associated with Cajun and Creole flavors. Its style helped distinguish it from milder Southern fried-chicken chains. The name Popeyes refers to the fictional detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle, rather than the cartoon sailor.

The company expanded across the United States and internationally. In 2017, Restaurant Brands International acquired Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. The founding city remains New Orleans, even though the restaurant’s first location was technically in nearby Arabi.