Long John Silver’s

Long John Silver’s is a well-established quick-service restaurant chain specializing in seafood and chicken. The company began in 1969, founded by Jim Patterson in Lexington, Kentucky. Its name draws inspiration from the classic literary character in "Treasure Island," and its early locations were known for their Cape Cod-style architecture, which helped the brand stand out as it grew.

Over the decades, Long John Silver’s became a familiar presence in many American communities, particularly in areas where seafood options were limited. The brand has experienced several ownership changes throughout its history, each bringing new direction and operational strategies. In November 2022, ownership transferred to Four Oaks Partners, a group led by longtime franchisee Bob Jenkins. This transition marked a renewed commitment to growth and modernization.

As of February 2025, Long John Silver’s operates 385 restaurants across the United States and in select international markets, including Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The company’s headquarters is located in Louisville, Kentucky. In recent years, Long John Silver’s has focused on expanding its footprint in the Midwest, Southeast, Texas, and Southeast Asia. The brand has also placed a strong emphasis on co-branded units and updated store designs to appeal to today’s consumers.

A significant milestone came in October 2025, when Long John Silver’s introduced a refreshed brand identity. This rebrand highlighted both chicken and seafood offerings, reflecting changing customer preferences and positioning the chain to compete more effectively in the quick-service space. The addition of a new chicken menu and updated branding has helped attract new franchisees and broaden the company’s appeal in regions with high demand for quick-service seafood and chicken.

Long John Silver’s continues to evolve, balancing its longstanding reputation with new menu options and contemporary store formats. Its active approach to growth, consistent national presence, and adaptability make it a relevant and credible tenant for a variety of retail environments.