Royal Palm Lifestyle

The Founding and Evolution of Bud’s Chicken & Seafood: A Florida Favorite

The Founding and Evolution of Bud’s Chicken & Seafood: A Florida Favorite

by | Aug 14, 2024

Nestled in the heart of South Florida, Bud’s Chicken and Seafood has been delighting taste buds for over 65 years. Founded in 1957 by the visionary Bud Brinkman, this family-owned and operated restaurant chain has grown to become one of the largest and most beloved establishments in the region, known for its mouthwatering southern-style fried chicken, seafood, and homemade salads. With a commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional customer service, Bud’s Chicken and Seafood continues to attract loyal customers who appreciate the delicious, affordable meals served in a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re craving crispy chicken tenders or fresh fish sandwiches, Bud’s has something for everyone to enjoy.

The story of Bud’s Chicken and Seafood began with a single take-out restaurant, where Bud’s original menu featured a diverse array of items. However, as the years passed, consumer demand began to shape the restaurant’s focus, leading it to specialize in the dishes that have become its hallmark – the irresistible fried chicken, the fresh and flavorful seafood, and the house-made salads that have captured the hearts and palates of generations of diners.

The original Bud’s Chicken & Seafood location where Bud Brinkman began his journey in 1957.
The original Bud’s Chicken & Seafood location was where Bud Brinkman began his journey in 1957.  Source: budschicken.com

Encouraged by the tremendous population growth in South Florida, Bud’s continued to expand, opening a second unit in 1976. This initial success paved the way for the opening of additional restaurants, solidifying Bud’s position as one of the largest family-owned and operated chicken and seafood chains in the region.

Throughout its evolution, Bud’s has remained a family-oriented business, with close ties to the local community of Palm Beach County. This tradition has endured, and today, the second generation of the Brinkman family is at the helm, ensuring that the legacy of quality, care, and customer satisfaction continues uninterrupted.

While Bud’s first restaurants were take-out only, the chain has since evolved to offer both sit-down dining and convenient drive-thru service, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of its loyal customer base. And while the chicken and seafood entrees that have made Bud’s famous remain the backbone of the menu, the restaurant has also demonstrated a commitment to staying responsive to changing customer demands by continually testing and introducing new menu items.

A rendering of a modern Bud's Chicken & Seafood store, symbolizing the chain's growth and adaptation.
A rendering of a modern Bud’s Chicken & Seafood store, symbolizing the chain’s growth and adaptation.  Source: budschicken.com

Whether you’re a long-time devotee of Bud’s Chicken and Seafood or a newcomer to the experience, there’s never been a better time to indulge in the flavors that have made this establishment a South Florida institution. From the mouthwatering fried chicken to the freshly prepared seafood and the delectable homemade salads, each bite promises to transport you to a world of culinary delight.

So, the next time you find yourself craving the comforting and delicious flavors of southern-style cuisine, make your way to Bud’s Chicken and Seafood. Savor the flavors that have been perfected over generations, and become a part of the Bud’s family legacy that continues to thrive and delight. With a commitment to quality, community, and customer satisfaction, Bud’s Chicken and Seafood is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly memorable dining experience in the heart of South Florida.