On February 16, 2023, Bud’s Chicken & Seafood celebrated the grand opening of its seventh location at 8801 W. Boynton Beach Blvd., right here in Boynton Beach, Florida. This beloved establishment has remained a cornerstone of South Florida dining since it first opened its doors in Pompano Beach in 1957. Founded by Bud Brinkman, an engineer who relocated to Florida in the mid-1950s, Bud’s began as a small take-out chicken shop, crafted from his grandmother’s cherished recipes, and has since flourished into a local legend known for its hand-battered, freshly fried chicken and seafood. As noted by the Palm Beach Post, the original location’s iconic four-piece chicken dinner was a steal back in the day, priced at just 99 cents! Today, the restaurant is family-run, managed by the third generation of the Brinkman family.
At the helm are Chris, Nick, Phillip, and Luke Brinkman, who learned the ins and outs of the business from their father, Tom Brinkman, and their uncles. The new Boynton Beach outlet marks the first new location since 2001, and it represents a strategic step for the family as they consider comfortable expansion—a goal that reflects their commitment to quality and community engagement.
Community Commitment
Bud’s is not just about great food; it aims to make a positive impact on the local community. The restaurant prioritizes mentoring and developing its employees, creating a friendly atmosphere for both staff and customers alike. Their dedication to quality shines through in their offerings, which include fresh, never-frozen chicken, wild-caught cod, hand-battered shrimp, and halal-certified chicken tenders. Each dish is crafted with top-notch ingredients—a great way to stay competitive against larger brands like Raising Cane’s, as the official Bud’s website highlights.
Every dish on their menu is a testament to Bud’s commitment to health and quality. They serve not just fast food, but fast food with a heart. While the fast food industry at large is grappling with health questions—especially as excessive consumption is increasingly linked to obesity and other health issues—Bud’s has maintained a focus on fresh ingredients and fewer additives. It’s a significant move as consumer trends shift toward healthier eating options, as highlighted by insights from Statista.
Popularity and Future Plans
Bud’s has garnered a loyal following over the years, being voted the best chicken in Palm Beach County multiple times in the Community’s Choice Awards. This recognition is echoed in the booming fast-food sector, which remains a highly sought-after dining choice, as evidenced by the spike in sales for major brands, including McDonald’s and Starbucks. In a market where brands strive for brand awareness and quality ingredients, Bud’s stands tall among them.
With plans for an eighth location already buzzing in the air, Bud’s Chicken & Seafood is positioning itself not just as a purveyor of delicious meals but as a key player in the fast-paced, ever-evolving food industry. Their hours of operation for the new venue are accommodating, welcoming diners from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and extending to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
As Bud’s continues on this journey, it reinforces its status as not only a provider of succulent dishes but also a vibrant thread in the fabric of Boynton Beach’s community. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a take-out order, there’s something to be said for enjoying a piece of tradition that has been delighting residents for decades.