Tim Hortons tight-lipped about Watford restaurant opening date

The Canadian fast-food chain received permission in September 2021 to open a branch on the site of the former Pizza Hut at the Dome Roundabout.

Judging by the reaction on our social media channels and a steady stream of tweets to Tim Hortons asking when it will be ready, there seems to be plenty of excitement about the chain coming to Watford.

So, with Pizza Hut shutting at the end of last year and the building lying empty, we asked Tim Hortons if they were in a position to update us on its progress and give an opening date.

Excited customers have been asking Tim Hortons on Twitter when the chain will be opening in Watford

But unfortunately, a spokesperson said this week they were "unable to comment" about the Watford site at this time but would be happy to share news at a future date.

It doesn't look like it will be before this summer that Tim Hortons is serving up its selection of sweet and savoury treats in Watford.

That's because the town does not yet appear on a list on Tim Hortons website of restaurants that are 'coming soon', while more than a year passed between a Pizza Hut closing in Essex and a Tim Hortons opening - although the pandemic may have understandably slowed things down.

Tim Hortons inside a former Pizza Hut in Braintree, Essex. Credit: The Gazette

And despite getting permission from Watford Borough Council back in September, there does not appear to have been any sign of any work on the former Pizza Hut except the iconic branding of the pizza restaurant has been removed.

The former Pizza Hut restaurant at the Dome Roundabout, pictured at the end of March 2022

It's one of a number of Pizza Hut restaurants nationally that Tim Hortons has eyed up, and judging by the number of articles from newspapers in towns and cities across England, the Canadian chain appears to be rapidly expanding its number of branches.

When the Watford restaurant does open, it will include a drive-thru as well as a dine-in and takeaway service. More details about its offerings will likely come when Tim Hortons is in a position to tell more.

Tim Hortons in Braintree, Essex. Credit: The Gazette

Tim Hortons offers a range of fast food throughout the day, from breakfast wraps in the morning to burgers late at night.

Food is freshly made on site, with sandwiches made to order, with the beverages – ranging from coffees to chilled fruit drinks and shakes – also handmade. Vegan options are also available on the menu.