[citation needed] The company was started in London by New Zealanders Adam Wills, Greg Driscoll, and Brandon Allen in 2001.

[citation needed] The initial success of the Battersea restaurant led to further openings across London.

In 2005, the owners sold the business to Clapham House Group PLC[1] who added a total of 53 restaurants across the UK.

In September 2016, the South African firm Famous Brands bought the company for US$143.3 million.

[4] In October 2018, Gourmet Burger Kitchen reported a £47m loss amid tough trading conditions.