IT turns out food is not the best way to everyone's hearts, as the news that a Burger King restaurant will be opening in Taunton has been met with a very mixed reaction.

Burger King recently confirmed its plan to return to Taunton town centre after an absence of nine years.

It is set to occupy 34 Fore Street, a location once home to Carphone Warehouse.

The opening date is being kept under wraps as of now, with a Burger King spokesperson saying: "We do not have further information regarding an opening date at this time."

Somerset County Gazette: Burger King is returning to Taunton

As soon as news broke of the new addition to Taunton's high street, locals and Somerset County Gazette readers rushed to have their say.

One joked: "We are about to gain three stone", while another less enthused resident added that they'd have preferred a "good old-fashioned hardware shop".

A faithful foodie cheered at the thought of welcoming back the fast food goliath to the area: "I love Burger King, was sad when the old one closed down".

READ MORE: Burger King confirms new restaurant is opening in Taunton

The positivity does not end there, as one reader noted: "Good news, the town needs more upmarket eateries to encourage a higher standard of clientele visiting and spending money."

But it turns out not everyone is best pleased about the announcement, as many raised their concerns.

One commenter feared a surge in litter, while someone questioned: "Mmhmm because this is what we need in a crisis".

Another resident could not hide their outrage and wondered whether there even was a need for another new restaurant in Taunton.

They explained: "There’s some fantastic, high quality burger places in Taunton already... why do we need this?

He said: "I don’t understand why people are excited by this," adding, "grim, seriously grim."

Another local quipped: "I'm shocked it's not another charity shop, barber, coffee shop, mobile phone repair shop or vape shop".

Burger King UK currently ranks as the third most recognized Quick Service Restaurant chain in the UK.

At present, the fast-food franchise operates 537 establishments across the country.