Torikizoku, the Osaka-founded yakitori chain with more than 600 locations in Japan, has opened its first restaurant in the Philippines, at Serendra in Bonifacio Global City, Metro Manila. Nikkei Asia reported on 31 October 2026 that the operator is now eyeing Metro Manila shopping malls for a new fast-food format.
Daily Tribune reported on 20 September that Torikizoku was preparing to open its first Philippine restaurant on 12 October at Serendra, ahead of which street installations featuring the brand’s yellow mascot, Torikki, appeared around the district. The displays used local culture-inspired designs and QR codes so visitors could sign up for updates and make advance reservations.
Nikkei Asia’s 31 October report confirms the restaurant has since opened and describes the Philippines as another Southeast Asian market for the Japanese company behind the brand.
Torikizoku specialises in freshly grilled chicken skewers. According to Daily Tribune, it was founded in Osaka in 1985 and describes its overseas push as an ongoing international expansion. The Philippines opening follows that pattern of entering new Asian markets.
Nikkei Asia’s standfirst points to shopping malls as the next focus. Nikkei Asia’s headline positions the entry against Jollibee, the Philippines’ best-known home-grown chain. The reports reviewed do not state whether Torikizoku plans to grow through franchise partners, company-owned units or a mix, so that remains an open question for operators watching the brand.
For related Asian format entries, see LEE GIMBAP’s Japan entry and Kyochon’s multi-unit plan in Japan, plus the casual dining site models for Asia Pacific and MENA guide.
Source: Daily Tribune — Japan’s top yakitori chain sets Phl expansion with BGC store and Nikkei Asia — Yakitori chicken from Japan takes a stab at the Philippines, the land of Jollibee
