Japanese “okonomiyaki” pancake restaurant operator Chibo is launching in Indonesia this month.

The opening is part of the firm’s unfolding global plans to counteract a dip in the Japanese food service market. It is partnering with local operator Jaddi Foods within Indonesia’s territory. Importantly for the predominantly Islamic market, the firm will be swapping out pork for suitable Halal alternatives.

The 188sqm venue is opening at Gandaria City Mall in southern Jakarta, seating 90 diners. It joins eight Chibo restaurants outside Japan, with sister venues in China, Hong Kong, Hawaii, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. The firm is targeting 20 international outlets by March next year, with locations planned for Brazil, London, New York and Russia.

Inside Retail Asia