Filipino fast food chains showcase the country’s culinary roots, blending traditional flavors with modern convenience. Jollibee may dominate internationally, but it’s far from the only player on the Filipino fast food scene. Some, like Mang Inasal and Chowking, fall under the Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) umbrella, but there is still a lot more on offer. While others, such as Tropical Hut and Andok’s, stand as independent champions of local flavors.
This post explores Filipino fast food chains beyond Jollibee. Each offers something distinct, from grilled chicken to nostalgic burgers. Let’s dive into the heart of the fast food scene.
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Mang Inasal: Grilled Chicken With an Unmatched Strategy
Mang Inasal started in Iloilo City in 2003 with a focus on traditional Filipino grilled chicken. Its signature inasal marinade uses calamansi, soy sauce, and spices, creating bold flavors that quickly won over diners. Affordable meals and unlimited rice made it a hit amongst local populations.
By 2010, Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) acquired a majority stake in Mang Inasal. The move was strategic, because Mang Inasal started opening locations next to Jollibee. By 2016, JFC fully owned the brand, making it part of their growing empire. Despite the acquisition, Mang Inasal kept its identity, delivering grilled Filipino dishes in over 500 locations nationwide.
While grilled chicken remains the star, the menu also features pork barbecue and bangus sisig. These additions highlight Mang Inasal’s commitment to serving authentic Filipino flavors
Tropical Hut: A Filipino Classic
Tropical Hut began in 1965 as a grocery store in Quezon City. Over time, it evolved into one of the Philippines’ first fast-food chains. Known for its no-nonsense menu, the chain’s Classic Burger became a favorite, thanks to its fresh vegetables and flavorful patty. My personal favourites are the palabok with fried chicken and the club house sandwich
Despite growing competition, Tropical Hut remains close to the hearts of many Filipinos. The brand’s simple menu and retro atmosphere bring back memories of its early days. Social media has recently sparked renewed interest, introducing a new generation to this Filipino classic.
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Andok’s
Andok’s began in 1985 in Quezon City, serving lechon manok from a humble roadside stall. Its perfectly roasted chicken, marinated with a secret spice blend, quickly gained a loyal following. What started as a single stall grew into one of the country’s most recognized fast food names.
Lechon manok remains its flagship dish. Roasted over an open flame, the chicken is known for its juicy meat and crispy, golden-brown skin. In. addition to chicken, Andok’s expanded its menu to include liempo, pork barbecue, and bangus. They are also home to the best chicken sandwich in the history of the world, the dokito burger. That’s right, I said it. Fight me!
Andok’s has built its reputation on consistency and affordability. Its outlets, now found in cities and provinces nationwide, cater to families looking for quality food at reasonable prices. Whether dining in or taking out, Andok’s delivers meals that feel familiar and comforting to many Filipinos.
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Army Navy
Army Navy opened its first branch in 2009, combining American-style burgers with Mexican-inspired dishes. It quickly set itself apart with great flavors and generous portions, catering to diners looking for something hearty and satisfying.
The Freedom Burger is Army Navy’s signature item. Served with fresh toppings and a juicy patty, it’s a go-to for burger lovers. On the Mexican side, the birria tacos stand out, succulent slow simmered beef and that heavenly birria sauce are a must. And while you’re here get a serving of freedom fries because, (getting my finger guns ready)….’Merica….Pew Pew Pew.
Army Navy’s menu balances variety and consistency. Quesadillas, burritos, and fresh homemade milk teas round out the options, giving customers plenty to choose from. Whether dining in or ordering for delivery, the chain has become a trusted choice for quality fast food.
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Zark’s Burgers
Zark’s Burgers launched in 2009 with a focus on serving oversized, indulgent burgers. Its menu quickly attracted attention for offerings like the Tombstone Burger, layered with multiple patties and cheese, and the Jawbreaker, packed with bacon and cheese. My favorite is the bacon jam and jalapeno burger. One damn tasty burger
Zark’s also offers Hall of Fame Fries topped with cheese and bacon, as well as crispy wings. The menu focuses on hearty, satisfying dishes that attract customers across the Philippines.
Zark’s Burgers brings a unique twist to Filipino fast food by offering larger-than-life meals at accessible prices.
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Pancake House
Since its founding in 1974, Pancake House has been a go-to spot for Filipino comfort food, especially breakfast. This chain takes traditional morning staples and elevates them with bold, satisfying flavors.
The menu includes fluffy pancakes served with butter and syrup. Often paired with Filipino classics like tocino or longganisa. Their best-selling Pan Chicken, a perfectly fried and seasoned delight, has become a favorite across all meal times.
Pancake House doesn’t stop at breakfast. you can get a combo meal of fried chicken, a taco and the Philippines famous sweet spaghetti if that’s your thing. I personally can’t do the sweet spaghetti, but to each their own.
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Goldilocks
Goldilocks started in 1966 as a small bakeshop specializing in Filipino cakes and pastries. Known for its distinct Filipino flavors, it quickly grew into a household name.
Signature items like pancit malabon and lumpiang shanghai became as popular as its cakes. Desserts such as fluffy mamon and cheesy ensaymada reflect the brand’s roots. Over the decades, Goldilocks has remained a top choice for meals and baked goods, delivering dishes that resonate with generations of Filipinos.
Chowking
Chowking, founded in 1985, offers a mix of Chinese dishes with a distinctly Filipino flare. I featured this establishment when I first arrived in the Philippines and have eaten here several times since.
The pork chao fan and pancit canton are respectable and one standout for me is their halo-halo. It’s where I had my first halox2. With layers of shaved ice, sweet beans, and leche flan, it hits the right balance of refreshing and indulgent.
After Jollibee Foods Corporation acquired Chowking in 2000, the brand grew across the country without losing its charm. Chowking is where you go when you want quick, solid meals with respectable flavors.
Binalot
Binalot started in 1996 with a simple concept: serving Filipino classics wrapped in banana leaves. This isn’t just about presentation; the wrapping keeps the food warm and brings out a subtle, earthy flavor that feels like home.
The menu keeps it simple. Dishes like adobo, tapa, and tocino come with rice, a slice of tomato, and a salted egg. I’ve been told It’s a meal that brings back memories of family gatherings or packed lunches for school trips. The portions are generous enough to satisfy and stick to the flavors that make Filipino food special.
Burger Machine
Founded in 1981, Burger Machine quickly became known as “the burger that never sleeps.” Its 24/7 service made it a staple for late-night cravings across the Philippines. For anyone on the go, it’s an easy and budget-friendly option.
The menu sticks to simple items like cheeseburgers, hotdogs, and its popular Double Bart Burger. You won’t mistake this for a gourment burger, but that’s part of the charm. You get freshly cooked food that’s super cheap. I mean like 2 for $1 type cheap
What I enjoy most about Burger Machine is the nostalgia even though i’m not Filipino. Those bright, roadside carts have been part of Filipino streets for decades, and stopping by one feels like reliving a piece of the country’s past.
Yellow Cab Pizza
Yellow Cab started in 2001 with a mission to bring New York-style pizza to the Philippines. Its bold branding and focus on premium ingredients quickly set it apart. While the menu is centered on pizzas, it also features pastas, wings, and other sides.
Their four season’s pizza, loaded with meats, seafood and veggies, is a crowd favorite. Another must-try are the sloppy wedges. deep fried potato wedges doused in chili sauce, cheese and green peppers and onions. Unadulterated junk food at it’s finest
Yellow Cab’s late-night hours and reliable delivery make it a go-to spot. What started in Makati City has now expanded internationally, with branches across Asia and the Middle East.
Filipino Fast Food Chains Conclusion
While Jollibee may dominate the spotlight, the Philippines’ fast food scene has so much more to offer. Mang Inasal delivers a taste of Filipino heritage with its grilled chicken and unlimited rice. While Tropical Hut taps into nostalgia with its retro burgers, reminding diners of simpler times. Chains like Yellow Cab and Army Navy offer bold international flavors, from New York-style pizzas to Mexican-inspired burritos, proving fast food here is anything but ordinary.
I am only scratching the surface of Filipino fast food in this article, but skip the predictable and check out these unique Filipino chains that bring local culture and global creativity to the table. Have you tried any? Share your thoughts in the comments!
And if you would like to go on a customized food tour of Manila with yours truly, drop a comment down below and let me know. Let’s dive into the city’s unique flavors together!
