The burger industry in the Philippines has seen significant growth over the years, with both local and international franchises making their mark across the country. Filipinos have a deep appreciation for good food, and burgers are no exception. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top burger franchises in the Philippines, their history, menu offerings, market presence, and what sets them apart from the competition.
1. Jollibee
Jollibee is a household name in the Philippines and is often referred to as the country’s most beloved fast-food chain. While Jollibee is known for its fried chicken, its burger offerings, particularly the “Yum Burger” and “Champ,” have a massive following.
- History: Founded in 1975 by Tony Tan Caktiong, Jollibee started as an ice cream parlor before transitioning into a fast-food chain. The brand quickly became synonymous with Filipino culture.
- Menu: The Yum Burger, a simple yet flavorful burger with Jollibee’s special dressing, is a staple. The Champ, a larger and meatier option, caters to those with bigger appetites. Jollibee also offers the Jolly Hotdog and other burger variants with cheese, bacon, and mushroom toppings.
- Market Presence: Jollibee has over 1,200 stores across the Philippines and has also expanded globally.
- Unique Selling Point: The brand’s deep connection with Filipino culture and its ability to cater to the Filipino palate makes it stand out.
2. McDonald’s Philippines
McDonald’s, a global giant, has a strong presence in the Philippines. Known locally as “McDo,” the franchise has adapted to Filipino tastes while maintaining its global appeal.
- History: McDonald’s entered the Philippine market in 1981, with its first store in Morayta, Manila.
- Menu: Apart from its globally recognized items like the Big Mac, McChicken, and Quarter Pounder, McDonald’s Philippines offers unique products like the McSpaghetti and Burger McDo, which are tailored specifically for the Filipino market.
- Market Presence: McDonald’s operates over 600 stores across the country, with a strong presence in both urban and rural areas.
- Unique Selling Point: McDonald’s ability to blend international standards with local flavors has allowed it to maintain a significant market share in the Philippines.
3. Burger King
Burger King is another international brand that has gained popularity in the Philippines. Known for its flame-grilled burgers, the franchise appeals to those looking for a slightly different taste experience.
- History: Burger King entered the Philippines in 1997, offering an alternative to the existing fast-food giants.
- Menu: The Whopper is Burger King’s flagship product, known for its flame-grilled beef patty. The menu also includes other burgers, chicken sandwiches, sides like onion rings, and a variety of desserts.
- Market Presence: Burger King has steadily grown its presence in the Philippines, with numerous outlets mainly in Metro Manila and other key cities.
- Unique Selling Point: The flame-grilled cooking method gives Burger King’s burgers a distinctive taste that sets them apart from competitors.
4. Wendy’s
Wendy’s is a well-known American fast-food chain that has established a solid presence in the Philippines. It’s famous for its square-shaped patties and sea salt fries.
- History: Wendy’s was introduced to the Philippines in 1983 and has since become a favorite among burger enthusiasts.
- Menu: Wendy’s offers a variety of burgers, including the Dave’s Single, Baconator, and Pretzel Bacon Pub Cheeseburger. Their Frosty, a creamy dessert, is also popular among Filipinos.
- Market Presence: Wendy’s has several branches in Metro Manila and a few in key provincial cities.
- Unique Selling Point: Wendy’s prides itself on using fresh, never frozen beef patties, which is a significant draw for quality-conscious consumers.
5. Zark’s Burgers
Zark’s Burgers is a homegrown Filipino brand that has made a name for itself with its massive burgers and competitive pricing.
- History: Established in 2009 by Zark Varona, Zark’s Burgers started as a small burger joint near De La Salle University in Manila. The brand quickly grew in popularity due to its value-for-money offerings.
- Menu: Zark’s is known for its big, bold, and often messy burgers. Some of their most popular items include the Jawbreaker, a towering burger with multiple patties, and the Thunder Mac & Cheese. The brand also offers chicken wings, fries, and other American-inspired dishes.
- Market Presence: Zark’s Burgers has expanded to over 60 locations across the Philippines.
- Unique Selling Point: The sheer size and affordability of their burgers make Zark’s a favorite among students and young professionals.
6. Brothers Burger
Brothers Burger is another Filipino brand that has been serving high-quality gourmet burgers since the late 1990s.
- History: Founded in 1999 by the Santiago brothers, Brothers Burger positioned itself as a gourmet burger brand, offering premium ingredients and a unique dining experience.
- Menu: Brothers Burger’s signature offerings include the Brothers Burger (with 100% beef patty), Blues Brothers (with blue cheese), and the Double Brothers Burger. The brand also offers a variety of sides, salads, and beverages.
- Market Presence: Brothers Burger has several outlets in Metro Manila and a few in provincial areas.
- Unique Selling Point: The focus on premium ingredients and gourmet-style preparation sets Brothers Burger apart from other fast-food chains.
7. Minute Burger
Minute Burger is a budget-friendly burger franchise that has been operating in the Philippines for over 30 years. It’s particularly known for its value-oriented offerings.
- History: Established in 1982, Minute Burger is one of the longest-running burger franchises in the country.
- Menu: Minute Burger offers a variety of affordable burgers, including the Cheeseburger, Chicken Time, and Black Pepper Burger. Their buy-one-take-one deals are particularly popular.
- Market Presence: With over 500 franchised outlets nationwide, Minute Burger has a strong presence in both urban and rural areas.
- Unique Selling Point: The brand’s focus on affordability and its widespread availability make it a go-to option for budget-conscious consumers.
8. Army Navy
Army Navy is a fast-casual restaurant chain that offers a military-themed dining experience with a focus on burgers and burritos.
- History: Founded in 2009, Army Navy quickly gained popularity for its unique theme and quality food offerings.
- Menu: The Bully Boy Burger, with its three quarter-pound patties, is a standout. Army Navy also offers a variety of other burgers, burritos, tacos, and their famous Freedom Fries.
- Market Presence: Army Navy has over 100 branches across the Philippines, making it a strong player in the fast-casual segment.
- Unique Selling Point: The military-inspired theme, along with its hearty and flavorful menu items, makes Army Navy a distinctive choice among burger lovers.
9. Shakey’s
While Shakey’s is primarily known for its pizza, its Angus Burger is a hidden gem that has gained a loyal following in the Philippines.
- History: Shakey’s has been a part of the Philippine food scene since the 1970s, but its burger offerings have only recently gained attention.
- Menu: The Shakey’s Angus Burger is made with premium Angus beef, and it’s available in several variants, including the California Burger and the Classic Cheese Burger.
- Market Presence: With over 200 branches nationwide, Shakey’s has a strong presence in both urban and rural areas.
- Unique Selling Point: The use of Angus beef and the brand’s reputation for quality make Shakey’s burgers a premium option for consumers.
10. 8Cuts Burger Blends
8Cuts Burger Blends is a relatively new player in the Philippine burger scene, known for its artisanal approach to burger-making.
- History: 8Cuts was founded in 2013 by the Moment Group, a well-known restaurant group in the Philippines.
- Menu: The brand’s name, 8Cuts, refers to the eight different cuts of beef that they blend to create their signature patties. Popular items include the Q-Daddy (with smoked pulled pork) and the Four Cheese 2.0. The brand also offers a variety of sides, shakes, and desserts.
- Market Presence: 8Cuts has a more limited presence, with outlets primarily in Metro Manila.
- Unique Selling Point: The focus on quality ingredients, artisanal preparation, and innovative burger blends make 8Cuts a premium choice for discerning burger enthusiasts.
11. Flame-Grilled Burgers
Flame-Grilled Burgers is a local chain that offers a variety of burgers cooked using a flame-grilled technique, providing a smoky flavor that differentiates them from other fast-food burgers.
- History: Founded in the early 2010s, Flame-Grilled Burgers has steadily gained a following among burger lovers in the Philippines.
- Menu: The brand offers a variety of burgers, including the Classic Flame-Grilled Burger, Double Cheeseburger, and Spicy Burger. They also serve hotdogs, fries, and shakes.
- Market Presence: Flame-Grilled Burgers has a limited but growing presence, primarily in Metro Manila.
- Unique Selling Point: The flame-grilled technique, which imparts a unique smoky flavor to the burgers, sets this brand
apart from its competitors.
12. Angel’s Burger
Angel’s Burger is another popular budget-friendly burger franchise in the Philippines, known for its ubiquitous presence and buy-one-take-one deals.
- History: Established in the early 2000s, Angel’s Burger has quickly expanded across the country, becoming a staple for many Filipinos looking for an affordable snack.
- Menu: The menu is simple, featuring classic burgers, cheeseburgers, and chicken sandwiches. The brand’s buy-one-take-one promo has been a key driver of its popularity.
- Market Presence: Angel’s Burger boasts thousands of outlets nationwide, making it one of the most accessible burger brands in the Philippines.
- Unique Selling Point: The affordability and widespread availability of Angel’s Burger make it a go-to option for many Filipinos.
Conclusion
The burger industry in the Philippines is diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. From international giants like McDonald’s and Burger King to beloved local brands like Jollibee and Zark’s Burgers, the market offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet experience at 8Cuts or a budget-friendly snack at Angel’s Burger, the Philippines’ burger scene is rich with options that reflect both global trends and local flavors.
