Guide to the Global Food Chains That Just Made Their Philippine Debut

(SPOT.ph) The local dining scene continues to get more exciting, thanks in part to the growing number of foreign food brands choosing the Philippines for their global expansion. For years, many of these restaurants, cafés, and dessert shops were the kind of places you'd only add to your travel bucket list because they were destinations in their own right.

Now, you won't need a passport to find out what all the hype is about. These dining concepts have officially made their way to Philippine shores, giving diners the chance to experience their signature offerings closer to home. 

From viral cafes to well-loved restaurants, these spots have marked their first official presence in the country, bringing their beloved dishes and fan-favorite specialties with them: 

Located on the second level of Glorietta 4, Jack in the Donuts officially opened its doors in July, marking the Japanese specialty doughnut chain's first-ever branch outside Japan. Founded in 2011, the brand has built a loyal following for its "Donuts from Around the World" concept, offering up to 40 colorful and creative varieties inspired by flavors from different countries.

Beyond its eye-catching lineup, Jack in the Donuts is best known for its soft, fluffy Malasada, Japan's take on the classic Hawaiian treat that's light, airy, and melts in your mouth. Other must-tries include the indulgent Premium Series, which pairs pillowy dough with rich flavors like Matcha, Coffee, and Chocolate, as well as the mochi-mochi chewy Ring Da Pon. 

Here's another must-visit spot for anyone who needs a caffeine fix at any time of the day. South Korea's fast-growing coffee chain Compose Coffee officially entered the Philippine market with the soft opening of its first branch at Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig in July. Founded in Busan in 2014, the brand has become a go-to cafe for quality brews at wallet-friendly prices. 

Its menu features crowd favorites like the Americano, Strawberry Cream Matcha Latte, and Jeju Matcha Mango Latte, alongside smoothies and other specialty drinks. Widely loved in South Korea, Compose Coffee is known for its high customer satisfaction and strong value-for-money offerings. The brand's collaboration with BTS member V has also helped put it on the radar of K-pop fans worldwide. 

If you've spotted the snaking queues at Uptown Mall since June, chances are they are for Japanese-style doughnut chain Daykey Donut. Famous for its irresistibly soft nama doughnuts, the brand has quickly won over local foodies with its freshly made viral doughnuts packed with rich, creamy fillings. First-timers shouldn't miss the Custard Donut, Dubai Chocolate Donut, Matcha Donut, and Strawberry Donut—flavors that make the long wait more than worth it.

Another Korean favorite has officially landed in the Philippines. BHC Chicken, one of South Korea's most popular fried chicken chains, opened its first-ever local branch at SM North EDSA in July, giving Filipinos a taste of the crispy, flavor-packed chicken that has made it a household name in its home country.

BHC—which stands for "Better & Happier Choice"—lives up to its name with a lineup of Korean fried chicken that's big on bold flavors. Whether you're craving something cheesy, spicy, savory, or sweet, there's a flavor for every kind of appetite. Don't leave without trying the iconic Bburinkle, the brand's bestselling fried chicken dusted with its signature savory cheese seasoning. Other crowd favorites include the Matcho King, Yangnyeom, Red King, and Retro.

Things got a little cooler in Makati with the arrival of Spain's beloved frozen yogurt chain smöoy in July at its first Philippine branch in One Ayala. Founded in 2010, the brand is known for introducing a low-fat, high-fiber, and gluten-free frozen dessert.

Don't miss smöoy’s signature frozen yogurt, which can be customized with a wide selection of fruits, sauces, and crunchy toppings. The menu also features refreshing smoothies and milkshakes, as well as freshly made bubble waffles and crepes for an extra-indulgent dessert.

Life is full of twists, and this one's especially delicious. Wetzel's Pretzels officially made its Philippine debut in July with its first branch at SM North EDSA, bringing its famous soft pretzels to local snack lovers. Founded in California in 1994, the brand has since grown to more than 400 locations across the United States and around the world.

Sink your teeth into hand-rolled pretzels baked fresh throughout the day and pair them with flavorful dips like Caramel, Cheddar, or Pizza, plus a refreshing drink on the side. Whether you prefer the classic Original, the sweet Sinful Cinnamon and Almond Crunch, or savory options like the Pepperoni Twist and Cheese Meltdown, there's a pretzel twist for every craving.

So, which of these newly opened food spots is first on your must-try list?