The Bistro Group, one of the country’s leading and most progressive restaurant operators, is thrilled to announce its latest international partnership: the upcoming entry of wagamama into the Philippine market.
The announcement comes on the heels of recent successful launches of new, high-profile concepts, including: Morton’s The Steakhouse, Fogo De Chao, Dave & Buster’s, Dessert39 and the aggressive expansion of their existing brands.
This landmark move reinforces Bistro’s position as the premier gateway for world-class culinary concepts in the region. By integrating this internationally recognized pan-Asian diner brand, Bistro continues to diversify its offerings, which currently span over 200 stores nationwide and nearly 30 distinct concepts.
“We are excited to welcome wagamama to our family,” says Jean Paul Manuud, President of The Bistro Group. “Our goal has always been to give Filipino diners a front-row seat to globally celebrated cuisines. We believe that wagamama’s British take on soul-satisfying Asian flavors and modern social dining vibe will resonate deeply here.”
Founded in London in 1992, wagamama operates an international network of restaurants and is recognized for its Asian-inspired menu, efficient service model, and contemporary design concept. It has a global presence with over 200 restaurants across 18 countries and in the UK.
The brand’s philosophy of fresh, nourishing food served in a vibrant, communal setting has driven its success across multiple markets. Notable specialties are ramens, teppanyaki, curries, fresh salads, freshly squeezed juices, sides and sharers, desserts, wine and Asian beers. A global powerhouse, it has built a reputation around the guiding principle of “nourish all, from bowl to soul.”
We’re incredibly excited to join forces with The Bistro Group. Their understanding of the local restaurant landscape, combined with a shared passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, made them a natural partner for us,” said Francisco Neves, Senior Vice President of Franchise + Partnerships at wagamama. “The Philippines marks an important step in our international growth journey and gives us the opportunity to introduce more guests to the fresh flavours, vibrant atmosphere, and distinctive dining experience that makes wagamama so special.”
The first Wagamama in the Philippines is set to open by year end of 2026.
After recently opening stores in Laoag and La Union, The Bistro Group is bringing world-class flavors and high-energy dining to Ilonggo food enthusiasts as it makes its first entry at SM City Iloilo.
Create new memories at Italianni’s and TGIFridays as they launch their popular casual dining favorites to Panay.
Italianni’s
Calling Italian-American food lovers! Say “Buon Appetito” and dig in to delicious, hearty dishes starting on March 20 at the ground floor, South Wing of SM City Iloilo. With a capacity of 120 seats, the atmosphere is perfect for dining with friends and family, grabbing lunch, dinner and drinks on a date and celebrating special occasions.
Enjoy freshly baked Tuscan and Foccacia bread when you visit, best enjoyed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The menu features a variety of Italian- American classics like Sicilian Salad, Truffle Chicken and Mushroom Pasta and Quattro Staggioni Pizza, among others. Italianni’s offers hearty meals that are great for sharing, but it also has solo dining options that suit your taste.
TGIFriday’s
Right next door, TGFridays brings its energetic vibe and American-style food at the 106-seater branch at SM City Iloilo on March 20. Taste the fun where it’s always Friday! It’s never a dull time, any day of the week, where guests can delight in signature dishes like Whiskey Glazed Ribs, cheesy Fried Mozzarella,Burgers and more! Watch the bartenders whip up Bottomless Mojitos and other beverages with flair at the lively bar scene. Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or someone special, it’s best enjoyed at TGIFridays.
This Valentine’s season, love doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes, it’s as simple as sharing a sandwich and coffee — and a smile.
Known for its iconic donuts and feel-good coffee moments, Randy’s is now serving its newest and most affordable combo ever: 1 sandwich + 1 coffee starting at just P195. Guests can enjoy any sandwich of their choice paired with Brewed Coffee topped with RFoam — Randy’s signature foam that has quickly become a must-try favorite. Smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced, RFoam elevates every sip into a signature Randy’s experience.
Among the sandwich lineup is the crowd-favorite Soft Bun Bacon Mushroom Melt — a warm, savory combination of crispy bacon, rich mushrooms, and melted cheese nestled in Randy’s signature soft bun. It’s the kind of combination that feels comforting and satisfying — just like your favorite person.
Mix, Match & Upgrade Your Coffee
Want it iced? Guests can also mix and match their sandwich with any iced coffee for a minimal additional P60 — making it easy to customize your perfect combo while still keeping it affordable.
From early mornings to late-night cravings, this newest combo shows that premium taste doesn’t have to come at a premium price.
Visit Randy’s at:
Uptown (Address: Uptown 36th Street cor 9th Avenue, Uptown The Fort 1634 Taguig City, Contact: 0917 144 9667; Store Hours: 24 Hours; Email: randysuptown@bistro.com.ph)
Shangri-La Plaza (Address: 6th Floor Main Wing, Shangri-La Plaza, Wack-Wack, Greenhills, Contact: 0917 144 9960, Store Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Email: randysshangrila@bistro.com.ph)
Randy’s One Ayala (Address: Food C-102 G/F One Ayala, Ayala Avenue, San Lorenzo, Makati City NCR, Contact: 0956 785 9326, Store Hours: Monday – Friday: 24 Hours; Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Email: randysoneayala@bistro.com.ph)
Randy’s Evia (Address: GFL-59A1 Evia Lifestyle Center, Villar City, Almanza Dos, Las Piñas City NCR, Contact: 0907 478 7833, Store Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Email: randys.evia@bistro.com.ph)
Okada Manila (Address: Unit C-1B2, Coral Wing UG/F Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Tambo, Parañaque City NCR; Contact: 0917 145 0251; Store Hours: 24 Hours; Email: randysokada@bistro.com.ph)
Vermosa (Address: Ground Floor NF-1 Bldg. D, Ayala Malls Vermosa, Daang Hari Road, Pasong Buaya 2, Imus City, Cavite; Contact: 0926 695 6818; Store Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Email: randys.vermosa@bistro.com.ph)
Robinsons Magnolia (Address: Robinsons Magnolia Main Entrance; Contact: 0991 025 9122; Store Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Email: randysmagnolia@bistro.com.ph)
Italianni’s invites everyone to indulge in the All Yours All Day Season 3 offer with dishes that are priced from P385.
This allows guests to enjoy a complete meal with their choice of a starter, entrée, and a drink, all crafted with Italianni’s signature warmth and flavor.
For starters, choose from Pumpkin Soup or Honey Garlic Pizzetta, or go for an upgrade with a House Salad (+50) or half serving of their Italian Truffle Chips (+50).
Move on to your entrée and take your pick from the filling Quarter Leg Chicken Inasal or Grilled Pork Belly Soy Garlic. Enjoy premium options such as Roast Beef Karubhi (+150) or you can never go wrong with Shrimp Aglio Olio.
Round off your meal with a refreshing House Blend Iced Tea or make it extra special with a Classic Margarita (+95).
The Bistro Group (TBG) joins Chef Josh Boutwood in celebrating a monumental milestone in Philippine gastronomy
Boutwood’s flagship fine dining restaurant, HELM has been awarded 2 Michelin Stars, the only one in the Philippines to receive such a historic accolade. It cements Helm’s status as one of the country’s most innovative and renowned dining destinations joining the world’s list of most elite restaurants.
Helm is acclaimed for its thematic tasting menus – bold explorations of flavor and technique with imaginative themes as the inspiration – from timelines, cinemas, to colors. Whatever the theme may be, each featured dish has an interesting story to tell. Dining is deeply personal and immersive, bridging the gap between kitchen and guests, featuring globally-inspired dishes using the finest ingredients sourced locally and from other countries . Every detail —from sourcing to plating—is impeccable, showcasing Boutwood’s exceptional gift and culinary mastery.
Alongside this honor, Ember, Juniper, and The Test Kitchen were all included in the Michelin Guide’s ‘Michelin Selected’ listings, a testament to the depth and diversity of his culinary portfolio: Ember, an approachable fine dining destination with refined dishes centered on flavor and finesse; The Test Kitchen, Boutwood’s creative laboratory for evolving menus, where seasonal produce drives innovation; and Juniper, the newest concept inspired by G&T bringing the elements of fine dining into a relaxed, modern setting.
These awards demonstrated the commitment of both TBG and Boutwood’s celebrated concepts to world-class quality and innovation. Their shared journey champions the same passion for craft and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Boutwood joined TBG in 2012 as executive corporate chef, overseeing TBG’s various restaurants’ R & D and innovation. He was entrusted with the creative reins to conceive his bold, outspoken, and daring ideas that gave birth to his fine dining concepts, Helm, The Test Kitchen, Ember and Juniper.
TBG President Jean Paul Manuud shares his excitement, stating, “We congratulate Chef Josh and the entire Helm team for this truly outstanding achievement . Their dedication, hard work and creativity has made this possible. For The Bistro Group, this is greatly inspiring to say the least. We are happy to support Chef Josh and are proud to be his partner. And, it is only the beginning,” Manuud adds, hinting at The Bistro Group’s continued growth will propel Philippine dining to loftier heights.
Experience the culinary excellence of Helm, Ember, The Test Kitchen and Juniper — four exceptional restaurants from The Bistro Group portfolio.
In 1994, the first TGIFridays opened in Glorietta, Makati City, a breakthrough restaurant that opened the floodgates for the casual dining experience in the Philippines. The man behind this forerunner concept was The Bistro Group’s Chairman and CEO, William Stelton. It was a trailblazing move that led to other similar restaurant concepts in the F & B industry.
Stelton was very impressed with his first visit to a TGIFridays store in the US, saying he felt the energy and the excitement right away. “That was why I decided to bring the concept to the Philippines,” he says. Its maiden store at Glorietta Mall was the biggest branch in the world at that time. “We had hundreds of people queueing when we launched it. The market’s enthusiastic acceptance of the brand was amazing!” Today, TGIFridays is thriving and expanding in the Philippines.
Soon after, Bistro successfully launched an ensemble of other American brands such as Italianni’s, Denny’s,Buffalo Wild Wings, Texas Roadhouse, Randy’s Donuts, Olive Garden, Hard Rock Café and El Pollo Loco. Asian concepts also thrived within the company’s portfolio … Watami, Modern Shang, Red Lotus, Bulgogi Brothers, Secret Recipe, and Fish & Co as well as homegrown restaurants like Krazy Garlik and Siklab+. There are also Spanish concepts like Las Flores, Tomatito, Rambla and Rumba as well as Bistro Elite which includes Helm, Ember, Savage and The Test Kitchen. And only last December, it launched the luxurious brand, Morton’s The Steakhouse.
Conclusively, The Bistro Group is an acknowledged leader in the casual dining category in the Philippines. It has a presence in major malls and stand-alone locations within Metro Manila and in the provinces of Pampanga and Bataan. It has also enhanced its F&B footprint by making its mark in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, opening stores in Cebu and Bacolod to satisfy the ever-evolving demands (and cravings) of Filipino foodies.
New brands revealed
The Bistro Group kickstarts its 30th year by launching much-awaited international concepts including Dave & Buster’s, the ultimate destination for food, drink and entertainment (eatertainment) where guests can dine, drink , play interactive games, or simply watch sports shows at the bar; Fogo de Chão, the internationally renowned experiential restaurant from Brazil known for the culinary art of churrasco; Longhorn Steakhouse that serves high quality steaks, ribs, chops, chicken and more and Dessert 129 from Korea. From Bistro’s Corporate Executive Chef Josh Boutwood comes another innovative concept, Juniper. Located at the
Shangri-la Plaza Mall and scheduled to open this February, it offers a large selection of gins, botanicals and tonics with a beautifully crafted menu that was developed to complement the drinking experience.
All these are aligned with Bistro’s aggressive expansion strategy, looking into opening 100+stores in the next 5 years.
A story of people. culture. Service
“Ours is a story of people. Our human resource is an essential contributor towards our growth and profitability. Our personnel are key assets to our company. They are the bedrock of our success and sustainability,” says Jean Paul Manuud, president of The Bistro Group. It also puts a premium on its signature kind of service, a testimony to its commitment to deliver good food resulting in an exceptional dining experience for guests, every time. The consistency of their food, genuine brand of service, resiliency and genuine hospitality lay at the heart of the company and continues to sustain them.
So, where is it going from here? The Bistro Group will keep innovating and developing new concepts, keeping a finger on the pulse of its customers and remaining constantly attuned with the latest industry trends and ever-evolving technology that impacts the F & B industry.
Bistro also lives by what they call the triangle balance, giving equal value to three vital considerations- employees, suppliers and customers. It’s all about these that keeps them going.
Moving forward, the company will continue to celebrate its leadership, incessantly setting the bar high in the Philippines’ casual dining landscape which it has pioneered for 30 years. For The Bistro Group, things have never looked this promising.
Follow @thebistrogroup
About The Bistro Group
Founded in 1994, The Bistro Group is one of the Philippines’ most progressive restaurant chains that popularized the casual dining concept with the entry of TGIFridays in the country 30 years ago. Its success led to the launch of other world-class brands such as Morton’s The Steakhouse, Italianni’s, Denny’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Texas Roadhouse, Randy’s Donuts and Hard Rock Café among others as well as Asian concepts like Watami, Modern Shang, Bulgogi Brothers and Fish & Co. Also part of its portfolio is TBG Elite by corporate executive chef, Josh Boutwood. Its premier restaurants, highlighted by quality ingredients, seasonality and unique cooking methods are Helm, The Test Kitchen and Ember. The Bistro Group is driven by a people-focused philosophy that is the backbone of its success. Passion and commitment propel its operations…in every restaurant, behind every dish and with every service rendered with generous hospitality. For restaurant concepts and more information about The Bistro Group, visit https://www.bistro.com.ph/
The power of music has always been considered as an effective instrument that can drive social change, aid in magnifying advocacies and echo calls for support. Leveraging on its potentials to positively impact lives, Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) in collaboration with The Bistro Group will hold a benefit show on February 6, 2025 (6 pm) at Hard Rock Café Manila Conrad S’Maison.
Billed “Sounds of Change,” this one-night-only event will feature BBP artists and musicians Angela Batallones, Anouck Weber, Clarence Cruz, Ian Borleo, Kyle Ebora, Luis Gatchalian Mark Daza, Sky Jacoba, and Luis Gatchalian along with Joe and Mike Chan.
Each ‘buddy’ artist will collaborate and perform with partner musicians who are just too happy to lend their support, talent, and time. By getting together talents with and without Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDDs), this concerted effort promises to create a heartwarming vibe about the power of friendship and social inclusion.
“Music is something that the buddies identify with; it brings people together all the time. It is meant to create change in the community. Sounds of Change will feature buddies with IDDs who have incredible talents as we believe that the best way to amplify these talents is to put the spotlight on them, even just for one night, and showcase their abilities, ” says Michelle Aventajado, BBP Executive Director.
Tickets are now available at https://ticket2me.net/ and is priced at P1,500 (inclusive of one drink). Proceeds will benefit BBP’s programs such as employment and pre-employment initiatives, expansion, and friendship programs across the country. Hinged on the mission of uplifting the quality of life of persons with intellectual and development diversities in the Philippines, BBP supports individuals with IDD secure rewarding jobs and eventually empowers them to become leaders and advocates. BBP’s Pre-Employment Program, for instance, is part of its mission in implementing Integrated Employment. With this multi-session program conducted to equip participants with skills and confidence needed for job seeking, BBP offers training aimed on upskilling and improving job readiness for individuals with IDD. In fact, BBP will also conduct an orientation and training for the staff of Hard Rock Café Manila’s, to remind them on how to work and build a connection with employees with IDD, underscoring that their differences should not be regarded as disadvantages, but as unique talents, an important mindset in leadership and employment.
Best Buddies International is a worldwide volunteer-based organization that changes the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental diversities. In the Philippines, BBP launched its first friendship chapter in February 2014 with its only two ambassadors. To date, it has already established 24 friendship chapters, created over 400 friendship matches and touched the lives of almost 40,000 Filipinos regardless of ability. With a mission for inclusion, BBP encourages usgb to be a friend, a buddy and create opportunities for lasting friendships through volunteerism.
Through “Sounds for Change,” BBP and The Bistro Group acknowledge that music is a compelling medium for connecting and educating people, storytelling, healing, and bridging differences. It is also part of The Bistro Group’s 30thYear program and initiatives.
Be the first to secure tickets at https://ticket2me.net/ and help spread the good word about persons with IDD while fostering understanding, awareness and inclusion.
Christmas and good food are inseparable in Filipino culture. The Noche Buena spread is a tapestry of traditions and heirloom recipes. While staples like Quezo de Bola, Jamon, and fruit salad remain as mainstays, new dishes are always welcome as they make Christmas feasts fun and exciting.
This year, The Bistro Group’s Spanish arm Bistronomia’s restaurants Las Flores, Tomatito, Rambla, Rumba and BCN by Las Flores are serving Porchetta that deserves a spot on any holiday gathering spread.
Slow-roasted until crispy on the outside and juicy and succulent in the middle, this Porchetta for the festive season is similar to the Filipino lechon belly but given a twist with Spanish herbs, spices and aromatics. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Bistronomia’s Porchetta is available for dine-in, take-away and delivery (Bistro Delivers, FoodPanda and Pickaroo).
For those who are looking for a place to dine-in and party the Season away, bring the whole gang to Las Flores, Tomatito, Rambla, Rumba and BCN by Las Flores. You’ll have a grand time with their Unlimited Sangria for P495, all day, everyday. Pair this classic Spanish drink with tapas and pintxos. For those who prefer beer, they have the Beer Fiesta Bucket (at P390 and P510).
Meanwhile, the restaurants also recommend their Prime Sets. Choose one from an assortment of appetizers and mix with it with the entrée of your choice for only P795. Ask your server for the delicious selection.
As the curtain rises on 2024, The Bistro Group stands tall, having carved a significant niche in the culinary landscape. The past year witnessed the birth of 23 distinctive concepts, marking their presence with over 180 stores scattered across the nation. This surge in growth is a testament to the company’s commitment to adaptability, customer satisfaction, and a pulse on market dynamics.
Meeting Local Demands: A Nationwide Culinary Odyssey
The Bistro Group has been quick on its feet, responding to the ever-evolving preferences of the local market. Beyond the metropolitan borders of Metro Manila, their footprint extends to major provincial hubs like Clark, Pampanga, and Bacolod City. This strategic expansion involves both mall-based and free-standing venues, aiming to create a culinary haven accessible to diverse communities.
Peering into the Future: 2024’s Culinary Extravaganza
The Bistro Group is poised to make waves in 2024. This culinary powerhouse is gearing up to introduce a parade of tantalizing new brands, both local and international, promising a symphony of flavors and an unparalleled dining experience.
Morton’s Steakhouse: A Slice of Chicago in Every Bite
Kicking off the culinary spectacle in Q1 2024 is the globally acclaimed Morton’s Steakhouse. With roots in Chicago since 1978, Morton’s has left its mark across 60 locations worldwide. Brace yourselves for USDA prime-aged steaks, tantalizing seafood, delectable appetizers, and heavenly desserts – an ode to fine dining that transcends borders.
Fogo de Chão: Where Southern Brazilian Heritage Meets Culinary Excellence
Also making its grand entrance in Q1 2024 is the internationally revered Fogo de Chão. Hailing from Southern Brazil in 1979, Fogo de Chão is a celebration of churrasco, an ancient cooking technique where top-notch cuts of meat are roasted over an open flame. The Philippines becomes the latest chapter in Fogo’s global expansion, joining its esteemed franchise partners in Mexico and the Middle East.
Local Delights: A Mosaic of Flavors from Filipino to Mediterranean
The Bistro Group ensures that its menu is a kaleidoscope of flavors, bringing forth local concepts that pay homage to Filipino, Chinese, Western, and Mediterranean cuisines. Conrad S’Maison’s My South Hall is set for a rejuvenation, introducing fresh concepts such as Sarap+ Bistro Filipino, Fratboys & Sons, Xi Nen Hotpot, and the comeback of the beloved Wickd Milk Tea.
Red Lotus by Modern Shang and Chef Alfredo Rodriguez’s Mediterranean Marvel
In the offing, diners can look forward to the launch of Red Lotus by Modern Shang, a Chinese restaurant/bar poised to redefine the culinary landscape. Renowned Spanish Chef Alfredo Rodriguez of Bistronomia is also set to unveil a new Mediterranean brand, promising a gastronomic journey through the sun-kissed flavors of the region.
Beyond Novelty: Expanding Familiar Favorites
But the culinary spectacle doesn’t end there. Brace yourself for the opening of additional branches of existing favorites, solidifying The Bistro Group’s commitment to scalability and replicable business models. The goal? To saturate the market with diverse cuisines and establish a presence in more locations, creating a tapestry of flavors that caters to every palate.
Embracing a Year of Possibilities
The year 2024 unfolds as a canvas painted with vibrant hues of culinary prowess. The Bistro Group, with its unwavering dedication, envisions a dining scene that is not only exciting but also profoundly gratifying. The mission is clear: to broaden their market share by offering a mosaic of cuisines and establishing a presence in new corners of the Philippines.
Embark on this gastronomic journey with The Bistro Group. Follow @thebistrogroup and stay tuned for updates, as they compose a symphony of flavors, setting the stage for an exciting and pleasurable dining scene in 2024
The Bistro Group pursues its expansion program with the opening of new stores in various locations in the metropolis.
Opening this October are Texas Roadhouse branches at Venice Grand Canal, Mckinley Hill, Taguig; Glorietta; Circuit Mall Makati and SM BF while Italianni’s will launch branches at Circuit Mall and SM BF this October.
Its Chinese restaurant concept, Modern Shang, just opened a branch at Eastwood Mall More stores will be introduced this year at SM BF, Ayala North Exchange, Vista Mall Dasmarinas and Malolos.
Meanwhile El Pollo Loco branches will serve you soon at Trinoma Mall this October and another at The Shops Ayala Triangle Gardens in December while The Bistro Group’s Spanish concept, Tomatito, will open at Estancia Mall side by side with Buffalo Wild Wings this November.
Randy’s, on the other hand, is ready to roll out those huge, fluffy donuts in more locations. One recently opened at UP Town Center bringing to 12 the total number of branches in the country. It has also secured two new locations at NAIA Terminal 2 and Arcovia in Pasig City that is set to open soon.
The Bistro Group’s Japanese concept, Watami, will launch new stores at Vista Mall Dasmarinas and Malolos.
Watch out for these new branches opening in areas near you.
