No passport needed for this Singaporean feast
The Philippine retail sector continues to flourish, with the food and beverage (F&B) sector taking the lead.
Food service sales in the Philippines are seen growing 10 percent to $15.4 billion in 2026, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Global F&B brands
The projected growth is attributed to the arrival of new international brands, the evolution of innovative restaurant concepts, and rising consumer demand for unique dining experiences.
This is changing the way Filipinos experience international cuisine.
Establishments that once prompted Filipino travelers to go abroad for an authentic taste of cuisines have now set up shop right here on our shores. The result is a dining landscape that feels increasingly global, diverse, and experience-driven.
Today, the Philippine food service landscape showcases an array of global franchises—from Parisian cafes that offer decadent desserts and pastries and world-renowned steakhouses from New York to Michelin-recognized pizzeria from Tokyo and iconic Asian fast food chains.
A competitive player
Forging ahead is Tiong Bahru Singapore Flavours, as it continues to establish itself as a competitive player in the Philippine dining scene with its growing presence across Metro Manila and nearby areas.
Opening its flagship store in 2019, the restaurant then began to open branches in Makati and Quezon City while navigating the pandemic. It has since expanded to numerous locations in Metro Manila. Staying visible across these platforms allowed it to sustain operations and deepen familiarity with customers.
“Our journey reflects more than expansion–it’s a testament to resilience and passion,” shared Kathryna Yu-Pimentel, co-owner and director of Tiong Bahru Singapore Flavours which is famous for its signature Hainanese Chicken and a range of Singaporean hawker-inspired dishes such as Bakkut Teh, Laksa, among others.
The restaurant’s iconic dish—tender chicken that can be enjoyed poached or roasted, served with fragrant rice and signature ginger, chili, and soy sauces—is a big hit among Filipinos.
Wide selection of authentic fare
Tiong Bahru Singapore Flavours allows Pinoys to feast on a wide selection of authentic Singaporean hawker fare. The menu includes Curry Fish Tail/Head, a popular, large pot curry with spices, veggies and wonton chips; Bak Kut Teh, a comforting and savory pork rib bone soup; Laksa, thick rice noodles in a rich, spiced, red broth; Curry Chicken Noodle, rich and spicy chicken noodle soup; and various side dishes like Kikiam and Kailan with Oyster Sauce.
Chicken-focused chains are driving growth in the F&B sector, according to the USDA. Asian restaurants as well as bakery, burger and convenience store formats are similarly demonstrating strong performance.
Today, Tiong Bahru Singapore Flavours has 16 locations in key commercial and lifestyle hubs, including Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, Estancia Capitol Commons in Pasig, Trinoma and Eastwood Mall in Quezon City, Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa, SM North Edsa-The Block, Greenhills in San Juan, One Ayala in Makati, Robinsons Antipolo, Mitsukoshi BGC, and Gateway Mall 2 in Cubao.
More recent openings in UP Katipunan and Landmark by the Bay in Parañaque further extend their reach, improving accessibility throughout the metro.
“Filipino diners have embraced our flavors wholeheartedly. With every new branch, we bring Singapore closer to home, one plate at a time,” said Yu-Pimentel, highlighting Tiong Bahru Singapore Flavours’ distinct edge—offering a consistent, more premium dining experience while “bringing authentic Singaporean cuisine to every Filipino table.”
