Philippine fast food chain bringing some ‘Chickenjoy’ to the East Bay

Jollibee, an international fast-food restaurant known for its “Chickenjoy” fried chicken, will open its first East Contra Costa County location in Brentwood on Sunday.

The specialty drive-thru restaurant, which will be located at the previous KFC restaurant at 6371 Lone Tree Way, was approved in 2021, but long anticipated among local fans of the Philippine-based chain who have long had to travel to Concord to get their fix of chicken, burgers, spaghetti and Filipino dishes.

The opening marks Jollibee’s 31st location in California, 66th in the U.S. and 92nd in North America.

“We look forward to extending our joyful dining experience to both our long-time fans and first-time visitors who call this beautiful city home,” said Maribeth Dela Cruz, president, Jollibee North America, in a statement. “Brentwood not only boasts a vibrant community, it’s also one of the fastest-growing cities in the Bay Area, which makes it a perfect fit for introducing Jollibee to new audiences who are curious to try our tasty offerings.”

“Chickenjoy” has become the Philippines’ answer to the U.S. fast food giants, and before the new store opens, it will likely see long lines as has been the case for other Jollibee openings.

Founded by Chinese immigrants as an ice cream parlor in Manila in 1975, the company later added sandwiches and has since grown into a multi-national, multi-billion dollar business empire. It was recently recognized as one of “America’s Hottest Brands 2022” by leading industry publication, Ad Age.

And, as a sign of its growing appeal in the U.S., the international food website Eater.com named Jollibee “the best chain fried chicken in America.”