WEST COVINA, Calif., USA – On Friday, September 2, Jollibee, celebrated the opening of its first-ever Philadelphia location and 85th location in North America. Fans and first-timers from around the city (and state!) lined up for hours to finally get their hands on Jollibee’s iconic Chickenjoy, Chicken Sandwiches, Peach Mango Pie and other delicious menu items.
The much-anticipated grand opening drew more than 2,500 excited customers who wanted to be among the first in Philadelphia to experience the joyful restaurant brand that was recently voted best fried chicken chain by Eater.
Primely located at 7340 Bustleton Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia, the new restaurant is not only Jollibee’s first location in Philadelphia, but it also marks the brand’s debut in the State of Pennsylvania, as it continues its goal to bring the restaurant closer to fans and attracting new visitors.
“We are thrilled that opening day is finally here,” said Maribeth Dela Cruz, President, Jollibee Group North America. “It has been a goal of ours to open a location in Philadelphia for some time and we are honored to be a part of this extraordinary city. We are truly humbled by the warm and joyful welcome we received on opening day, and we are grateful to be part of this dynamic city full of rich history, culture, and incredible food. With every store opening, it is an honor to continue introducing people to the Jollibee brand and we look forward to doing so as we expand across North America.”
Dedicated fans who wanted to be among Jollibee Philadelphia’s very first customers began arriving at 12:45AM Friday morning, where they were happy to camp out to ensure their status at the front of the line for Friday’s 9AM grand opening. Among them was Marcus McClam, of West Philadelphia, who ventured to the new location to try the iconic Chickenjoy for himself. McClam secured the coveted spot of being Jollibee Philadelphia’s first official customer—a wonderful feat, indeed.
“I am excited to taste the chicken and the chicken sandwich,” explained McClam. “The first thing I am going to do as soon as I enter the door is order the six-piece bucket of chicken – I’ve heard amazing things about it!”
Leading up to the store’s opening at 9AM, the crowd was buzzing with excitement as many stood in line to get their hands on their Jollibee favorites. Fans old and new were beaming with joy as the Jollibee mascot appeared to greet the crowd, and as soon as doors opened, the Jollibee staff welcomed the crowd with friendly smiles and warm service that the brand is known for.
“I decided to come out to the opening because I have loved Jollibee ever since my best friend introduced me to the restaurant,” noted Jollibee fan Madison Leigh of Willow Grove. “We drove an hour to get here and have the sweet Jollibee spaghetti – it’s my favorite and it’s so good! I am also going to try the Peach Mango Pie for the first time, and I am so excited!”
By the time the doors closed at 11PM, Philadelphia’s first Jollibee had served up thousands of its mouth-watering menu items to the delight of hungry fans of all ages.
