On Thursday, August 18, global restaurant sensation, Jollibee, officially took its place at “the crossroads of the world” with the grand opening of its new flagship store in the heart of Times Square. The much-anticipated opening day celebration, just steps away from the iconic ball drop location, drew more than 2,500 customers – from local New Yorkers to visiting tourists – who wanted to be among the first in Times Square to get their hands on Jollibee’s iconic Chickenjoy, Chicken Sandwiches and Peach Mango Pie in addition to the brand-new lineup of salads and sides. Located at 1500 Broadway in the center of Times Square’s famed pedestrian plaza, the new restaurant not only marks Jollibee’s 84th location in North America, but also symbolizes its arrival to the global stage alongside some of the world’s most recognized brands.
“Opening the doors to welcome our excited, first customers, who waited for hours for this moment, today was truly a dream come true!”, remarked Maribeth Dela Cruz, President, Jollibee Group North America, Philippine Brands. “We are so passionate about our mission to spread joy through great tasting food and are so lucky that we have fans and customers that are just as excited and dedicated as we are. This signified a huge milestone for us, and we cannot wait to introduce the joy and taste of Jollibee to more and more of New York and its visitors in this landmark location.”
Jollibee’s biggest fans began showing up at 1500 Broadway around 8:30PM Wednesday evening, where they camped out over 12 hours to be among the first in line for Thursday’s 9AM grand opening. Among them was New York City resident and devoted Jollibee fan, Ernie Aguinaldo, who secured the coveted spot of being the store’s first official customer.
“The brand has always had a special place in my heart,” noted Aguinaldo. “My first job was at Jollibee in the Philippines, and they have the best fried chicken in the world. I love their passion to spread joy through food and I hope to do the same in my life. I even aspire to open my very own franchise store one day!”
By the early morning, the line snaked several times in front of the store and down Broadway and continued to grow as anticipation for the doors opening became even greater. Crowds continued to flock to the store and eagerly await their meals throughout the day as the beloved Jollibee mascot kept customers and newcomers energized, jolly and satisfied.
“We got the original Chickenjoy and oh my god! I was expecting good chicken, but this is just so flavorful, so juicy and so crunchy!” noted Jollibee first-timers Alexandra and Alison Port. “It’s hard to get the right balance of all that with fried chicken and Jollibee hits it spot on.”
By the time the doors finally closed at midnight, Jollibee Times Square had served up thousands of its signature menu items to hungry fans who came from near and far to be part of the brand’s momentous grand-opening milestone.
“I tried the spicy chicken sandwich, and it is so delicious!” remarked first time Jollibee customer, Kiki. “It’s really good. It’s spicy, it’s tasty. I can taste all the flavors”
