Chicago, USA: Pinoys in the Chicago area can now ease their homesickness by having a bucket of Jollibee chickenjoy.
Jollibee, the most popular fast food chain in the Philippines, opened its first store in Skokie, Chicago on July 29. With 1,081 locations worldwide, the new Skokie location is its 34th in the United States and first in Illinois and in the Midwest.
On July 28, the store displayed a giant bucket of chickenjoy in its store to lead a ceremonial toast.
“It has been 18 years since Jollibee set foot in the United States and we are truly grateful for the unwavering support we have received throughout the years. Millions of customers have come in and out of our stores and it has been a joy for us to see how we bring happiness to families over good food,” said Jose Maria Minana, Jollibee Foods Corporation’s group president for North America and foreign franchise brands in the Philippines, in a press release.
“We are so excited to serve the favorite dishes of Jollibee fans to more communities, bringing families together for great tasting food, happy moments, and the warm and friendly service that Jollibee has come to be known for,” he added.
Meanwhile, Skokie Mayor George Van Dusen said at the media event: “I’m learning today that Jollibee is not just a restaurant. It’s a tourist destination.” The statement earned laughter and applause from the predominantly Filipino crowd.
A few months ago, Anthony Bourdain featured Jollibee’s chickenjoy on his hit show “Parts Unknown.”
