San Francisco is on the cusp of welcoming back Jollibee, the popular Filipino fast-food chain, with its highly anticipated Union Square location at 934 Market Street now targeting a 2025 opening after over four years of delays. The return of the beloved chain has generated significant buzz, with social media user bettersoma tweeting, > "Like I’ve said for a long time “Jollibee is coming soon” I got a nod in the attached. S.F.'s hottest restaurant opening this year is a fast-food chain."
The project, which has been in the works since 2020, has faced numerous hurdles contributing to its prolonged delay. According to reports, complications with the property, including a shared wall with the Powell Street BART station basement, and extensive city permitting processes have significantly slowed construction and delivery of the space. Jollibee previously operated a San Francisco location near Moscone Center, which closed in 2011, making its current return particularly awaited by fans.
Despite the opening of Jollibee's 12th Bay Area location in Alameda in October 2024, the San Francisco outpost remained unconfirmed for its exact debut. While some reports from June 2025 indicated a potential August 2025 opening, a Jollibee spokesperson has not yet confirmed a specific date, stating only that an opening is expected sometime in 2025. The recent installation of a new sign on Market Street has further fueled local excitement.
Jollibee, often dubbed the "McDonald's of the Philippines," is globally recognized for its unique menu, including the signature Chickenjoy fried chicken, sweet Filipino-style spaghetti, and peach mango pies. The chain's crispy fried chicken was recently lauded as the "best fast-food fried chicken" by USA Today, underscoring its widespread appeal. Jollibee Foods Corporation continues its aggressive global expansion, with North America representing a key growth market.
The protracted wait has only intensified anticipation among San Franciscans eager for the return of Jollibee's distinctive flavors. As construction progresses and the final regulatory approvals are sought, the city remains hopeful that 2025 will finally mark the end of the long wait for one of its most anticipated restaurant openings.