The American dining and arcade chain Dave and Buster’s has officially opened its first-ever branch in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia bringing its signature ‘eat, drink, play’ experience to local audiences.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Friday, October 10, at the Opus Mall in Quezon City. It marked the start of the brand’s partnership with The Bistro Group, the company behind several U.S. restaurant franchises in the country.
Jean Paul Manuud, The Bistro Group’s president and chief operating officer, said the partnership reflects the company’s push to bring more interactive and immersive leisure experiences to Filipino consumers, noting that dining today is also about experience and social connection.
New kind of social entertainment
Spanning about 1,500 square meters, the venue combines a restaurant, bar, and arcade, an approach the brand calls “social entertainment,” where guests can eat, play, and watch live sports all in one space.
‘We are absolutely delighted to be in Manila, delighted to be at the Opus Mall, and certainly delighted to partner with our friends at The Bistro Group, who we have known for two decades,’ said Antonio Bautista, Dave and Buster’s chief international development officer.
Bautista described the Philippines as a ‘no-brainer’ choice for expansion, citing the country’s strong leisure market and the long-standing relationship between the US chain and The Bistro Group.
Local flavor in the mix
The restaurant mirrors Dave and Buster’s signature look but adds local flavor to suit Filipino tastes.
The menu features American comfort classics, such as burgers, wings, and platters, along with Filipino exclusives like Crispy Pata and Adobong Bagnet.
‘It is unmistakably a Dave and Buster’s, perhaps a bit more vibrant and colorful to resonate with Filipino consumers,’ Bautista said.
Games, sports, and more
Inside are more than 60 arcade machines offering over 40 types of games, from racing simulators and basketball shooters to claw machines. A highlight is the Godzilla VR attraction, currently exclusive to the Philippine branch.
The space also includes private function rooms and open lounge areas, designed for parties, corporate events, and casual gatherings.
Dave and Buster’s is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the third floor of Opus Mall in Quezon City.