Founded in 1995, BB.Q Chicken is one of Korea’s most popular franchises for fried chicken, with a presence in 57 countries, including the U.S, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. They’re especially known for using olive oil for their chicken, which gives it a distinct taste and is meant to be a healthier alternative to palm, peanut, or soybean oil.

The brand is still fairly new in the Philippines, having opened their first outlet in Bonifacio Global City in 2022. When N and I were in Manila last Christmas, we got to try their Robinson’s Magnolia branch, which did not disappoint!

BB.Q Chicken is tucked on the third floor and boasts a green and beige colour scheme, and interiors are decked out in warm lights that give a cosy yellow glow.

The restaurant prides itself in using authentic ingredients and seasonings, just as they would in Korea. Each batch is cooked to order, so there’s a waiting time, but it also ensures that you’re getting fresh and tasty hot food.

Fried chicken is, of course, their specialty, which you can order bone-in or boneless, in half and whole portions. Aside from the original Golden Fried Chicken, they also carry Hot Crispy Chicken, chicken strips, and chicken slathered in a variety of sauces such as Secret Chicken (comprising 20 herbs and spices), Sweet Soy Chicken, and Gangnam-style Chicken .

To start, we got Tuna Rice Ball (P260), which is served in a bowl as individual ingredients, which the staff then assembles into balls. The combination works well, and I like that they infused sesame oil into the rice which gives it an aromatic flavour.

Mayonnaise binds everything together and ensures the rice stays in shape and isn’t dry. Since acidity from the pickles also acts as a great palate cleanser when paired with the fried chicken, and helps to remove any overwhelming feeling of greasiness.

Since we were dining as a group of four (myself, N, MIL, and SIL), we got one of their signature dishes, the UFO Chicken, to share . The platter comprises 16 pieces (PHP 1,575) of their two bestselling flavours, the Cheesling Chicken and the Secret Chicken, complemented by cheese fondue. Dry ice gives it a touch of flair when served and is good for the ‘Gram, but otherwise doesn’t add anything to the dish flavour-wise.

Both flavours are good! Personally I prefer the Cheesling Chicken, which is dusted over with a layer of sweet and savoury cheese powder. If you like spicy food with a touch of sweetness, then the Secret Chicken hits the spot.

Chicken and cheese is a divine pairing, so once the fondue has melted, complement your protein with more oozy, gooey goodness. Works especially well with the Secret Sauce flavour to pare down the spiciness a little.

16 pieces ended up being a lot for the four of us, so we got some to go. I think the portion is good for five to six people, and the chicken pieces are sizeable.

Overall, I think bb.q chicken delivers solid quality if you’re ever craving Korean fried chicken, with a variety of items to choose from. Since most of their portions are meant for sharing, it’s best to visit as a group, so that you also get to try different flavours.

BB.Q CHICKEN (ROBINSONS MAGNOLIA BRANCH)

Third Floor, Robinsons Magnolia, corner Doña Hemady St, Quezon City, 1111 Metro Manila

Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM

Website

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PS2:  All food reviews are at own expense unless otherwise stated. Views here are my own and are based on my personal experience. They are not meant to endorse or disparage businesses in any way.