Investor confidence and cross-cultural hospitality mark the brand’s Southeast Asia expansion milestone.
By Dara Clariza Evangelista
Smith & Wollensky, the legendary American steakhouse brand, has officially opened its first Southeast Asian location in the Philippines, strategically selecting Bonifacio Global City (BGC) as its flagship site ahead of its upcoming Tokyo branch.
Located at The Finance Centre in Taguig, the Manila opening marks the brand’s third Asian restaurant, following successful launches in Taipei (2019) and Taichung (2024). The move underscores investor confidence in the Philippine market and the city’s rapid rise as a lifestyle and business destination.
“This evening is not just about world-class steak—though certainly, we will all enjoy that,” said U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson during the grand opening celebration on July 8. “It’s a celebration of the enduring friendship between the United States and the Philippines, as friends, partners, allies, and foodies.”
She continued, “Your investment creates jobs, inspires chefs, and deepens the friendship between our two countries. For some Filipinos and for many Americans, this restaurant—this place, will bring back memories. For others, it’s a taste of a timeless U.S. tradition now infused with Filipino warmth and talent.”
The opening was also welcomed by Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, who commended the Smith & Wollensky team for what she called a sound decision. “On behalf of the city officials of Taguig, allow me to thank the management for making the right choice,” she said. “We don’t treat you as just a benefactor, but really as part of the family. Your trust and support have helped us reach where we are today.”
Chairman John Hardyment, who leads Granville Restaurants Philippines Inc. (GRPI) and Bayshore Pacific Restaurants Inc. (BPRI), shared the journey behind bringing the brand to Manila. “We started thinking seriously about doing one of these restaurants in the Philippines about four or five years ago,” he said. “We thought we’d bring a real American steakhouse—something with a little bit of size, a little bit of scale.”
Hardyment acknowledged the presence of several key partners and regional representatives from Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam, many of whom flew in to support the Manila launch. He also revealed plans for future expansion: “We’re currently in construction on a beautiful new restaurant in Tokyo’s Ginza district, and Shanghai is next.”
Beyond its signature USDA Prime dry-aged steaks and world-class service, the Manila location also aims to become a premier cultural venue. “We take great pride in our music,” Hardyment added, referring to their live jazz program led by Grammy-nominated pianist Bobby West. “Very soon, we’ll have the reputation as the best music venue in the whole Philippines.”
With an expansive dining space, localized menu touches, and a commitment to authentic American hospitality, Smith & Wollensky Manila is poised to set a new standard for high-end dining in the region—anchored by deep partnerships and a shared appetite for growth.
Smith & Wollensky Philippines is now open at the 2nd floor of The Finance Centre, 26th Street corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City. For reservations, email reservations@swmnl.com or visit https://bit.ly/swmnlreserve.
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