Jollibee is almost here in Vancouver. The latest gossip I heard from the Facebook Filipino group in British Columbia is its opening this February 25, 2022. This is unverified, so please keep your expectations in check. We have been waiting for this opening for more than two years now. My sister's boyfriend is so upset that it hasn't opened yet, and he couldn't eat Peach Mango Pie without driving to Seattle or Calgary.
Why is Jollibee popular?
I am sure people who are not familiar with Jollibee will wonder why the long line when it opens. They might try it and think the food is the same, maybe slightly better than McDonald's, but not think about it again. People will think, why is this jolly bee so popular that Filipinos and fans of the brand alike will endure lining up in the rain (or snow). Here is my attempt to answer those questions.
Answer: Nostalgia and a reminder of home
For Filipinos living abroad, Jollibee is a reminder of the Philippines.
Imagine a parent who had to leave their children and family behind to earn more money abroad, one of their precious memory with their kids was enjoying a meal at Jollibee. Seeing that bee in Vancouver (or anywhere else in the world) will bring back all those memories as they relish a Chicken Joy or Jolly Spaghetti.
For my siblings and me, it's nostalgia. I remember growing up and when it's my dad's payday. My mom would bring us to Bayan (town center) to grab groceries and eat at a Jollibee. Our only brother celebrated his 7th birthday in Jollibee, and our youngest sister celebrated her 2nd birthday in Jollibee, too (she cried and was scared of the mascot). So we had positive childhood memories with Jollibee, and seeing it so close to our new home is something to be happy and grateful for.
Answer: Good food
If it's your first time trying Jollibee and not familiar with any of the dishes, you will not go wrong with Chicken Joy (fried chicken) and be sure to try the Peach Mango Pie. It's a way better version of the pie thing they have at McDonald's.
