Burger chain Lotteria to open first Singapore outlet amid wave of high-end restaurant closures

By Hoang Phong August 26, 2025 | 06:51 pm PT

Lotteria is known for its Korean-style burgers and French fries. Photo courtesy of Lotteria

South Korean fast-food chain Lotteria will launch its first outlet in Singapore in February 2026, entering the market at a time when high-end restaurants are shuttering due to rising costs and weaker travel spending.

The exact location of the new outlet has not been revealed, with details to be announced closer to the opening, The Straits Times reported citing Singapore-based food and beverage (F&B) and hospitality company Katrina Group.

A spokesperson added that the chain will introduce some of Lotteria's signature burgers and popular menu items, alongside seasonal specials tailored for local tastes, according to Channel News Asia.

Founded in 1979, Lotteria is known for its Korean-style burgers and localized offerings.

The brand operates more than 1,600 outlets across seven countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

It is also slated to debut in Malaysia later this year, with plans to expand to 30 outlets nationwide within five years.

The expansion comes as Singapore's food and beverage sector faces mounting pressures.

Last year, 3,047 food businesses shut down, the highest number in nearly two decades and second only to the 3,352 closures recorded in 2005.

Eight one-Michelin-starred restaurants in the country closed last year while two more suspended operations this year.

Government data showed closures have averaged 307 per month so far in 2025, up from 254 in 2024 and around 230 in both 2023 and 2022.