Upmarket burger restaurant chain Johnny Rockets has signed a franchise agreement to expand into Singapore.

The new franchise partners are local husband and wife entrepreneurs Nafees Khundker and Sohana Rouf Chowdhury, who have committed to open five Johnny Rockets restaurants.

The Singapore foray follows successful launches in the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. The brand is also eying entry into other Asian markets soon, particularly Vietnam, Thailand and China, “markets that historically have embraced Americana cuisine and culture”.

Johnny Rockets US says with a population of more than five million, Singapore is a popular travel destination and regional and global hub for business and has seen a recent surge in the better burger category.

“After recognising the demand for the concept in Singapore and visiting the restaurant in the US, Khundker and Chowdhury chose the brand due to its focus on high-quality dishes, guest service and entertaining atmosphere, all of which showed great promise for this dynamic market,” the company said in a statement.

“With 13 restaurants currently operating in Southeast Asia, Singapore is a natural next step in furthering our expansion in the region,” said Scott Chorna, SVP of International Development for Johnny Rockets.

“With the demand for better burger concepts booming, now is the ideal time for Singapore residents and visitors to experience our signature American dishes. After working with Nafees and Sohana, I am confident that their business expertise and understanding of the marketplace coupled with our global brand recognition will help to establish Johnny Rockets as the preferred American dining experience in Singapore.”

Johnny Rockets believes Singaporeans are now demanding better burger options and its premium accompaniments that have flourished on US menus for the last several years.

Johnny Rockets’ franchise partners already operate more than 100 restaurants outside the US, with plans to double that number by 2017 as part of its global strategy.