US franchise Buffalo Wild Wings has partnered with The Bistro Group to open in the Philippines.

The partners are to open their first restaurants this year in Makati City and Manila.

The Philippines’ growing economy, expanding middle class and high enthusiasm for casual dining has attracted the company to expand there, it says.

“The exciting sports atmosphere of the restaurant will fit perfectly with sports fans in the Philippines,” said VP of international development Matt Brokl.

The brand, built on wings, beer and sports, began its international expansion in 2011 with restaurants in Canada as well as in Mexico and the Middle East, where it expects to open its first restaurants this year.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Buffalo Wild Wings currently has 940 restaurants across the US and Canada.