FAT Brands Inc. is preparing to reintroduce Fatburger to Japan through a new development agreement with Green Micro Factory Inc., selecting Okinawa as the starting point for its comeback. The plan calls for four locations to open across the island over the next five years, with the first restaurant scheduled to debut before the end of 2025. The move is designed to attract both residents and the steady stream of tourists who visit the region.
Taylor Wiederhorn, Chief Development Officer at FAT Brands Inc., said Okinawa’s strong tourism industry and consistent traffic generated by nearby military bases made it an ideal market for the chain’s return. “This is an exciting opportunity for Fatburger to reestablish itself in Japan,” he noted, adding that the brand’s customizable menu and signature offerings are well-positioned to appeal to a wide customer base.
Founded in Los Angeles more than 70 years ago, Fatburger built its reputation on the belief that a burger, when made properly and paired with classic sides, can serve as a complete meal. Its signature approach allows customers to add a wide array of toppings, from bacon and chili to fried eggs and onion rings, creating an experience that has long set the chain apart from competitors.
The Okinawa locations will feature the brand’s most popular items, including Fat and Skinny Fries, scratch-made onion rings, and hand-scooped milkshakes made with real ice cream. To meet changing consumer preferences, the menu will also include sweet potato fries, turkey burgers, and plant-based Impossible™ Burgers. By offering both indulgent and health-conscious choices, Fatburger aims to position itself as a versatile dining option in the Japanese market.
For FAT Brands, the return to Japan highlights its broader strategy of selective international expansion. By partnering with a local operator and focusing on a market with built-in tourist and residential demand, the company is seeking to revive Fatburger’s legacy abroad while building sustainable growth opportunities for the years ahead.
