At the grand opening of Agemono Express in Sharjah on September 23, 2025. EXPAT MEDIA

Sharjah has just gained a new dining destination with the grand opening of Agemono Express, the popular UAE-based Filipino-Japanese restaurant chain, on Tuesday (September 23). The new branch, located opposite St. Michael’s Catholic Church, began its soft opening on August 22 and is now officially welcoming diners to enjoy its mix of Filipino favorites and Japanese comfort food. For owner Roberto Capulong, the choice of location was more than just business sense — it felt like destiny. “My wife and I had attended mass at St. Michael’s Catholic Church and then we saw this space. It was vacant at the time. I thought there were no Filipino-Japanese restaurants nearby, so I made some inquiries. Everything just went on smoothly from there,” Capulong said, describing the new branch as “designed by fate.” The grand opening was attended by a roster of Filipino community leaders and business figures, including Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles, who praised the milestone. “I’m always happy to see Filipinos supporting Filipinos here in the UAE,” Angeles said. Other guests included Vice Consul Jim Jimeno, Expat Media CEO Mars Yabut De los Santos, Expat Media Editor-in-Chief Florence Pia Yu, Philippine Business Council (PBC) Dubai Chairperson Asiyah Monjardin, former PBC Dubai chairperson Bobbie Carella, community leader Josie Conlu and several Filipino food entrepreneurs such as Daisy Calabia of Bibingka and Paratha, Rams Mariano of Affordacup and Liberty Bexy Samonte of Naderang Restaurant, as well as Joan Vargas Balmes, operations manager of Chinese Star Restaurant. Agemono Express’ newest branch operates from Tuesday to Sunday (11am to 9pm), and is closed every Monday. Diners can expect Agemono Express’ best sellers, including takoyaki, pancit, laing, lumpia, bulalo, and sizzling sisig. Founded in 2005, Agemono Express has built a reputation for fusing Filipino and Japanese cuisines, becoming a culinary bridge for the Asian community across the UAE. From humble beginnings as a waiter to leading a successful restaurant brand, Capulong’s entrepreneurial journey has made him a source of inspiration for many Filipinos in the region. “Our goal is to bring the best of Asian food under one roof — not just to satisfy cravings, but to celebrate culinary culture,” Capulong said. With its Sharjah expansion, Agemono Express continues its mission of blending flavors and cultures, one dish at a time. CAM/Expat Media
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