Manchu Wok

Manchu Wok is a well-established quick-service restaurant brand specializing in Chinese cuisine, operating primarily in food courts and high-traffic venues across North America. The company began in 1980 in Peterborough, Ontario, and quickly gained traction as shopping malls expanded, making its name synonymous with fast, approachable Chinese food. Over the following decades, Manchu Wok grew to become one of the most recognizable Chinese quick-service operators in both Canada and the United States.

A significant milestone in the company’s history came in 2014, when MTY Food Group, a leading Canadian restaurant franchisor, acquired Manchu Wok. This move integrated the brand into a larger portfolio and provided resources for continued expansion. In the years since, Manchu Wok has maintained a steady growth trajectory, adapting to changes in the retail landscape by diversifying its presence beyond traditional shopping centers. The brand has developed a notable footprint in airports and on U.S. military bases, a strategy that sets it apart from many other food court concepts.

As of November 2025, Manchu Wok operates approximately 70 locations, with most units in Canada and a meaningful presence on U.S. military installations. The company continues to seek new sites in both traditional and non-traditional formats, including shopping malls, airports, and military bases, and remains open to both franchise and corporate growth opportunities. All real estate matters are managed through MTY’s centralized team, offering a streamlined point of contact for landlords and brokers.

Manchu Wok’s established operational model, adaptability to a range of venue types, and enduring brand recognition make it a reliable tenant for high-visibility, high-traffic locations. Its ability to thrive in both Canadian and U.S. markets, along with its unique dual-market approach, underscores its relevance in today’s evolving retail and institutional dining environments.