Thank goodness it's here!

Diners familiar with the red and white stripes serving up a feast of scrumptious American fare, have reason to celebrate.

American restaurant chain TGI Friday's has opened its second branch at the Al Murjan centre in Juffair just a few weeks after the launch of its maiden store in the kingdom at the Bahrain City Centre in September.

The chain first opened its doors in the Middle East in Kuwait in 1995 and has over 900 restaurants across 55 countries.

Since its opening on the island by franchise holders Bahrain and Kuwait Restaurants Company, the venue has been busy enticing diners to a range of mouth-watering appetisers, soups, burgers, salads, sandwiches and delicious desserts including Baskin Robbins ice cream.

Aside from the fast-food selections, TGI Friday's also serves Mexican and Italian dishes alongside authentic American favourites.

Jhong Galido, kitchen manager at the Juffair restaurant, pictured right, said: "Our Fajitas are quite common among customers, especially the vegetable option. Also, the steaks which count for a healthy and heavy meal are also a common order."

Chef Galido, 36, from Juffair, has been whipping up a treat for TGI Friday's fans for 14 years.

He said: "I have always been with this company as I feel the foundation of this brand is highly respectable."

After completing his degree in hotel and restaurant management back home in the Philippines, he joined the company as a working student in 1994.

He then moved to one of the branches in Kuwait in 1996 as a chef. During the 11 years he lived in Kuwait, he was promoted to kitchen supervisor and then established himself as the kitchen manager before leaving for Bahrain in September.

Chef Galido's interest in cooking began at the age of 12 when he prepared his first ever dish - steak with vegetables.

He said: "I loved cooking and my mother was my teacher. I used to watch and help her in the kitchen.

"Personally, my favourite part of cooking is sautŽing - to see and hear the food sizzle!

"I feel the most important ingredient in cooking is considering the hygiene and safety of the food." Chef Galido shares one of his personal favourite recipes with GulfWeekly readers.