Tapa King started in June 1987 as a "hole in the wall" operations in the heart of Makati City's business district. Immediately Tapa King found its niche - the office workers who came for a quick and affordable meal yet delicious and extremely satisfying. Tapa King was likewise doing brisk business in delivering to buildings in Makati and nearby areas which later proved to be a major player in Tapa King's business.

A decade after 1997, Tapa King's one-store "hole in the wall" operations grew to 14 company-owned stores and the year marked the start of Tapa King's franchising operations.

True to its commitment to quality - "Quality in our products, quality in our service and quality in our way", Tapa King continues to grow. As of February 2007, Tapa King has 30 stores.