Guess nobody can keep their lips sealed. Especially when it comes to delicious food.

Well then, the secret's out. Secret Recipe is making a comeback after its prolonged absence from the dining scene.

Secret Recipe, a popular Malaysian-based cake and café chain, opened its first store in the Philippines in mid-2000. It quickly gained popularity for its wide range of cakes, pastries and savory meals. However, for some unknown reason, the restaurant eventually closed.

Now, after many years of waiting, especially for those who miss its decadent cheesecakes, moist chocolate cakes and fruit-infused cold drinks, Secret Recipe is back to offer even more delightful and diverse food options. All thanks to Bistro Group — the same team that brought in TGIFridays, Italianni's, Denny's, Buffalo Wild Wings, Texas Roadhouse, Randy's Donuts, Hard Rock Café and many more.

"As of today, this is the first Secret Recipe to reopen in Manila," said Rechele Tiongson, Bistro Group's chief operating officer. "And we are looking at opening two or three more Secret Recipes this year."

She added: "Bistro Group believes that Secret Recipe is a promising brand. It is a valuable addition to our portfolio because we don't have much Asian brands. We haven't introduced a café concept or offerings of cakes and coffee yet, which I believe is something missing in the market. That's why, Secret Recipe is a perfect fit for the Bistro company."

Secret Recipe was founded in Malaysia in 1997. It currently has 365 branches throughout Malaysia, making it one of the largest homegrown chain brands. It now has 440 branches across Asia.

"When we first opened in 1997, there weren't many options for a place where you could sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee with a slice of cake. That's when we established Secret Recipe," said Patrick Sim, Secret Recipe Malaysia's managing director, who was recently in town for the reopening.

After 27 years, Secret Recipe has undergone a significant transformation, enhancing not only its looks and services but, most notably, its culinary offerings.

"It's become much more 'Instagram-worthy,'" noted Sim. "We try to appeal to the younger crowd who come here for photos and a wider selection of food. We offer something for everyone — from Western to fusion and Asian dishes."

"We are so happy to be here with the Bistro Group, especially in operating the brand in the Philippines," he added.