Japan has never been shy about quirky food trends, and Burger King has just added another to the list. In a nod to one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, the chain has unveiled its limited-edition Pickleball Burger range—complete with free goodies and a dash of playful competition.
This isn’t just about burgers. Since 2025, Burger King has been a sponsor of the Pickleball Japan Federation, and the new menu is part of its ongoing push to grow the sport locally. It’s a similar promotion to the one Burger King ran last year, when the fast-food joint jumped head-first into the pickleball train by throwing its full support to the sport via a sponsorship agreement with the Japan Pickleball Federation (PJF). This year, two versions are available: the Pickleball Burger and the Chicken Pickleball Burger. Both come stacked with 11 pickles, a cheeky reference to the game’s scoring system where the first player to reach 11 points wins.
The beef version doubles down with two flame-grilled patties, lettuce, and onions, all tied together with a creamy dill sauce that blends lemon and dill for a refreshing finish. The chicken option swaps in a crispy, juicy patty for those who prefer a lighter bite.
And because Burger King knows how to sweeten the deal, every purchase comes with a free pickleball paddle keychain—though supplies are limited, so it’s first come, first served.
The fun doesn’t stop at the counter. Fans can also play a special pickleball game on Burger King Japan’s app. Win, and you’ll score discount coupons. Hit the rare winning animation, and you’ll be entered into a lottery for an exclusive Burger King paddle. The game runs from 9 October at 1 p.m. until 15 October at 11:59 p.m.
As for the burgers themselves, they’ll be available nationwide (excluding Kansai International Airport Terminal and racecourse branches) from 9 October. Prices are set at 1,490 yen (£9.43) or 1,790 yen (£11.33) for a set with the beef burger, and 690 yen (£4.37) or 990 yen (£6.27) for the chicken. Stocks are limited, so once they’re gone, they’re gone.
It’s a clever mix of sport, lifestyle, and food culture. Burger King has managed to turn a simple burger launch into a celebration of pickleball, complete with prizes, play, and plenty of pickles.
