Thursday, June 26, 2008 Must eat in Manila By Dorothy Bangayan The Unlonely planet
WHAT Davao has in nature, Manila makes up for its restaurants. With the smorgasbord of restos and the burgeoning rise of foodies, there is never a lack of new dishes to try in this polluted hubbub of a city.
So when you happen to visit Manila, you must at least dip your taste buds in one of these places.
Filipino fusion at Caf‚ Juanita
A personal favorite. This kitschy place is a cross between your grandma's attic and a vintage junk shop. You dine on an eclectic hodgepodge of chairs, tables, paintings and sculptures under lamps wrapped in feather boas and twinkling lights.
Don't be surprised to see price tags on them as most of them are for sale. The food is also eclectic from Japanese to Thai to Continental to Filipino. But I must advise you that they do Filipino dishes the best.
Try their Two-Way Pork Adobo Ribs, Kare-Kare ni Juanita and, Thai Crispy Catfish on Mango Salad. Tel: 632-0357 Add: #2 United St. cor. West Capitol Drive, Barrio Kapitolyo, Pasig City
Korean food at Minato
This hole in the wall joint is owned by Koreans and frequented by Koreans - a good sign that you are getting the real deal. With appetizers that are more than the usual, the cost is "bang for your buck." You can choose between sitting on mats Korean style or on western tables where meat is grilled before your eyes. I noticed the appetizer changes day to day so like the lottery, I keep coming back hoping they feature macaroni and fried rice balls. Try their So Kal Bi and Bibimbap (grilled marinated short ribs). Add: Escriva Road, Ortigas Center.
French fare at Je Suis Gourmand
For the finicky, a French meal at Je Suis is pure heaven. The chef used to work in Michelin star establishments in France as evidenced by the taste and texture of each dish. The portions are huge and can be split into two. I will not forgive you if you don't order the Sauteed Portobello Mushrooms. For the main course try their Seabass. Don't forget to ask for the day's special. GF Net1 Center Bldg. Fort Bonifacio Tel 815-8801-02
Greek grub at Cymas
Cymas never disappoint me with its clean crisp Greek cuisine. I often dine at the Shangrila Mall branch where to get a seat; one must be early in line. In fact, I prefer it over the meals I had in Greece. The interiors are simple -- classic white and blue. Almost everything is tasty here.
Be prepared to get an Evoo (extra virgin olive oil) overload and waiters shouting OUPAH anytime someone orders their specials. Try their Roka Salad and Shish kebabs. Delish! Add: Shangri-la Plaza Mall, 6th Level 6373090, Greenbelt 2, Ground Level 63 2) 729-4837TriNoma Mall, 4th Level (632) 915-2859
Thai Treats at SOMS Noodle House
Don't expect ambience. Another grubby carenderia that surprisingly caters to yuppies and well to do students of Rockwell.
What keeps them coming back? An authentic Thai meal that is easy on the pocket. You can actually separate the sweet, sour and spicy of their tom yum soup. Don't forget to order their Thai ice tea but skip the pad Thai. Add: Alger St. Poblacion, Makati Tel No.: (02)757-8079
Chinese Chow at Choi Garden
Up and coming Choi Garden is a new kid on the block besides old establishments like Gloria Maris and Shang Palace. With poshier furnishings like red lighting and embroidered curtains, it is becoming a favorite of the nouveau rich Chinese.
Try their hotpot or for a la carte dishes, order their salt and pepper spareribs, duck and sweet and sour pork. # 12 Annapolis St. cor. Purdue St. San Juan, Metro Manila (02) 727-6042.
Japanese meal at Sushi katsu
The ambience is quiet and clean. Japanese food is delicately prepared by its Japanese chef and owner. Tried and tested are their Okonomiyaki, agedashi tofu and maki. 61 Scout Rallos St., cor. Tomas Morato Ave. Quezon City Phone Number: 413-8693
