Happy Foodies

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Hai Sain Grilled Tiger Prawns on Lemon and Butter" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3454/3177821859_4c77ce40e5_b.jpg"><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hai Sain Grilled Tiger Prawns on Lemon and Butter</figcaption></figure> Our flight schedule to Zamboanga City fell on Christmas day so it was imperative that happyfoodies should have a good Christmas dinner away from our respective homes. But we want something else other than the usual hamon and other holiday foods so at the suggestion of our tricycle driver, we ended up in Hai San Seafood Market and Restaurant. Was the meal worthy of a holiday dinner? Was the food delicious as it was filling? Happyfoodies would soon find out.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Curacha with Alavars Sauce (large Ph 745)" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3263/3190342739_e84f8af7bd_o.jpg"><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Curacha with Alavar's Sauce (large Php 745)</figcaption></figure> Visit Zamboanga City and almost everyone tells you not to miss tasting the famous Curacha, a hybrid crustacean that bears resemblance to the sea crab and a spiny lobster. The name means “cockroach” in Chavacano, maybe because of its appearance. But don’t let that unappetizing translation dissuade you from sampling this tasty crustacean, which is caught only in the seas of Zamboanga and Sulu. Short of buying a live one from the market and cooking it yourself, the best way to enjoy this treat is to eat at Alavar’s Seafood House, which is just a short tricycle ride from downtown. First item on the agenda is of course, Curacha. But happyfoodies got some welcome surprises from other items in the menu.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="El Ideals Guapple Pie" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3248/2817597192_a6c53679c2.jpg"><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">El Ideal's Famouse Guapple Pie</figcaption></figure> How does one turn something as iconic-American as apple pie into a very Pinoy fare? It’s either a big mistake or a big hit. In the case of El Ideal Bakery, it’s a big, big hit. So much so that all of the locals we met during a trip to Silay, Negros Occidental, recommend its Guapple Pie with near reverence. And it’s really no surprise as the pie has been a consistent bestseller ever since it was introduced by this institution in Silay. Made from the guapple fruit (oversized variety of guava), it is a favorite among the locals and a must-taste for all visitors. No wonder it constantly makes the lists of yummy desserts across the Philippines.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Chilli Crab" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/3085063676_3849aeae8a.jpg"><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chilli Crab</figcaption></figure> One of the highlights of visiting the island of Camiguin apart from the sceneries that fill the eyes is the food that fills the tummy. This island, which lies northeast of Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao, boasts of the sweetest buahan (lansones) and creamy pastel (soft buns with milky or fruity fillings). Boarding off the ferry at the town of Benoni also puts one within walking distance of the Tanguines Lagoon, a sort of causeway that connects a travel lodge-cum-floating restaurant to the sea – the J&A Fishpen/Travel Lodge. It’s virtually impossible to miss this establishment. Ask any of the locals to recommend a place to have good food and a relaxing time and they’ll most likely point you to this place. And they have very good reasons to do so.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Shinjuku Gekikara Ramen (Php 345)" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3063/2996291633_4873131fe5_b.jpg"><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Gekikara Ramen (Reg - Php 250, Large - Php 345)</figcaption></figure> Being named after one of the special wards of Tokyo, Shinjuku Ramen House has some big shoes to fill. But this virtual institution in the restaurant front is more than capable of meeting big expectations and big appetites. I remembered eating at their rather non-descript branch in Makati Avenue years back and know from memory how good the food was. Their other Makati branch was also rather old and non-descript until it got a major renovation some months back. As part of the Little Tokyo complex, it gets immediate attention from passersby since it is located along the busy thoroughfare of Pasong Tamo, at the much-coveted corner where one turns before heading off to Makati Cinema Square. At certain times of the day, the parking lot is full and the restaurant plays host to a mixed clientele eager to taste their authentic ramen and other Japanese fare.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="SLERS Beef Pastrami Sandwich and Tsokolate" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3061/3081832935_0fcb0dd4a2_o.jpg"><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">SLERS Beef Pastrami Sandwich and Tsokolate</figcaption></figure> Mention Cagayan de Oro and on top of the list associated with this City of Golden Smiles is its famous ham. And when it comes to hams, the overwhelming favorite among the locals is SLERS Jamon Cagayan de Oro, which has been around since 1969. What makes their ham different is the natural juiciness and tenderness of the meat. This is due in large part to the fact that the swine from which they are made were fed with pineapple, a fruit laden with the enzyme papain, which has natural tenderizing properties. Over the years, SLERS hams have become a part of tradition among CDO locals as well as guests all-year round and especially during Christmas-time. SLERS have also ventured into the quick-service restaurant and more recently, the café business.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Tasty Dumpling Noodle Soup" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3154/3052118745_f30f6a87b8_b.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tasty Dumpling Noodle Soup</figcaption></figure> Mention Binondo and one immediately conjures up images of crowded streets, Binondo church, Chinese herbal medicine stores, Eng Bee Tin hopia, and of course, the-hole-in-the-wall eateries. I used to live in Manila and Ongpin was a regular haunt but not anymore. Venturing to the Binondo Church one Sunday and the almost mandatory side trip to Eng Bee Tin, I chanced upon this seemingly small restaurant with the signage, “Tasty Dumplings”. And so started food trips to this eating place that yielded tasty surprises. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Tasty Dumplings Restaurant Facade" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/3061623292_6b9d012734_o.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tasty Dumplings Restaurant Facade</figcaption></figure> Tasty impressions Ironwulf said: It’s hard to miss this establishment at the back of Binondo Church since its large yellow signage is so evident on the street. Looking at the façade, it seems like a small establishment but inside, the area stretches back giving room to a large number of people. Interior is pretty basic. But one thing I noticed is that the place is pretty clean. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Tasty Dumplings Interiors" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3210/3052950744_8293d4eb96.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tasty Dumplings Interiors</figcaption></figure> Lagal[og] said: When I first stepped into this place, I was surprised by all that room that can comfortably seat almost 80-100 diners. The lighting is warm, the comfort rooms very clean, with a handwashing area that actually has hand soap in dispensers. I grew up eating in Binondo and I’m used to dingy eating places so Tasty Dumplings seem to be an anomaly in this area, but a very pleasant one at that. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Mushroom Meatball Noodle Soup (Php 106)" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3269/3052952450_8df3a1c726_b.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mushroom Meatball Noodle Soup (Php 106)</figcaption></figure> Tasty tests Ironwulf said: The menu of tasty dumplings is typical of what you might expect from any Chinese restaurant. But highlighted are some of their house specialties, one of which I ordered was their Meatball Soup. I like mushrooms so I chose that variety and tossed in the noodles. Tasty Dumplings boasts of its authentic Taiwanese-style Meatball Soup but honestly, I find the taste a bit subtle. The mushroom meatballs have a somewhat subdued taste as well for me. You have to chew in deeper to really taste the flavors. I like strong spicy flavors in my meal that I have to dip it in the chili. Generally, it’s a lightly flavored meal. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Pork Chop Rice/Noodle (Php 99)" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3135/3052116709_a45b52775d_b.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pork Chop Rice/Noodle (Php 99)</figcaption></figure> Lagal[og] said: I’ve always ordered the house specialty, the thinly-sliced, Deep-fried Porkchop served with either rice or tossed noodles. I like mine with the soup and noodles. The soup stock has very subtle flavors which is a nice combination with the very tasty porkchop. The pork slices are very thin and flavorful. I’m a big eater but this alone is enough to fill me up. Ironwulf said: I think their thin Deep-fried Porkchop is the main meal people should try here. I enjoyed it more and also goes well with my meatball soup. Better actually. I remember wondering how they made it so thin and tender. The thin layer of breading also adds to the flavor. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Kuchay Dumplings (Php 70)" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3241/3060782821_8a9ce94cbb_o.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kuchay Dumplings (Php 70)</figcaption></figure> Lagal[og] said: I find the dumplings a bit on the dry side though. First time I ordered them, they were still moist and tasty even after taking them home and reheating. Ironwulf said: Their steamed dumplings are best eaten as soon as they arrive. Hot and steamy. Leave it for a while and they turn dry easily and can actually taste bland after some time. Reheat! <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Hongma (Big - Php 130, Small Php 110)" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3053/3061621978_9bcea79df8_o.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hongma (Big - Php 130, Small Php 110)</figcaption></figure> Lagal[og] said: But I think Tasty Dumplings redeems itself with the Hong Ma, roast pork cooked ala pata tim style. Laden with mushrooms, steamed chuanchay and anise, the meat is also very, very tender. The sauce alone can serve as a filling for the accompanying Silver Loaf Bread with its subtle hints of ginger and chuanchay flavors. The bread arrives warm and very pleasantly soft, with a very appetizing aroma. Ironwulf said: For the price, the large Hong Ma is a true value for money. Grab a slice of the steaming and warm Silver Loaf Bread. Add in a piece of roast pork meat, pour in a spoonful of sauce and top some chuanchay leaves and you’re in for a treat. The Hong Ma tastes similar to asado but better. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Hongma on a piece of Silver Loaf Bread" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3224/3061617878_6d38bd508c_o.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hongma on a piece of Silver Loaf Bread</figcaption></figure> Lagal[og] said: For the drinks, I’d stick with iced tea or the usual colas as I find the Winter Melon Drink overrated. Ironwulf said: I’d stay away from the Winter Melon Drink which the waiters claim is their specialty drink. I ordered one and it tasted like an ubersweet gulaman sans the sago. I had to order some canned soda instead. <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><img alt="Tasty Dumplings Restaurant" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3169/3052954440_ce7691abfa.jpg"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tasty Dumplings Restaurant</figcaption></figure> Lagal[og] said: Price-wise, overall, Tasty Dumplings offer good value for money. On the average, one would spend 100-120 for a tasty and filling meal. Ironwulf said: It is one budget treats find. Some meals are hit-and-miss but you wouldn’t go wrong on the prices if you are looking for something tasty to fill in your tummy without spending too much. Tasty Dumplings 620 Ongpin St., Binondo, Manila Tel. 242-5195 • Open from 9am-8.45pm, Monday-Saturday and 8am-8.45pm, Sundays (with branches at Masangkay, Sampaloc and Banawe, Quezon City)