Review • A Gem in Manila

Introduction: While reviewing places is common on the internet it’s just not something we’ve paid much attention to.. That’s partly because, if you look, there’re a large number of sites where you can find thousands of valuable reviews including Trip Advisor, Google Maps and Expedia and we often use these as great references for researching a trip.. Recently, while involved in an online forum we realized that reviews could have a valuable place with The Intentional Travelers. Going forward our intent is not to dwell on a lot of reviews but to make note of only specific exceptional discoveries and we are working on a process that would allow you to offer your finds as well (more to come).

A Fun Filipino Restaurant In Manila

While visiting Manila if you only have a day or two, Singing Cooks and Waiters should be your number one stop. Featuring great Filipino food and a unique style of fun entertainment.

First, and most important, is to know the address of this Manila Gem. It is located in the Ongpauco Building on Roxas Blvd, Pasay, Metro Manila. It is best to have this written down for your taxi driver as they seem to have a hard time finding it. It is open for lunch (11-3) and dinner 6-11) but confirm the hours by either calling (632 832 0658) or checking their facebook page HERE.

Once you are seated in the dining room, you are presented with an extensive menu of local Filipino foods in a wide range of prices. There are several pages of poultry, meat and seafood to choose from so it is easy to pick several dishes that can be shared. If you are inclined, there are also a few local beers to enjoy with your meal.

As you wait for your food, you can enjoy the Filipino hospitality and the amazing entertainment. There is a piano player and a local on the guitar and they are joined by singers who are also your waiters and cooks. They sing together and also perform some impressive solo numbers. The microphones are soup ladles from the kitchen. The singers walk among the tables to get diners to join in and eventually staff and guests make their way to the “stage” to sing and or dance. The only problem comes when you finish eating and it is time to leave. Getting your check can take a while as everyone is having so much fun they don’t want to break away!

As you exit the restaurant there is a very attentive doorman who will send you on your way or help you get a cab. If you still have a little time left in your day and you feel like shopping, the fabulous Mall of Asia is just a short taxi drive away.