Type ‘Filipino cuisine‘ into your Google search bar and at least 20 restaurant suggestions pop up for London, a relatively recent phenomenon. Previously Asian food was often categorised just as Chinese, Japanese, or South East Asia, Indian. Well those boundaries have been well and truly breached! The islands of this beautiful nation (note the spelling difference between the country, Philippines and it’s cuisine, Filipino), are coming into their own – it certainly helped when BBQ Dreamz won the Million Dollar Menu on primetime TV a few years ago.
So, think Asian flavours with smoky BBQ, crackling young pork, veggies doused in coconut milk, and garlic rice – as standard! Here are three you can find in the heart of London:
BONGBONG’S MANILA KANTEEN
The aforementioned and now re-named BBQ Dreamz began life in Hackney but with the big time beckoning it now boasts a permanent site in Seven Dials. Hipster Filipino, according to the Daily Mail. Try the Lemongrass and Ginger Prawns – lush!
Seven Dials Market, Earlham St, London WC2H 9LD
KASA AND KIN
Opening to some fanfare late last year (and with good reason), the specialities of this Kasa (or house) are flavoursome broths, grills and, skewers and Instagrammable desserts. Operates a bakery and patisserie in addition to the restaurant. Spoilt for choice! See our Influencers Network visit here.
52-53 Poland St, Soho, London W1F 7NQ
SARAP FILIPINO BISTRO
Some show-stopping dishes, according to The Guardian and they’re not wrong. Expect a simple yet concise menu, with first prize, for me, going to the Crackling Pig’s Trotters (that’s the beauty of food, it often tastes a whole lot better than it sounds!). On the non-carnivorous side it has to be the kale –veggie virtue, but without having to forgo great taste.
10 Heddon St, Mayfair, London W1B 4BX
Written by Kai Lutterodt
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