Found a simple yet satisfying culinary treasure a stone’s throw away from my office in the middle of bustling Makati CBD.
Located in Ayala Triangle, restaurant developer, Raintree, has come up with another ingenious idea: modernized local favorites, conceptualized by rockstar Chef Kalel Chan (Executive Chef for all Raintree Restos), presented in all manners of appetizing colors all for very affordable prices.
I had the opportunity to taste some samples just the other day, and here are my faves!
Crispy Ukoy & Green Mango – their own take on the Thai crispy catfish salad that you’re probably all too familiar with. This just has deeper flavors that you can only get from Ukoy (or Okoy — depending where you’re from in the Islands ;))
Pork belly dinakdakan – traditionally made with pig ears and cheeks, this version may actually be more palatable to the less adventurous. It was perfectly seasoned with the right amount of kick.
Tinapa’t Tops – Kamote tops never looked so good and appetizing…and yummy to boot! Sweet potato leaves have high nutritional value. It’s a great source of anti-oxidants, and is used as treatment for diabetes, lowers blood sugar and cholesterol, regulates bowel movement and can destroy certain bacteria and inhibit fungi.
Crispy Palabok fried vermicelli – Palabok fun! You just can’t go wrong with this merienda favorite and Simple Lang just made it more interesting!
Sinigang with Watermelon – not only is it with watermelon, it’s BAGNET sinigang. The watermelon makes for a good balance and has a refreshing take on this traditional staple.
Sisig Rice – There is just no way you can go wrong with sisig rice. I mean it’s rice flavored sisig. C’mon…
I couldn’t resist the Iced Milo drink. It was the ONLY choice. I haven’t had Iced Milo since college I think. It was like that flashback moment in Ratatouille.
I also liked the interiors too. It’s like a spiffy carenderia… Hipper and cleaner and more efficient in service. But you have the meat out on display and a good view of the kitchen, and the simple chairs and tables that add to the charm.
All in all it was worth going thru the rain for. Head on over to Simple Lang for affordable excellent comfort Filipino food.
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* sluuuuuurrrrp * nakakagaralgal ng sikmura. maybe that’s how pinoy food should be served everywhere in the u.s. para mas marketable and foreigners are not too weirded out by our food.
*sisig-flavored rice* (sorry, nazi lang 😀 heart you!)