Marikeño's April Filipino Food Month

 

In celebration of April Filipino Food Month, Marikeño is inviting you all to embark on a culinary journey that will showcase the vivid colors and flavors, rich heritage of Filipino culture and cuisine scene in Marikina. With a big help from Eats Marikina, we've come up with this very interesting yet challenging food crawl that would begin where Marikina food gastronomy all started, in Lilac Street down to the very trendy and up-and-coming scene of Gil Fernando. So without further ado, let's get started.

Dapo at Tisa: • Bangus ala Pobre never fails to delight. Dapo and Tisa's rendition to this classic Filipino dish is like music to the eyes, the ears and tongues.

• Okoy in Kamote, a true Filipino masterpiece that honors the harmony of flavors and textures. 

• Ginataang Adobong Baka is a delectable local dish that mixes the beauty and richness of adobo and the creamy goodness of coconut milk.

 

Kabigting's Halo Halo: • Kabigting's is known for their signature halo-halo, a bright-colored concoction of shaved ice mixed with an assortment of sweet treats. Enjoy the musicality of its flavors and textures as you mix the sweet beans, fruits, jellies and creamy leche flan, topped with a generous amount of evaporated milk and concluded with a big scoop of velvety ube ice cream. 

• Their pancit palabok completements the beloved lumpia sariwa, a Filipino spring roll filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, crunchy vegetables and others.

Rocha's Puto and Kutsinta: • Rocha's is known for their mouthwatering puto, a very popular steamed rice cake with a soft and fluffy texture, slightly sweetned and topped with a generous amount of cheese.

• Their kutsinta is a perfect accompaniment to their puto as the former is chewy while the latter is soft and fluffy. 

Mang Ding's Pinoy BBQ: • Eveybody loves to eat barbecue especially if it is Filipino style as it has everything from chicken inasal, isaw, puwet, tenga, hotgods, bituka, etc. Every bite is message sent from heaven. 

• Also try their ensaladang talong and salted egg with tomato and onion.

Mama Ting's Rellenong Bangus: • They are known for their deliciously fried and deboned rellenong bangus, a milkfish dish stuffed with meat and ground vegetables.

• Their everlasting is equally delicious. It is the epitome of Marikeño culinary. It is known to llanera.

Salud Panciteria: • It is a household name that was established back in 1968 that has become a true Marikeño icon, specifically for their pancit pinagulong. It got its name from the way it was being cooked.

• Be sure to also try out their super crispy lumpiang shanghai and lechon kawali. They make their special sauces that is uniquely theirs.

BoyNita Ihaw Ihaw:  • The BoyNita bilao bangus is a large round bilao that is usually filled with bangus inihaw (milkfish) cooked in a flavorful and aromatic manner. It also comes with vegetables, pork barbecue and others. You may also try their bilao tilapia which also hot and freshly cooked. 

Again, we would like to thank Eats Marikina for taking the initiatives and for encouraging us on covering this event.  It was a truly our pleasure and honor to take part in the April Filipino Food Month special. Our cuisine is very rich in flavors and has unique qualities that deserves to be celebrated and recognized. Mabuhay ang pagkaing Pilipino.

Posted By Marikeño4:46:00 AM

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Marikina Bakery

Marikina Bakery is a 63-year old institution that introduced its culinary prowess in baking to the Marikeños. It stands as a timeless and living testament to artisanal craftsmanship and the enduring power of both tradition and modernity.  Despite its renovated house facade and a sign bearing the newly painted proud name, the bakery still exudes that nostalgic charm that draws both locals and visitors alike. 

Stepping through elevated patio, one is enveloped by the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries. The flour-dusted countertops, dappled with the imprints of countless loaves and other pastries, serve as a reminder of the dedication and passion that has sustained this establishment for over six decades. The bakery's loyal customers, many of whom have been frequenting the shop since their own childhoods, eagerly await their turn, patiently queueing for their classic pan de coco, pan de regla , egg pies, and signature Spanish bread that have become the bakery's renowned specialties. 

The younger bakers skillfully knead dough for their perfectly classic buttered ensaymada and beautifully shaped the pineapple sandwiches, their hands bear the skill of decades of practice. With each creation is a labor of love, made with care and attention to detail. Marikina bakery's enduring success is a testament to the unwavering commitment to quality and the profound sense of community that has been carefully raised over the years. In an ever-changing world, this 63-year-old bakery remains a cherished institution, where time-honored recipes and the warmth of familiar faces come together to create an experience that transcends generations.

Visit Marikina Bakery at the following locations:

San Roque Branch: 41 Redwood St. San Roque - 0995 0179396

Sta. Elena Branch: Marikina Public Market, Sta .Elena - Viber

Posted By Marikeño3:48:00 AM

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Kulyan Optical

Kulyan Optical has been running and been serving the Marikeños for fourteen years. It is located near the Marikina Market, the optical shop is the perfect place for those seeking clarity and style in their visual experiences yet inexpensive. The shop has this homey vibe because it was once the doctor's family's living room. Customers are greeted with an extensive array of eyeglasses meticulously made for every individual's taste and vision needs. 

The shop's knowledgeable and friendly resident optometrist, Doctor Eric, guides his clients effortlessly. Their shop's commitment to quality extends beyond fashion, as it stocks a wide range of different specialty lenses.  With great attention to detail and a personalized customer service, this optical shop stands as trusted and recommended. Giving a clear vision of excellence to all who enter.

Visit Kulyan Optical at #5 Kap Antonio P Santos Street, Sta. Elena, Marikina City. Opens from Mondays to Fridays at 10AM - 5PM and on Saturday (appointment only).  You may call this number to book an appointment at 8 681 2974 o 0933 3251993.

Posted By Marikeño12:55:00 AM

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Mango Royal Milkshake Sta. Elena

 

Mango Royal Milkshake (Santa Elena) is now my newest go-to place for a quick mango dessert fix. Mango is the national fruit in the Philippines and we produce the best quality and the sweetest mango fruit in Southeast Asia.  And there's more to that. The bright yellow color of the fruit symbolizes richness and its shape embodies the most important part of a human body, the heart. Thus, it is my most favorite Philippine fruit of all. 

They first started in 2018 when it was simply served as a regular fresh mango shake. From its humble beginning, the mango business prospered and the Mango Royal Milkshake brand expanded and was launched on April 2020. Yes, they are young and new but yet are aggressive and they are ready to take the country. They opened their first franchise store in Marikina in August 2020 along Shoe Avenue, Sta. Elena, near Teatro Marikina.  And I am telling you, masarap silang lahat. 

Here are some of the milkshake variants and fruit juices that we've tried at their store:

• Mango Royal: P100 for the grande size. It has everything sinful yet so good: thick frosted cream cheese, sweet mango chunks, crushed graham and Oreo cookies, caramel syrup, sweet soft pearl and fresh mango milkshake. This is my most favorite and I highly recommend it to everyone. Price is very affordable but the taste is huge.

• Mango Cheesecake: P85 for grande size. It tasted both refreshing, creamy and sweet. 

• Mango Plain: P65 for grande size. It the the most affordable item in their menu. If you want it plain and simple minus the big guilt, this is for you.

• Mango Banana: P85 for grande size. Mango and banana fruits is a good combination. It also has crushed graham and Oreo, caramel syrup and sweet chewy pearls. 

• Mango Oreo: P70 for grande size. It has fresh mango shake, crushed Oreo, caramel syrup and super chewy pearl. 

• Mango Strawberry: P85 for grande size. It has fresh mango shake, sweet and tangy strawberry plum and syrup, crushed graham and Oreo and my favorite, sweet pearls.

• Fresh Mango Juice: P65 for grande size. It is cold mango juice with pearls. Super refreshing.

Mango Royal Milkshake Santa Elena opens daily from 11AM to 9PM.  They are located at 238-A Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City. You may order via Grabfood or Food Panda.  You can also do pick up which is so much cheaper.  For inquiries and to place your order, you may call them at 0992 559 1069. Click here to view their most recent menu and pricing.

Posted By Marikeño8:18:00 PM

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K-Food Central

 

K-Food Central is now my most favorite Korean Samgyeobsal (barbecue) place in Marikina.  From the quality of their meat, to the freshness of their vegetables, to the authenticity of their Korean food, side dishes and a lot more. I could go on and on and on about them but let me give you more reasons to visit K-Food Central.

Quality of their meat is quite good. They offer all kinds of meat from seafood, beef, pork and chicken. Their meat is superb for a very affordable price. Everything is unlimited from their well-marinated barbecue, side dishes, Korean fried chicken and even iced tea.  There is no time limit. Click here to see their full menu.

Place is hip with trendy Korean music. Their 3rd floor is covered in Korean art mural. If you are into K-drama, K-movies or even K-pop, everything you will see around you are very familiar: BTS, Blackpink, Train to Busan, Squid Game, just to name a few. You will also find other wall art to be very recognizable like Korean hangul, bibimbap, kimchi, hanbok and a lot more. They also play Korean pop music to complete the Korean mood. It took me back to Seoul again. 

Restaurant is well-ventilated with 270 degree view of the riverpark. Their third floor has a great view of the river with so many windows and a big balcony so air freely comes in and out. If you come during sundown, you will witness one of the best-looking sunsets in Marikina. Their second floor is airconditioned and also has an open balcony. 

Service is outstanding.  Staff are very polite, well-dressed and properly trained. They are also very attentive and proactive, not because we are featuring them but because it's just the way they are. 

All-day breakfast.  They now also serve breakfast.  If you are tired of your usual breakfast and would to try something new yet familiar, be sure to head to K-Food Central and try their drip coffee, Korean tapa (highly recommended), tocino, longganisa and spam with omelets.  We also loved their egg drop sandwich with beef. Serving is big and the vegetables are fresh and crunchy. If you want something hot and soupy, we'd like you to try their budae jigae or army stew.  See their breakfast menu by clicking here. 

K-Food Central is located at 94 Ming Ramos Lane, Riverpark, Sta. Elena, Marikina City.  Opens daily, 4PM to 11PM.

Posted By Marikeño3:08:00 AM

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Directions: Sta. Elena

How to Get to Sta. Elena, Marikina City?

Sta. Elena is one of the oldest and most charming barangays in Marikina. Known for its well-preserved ancestral homes, quiet streets, and laid-back atmosphere, it offers visitors a glimpse into Marikina's rich history and heritage. A stroll along the historic C. Cruz Street feels like a journey back in time, making Sta. Elena a perfect destination for those who want to experience the city's old-world charm.

The barangay is also home to several heritage structures and is just a short walk from the iconic Marikina City Hall, one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.

From Cubao

From Aurora Boulevard in Cubao, ride a jeepney with the Calumpang signboard. This route passes through J.P. Rizal Street, where you can easily access C. Cruz Street and the heritage district of Sta. Elena.

From Manila

Take the LRT-2 and get off at LRT-2 Katipunan Station. From there, ride a jeepney with the Calumpang signboard heading toward Marikina.

From Monumento or Fairview

By bus: Take a bus bound for Cubao. Upon reaching Aurora Boulevard, transfer to a Calumpang-bound jeepney.

By train: Take the MRT-3 and alight at Araneta Center-Cubao MRT Station. From Aurora Boulevard, ride a jeepney with the Calumpang signboard.

From Alabang, Pasay, or Makati

By bus: Ride a bus heading to Cubao. Once there, proceed to Aurora Boulevard and board a Calumpang-bound jeepney.

By train: Take the MRT-3 and get off at Araneta Center-Cubao MRT Station. Travelers coming from Alabang may first take a bus to Magallanes before transferring to the MRT. From Cubao, ride a jeepney with the Calumpang signboard.

The Calumpang jeepney route is one of the most convenient ways to reach Sta. Elena. From J.P. Rizal Street, a short walk will bring you to C. Cruz Street, the heritage homes of old Marikina, and the nearby Marikina City Hall, making it an ideal stop for a leisurely afternoon of sightseeing and photography.

Posted By Marikeño7:22:00 PM

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Thai Foon

Sawadeeka from Thai Foon, the first modern Thai restaurant in Marikina.  Our team was invited by their management and it took us a month to find our way to this cool resto. I would describe our experience to be a little unfamiliar, however pleasant.  Thai cuisine has five major flavors and tastes: sweet, salty, sour, spicy and a little bitter. We experienced all that, in just one seating.  So without further ado, let us all present to you their food:

Pla Sam Rot or Deep-Fried Fish with Tamarind Sauce (photo above) is fried crispy tilapia covered in sweet, sour and spicy tamarind sauce.  The fish is quite crisp on the outside but soft and moist on the inside.  The fishy oily taste was brilliantly covered by its sour green mango salad. Did not try it with rice, but I guess it can taste better without it.

Thai Iced Tea (photo above, right) is a very refreshing beverage. It is not too sweet and not too thick.  Just the right consistency. What a perfect way to start a good meal.

Thai Foon Pad Siew or Thai Flat Noodles in Thick Sauce (photo above, top left).  The noodles are soft and not that chewy. Taste is slightly sweet with a crunchy texture because of the bits of peanuts sprinkled on top of it.  Broccoli is a little soggy.

Spicy Seafood Fried Rice (photo above, bottom left) is a tasty, flavorful, steaming hot, and moist stir-fried rice mixed with real shrimps and vegetables. Be sure to try this when visiting them.  This is highly recommended.

Thai Foon  Pad Thai is another noodle dish mixed with lots and lots of fresh crunchy vegetables. The freshly squeezed lime fruit gave that clean tangy taste.  I like its taste better than the other noodle dish and it's not messy to eat.

Yam Pla Duk Fu or Crispy Catfish with Green Mango Salad (photo above, rightmost) seems to be an easy dish to prepare but tastes really good.  It looked more like a super crispy fish in a shape of a cookie with sour mango salad on top to balance the bland taste of the fish.

Pineapple Fried Rice (photo above, second from the right) is your typical fried rice but sweetened with caramelized pineapple chunks. If you are okay with your rice to be a little too sweet, then this is your rice.  Kids might like this more than the adults because of its sweet, salty taste and its soft fluffy rice with a little nutty crunch.

Tom Yum Goong or Hot and Sour Soup with Prawns (photo above, second from the left) is my number one dish at Thai Foon.  It has that really hot, spicy and sour taste that we all Marikeños would love. It is a festivity of seafood goodness put into one big bowl. It is not as salty as I thought it would be but can be easily fixed with a few dash of salt and maybe some crushed pepper. Not oily, too. Never leave Thai Foon without ordering this.

Coconut Delight is a fresh young coconut fruit topped with two scoops of macapuno ice cream.  It's new to their menu and will soon be introduced to their dear guests.  If you both love coconut and ice cream, this creamy frozen dessert is just enough to bring you here.

Our visit to Thai Foon will never be so pleasant without the warm welcome and accommodation of the entire staffs and its management. Our food were hot and well-prepared because of their courteous kitchen and dining staffs.  Visit them along Gil Fernando Avenue, Sta. Elena.  They are open from Mondays to Fridays, 10:30am to 2:30pm ; 5:00pm to 10:00pm and on Saturdays to Sundays, 10:00am to 3:00pm ; 5:00pm to 10:00pm.  Click here to see their map for their exact location.

Posted By Marikeño1:09:00 AM

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Top 5 Goto in Marikina

Goto is one of Marikeños most loved food.  You are not a true Marikeño if you have not tasted it. We dedicate this blog post to all goto business owners in the city. We  now present to you the best goto in the city. We've conducted a survey on August, 2014 via our Facebook fan page and you guys have spoken. We have 5 winners of Marikeño's Top 5 Goto and we have also 5 other winners of People's Choice Top 5 Goto of Marikina.  Thank you guys for voting.

Marikeño's Top 5 Goto:

#5 Goto Bob - We find their goto to be delicious, clean and affordable.  The taste fits the taste of the Marikina people.  We find it to be quite different from its parents' version, Luding's Goto, a popular "gotohan" in Sto. Niño in the 80's. However, they have truly proved to us that they can stand on their own and create their own unique goto taste. They also serve spicy oil for those who like their goto to be spicy. Goto Bob is located along J. Molina St. Concepcion Uno.

#4 Macky's - Their goto's rice is a little overcooked. Maybe that is their cooking style and that could also be the reason why Macky's goto is one of the most popular "gotohan" in the city.  They also serve them hot all the time and very tasty.  Their tokwa't baboy is the best, in my opinion. Not too fatty and served with their secret vinegar. Perfect combination for your goto. A little more expensive than the rest and serving is quite little. They put "dugo (pork blood)" to their goto so be sure to ask them not to put them if you don't like to eat it. Make sure you also order their sago't gulaman. Macky's is located along JP Rizal St. Sta. Elena.

#3 Estela's Goto - They are not just your simple gotohan.  Since they have opened on mid-70's, they were already considered to be one of Marikina's greatest institutions.  They started in a small "silungan" with very low ceiling, yet surpringly, they were always packed with customers. Those were the glory days of Estela's Goto then. Their goto may not taste the same way it used to be but it is still worth for the public to give them another chance.  Make sure you order their tokwa't baboy and saging con yelo.  Enjoy your goto while watching a program on their television. Estela's Goto is located along Villalon St. Sto. Niño.

#2 Colleen's Goto - They are the culinary inheritors of the now defunct "Nanay Ude". Their goto's color is bright so it looks quite inviting and delicious.  Served with beef and onion leeks. Served hot and tastes good.  Paired perfectly with their very own tokwa't baboy, which in my opinion has the best tasting vinegar.  Truly Marikeño.  So how I wish they would open a store so we can experience Colleen's Goto 24/7.  Located along Ming Ramos Street. They don't own a store like they used to so you can only experience Colleen's Goto along the river, near the statue of Marikit.  They open early morning until 11am daily. 

#1 Goto Garahe - Chosen as Marikeño's Top Goto in Marikina City. Delicious, has lots of spices and ingredients. Rice is not overcooked. You can also request them not to put pig's blood. Their tokwa't baboy is also a sure winner!  Has a spacious, well-ventilated store and they filled their walls with retro inspired design. Tip: Mix your tokwa's vinegar to your goto. Goto Garahe is located along JP Rizal St. San Roque.

People's Choice Top 5 Goto in Marikina was a survey we conducted in August via our fan page to find out what goto true Marikeños like.  We have received over 450 votes and we would like to thank everyone who participated.  This survey would not be possible without your help.  Congratulations to all the winners. Goto tayo!

 

Posted By Marikeño5:25:00 AM

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Papa Rock's Big Burgers

Papa Rock's Big Burgers and Grillery is located at #16 Sparrow Street, Sta. Elena. They serve big burgers, pasta, shakes and a lot more.  They also deliver.  You may call them at (02) 209-6758 and (0927) 879-2924. Just look for Sparrow Street at the back of the Municipal Hall.  It is not hard to find. Very peaceful neighborhood.

We had the chance to meet the man behind these big burgers, Mr. Rocky De Jesus.  We were invited to visit their burger joint. Now, being a burger fan myself, having heard that they have really big burgers, I did not waste time and looked them up right away.  Rocky welcomed us with arms wide open the moment we came by his place.  But mind you, my friends, he is really that nice to all his guests.  Having a good conversational and cooking skills, he really had me convinced that his burger is one of the best in Marikina.  Standing at 6 feet and an inch tall, he was given that nickname by his friends and family.  He was named after the undefeated and untied world heavyweight American boxer from 1952 to 1956.

Seating capacity is a little limited; approximately around 15 people.  Maybe the owner did not realize how much potential his burger could possibly get.  Besides, they were first focusing on delivery.  After talking with the owner, I had him thinking "Maybe I should make my place a little bit bigger. Hmmm."  The place is simple and clean that can be easily fixed. Food posters were carefully layouted by the owner himself. Checking his big menu, me and my friends can't help but notice the price. All the food are affordable! Now, we just have to check one more thing: the taste.

Papa Rock's Jawbreaker (photo above) is a humongous 1/3 pounder burger, filled two (2) beef patties, fresh tomato, cucumber, lettuce and melted cheese. Judging from its name, it can really break one's jaw. The price is small but the taste is big.

Heavy Waffle Breakfast is one of my most recommended meals in this place.  The waffles are always served fluffy and hot.  Served with whipped butter, syrup, cocktail hotdogs and sunny-side up egg.  A perfect breakfast to start your day.

Seafood Pasta Special is my friend's favorite item on their menu.  It is made from penne pasta smothered with thick white sauce, crab meat and shrimp bits. I cannot forget the big smile on my friend's face as she enjoyed this pasta dish.

Papa Rock's Big Burgers and Grillery is a good place for friends and families who simply want to have a good meal at affordable rates. They have everything under one roof: from their flavorful barbecue, nachos, rice meals, shakes and coffee.  Be sure to say hi to Papa Rock's when you visit them and tell them that you found them through Marikeno.  It would really put a big smile on his face. Click here for the complete menu. They are open daily from Mondays to Saturdays 9am to 10pm. Also on Sundays 9am to 2pm.

Posted By Marikeño11:04:00 AM

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Tado Lives

Arvin Jimenez, more popularly known as Tado is a comedian, actor, radio personality, businessman and activist.  Tado is primarily known for the offbeat television program Strangebrew and the U92 radio program The BrewRATs! To most of his fans, he is simply a comedian and an actor.  But to the Marikenos, he is a hero.  He lived a simple yet meaningful life.  Everyone in Marikina knows him as the one that rides his bike everyday and wears his silly iron helmet yet loved and adored by his friends and family.  He is also a man with many talents and skills. Tado designed LimiTado (photo above credit to LimiTado), taken from the work "Limited", and ran it with his wife. The graphic t-shirts' main selling points are striking messages printed on the shirt and spoofs. Other items include bags, accessories and toy collectibles.  It is a tourist destination on its own rights.

On February 7, 2014, around 7:20am, Tado died in an bus mishap involving a Florida passenger bus. He was among the 14 people who were unfortunate to survive in an accident in Banaue-Bontoc road in Sitio Panggang, Barangay Talubin, Bontoc.  He and his friends were on their way to Kalinga.

The wake of Arvin Jimenez was held on February 9-11 (Sunday to Tuesday) at the Paket Santiago Funeral Homes near the Our Lady of Abandoned Church. The funeral was opened to the public for viewing. Many friends, families and admirers came hoping to get their last glimpse of their humble icon. There are hundreds of heroes here in Marikina.  Tado is one of them.  He is a person full of hopes and determination.  We hope that he will serve as a good example to each one of us.  A simple comedian may have died and left us, but then a true Marikeno hero lived.

Posted By Marikeño9:06:00 AM

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By the Window

An old woman from Sta. Elena was talking to herself by the window. She sounded like she was arguing with someone, whoever that is.

Posted By Marikeño2:40:00 AM

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