Does It Taste Like Home? 2 Filipinos Found The Best Pinoy Fare In Singapore

filipino cuisine

One of the least prominent cuisines in Singapore is probably Filipino cuisine. I’ve personally never tried filipino cuisine, and my filipino colleagues haven’t had proper filipino food since they left their motherland (Jollibee doesn’t count).

[caption id="attachment_35704" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

So today I decided to take my filipino colleagues, Raymond and Ardhel, out to lunch, for REAL filipino food and at the same time, have them do a comparison of the standard of filipino food in Singapore to the ones they have back home.

I’ve already done a bit of research on 3 of the best, crowd-favourite places for filipino cuisine. It should come as no surprise that they’re all in Lucky Plaza.

Inasal Restaurant

The first place we went to was the highly-acclaimed Inasal Restaurant.

[caption id="attachment_35689" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

A good part of the restaurant is hidden behind a tiny store-front. The actual entrance to the restaurant is down a corridor to the side of the store-front.

We ordered the Pork Kare-Kare ($8.25) and Sisig ($11)

[caption id="attachment_35690" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

A little background – Kare-Kare is a savoury peanut meat stew while Sisig is a dish made with diced parts of pig’s head, liver, and seasoned with lime and chilli peppers.

I was a little confused because as far as I know, beef was usually used in Kare-Kare, and not pork. But it was small issue.

The Pork Kare-Kare came with a side of Bagoong (fermented fish paste). Firstly, the gravy of the Kare-Kare was like a watery, savoury peanut sauce. While I’m not irked by it, it certainly was an unusual taste.

[caption id="attachment_35691" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

The pork, however, fared much better. It was so tender, it disintegrated the moment my jaws closed. And paired with the gravy, the dish finally made sense.

[caption id="attachment_35692" align="aligncenter" width="960"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

Now, I was informed that I should put a tiny bit of Bagoong on the pork and have it with the gravy, and so I did. All I can say is, mind-blowing.

[caption id="attachment_35693" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

The Bagoong is basically a pure force of salty umami, hence the tiny amount. Have this sparingly.

Next, the Pork Sisig. It was a little disappointing. Raymond and Ardhel were expecting to hear sizzling. But the only sound the Sisig made was when the hotplate hit the table.

[caption id="attachment_35694" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

“I mean, it’s called Sizzling Sisig for a reason.” – Ardhel, 6 July 2018.

So points off for the lack of sizzle.

Apparently, some Sisigs are also crispy because crispy pork crackling is added into it for texture. But this version uses diced parts of pig’s head and presented uniform textures. And it didn’t help that it was a little bland because there was no chilli or lime given.

However, the Sisig came with a small bowl of Bulalo Soup.

[caption id="attachment_35695" align="aligncenter" width="933"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

Bulalo is the filipino version of Soup Tulang and it’s a clear soup that packs so much umami, it’s almost unbelievable because it doesn’t look rich.

Overall, Ardhel rated the food at Inasal Restaurant a 3.5/5 and Raymond gave it a 3/5.

Points were taken off because the Sisig wasn’t sizzling, and the Kare-Kare was a little heavier on taste.

Inasal Restaurant
Address: 304 Orchard Road, #04-49/50/51 Lucky Plaza, Singapore, 238863
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 8.30pm
Contact no.: 6733 2752
Website

Kabayan Restaurant

Kabayan Restaurant is situated in a corner to the left of the escalator on the third level of Lucky Plaza.

The whole restaurant resembles a canteen of sorts, with 2 counters right inside, one of which is a huge glass display of all the dishes they’re serving.

[caption id="attachment_35700" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_35696" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

Once again, we ordered the Kare-Kare ($4) and Sisig ($6.50).

[caption id="attachment_35697" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

The Kare-Kare here uses beef and comes served with a side of Alamang (fermented shrimp paste). Unfortunately, it was too dry and tough. The gravy was smoother and milder than the one we had at Inasal Restaurant though the portion leaves more to be desired.

[caption id="attachment_35698" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

The Alamang, though splendid, did nothing for the texture of the beef.

Next, the Sisig here is a feast for the stomach AND the eyes.

[caption id="attachment_35699" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

It was a beautiful sizzling plate of Sisig, and it was closer to authentic Sisig, served with chilli and lime and also more substantial, thanks to the addition of chopped pork belly for additional textures.

Ardhel and Raymond loved this Sisig and they even packed one more to go.

Finally, the Sisig was served with a bowl of Sinigang – a soup made with tamarind, either pork, beef, chicken or prawns, and fish sauce. It tastes exactly like Sze Chuan Vegetable soup to me.

Overall, both Ardhel and Raymond rated the food at Kabayan Restaurant, 4/5.

Kabayan Filipino Restaurant
Address: 304 Orchard Road, #03-25 Lucky Plaza, Singapore, 238863
Opening Hours: Daily: 9am – 9pm
Contact no.: 6738 0921
Website

Kamayan Pinoy

Kamayan Pinoy is a stall in the Asian Food Mall. It’s not an actual mall. It’s just the name of the food court in Lucky Plaza’s basement.

No prizes for guessing what we ordered, once again. It’s for fair comparison.

[caption id="attachment_35701" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

Right off the bat, the Sisig here is terrible. It’s pre-cooked and just scooped onto a plate upon order. There was no egg, chilli, lime or SIZZLE. The dish was chunky but extremely bland. Don’t order it.

[caption id="attachment_35702" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

Next, the Beef Kare-Kare here was a surprise. We were expecting a small bowl but it was a huge pan.

[caption id="attachment_35703" align="aligncenter" width="4240"]filipino cuisine Image Credit: DiscoverSG[/caption]

And the taste was even more surprising, maybe because our expectations were at a new low after tasting the Sisig, but the Beef Kare-Kare here was extremely tender and the gravy was smooth and mild, with a strong taste of peanut butter.

It was by far the best Kare-Kare we’ve had so far.

Overall, Ardhel rated the food at Kamayan Pinoy a 3.5/5 and Raymond gave it a 3/5. The salvation lies in their Beef Kare-Kare. It’s a must-try.

Kamayan Pinoy
Address: Lucky Plaza, Basement 2, Asian Food Mall, 304 Orchard Road, Singapore 238863

Overall Verdict

Singapore’s Filipino cuisine is pretty decent, with some establishments presenting dishes that makes filipinos feel at home.

If you’re looking for great Sisig, Kabayan Restaurant is your best bet, for just $6.50 a plate, it also comes with rice so you’re set for a filling lunch. Though we’ve heard of issues with freshness and consistency, it’s still one of the cheapest places offering filipino cuisine.

But if you’re with company and you’re craving Kare-Kare, Kamayan Pinoy serves up one of the best in Singapore.

But all in all, if you’re looking for great filipino food, Kabayan Restaurant is where you should go.

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(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)

8 Best Filipino Restaurants In S’pore For A Taste Of Authentic Pinoy Fare

Whenever you ask a Singaporean what makes them proud of Singapore, you’re bound to hear someone say “food”.

We have so many people of different cultures settling in our country, there’s an almost limitless variety to the cuisines for us to choose from.

From Japanese, Korean and Thai, to Vietnamese, Swedish and European, there’s something for everyone.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best Filipino restaurants in Singapore.

Filipino Comfort Food

1. Kabayan Filipino Restaurant

Kabayan Filipino Restaurant is similar to our mixed rice (cai png) stalls in our coffeeshop.

[caption id="attachment_32137" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Kabayan Filipino Restaurant Singapore[/caption]

Except filipinos do it better. In a restaurant with air-conditioning.

Visitors get to pick from a large variety of dishes such as the Pork Sinigang (Pork in Tamarind Soup), Lumpiang Shanghai (Fried Spring Rolls), and Crispy Pata (Pork Knuckles).

If you have a sweet tooth, go for the Turon (Banana Spring Roll) or the Leche Flan (Filipino Creme Caramel).

The price is cheap too, between $5 to $10 for a meal set. It’s no wonder the place is always crowded on weekends.

What’s a better indicator than satisfied repeat customers and large crowds?

Don’t forget to call ahead to make reservations!

Kabayan Filipino Restaurant
Address: 304 Orchard Road, #03-25 Lucky Plaza, Singapore, 238863
Opening Hours: Daily: 9am – 9pm
Contact no.: 6738 0921
Website

2. Gerry’s Grill

Gerry’s Grill is a franchise that has outlets in Philippines, United States and Qatar and is a familiar sight to most filipinos.

They’re well known for the grilled seafood and traditional filipino dishes such as the Inihaw na Pusit (Grilled Squid), Pancit Palabok (Stir Fried Shrimp Noodles) and Beef Kare-Kare (Filipino Beef Stew in Peanut Butter Sauce).

Their menu may be small but they serve up high quality food. The grilled squid is a favourite even among local diners.

[caption id="attachment_32138" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: @jerseydennise[/caption]

For dessert, try their Halo-Halo, which is a snowball served with a scoop of ice cream, mixed fruits, and sweets. Reminds of Ice Kachang, to be honest.

Gerry’s Grill
Address: 51 Cuppage Road, #01-12 Starhub Centre, Singapore, 229469
Opening Hours: Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Contact no.: 6720 1412
Image Credit: Tapa King[/caption] [caption id="attachment_32140" align="aligncenter" width="1022"] Image Credit: Tapa King[/caption]

Don’t say we never intro.

Tapa King
Address: 304 Orchard Road, #B1-038 Lucky Plaza Asian Food Mall, Singapore, 238863
Opening Hours: Daily: 8am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6734 4080
Website

4. Inasal Restaurant

Inasal Restaurant brings authentic filipino flavours straight from Bacolod.

Like its name suggests, this restaurant serves up a mean Chicken Inasal, or Barbecued Chicken. The chicken is charred to perfection, crispy on the outside yet tender and succulent on the inside.

[caption id="attachment_32141" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Inasal Restaurant[/caption]

If you don’t feel like having chicken, try their Pork Sinigang as well as Sisig.

Sisig is a must-try for adventurous eaters. It’s a dish made with diced parts of pig’s head, liver, and seasoned with lime and chilli peppers.

[caption id="attachment_32142" align="aligncenter" width="724"] Image Credit: @ellomis.sc[/caption]

Try it if you dare.

The queue at Inasal is always long on weekends so do call ahead.

Inasal Restaurant
Address: 304 Orchard Road, #04-49/50/51 Lucky Plaza, Singapore, 238863
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 8.30pm
Contact no.: 6733 2752
Website

5. Iskina Cebu Singapore

If you’re a fan of al fresco dining and roasted or grilled meat, then Iskina Cebu is the place to be.

Unlike the rest of the restaurants on this list, Iskina Cebu is an open air food truck nestled in Timbre+.

Known as one of the best places in Singapore to have crispy Lechon (chargrilled pork), the pig is roasted over a charcoal fire for 5 hours, resulting in crispy and juicy pork.

[caption id="attachment_32143" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image Credit: Iskina Cebu Singapore[/caption]

If you find the pork too salty to be eaten on its own, try dipping it in their sauce made with garlic, vinegar and various herbs and spices. Or just get a bowl of white rice with the Lechon set meal ($10).

[caption id="attachment_32144" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Iskina Cebu Singapore[/caption]

This place is strictly not suitable for vegetarians.

Iskina Cebu Singapore
Address: 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, Singapore, 139957
Opening Hours: Mon – Wed: 11.30am – 9.30pm, Thu: 11.30am – 9.30pm & 11pm – 12am, Fri – Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm, Sun: Closed
Contact no.: 6728 0765
Website

6. Comida Fiesta Singapore

Formerly Calle Real, Comida Fiesta serves up a mix of Spanish and Filipino cuisine.

Signatures include the Beef Kare-Kare (Filipino Beef Stew in Peanut Butter sauce), Rellenong Bangus (Stuffed Milkfish), Lechon Carajay (Crispy Roasted Pork) and Brazo de Mercedez (Soft Meringue Roll with Custard Filling).

[caption id="attachment_32145" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Comida Fiesta[/caption]

The restaurant is also able to host private events and accomodate up to 100 people.

[caption id="attachment_32146" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Comida Fiesta[/caption]

Great food, great service, and a whole lot of space.

Comida Fiesta Singapore
Address: 1 Expo Drive, #01-41 Singapore Expo, Singapore, 486150
Opening Hours: Mon -Thu: 12pm – 9pm, Fri – Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Contact no.: 6443 3037
Website

7. Lutong Pinoy

Lutong Pinoy is a food stall in the food court at Lucky Plaza.

[caption id="attachment_32147" align="aligncenter" width="1090"] Image Credit: Website

8. My Kusina

Nestled in Kampong Bahru, is My Kusina.

This restaurant bar serves up beer, wine and a great selection of cocktails at affordable prices. If you’re looking for something to munch on, order their Lechon Kawale (Crispy Pork Belly), served with rice and veggie soup.

Also, what filipino bar is complete without a karaoke machine? Bar patrons get to sing along to their favourite songs as well as watch other patrons belt their tunes.

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Seats fill up quickly so do call ahead to make reservations.

My Kusina
Address: 19 Kampong Bahru Road, Singapore, 169348
Opening Hours: Daily: 12pm – 12am
Contact no.: 6221 5996
Website

Filipino cuisine is our new favourite, with their oily, messy, unpretentious food.

Nothing says comfort food like sinful bowl of crispy pork, beef stew, garlic rice, and egg.

Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself.

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(Header Image Source: Serious Eats)