Photo: Maria Orlova / Pexels
Cover Photo: Maria Orlova / Pexels

Welcome to Foodie Finds! This is an article series by Tatler, chronicling where and what to order according to the food-obsessed.

I myself have never understood non-foodies. How can one not love flavours, spices, aromas and all the cultural nuances and memories that come with every bite? Dining is an experience meant to be savoured and is even more fun when shared with loved ones. Dining around a table means sharing, conversing, bonding and learning. 

A dish can tell you so much about a person, a culture, and a country. It speaks volumes of a nation's history and is an art form on its own. Skilled hands are trained over years or are born out of pure passion and practice. Professional chefs and home cooks alike, from young stars to grandmothers, have been cooking up meals filled with emotion and have truly made us foodies, happy.

Through Foodie Finds, we ask our epicurean friends to share their favourites. In this feature, we tackle takeout and delivery. Hear what founder of Fredley Group of Companies, and Gen.T Honouree, Avin Ong has to say. Take a look at some of his go-to shops for takeout:

See also: Where to Order the Best Paella in Metro Manila

Tatler Asia
Avin Ong, Generation T
Above Avin Ong, Generation T

1. Orient Pearl Seafood and Restaurant

@orientpearlrestaurant

Craving for my go-to comfort Chinese food has always been my weakness. Whenever I’m in the mood for a quick Chinese fix, I always order their hot and sour soup, Singaporean chilli crabs and suckling pig. Orient Pearl is an authentic Chinese restaurant in the heart of Caloocan. Fun fact, I actually grew up in 4th Avenue in Caloocan. This restaurant definitely hits the spot close to home.

See also: Foodie Finds with Michael Hearn, Co-Founder of Run Rabbit Run

2. The Pastry Company

@thepastrycompany

Finally found the best ube cake in the Metro! I have a sweet tooth and their ube cake is now my favourite. Decadent and fluffy at the same time, I highly recommend this. Not to miss is their key lime pie as well if you’re looking for something yummy to share during the holidays.

3.  Wantusawa Oyster Bar

@wantusawaoysters

The best oysters are definitely from Wantusawa. The oysters are farmed in Aklan, freshly harvested and flown in daily. If you like your oyster baked, grilled or fresh, I highly recommend this place. A simple hole in the wall, I’m excited to try their newly opened restaurant in the same street. Poblacion definitely has its secret gems and this is one for keeps. 

See also: 16 Shops That Deliver Wine in Metro Manila

4. Canto Bogchi Joint

@cantobogchijoint

Whenever I find myself in Baguio, a must-stop restaurant is always Canto. Aside from the amazing views from the floor to ceiling glass panels, the homegrown joint is also an Instagrammer's dream. Their fall-of-the-bone lomo ribs come with a sweet and smokey sauce, and the creamiest mashed potatoes– it's crave-worthy. It’s across Burnham Park along Kisad Road in Baguio. Make sure to visit on an empty stomach and order their nachos to start the feast. 

See also: Travelling in the New Normal: Highlights from DOT's Recent Visit to Baguio City

5.  Casa Elmira

@casaelmira

A brand I discovered during the pandemic. I must say their mamon is the tastiest, fluffiest, and cheesiest in the metro! Another must-try is their caramel cake. They’ve easily become my go-to for birthday cakes I send to my loved ones. Casa Elmira’s Quezo de Bola mamon comes in boxes of six, and I think they’d make for perfect gifts this Christmas.

See also: Tatler's Guide to the Best Cakes in Metro Manila

6. Abub’s

@abubslechon

Abub’s Cebuana Lechon is a party show stopper, from its heavenly crispy skin to its flavourful and tender, juicy meat. This is my go-to lechon place and a staple during special occasions with the family. Native pigs are used for every Abub order and are cooked with the highest quality standards. Every bite brings me closer to pork heaven.

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