By Aleli V. Dorado-Suguitan
A melting pot of cultures and tastes at the heart of Manila, Binondo boasts of the best Filipino-Chinese gastronomical delights. Eat’s Fun’s foodie diva Leslie Ordinario explored the streets of Binondo and had a taste of what the “Oldest Chinatown in the World” has to offer.
Sugarcane juice. A staple in the streets of Binondo, be awed at the sight of freshly squeezed sugar cane juice straight from the pulp to your cup. This no-frills, all natural drink is sure to quench your thirst in this scorching heat.
Xiaolongpao. Not to be confused with the traditional Shanghai xiao long bao, this Binondo street food dim sum offering is a combination of savory and salty filling with veggie bits enveloped and in chewy dough and topped with sesame seeds. It is usually served with a chili dip.
Veggie Sausage, Veggie Skewers, and Tofu Skewers. The latest viral craze in Binondo food crawl videos are these healthy barbecued veggie sausages, veggie skewers, and tofu skewers. Don’t be fooled that these healthy treats taste bland, as it is smothered with a basting of spices, making it a hearty treat in a stick.
Chicken and Beef Mami. Asado Siopao. Siomai. Wanton. These staple Chinese restaurant favorites are the famed menu favorites in the 90 year old Masuki Restaurant at the heart of Binondo. Their asado siopao is unlike your typical sweet asado, but more of the sweet savory shredded pork wrapped in a pillowy dough. The Chicken and Beef Mami is a soup dish which will definitely warm the cockles of your heart with its broth, al dente noodles and a tinge of sweetness from the beef. All dishes are best complemented with their signature siopao sauce that puts a new dimension to the dishes. Don’t forget a side order of wanton or siomai which will surely fill your tummy.
Oyster Cake and Fried Frog Legs at Binondo Estero. A staple landmark in Binondo to visit when your in the mood for exotic treats. Some staples of Estero include Oyster Cakes or oysters and bits of vegetables fried in a pancake-shaped batter served with a side of dipping sauce. Another crowd favorite in Estero is Fried Frog Legs or breaded frog legs which are deep fried to perfection.
Hopia. A pastry filled with sweet paste, it usually comes in flavors such as red mung bean, ube, monggo, or wintermon. Hopia is a mainstay in Chinese bakeries and a common Binondo pasalubong.
On your next food escapade, don’t forget to add these sweet and savory Binondo eats on your list.
And for more of Leslie’s mouthwatering adventures, watch Eat’s Fun every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. only here at your Pambansang TV.