Dining Snippets: Hey Handsome x Tsujiri x The Pig Pen
HEY HANDSOME
In Hey Handsome, nothing seems to be typically done. A plain cup of rice comes in the form of Nasi Ulam which tosses in flakes of daing and farm herbs in the cup of grains. Despite its narrow list of food choices, choosing what to order is a difficult task because of this characteristic.
STEAMED SEABASS (P590), NASI ULAM (P100), and BBQ PORK BELLY (P690)
The BBQ Pork Belly features a generous slice of tender and tasty barbecue. I loved the elegance displayed in its simple plating. Delicious as the pork belly might have been, it was the Steamed Seabass which commanded my attention. Clothed in a delectable sambal sauce that does not hold back on the heat, the seabass was a delight to eat. Shards of peanut brittle are served as a quick remedy to the heat. You may also opt to drown the heat out with a big gulp of its Magic Milk (P180). Tempered by sea salt, this yogurt drink makes for a sweet refreshing drink that doubles as dessert.
SANGKAYA CUSTARD (P220)
However, if you have a sweet tooth craving that needs satisfying, the Sangkaya Custard will definitely deliver. This pandan-filled meringue dessert will satisfy any fan of the Singaporean kaya toast.
Hey Handsome
GF Net Park Building, 5th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
Date of Visit: July 8, 2017 with Lily Chua
TSUJIRI
Matcha has always had a solid following from Filipino diners. From matcha drinks to matcha desserts, hordes of crazed matcha lovers are guaranteed to patronize these. Thus, there’s no surprise that the advent of Tsujiri was ushered in with a load of hype.
TSUJIRI SUNDAE (P265)
Tsujiri goes beyond serving matcha infused drinks as it serves up a selection of desserts showcasing this popular tea. From its drinks menu, I opted for the Tsujiri+Kinako Kiramitsu (P165). I was both surprised and pleased that the matcha used was stronger than the ones we’re served with in most places. The Kiramitsu acts as a sweetener that subtly breaks into the bitterness of the matcha. From its dessert menu, I opted for the Tsujiri Sundae, which came with roasted rice, mochi, red bean paste, and a strawberry flavoured flower-shaped cone. My first bite ushered in a strong matcha taste; unfortunately, this was not sustained throughout the cup. The red bean paste worked wonders with the soft-serve; however, the roasted rice ruined the combination as they tasted burnt. I'll definitely line up for another cup sans the roasted rice!
Tsujiri
2F S Maison, Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard cor Coral Way, Pasay City
Date of Visit: July 1, 2017 with Lily Chua, Edith Dychiao, and Ana del Rosario
THE PIG PEN
The Pig Pen is a relatively newcomer in Legazpi Village. Its laidback atmosphere makes it a perfect venue for after-work dinners. Despite its pork-centric name, it does have non-pork items in its menu. What’s also good about it is that they offer their main dishes in solo servings and for sharing sizes providing diners with more flexibility in choices.
CRISPY PORK AND HOISIN (P280)
When I was served the Crispy Pork and Hoisin, I was both surprised and curious by how it was served. Fried crispy noodles enveloped the fried pork chunks inside. Paired with the hoisin sauce, the taste seems to pay homage to the Chinese Lechon Macau dish. Served alongside a huge bowl of the restaurant’s Java rice (which unfortunately doesn’t come close to Aristocrat’s or Alex III’s), the entire meal promises value for your money.
The Pig Pen
Eton Tower, VA Rufino St. Legazpi Vilage, Makati City
Date of Visit: July 11, 2017 with Jeric Badion, Sam Bautista, and Giselle Sy
