Dining Snippets: Souv by Cyma x The Pantry x Sichu Malatang

SOUV BY CYMA

Despite frequenting Souv by Cyma, I'd have to admit that I have yet to explore its extensive menu for the sole reason that I’m always drawn (and craving) for its Meat Platter. I simply can't imagine a meal at Souv without it.

MEAT PLATTER (CHICKEN – Php1095; PORK -Php1475, LAMB – Php1990; Any 2 – Php1335, All 3 -Php1575)

The Meat Platter is guaranteed to fill you up and nurse that kebab craving. You’re given the option to choose your preferred meat – I usually opt for the Chicken+Lamb combination.

It’ll come with so many sides and sauces that you’d be exposed to so many permutations of flavors and textures that will definitely make your meal exciting. You can taste the quality in all of the ingredients served in the platter – from its warmly toasted pita, to its delicious sauces, its tasty potatoes au jus and its Greek coleslaw salad.

Souv By Cyma

3F The Podium, 18 ADB Ave, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Dates of Visit: Multiple

THE PANTRY

The Pantry is Dusit Thani Manila’s buffet restaurant – apart from the extensive collection of drinks that’s included in its buffet fare - from fresh fruit juices to alcoholic fare - (expect mimosas during its Sunday brunches and a Gin and Tonic section during weekend dinners) which lends its price point more value; it also has a strong Indian station that you shouldn’t sleep on!

VEGETABLE SAMOSAS (Php395)

If buffets aren’t your thing, it has a pretty decent ala carte selection – from which you can order my favorite – the Vegetable Samosas. Served piping hot – this classic Indian appetizer will not only fill you up; but would certainly delight – especially when paired with its mint chutney and to-die-for chilis.

The Pantry

Lobby Level, Dusit Thani Manila, EDSA corner Arnaiz, Makati City

Date of Visit: November 1, 2023

SICHU MALATANG

It seems impossible to ignore Sichu Malatang when you walk pass by it – apart from its vibrant interiors – the aroma coming from all its spices and sauces is unmistakably distinct.

MALATANG (Php1.2/g)

Ordering seems straightforward in concept– choose your bowl size, load it up with all of your favorite ingredients, choose your style of malatang, indicate your spice level, grab your drink (optional), pay, and make your own sauce (optional). However, I assure you, it gets a little bit overwhelming when you’re actually doing it already - and there's no shame in that!

MALAPAN (Php1.2/g)

The first step would require some strategy – small bowl vs large bowl – and it would ultimately be up to what your priority would be. A small bowl is perfect – especially for those who want the freedom to curate their own bowls or for those who prefer not to share (me!). It has a minimum weight requirement – but that’s easy to hit – the trickier goal actually is not to go overboard with the ingredients – as there’s a pretty good chance, you won’t be able to finish it (note that you pay per gram of ingredient on your bowl so any excess means extra money you didn't have to spend). Pro-tip for first-timers, if there’s no other person in the ingredient queue, opt to line up backwards – start with the good stuff nearer to the drink station, and work your way backward to the start of the line.

For those after value-for-money, the large bowls are perfect for sharing – especially since Sichu Malatang offers complimentary servings of plain rice to pair with your malatang bowls. You just have to request for it at the counter.

MALAXIANGGUO (Php1.36/g)

Sichu Malatang has an extensive selection for balls – offering the most variety I’ve ever seen to be honest – so best to opt for the more unique ones.

I keep my bowl simple – I toss in beef, seafood, balls, greens, and my personal favorite, beancurd skin. I get a pack of noodles, and I'm good to go! Personally, I can handle heat – but I’m not too big on the mala flavor – so I usually just select Level 1 to 2 as my spice level.

While waiting for your bowl to cook, take the time to explore its decent DIY sauce station – it has the usual suspects you see in hotpot restaurants so feel free to mix and match ingredients and sauces. If you’re in the Podium branch and find yourself not too conscious about people passing by your table, do consider sitting outside the restaurant as the spices do tend to stick to your hair and clothes!

Sichu Malatang

Level 5, The Podium, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

Dates of Visit: Multiple