VICTORINO'S

I'll be back in Manila in December and one thing I'm really excited about is the FOOD. I've always believed Filipino food is best home cooked so I don't really frequent local food joints (except Dencio's - I live for their sisig!) but that all changed upon being introduced to Victorino's.

Victorino's Restaurant and Heny Sison's Cakes and Pastries is located at 114 Scout Rallos corner 11th Jamboree, Quezon City, Philippines

The first time I went was for dessert and coffee with my mom. Fun fact, I took baking classes in Heny Sison's Culinary School one summer in college so I knew the pastries were gonna be yummy - I wasn't disappointed. I was already stuffed from dinner prior to arriving but upon seeing Victorino's menu, I told myself that I was definitely coming back. Ilocos is one of my favorite places in the Philippines, and to have authentic Ilocano food in Manila - aside from the empanada - is a huge deal!

I said earlier that Filipino food is best served at home, going to Victorino's is like being in someone's dining room for a gathering. I really appreciate the care in providing a dining atmosphere that is comfy, homey, and traditional yet very classy. Kudos to their service too! I really felt like I was in some rich lola's provincial home being treated to a yummy lunch. But enough about the space, I know you want to see these plates filled up!

Adobong Kangkong with lots of garlic - just the way I like it - to balance out the pork dishes.

Ilocos Best: bagnet and longanisa. THIS. It's the entree I saw during my first visit that guaranteed a second visit. My two favorite things in one plate. Who cares if it's bad for you!?!? The KBL (kamatis, bagoong, and lasona) has veggies anyway.  

Dinardaran. Savory stew of blood and pork face - aka: dinuguan. My mom's poison of choice :)

We were already stuffed once it was time for dessert but hello, it's Heny Sison we're talking about. There's always room for lemon torte. (Although I'm really a red velvet girl.... next time!)

Their coffee is also not bad! Cake and coffee really is the perfect pairing.

All smiles with my date after the meal :)

I highly recommend Victorino's for your Ilocano Filipino food cravings. It's the best way to introduce non-Filipinos to local flavours (aside from sisig, yumyumyum) and I'm already planning my visit next month. ;)

xx