With the rise of new food concepts and being surrounded by countless restaurants, people always have something new to explore. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to expand your palate and enjoy new food. But just in case you want to go back to basics to the food you grew up eating, what would that be?
Mine would be Filipino cuisine specifically Ilocano and Chavacano dishes BUT I don't limit myself with these two. In fact, I also love dishes from other regions and I happen to know a place where you can enjoy them.
In Tomas Morato Quezon City, there is a street called Scout Limbaga. There you will find a two-storey white house with large window frames. The house was actually built in the '60s but was converted into a restaurant four years ago and is now known as Limbaga 77 Cafe Restaurant.
I've passed by the area countless times but this was the first time I set foot on the place. Seeing the facade up close, the cozy al fresco area with wide brick wall, the beautiful interior and staircase reminded me so much of summer vacations at our ancestral home. I really felt at home and ready to try their classic Filipino dishes.
Take note, I was invited by Zomato along with other foodies/ food bloggers to sample the following dishes by Limbaga 77 Cafe Restaurant.
Green Mango Pomelo Salad
Stuffed Bulaklak ng Kalabasa
Pochero
Bistek Tagalog
Sinigang na Baka sa Pakwan
Roasted Chicken
Buffalo Wings
Crispy Bagnet
Limbaga 77 Stuffed Laing
Danggit Rice
Bagoong Rice
Limbaga 77 Paella
Drinks
Mabuhay Smoothie, Minty Mango Watermelon Shake, Lychee Grape Shake and Grass Citrus Iced Tea
Dessert
Perlas ng Mangga, Davao Tablea Cake, Brazo Tablea, Queso de Bola Cheesecake, Barako Brownie Mousse, Bikoron
All the dishes served were delicious BUT there are five dishes that I truly enjoyed and would like to taste again.
First on my list is the Stuffed Bulaklak ng Kalabasa - squash blossoms with ground pork mixed with local white cheese, cheddar cheese, spring and white onions and garlic in beef stock. I have to admit this dish is new to me and I was shocked by how the flavors complement each other. I couldn't help but ask for more.
Second is the Spanish rice dish called Paella. Limbaga 77's version consists of chicken chorizo, clams, egg, mussels, shrimp and squid. It was indeed an exciting explosion of flavors. Take note though that this is only available through advance orders because cooking time is 30 minutes to 45 minutes.
Third is Laing, a generic term for taro (gabi) leaves cooked in gata. This is actually a personal favorite. I'm happy that Limbaga 77's Stuffed Laing which consists of fresh taro leaves with ground pork and white shrimp in chicken stock and coco milk mixed with lemongrass, white onion and garlic reminded me of home.
The fourth one is really simple, it's Danggit Rice. Why do I love it? Imagine fried rice with dried rabbitfish and scallions, mixed with sliced scrambled eggs, onions and tomatoes. It's classic Filipino and simply delicious. Last but not the least is the Barako Brownie Mousse. I enjoyed the smooth creamy balance perfect for ending a lovely meal.
Thoughts...
My first dining experience at Limbaga 77 was a delight. Not only do they offer a variety of great classic Filipino dishes, their place is perfect for solo diners, couples and groups. The only problem is they're a bit lacking at the dessert department. I was actually expecting a lot from the Davao Tablea Cake because it looked really special. In addition, the Bikoron is quite promising but you have to eat it right away to fully enjoy its flavors.
Are you ready to enjoy a CLASSIC Filipino meal? Head over to 77 Scout Limbaga Street, Laging Handa, Quezon City!
P.S Flat lay was arrange by John Bunag
Happy eating!
