Kabayan Filipino Restaurant (Lucky Plaza)

Trying Filipino food as a Singaporean Chinese, I found it both familiar and surprisingly different at the same time. There is a lot of comfort in the flavours, especially when it comes to rice, slow-cooked meats, and hearty home-style cooking, but the taste profile also stands out with its stronger use of vinegar, garlic, citrus, and sweetness. It feels less about sharp spice and more about deep, rich, savoury flavours with a slightly tangy edge.

What I enjoyed most is that Filipino food feels very soulful and unpretentious. The dishes are usually bold, filling, and made to be eaten properly with rice, which is something very relatable for us. At the same time, some dishes lean sweeter than what I am personally used to in Chinese cuisine, so it took a bit of adjustment for my palate. But once I got used to that balance of salty, sour, and sweet, I could appreciate how comforting and addictive it is.

Overall, Filipino food left a very warm impression on me. It feels like food made for family gatherings, sharing, and satisfaction rather than just presentation. As a Singaporean Chinese, I would say it is approachable, hearty, and worth exploring, especially if you enjoy robust flavours and rice-based meals with a homely touch.

Also called Coconut Pudding, this is made from coconut milk, cornstarch, and sugar. Corn kernels are also added to give added sweetness and crunch. Thick and creamy, this was similar to the Nyonya kueh of my childhood. The toasted coconut flakes at the side also paired so well with the pudding. Delicious!

Tosilog is actually a combination of the different components of the meal - Tocino (cured pork), Sinangang (garlic fried rice), and Itlog (egg). The cured pork was so thick and flavourful, almost like a version of charsiu with sweetness to it, but might be somewhat tough for some. The Sinangang was the star of the show though, so fragrant and aromatic and paired so well with the meat and egg. The soup was sour (in a good way) and helped to cut through the oiliness. Overall, enjoyed this meal.

Lechon and sinigang with rice and halo-halo dessert. #burpple #tingzieeats

Feeling Blessed. ☺️
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Was treated to a terrific Filipino feast. We had Caldereta (beef stew), Kare-Kare (stew in savory peanut sauce), Sisig, Pinakbet (mixed vegetables cooked in bagoong). The highlight of all was my first time having Bulalo (a beef marrow stew)! Love it! 😋
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#Filipino_Food #yummy #Filipino #Singapore

$7.50 pinoy fare:):) jammed packed with flavor, roasted pork, chicken heart and liver with some long bean and prawns:) delightful hearty experience:)