Our Roots: The Family Story Behind the Restaurant
The journey of our family-owned restaurant traces its origins to a humble eatery nestled in the vibrant streets of Manila, the De Los Reyes Snack Bar. Established in 1968 by our grandmother, Teresa De Los Reyes, this small establishment quickly became a beloved spot in the community. Known for her delightful pancit and authentic adobo, Teresa’s culinary prowess and the warmth she extended to every patron were the cornerstones of her success. The snack bar thrived for decades, embodying the rich, cultural tapestry of Filipino cuisine.
In the face of changing times and the bustling nature of the food industry, our family decided to embark on a new chapter. 2023 marked the rebranding and expansion of our family’s culinary legacy into a full-fledged restaurant, now spearheaded by the third generation. With this new venture, the flavors that defined our childhood and the traditions that shaped our culinary ethos are brought to a broader audience. Driven by a passion for sharing the soulful essence of Filipino cuisine, we aim to provide an authentic dining experience that honors both our heritage and our grandmother’s vision.
Each member of the family plays a vital role in this endeavor. My father, Alejandro, oversees recipe integrity, ensuring each dish remains true to its roots while my mother, Maria, focuses on integrating new influences without compromising authenticity. My siblings and I manage various aspects from customer relations to restaurant operations, united by a shared love for our cultural heritage and the culinary secrets passed down through generations. Family traditions, like our Sunday cooking sessions and festive gatherings, infuse our menu with nostalgia and authenticity, ensuring every dish tells a story.
Ultimately, our family-owned restaurant is more than just a business. It is a homage to our grandmother’s enduring legacy, a celebration of the richness of Filipino cuisine, and a heartfelt testament to the values and traditions that bind us together. We aspire to create not just meals, but memorable experiences that connect our community to the very heart of Filipino culture.
A Taste of Tradition: Our Culinary Offerings
Stepping into our family-owned restaurant is an invitation to savor the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine, deeply rooted in our heritage. Our menu serves as a culinary journey through time-honored recipes, filled with authentic Filipino flavors and prepared with a meticulous attention to detail. We have curated an array of dishes that celebrate the diversity and depth of our culinary traditions while introducing subtle, modern twists to please contemporary palates.
Among our signature dishes, you will find the iconic Adobo, lovingly slow-cooked in a blend of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of bay leaves, offering a perfect balance of savory and tangy notes. Another favorite is the savory Sinigang, a tamarind-based soup brimming with a medley of vegetables and tender meats that encapsulate the essence of Filipino comfort food.
Our Kare-Kare is a must-try, featuring a rich peanut sauce poured over perfectly stewed oxtail and vegetables, paired with a side of bagoong for an additional burst of flavor. We’ve also given a modern twist to some classics, such as our Lechon belly which is presented in mini-bite sizes that are perfect for sharing or as a delightful appetizer.
The restaurant prides itself on maintaining authenticity through the use of fresh, local ingredients. Our Lumpiang Sariwa (fresh spring rolls) are a testament to this commitment, filled with crisp vegetables sourced from nearby farms. We take great care in preparation, employing traditional cooking methods passed down through generations to maintain the integrity of each dish.
To further immerse our guests in Filipino culture, we host special events such as Kamayán nights, where diners can enjoy a traditional Filipino feast served on banana leaves and eaten with hands, enhancing the communal dining experience. Seasonal dishes also make frequent appearances on our menu, highlighting the best of what each season has to offer.
Moreover, we engage with our community through interactive cooking classes where participants can learn how to prepare beloved Filipino dishes, sharing the joy and passion we have for our culinary heritage. Local partnerships ensure that we give back to the community that supports us, further enriching the dining experience.
We invite you to visit our restaurant and indulge in the flavors that define our family’s culinary journey. Each dish is crafted with love, tradition, and a touch of innovation, promising a memorable experience that honors the vibrant spirit of Filipino cuisine.