Asian Culinary Experience at Makansutra Megamall

Five days before Christmas I had the chance to visit Makansutra Megamall. I’ve seen the place but never got really curious about it. Besides, when in the area, exploring new restaurants is the last thing on my mind. I’m always up and about attending events and I know that there will always be food one way or another.

My last restaurant review was in July. Nothing followed after that, so this was an opportunity for a new discovery. The moment I stepped in Makansutra Hawkers, I felt like I’m in a small-scale food court. There are food stalls all around, chairs and tables at the center, though I did see some dining area with more privacy. The only noticeable difference is that I don’t see prepared food on display that diners can buy and immediately bring to the table to eat. Foods are cooked upon order.

As I was there to do a review, I didn’t get to experience the ordering and waiting. As soon as food started to arrive, all the guests were caught in the frantic moment of taking pictures of all the dishes. All the foods were in microwavable containers, making me realize that the foods are available for take out.

Then suddenly, a familiar face greeted us. I immediately checked the restaurant’s Instagram account to confirm my hunch. I was right, the guy is KF Seetoh and Chef JJ Yulo! KF Seetoh is a TV host and a food consultant. I recognized them because I watched a show with both of them touring the Philippines for food. KF is actually the owner of Makansutra Hawkers!

The original Makansutra is found in Singapore, which I learned, is located in an open space. It is literally a hawkers place where everyone can enjoy street food. As a matter of fact, it’s considered one of the “must  visit” as far as places to eat in Singapore. Too bad we don’t have a place like that in the Philippines that everyone, locals and foreigners alike, can regularly frequent.

KF Seetoh believes that the Philippine culinary scene is on a renaissance period – a gastronomy revolution. He observes that we are ditching dishes with foreign influences such as Spanish and American dishes, in favor of truly Filipino dishes. I can’t help but agree. I do see foreign brands coming in to the Philippine shore, but I also see the growth of Filipino restaurants with dishes that are true tothe  Filipino core, and some fused with certain influences.

At one point I attended an event in a restaurant that served “isaw” (grilled chicken intestines) for appetizer. Another serving desserts from a particular region. The dining experience was enjoyable in both instances. Indeed, there are stories behind Filipino dishes that makes dining even more interesting. Those experiences made me think that KF Seetoh is spot on with his observation.

And he wants to be part of the food explosion in the Philippines, prompting him to bring Makansutra to the local food scene. The dishes served at the restaurant are all regional favorites such as Laksa, Satay, Roti Prata, just to name a few. These dishes are part of Asian heritage that we can now enjoy anytime of the day.

This is not the first time for me to enjoy these kind of dishes. I’ve been to restaurants here in the Philippines showcasing Asian dishes. But I have a feeling that I will be frequenting Makansutra Megamall. Aside from having an Asian culinary journey, this place has that really casual, outdoorsy feel. It’s not intimidating, even if I eat alone. Of course, the place is perfect for groups of foodies, family and friends.

As a matter of fact, I highly recommend you come in groups when you dine at Makansutra Megamall. That way, you can order more food and savor the flavors of Asia. We learned that the restaurant will have new offerings in time for the Chinese New Year. I’ll keep you posted for that. You can also visit the restaurant’s website for more details. Have an Asian culinary adventure at Makansutra, located at the 2nd floor of Building A, SM Megamall.