30 pesos for a meal. That would be very very difficult to beat anywhere in Metro Manila. That's what Lovelite of University of Santo Tomas lore gives you. Its siomai rice meal (4 or 5 pieces of dumplings) has legendary status amongst Thomasians (what UST students are called), and has always been a favorite for many. Lovelite is located along Asturias Street, one of the backstreets of the over 400-year-old university. For those not familiar with the campus, the gate nearest to Asturias is closest to the Medicine Building that has honed and shaped some of the best medical professionals that the country has produced through the years. Naturally, it's a go-to place for many Med and pre-Med students. It is also convenient because the establishment actually also functions as a copy center, and is located amidst all the medical supply stores. I was once a "victim" of the rigors of this field (I tapped out, soon enough). Lovelite's siomai rice meal (even cheaper back then at 28 pesos) just made sense for me at that time, and surely, it still is perfect for student life. Rough day after flunking an anatomy exam? Head to Lovelite to feel better. On a budget and saving up for the next big concert? Head to Lovelite to save. Lord knows what they put in that siomai for them to be able to sell at such a low price, but I actually would much rather keep it this way not knowing. Pretty much the only issue here is if (and when) heavy rain falls. One will most probably require a boat to get that Lovelite fix. read more