4.5 stars.
Sorry,…read moreguys - I'm still catching up on my reviews and am kicking myself for failing to write this before Spoon & Pork permanently shut its doors. This was an unforgettable eatery.
During our trip to Los Angeles in May, 2023, Wendell invited Jay, Z and me to meet up with Veda and him for a late lunch at 2 PM at one of their favourite Filipino restaurants, Spoon & Pork, on Sunday, the 7th.
Spoon & Pork, which originated as a food truck, was a restaurant that specialized in Filipino comfort food with a contemporary twist. They offered a fresh, inventive fusion of the flavours of the Philippines with modern sophistication.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles' Silver Lake neighbourhood, Spoon & Pork was a cozy boutique eatery on bustling Sunset Boulevard that greeted guests with a neon pig sign at their front entrance. No private lot on this busy street, so finding nearby parking was a bit challenging and although the charming spot offered both indoor and al fresco dining, seating was also limited. The tropical-inspired dining room with warm wood accents created an effortlessly cool and relaxed atmosphere that felt both modern and rooted in tradition. Upon entry, guests were welcomed by the aroma of sizzling meats and fragrant spices which alluded to the culinary journeys to come.
The food at Spoon & Pork wasn't exactly what one's nanay (mom) or lola (grandma) would cook. Celebrating fresh takes on the richness of Filipino cuisine, the menu was an invitation to indulge in unexpected, compelling twists on a thoughtfully curated selection of traditional dishes, infusing familiar flavours into new forms.
Below are what we ordered:
beef tapa ($25) - MASARAP (DELICIOUS)! Of all the dishes that we ordered, this was the winner of them all as the succulent meat packed a punch of flavour.
adobo tofu ($14) - One of Wendell's regular orders, this notable plant-based option, was a tasty, innovative take on the Philippine classic that balanced tradition with modern creativity.
laing ($9) - From their platito, small plates section, this bowl of coconut braised taro leaves was rich and creamy deliciousness, but, yes, mini in portion size.
garlic rice ($4/$7) - Ordering the garlic rice over plain jasmine rice was a no brainer. Thoroughly infused with the savouriness of the many bits of garlic, this rice perfectly paired with all of the other dishes.
bistek ($28) - The skirt steak was very tender and the sauce perfectly balanced the tanginess from the calamansi juice with the savoury soy sauce.
lechon kawali ($23) - Another reimagined classic dish featuring crispy, golden pork belly with crunchy skin and tender, flavourful meat inside. The dish was complemented by a tangy, pickled red cabbage that enhanced the crispy texture and added a refreshing contrast. This mastery of flavour and texture tickled Z's tastebuds and won him over. Before this day, Z was never a fan of Filipino food.
Everything tasted boldly rich and every bit intensely intoxicated our taste buds.
Service was quick, friendly, and attentive.
What a remarkably epicurean feast and delightful experience we enjoyed!
We're super bummed that Spoon & Pork permanently closed shoppe. Z and I were hoping to return for another tasty meal. Truly, a worthy spot this place was to hit up for an impressively creative taste of the Philippines in Los Angeles.