This is my very first experience with beef pares.
That said, it's only natural they get to set the bar!
If you drive too fast, you'll miss it. I was a passenger and I missed it myself. (Honestly, I wasn't even sure where to look - I'm not from around here.) I was lucky enough to know locals who recommended this place, so it wasn't an issue finding it.
Parking was very challenging, but we lucked out and found one right up front (someone just happened to pull away and opened up a spot) so we found our way inside immediately.
It's a no muss-no fuss place. Their menu is whatever the tarpauline clearly shows. It is extensive - there are various types of combinations, so take the time to go through every single one and read descriptions and you will find one you might wanna try.
I went for the cardiac pares. It comes with a cup of garlic rice and side of soup to start. The starter soup was full of flavor and somehow boosted my appetite even more. (Not really sure if that makes sense!)
I finally got to the pares bowl itself and it was HEAVEN!!! The meat was cooked so tender, the broth was seasoned so well and had some serious depth. I was a little concerned that the bone marrow was on the reddish side, but was told that's how it's supposed to be/look, so I ran with it and it was delicious. But this is one hearty and heavy meal.
I ordered a side of white rice. I felt the garlic rice was far too distracting from the main essence of the stew. I'd recommend doing this!
FOOD: 4.
SERVICE: 4. Servers were very friendly and tended to us as needed.
VALUE: 5. Way more than fair for tourists like me, probably reasonable (at best) for locals. The portions were semi-generous.
PARKING: Definitely a challenge. Plan accordingly.
OVERALL: 4.75.
It is NOT healthy eats, please keep that in mind, so I wouldn't recommend this for frequent grub runs. Moderate is key, so once in a long while is good, something to have on "cheat days" that kinda thing. But I'll say this: it is one good treat!
Not too bad for a first run! I was very impressed - enough that my bowl was empty by the time I was done.
There are many other places to try (just for the sake of comparing) but this place is the one to beat! So glad of the discovery! read more