Looky what I found!! A Filipino restaurant in Mesa!! Apparently they moved from their former location in Phoenix, which was a great move because Mesa is a hub for the Asian community! Although this new location doesn't seem to be thriving, I feel that it is up and coming.
I had to get noodles in honor of my mom's birthday. Filipinos (and most Asians) always have to have pancit or some kind of noodle dish which symbolizes a long and healthy life. Mom is all the way in Hawaii, but I'll always get noods when it's anyone's birthday in my family. I ended up with the Palabok and Sisig dishes. I ordered them to go. Jhoanna took my order at the register and Dianne was the one who handed my order to me when it was ready. She also gave me a stamp card so I can get a free drink or rice plate once I have 9 stamps on it. In addition, there's another card with a QR code that I need to scan and order from in order to get $10 off. How cool!
The restaurant isn't huge, but it's well decorated and makes you feel like you're really in the Philippines. The little shack is filled with goodies, snacks and even Sunsilk shampoo/conditioners! If you know, you know!! Everything appeared clean and tidy. I'm extremely picky when it comes to Filipino restaurants, but this one has passed the test for me!
The Palabok was flavorful and I was pleasantly surprised by the good size portion. I have always compared everyone else's palabok to mom's amd none have even come close. I think this is the first time that I've tasted someone else's version of it, but this comes pretty damn close!! I am also a sucker for Sisig all day everyday, and this one fit the bill. Next time, I plan on eating it there specifically because the crispy pork is best when it's served fresh. From what others have posted, it looks like they serve this dish on a sizzling platter! I am all for that!
When I ordered, Jhoanna asked if I wanted the Palabok "overload" or "regular." I asked what the overload was, and she said it came with a lumpia and something else on top. I told her I wanted that one, but I didn't get it. Maybe she forgot to punch it into the register, but I wasn't charged extra for it, so no harm no foul.
There is no shortage of parking here and they have average prices with good portions. They also have a couple of boba drinks, but I was good and didn't get any this visit. The one thing that I loved about this place is how genuine and earm.the employees are. Dianne and Jhoanna both thanked me multiple times saying, " Yes po, thank you po!" Whenever you say "po" in Tagalog, it's a sign of respect, especially for elders. That was so nice of them!
I will be back for sure to try other dishes here. Thank you Tambayan Filipino Eatery!! Keep up the great work! Highly recommend it! read more