The city of Malabon was formerly known as Tambobong. It was known as a place that was abundant with tambo (grass), so it was named so. The city then became known for their labong, edible bamboo shoots commonly prepared as atchara, adobo, with coconut milk, or stir-fry. Malabon has opened itself for tourists who wants to experience a different feel of the city life. Aside from the ancestral houses and centuries-old churches, they also have interesting places which can be visited for fun, food and relaxation.
WHERE TO EAT
Jamicos Restaurant
201 Gen. Luna St. Malabon City
281-4193
Jamicos Restaurant has been the home of the famous Judy Ann Crispy Pata (Jumbo at P450; Super Jumbo at P500) for 40 years now. This is the brainchild of Remigio Antonio, and is named after the youngest daughter. This dish is one of Malabon’s pride: they make sure that one pata would not exceed to two kilos as the quality would greatly differ. The sweet and crunchy skin covers the juicy meat after being deep fried to perfection.
Judy Ann Crispy Pata
Palmeras Bistro
Paseo de San Antonio Commerical Complex, Gov. Pascual Ave., Bgy. Catmon, 1470 Malabon, Rizal
441 4332
Palmeras is the first restaurant to have introduced a fine dining experience in Malabon. It has actually been five years in the making, and has only been in business for three years now. The passion and the vigorous planning was worth it, according to Jay Robles, owner of the said restaurant.
Asked which dish he would recommend, he mentiones the Osso Kaldereta (P380) since it’s his favorite. Their dishes are the usual homecooked meals but presented in a gourmet style which attracts their customers, especially Malabonians. The Creamy Tomato Pasta (P200), Shrimp Salpicao (P235), Deconstructed Pla-Pla (P210) and Tokwa’t Baboy Twist (P195) are a few of their must-try dishes.
Creamy Tomato Pasta
Osso Kaldereta
Shrimp Salpicao
Deconstructed Pla-Pla
Tokwa’t Baboy Twist
Cups and Cones
247 General Luna St. Concepcion Malabon City
294-2194
A bright homey atmosphere is always a big plus. Not only does Cups and Cones have a lovely interior, but they offer appetizing food to go with it as well. The restaurant has a variety of comfort food that will surely make you forget about a stressful day.
A plate of their creamy Tuna Carbonara (P110) is filling, but do order it to pair with their Fish Salad (solo at P220; double at P290) and share it with friends. Have a different kind of tapa and order their Horse Tapa (P110) which is a must-try according to Emma Soriano, owner.
Tuna Carbonara
Horse Tapa
For the sweet tooth, you can choose among the cakes that are freshly made by them: Blueberry Cheesecake (P140), Triple Chocolate (P110) and S’mores (P120). Try their Brownie ala Mode (P130), which is a crisp but moist ensemble, and the Banana Crepe (P100). Their crepe receives a lot of compliments because of the light texture of the batter. Soriano, who is a big fan of crepes, made sure that they serve something that she knows is perfect and her customers will enjoy.
Triple Chocolate
S’mores
Brownie ala Mode
Banana Crepe
Cocina Luna
144 General Luna St. Brgy. Ibaba Malabon City
373-1420
With the tinted window outside, the idea of how the inside looks like will spark curiousity in you. The interior has an industrial design as described by the 26-year old owner/chef, Anna Alcala. Asked how their Tapa (P120) is different among the others, she says that it’s shredded and has a distinct taste to it. The pungent taste of the shredded tapa is complemented by their sauce which is a special vinegar that’s prepped by them.
Another must-try is their special Pulled Pork Burgers (P150) which is a three-piece miniature buns with pulled pork in their original barbecue sauce topped with bacon, cheese and fried onion rings.
Tapa
WHAT TO SEE
Angel Cacnio Heritage House and Art Gallery
What’s interesting in Malabon is that almost all (if not all) the heritage houses are still occupied by their owners. We had the privilege to visit Angel Cacnio’s home which has all their family’s art pieces.
The Cacnio family’s work is one of Malabon’s pride when it comes to art. Noted painter Angel Cacnio’s works won prizes in various competitions. He is also the one who made the design that were used for the 25 and 50-centavo coins back in 1982-1983. He also designed the 20-peso and 100-peso bills that are still in circulation. His family has an art gallery in Brgy. Hulong Duhat. Here, various art exhibits are held featuring famous artists to novice painters. Their home is open to those who appreciate art and culture.
San Bartolome Church
This year, the San Bartolome Church celebrates its 400th year. The intricate design of the facade and interior is a must-see for those who are huge on architectural design.
WHAT TO BUY
Eat and bring home Pancit Malabon
Who could resist their ever so famous Pancit Malabon? Its thick noodles, bright yellow sauce and rich ingredients like shrimp, squid, oyster, crab fat and duck eggs are combined exquisitely.
Nanay’s Pancit Malabon
Have a Colorful Salo-Salo with Sapin-Sapin
A visit to Malabon should not end without trying and taking home a bilao of Sapin-Sapin from Aling Dolor’s Kakanin. The bright colors are the first things that would attract you to this sweet treat, but wait until you chew on the soft layered glutinous rice. You’ll wonder why other people even attempt to make versions of this if you’ve tried Aling Dolor’s!
Aling Dolor’s Sapin-Sapin
The delicious food choices, colorful history, and friendly smiles of Malabon will definitely make you want to stay. Good thing it’s just a drive away!
GETTING THERE
By Bus:
From EDSA, ride a northbound bus going to UE, Monumento, or Letre. Alight the bus at Letre dropoff point.
By Train + Bus:
Take the LRT and get down at Monumento. Board a bus going to UE, Letre, or Navotas. Alight at Letre dropoff point.
Within Malabon, you may take a jeepney, trike, or simply walk around to get to the different spots around the city. Taxicabs are also available.
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Additional photos by Jericho San Miguel.
