First Look: Manila Bistro Offers Flavors of the Philippines in Kirkwood

By Mabel Suen Thu., Nov. 8 2012 at 7:00 AM

Categories: First Look

Continued from page 1

Mabel Suen

Bombais' cousin Nel Delacruz serves up a freshly fried order of "Lumpia Manila."

Manila Bistro's menu offers more traditional Filipino fare than street food, with wine and beer options to unwind with. When asked to characterize Filipino cuisine for the uninitiated, Bombais explains that terminology is historically heavily influenced by Spain.

He adds, "Filipino food may be similar to other Asian cuisines, but the ingredients and spices are a bit different."

Mabel Suen

"Pinakbet" with bitter melon, yellow squash, okra, long beans, tomato and eggplant.

This means the use of vegetables that don't get nearly enough play on Western menus. Ask for dishes with the likes of bok choy, Napa, chayote, mustard greens, eggplant and bitter melon. For those unfamiliar with entrees such as "Tinolang Manok" (chicken and vegetables in ginger-based soup), "Sinigang na Baboy" (pork rib tips and vegetables in tamarind based soup) and "Bicol Express" (fresh yellow squash and hot chilies in coconut milk), worry not, for the full menu comes complete with these explanations, and a friendly staff happily assists with dining decisions.