Bangkok’s food scene just keeps surprising us! Think it couldn’t get any more diverse? Think again. From Italian trattorias and French bistros to fiery Indian curries, the city has it all. But what about the flavours of our neighbours? Can you taste them in the Big Mango? The answer, increasingly, is yes!
Take Filipino cuisine, for example. It’s not as widely known as some, but that just means there’s more to discover. Enter Kalamansi Kafe, a cosy spot serving home-style Filipino dishes that’ll have you coming back for more. Curious about adobo or halo-halo? This is your gateway to the Philippines.
Located in Soi Suan Phlu, Kalamansi Kafe is named after a citrus fruit central to Filipino cooking.. Its story began during the Covid-19 lockdown when owner Sandy Lopez and her daughters started sharing their roots through delivery meals. What started in their home kitchen soon blossomed into a full-fledged restaurant, thanks to Sandy’s partnership with her sister Glecy, an experienced cook. And just like that, Bangkok gained an inviting new spot to savour the bold, authentic flavours of the Philippines.
Step inside, and you’re welcomed with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. It’s as if you’re being greeted by family. Even the decor tells a story—don’t miss the striking painting of a carabao (the national animal of the Philippines), a nod to the country’s heritage and traditions.
So, what makes Filipino food so special? It’s the incredible blend of influences – Chinese, Malay, Spanish, and American – that come together in exciting ways. If you’ve never tried it, prepare for a culinary adventure! The flavours are bold yet balanced, with a mix of sweet, sour, and savoury notes that are less spicy than Thai cuisine but just as delicious.
Not sure where to start? Begin with the chicharon bulaklak (B275), crispy pork ruffles paired with garlic and spiced vinegar – crunchy and addictive! For the main course, you can’t miss the pork belly adobo (B298), a Filipino classic made with tender pork belly braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. It comes with crispy adobo flakes, a soft-boiled egg, and plenty of sauce – don’t forget the rice to soak it all up! Want something heartier? Try the oxtail kare kare (B540), a comforting dish with peanut sauce, banana heart, and sauteed shrimp paste. Seafood lovers, the sugpo sa gata (B790) is a must! These jumbo prawns cooked in coconut milk, garlic and chili are pure indulgence.
Finish your meal with a true crowd-pleaser: halo-halo. This dynamic dessert layers ube ice cream, leche flan, jackfruit, adzuki beans, and more into a colourful, sweet masterpiece. Grab the single serving (B145) for yourself or go big with the barkada size (B380), large enough to share with ten of your closest friends.
Don’t forget the drinks! The gin pom pom (B350) is their playful twist on a Filipino favourite. Fresh pomelo, pomegranate juice, and gin come together in a sparkling pink cocktail served in a perfume-style bottle – complete with glitter. It’s as fun to sip as it is to admire.
Kalamansi Kafe is your ticket to the Philippines, right here in Bangkok. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Filipino food or a first-timer, this is one dining experience you won’t want to miss.