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Spam-tastic Manila
Philippines
Look into any Filipino family’s cupboard right now, and there’s bound to be a can of Spam sitting there. The “low maintenance” meat doesn’t ask for much, after all. You can boil it, fry it, steam it, and you’ve probably tried eating it straight out of the can. It’s funny to think that it started out as war rations from America that was first introduced in the 1940s. For a developing country like the Philippines, a taste of Spam was a taste of America. It’s pervaded everyday life in Asia with 12.8 cans being eaten every second. The luncheon meat represented the American Dream. Another very equally fair conclusion: it’s just delicious. Get proof in the most innovative Spam dishes you can find in Manila!
Two words: Spam Bombs. When you dine at Tipple and Slaw, make sure to order these Japanese umami bites that consist of chopped Spam coated in mashed potatoes then deep fried to perfection. Sprinkle in two kinds of seaweed and served with a side of spicy Tabasco sauce or mayo, and you’ve got your new favorite bar snack.
- +63 917 702 0756
The Pop Up, Katipunan Avenue corner, Xavierville Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Metro Manila, Philippines
Yo!Panda really knows how to change things up. Case in point: Hong Kong-style Spam and Egg Ramen. Instead of the usual ramen staples like pork belly, you’ll be getting two thick cuts of Spam with a sunnyside-up egg. It’s a surprisingly great breakfast for when you need some protein to go with a nice warm soup.
- +63 2 8246 9069 ext. 522
Unit 426 C2 (A) 4th Floor SM Megamall Bldg A, J. VArgas Ave., Wack Wack,, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1550 Metro Manila, Philippines
Hawaiians love their Spam just as much as the Filipinos. They love it so much the team at The Original Hawaiian Bar-B-Que created Hawaiian Spam and Fries. That’s Spam sliced down to the size of french fries served out of the tin can for a more savory take to your side dish.
- +63 46 413 1698
45 Aguinaldo Highway, Silang Crossing East, Tagaytay City, Cavite, Silang Junction South, Tagaytay, Cavite, Philippines
One of the best ways to sober up after a night out is with a nice hearty breakfast. Enter Tipsy Beans. They tailored their “tipsy menu” to satisfy the slightly inebriated, including their Spam Tempura for when you want your luncheon meat with an extra crunch.
- +63 2 7621 3660
St. (Formerly, 50 Domingo M. Guevara, Mandaluyong, 1550 Metro Manila, Philippines
Bubble waffles don’t always have to be saved for dessert. Egg-it makes a savory variation with black peppered Spam in the center of each bubble. If that’s not enough to convince you, they drizzle cheese on the entire waffle for good measure.
- +63 915 269 6424
6F San Rafael St. Corner Sta. Rosa, Kapitolyo, Pasig City, 1603 Metro Manila, Philippines
Get all your favorite Japanese dishes at the authentic Takashi or try something a little different. Try the Spam Curry, Spam Gyoza, or Spam Musubi, which is basically a really big piece of sushi; but, instead of raw fish, it’s a slice of Spam.
- +63 905 510 9554
Pioneer St, Pasig, Metro Manila, Philippines
Stacy’s Spam has got it going on! A popular destination for breakfast and brunch, this homegrown vintage-inspired restaurant serves sweet caramelized Spam cubes in their special Omu Waikiki Rice. Order one to get a giant omelette filled with cheese, mushrooms, fried rice, and, of course, the Spam cubes!
- +63 2 8555 0140
Forbes Tow Center, Rizal Drive Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila, Philippines
You play a dangerous game when you see a tray of maki and say to yourself, “I’ll just have one.” Sn’p & Roll cranks that game into hard mode with their special Spam Maki. Before you know it, you’ll have eaten the whole plate and you’ll still be wondering, “Maybe just one more.”
- +63 905 939 0819
I Barangay, 30 Poblacion Rd, Valenzuela, Metro Manila, Philippines
Spam can be anything, and pasta topping is no exception. Try Milky and Sunny’s Bacon and Spam Pasta to see how it’s done! Get a mouthful of al dente penne drenched in super rich cream and cheese sauce topped with bacon bits and chunks of Spam. You don’t need any more reasons to figure out just how comforting this dish is!
- +63 2 7369 2174
62 Sgt. Esguerra Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Sometimes, simplicity is best. Rice dishes are part and parcel of every Filipino meal, but Pi Breakfast and Pies finds a way to mix it up. Here, they serve caramelized Spam over either plain or kimchi fried rice with sesame seeds, egg, pesto, and spring onions on top. Give this place a try for when you’re looking for something familiar with a little side of adventure.
- +6329312337
39 Malingap, Teacher's Village, Lungsod Quezon, 1101 Kalakhang Maynila, Philippines
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