Where Gelo Eats

GACHA by High Table

🍴(FORKMARK RATING): 9.1/10

📍 Casa Mia, J.P. Rizal St., Project 4, Quezon City, Metro Manila

💰 PRICE RANGE: $$

A Fusion of the Beloved and the Familiar:

Gacha is a Filipino-Japanese fusion restaurant that serves up comfort food in a way that feels entirely fresh yet deeply nostalgic. Behind this brilliant concept is a powerhouse team led by Chef Martin (of FEATR and Llamado).

🏆 Why the Hype is Real

Since opening in early 2025, Gacha has consistently delivered unique dishes that showcase both technical craftsmanship and a genuine love for fresh ingredients. The menu hits that sweet spot—simple and nostalgic, yet excitingly new to the palate.

🥩 The Flavor Profile: Filipino-Japanese Fusion

The menu is carefully curated to offer a different take on local delicacies. Each dish is executed with precision, ensuring that the flavor combinations remain harmonious and never confusing.

👀 The Standout Performers

While the Japanese influence is a highlight, it never overpowers the soul of the local dishes.
I can safely say that the Kakuni (braised pork served over a bowl of rice with edamame and topped with bonito flakes) is the absolute showstopper. It is a masterclass in balance and texture.

⚖️ The Honest Verdict

We loved everything. Every dish had its own moment in the spotlight and truly deserves "must-try" status. While a few items felt slightly outside the core fusion theme, I discovered that Gacha frequently rotates their menu—a bold and smart move that keeps the experience dynamic.

💡 Pro-Tips for Your Visit

• Share the Love: Dishes are perfectly portioned for 2–3 people. With such friendly pricing, don’t be shy—order across the menu!

• Arrive Early: Parking is first-come, first-served and quite limited.

FAMILY FRIED CHICKEN

🍴(FORKMARK RATING): 7.5/10

📍 Robinsons Metro East branch

A Taste of the 90s: Why This Zamboanga Icon is Still a Family Favorite
What started as a local comfort food secret in Zamboanga City has evolved into a beloved household staple. If you’re looking for a dining experience that feels like a warm hug from your Lola, Family Fried Chicken (FFC) is calling your name.

🏆 Why the Hype is Real

Founded in the 90s, FFC built its reputation on traditional Filipino-Chinese (Fil-Chi) dishes that hit right at the heart of home. It quickly became the "go-to" spot for Sunday lunches and celebratory dinners. The star of the show? Their Signature Whole Fried Chicken, paired with a sauce so iconic it practically has its own fan club.

🥩 The Flavor Profile: Nostalgia on a Plate

The menu is a curated trip down memory lane, focusing on simple, honest flavors without the unnecessary "fluff."

• Family Fried Chicken: A whole marinated chicken, deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s crispy, juicy, and tastes like home.

• Beef in Pepper Sauce: Succulent beef stir-fried in a fragrant, bold black pepper sauce.

• Pork Meatball Soup: A clean, light, and heartwarming broth—perfect for "cleansing" the palate.

• Pancit Chami: It’s glossy, slightly thick, and coats every single strand with its rich flavorful sauce.

• Sweet & Sour Pork: A vibrant masterpiece featuring juicy pineapples and fresh vegetables, achieving that elusive, perfect balance of tang and sugar.

👀 The Standout Performers

While the chicken is the headliner, the Sauce Trinity is what seals the deal. You get three distinct vibes:

1. Thick Sweet-Soy: Reminiscent of a rich Asado sauce.
2. Homemade Sweet Chili: For that gentle kick.
3. Tangy Spicy Vinegar: The ultimate Filipino "sawsawan."

The Dark Horse: While everyone comes for the chicken, the Sweet & Sour Pork is the sleeper hit that consistently steals the spotlight!

⚖️ The Honest Verdict

Let’s be real: the "Fil-Chi fried chicken" scene is crowded. While FFC might not reinvent the wheel for some, its consistency and nostalgia make it a top-tier contender for a weekend family feast.

It’s approachable, unpretentious, and the pricing is incredibly fair, making it easy to host a large gathering without breaking the bank.

💡 Pro-Tips for Your Visit

• Share the Love: Dishes are perfectly portioned for 2–3 people. Since the prices are so friendly, don’t be shy—order across the menu!

• Easy Access: We visited the Robinsons Metro East branch. Parking is a breeze there, though it’s always wise to arrive a little early during the Sunday lunch rush.

• The Sauce Hack: Don't choose—mix and match the sauces with every bite of chicken to find your personal favorite combo!

💰PRICE RANGE: $$

**FORKMARK RATINGS are based on HONEST and UNBIASED REVIEW.

Farmer's Daughter Restaurant

🍴(FORKMARK RATING): 7.6/10

📍 Baguio, Benguet

🪵 Smoke, Salt, & Heritage: A Pilgrimage to Farmer’s Daughter:

We finally made the trek to what felt like the heartbeat of Cordilleran cuisine—the original Farmer’s Daughter. This isn't just a meal; it’s a masterclass in straightforward, comforting gastronomy.

🏆 Why the Hype is Real:

There’s a reason this spot earned its stripes as one of Asia’s Best Restaurants. They aren't chasing trends; they are mastering ancient techniques. By honoring homegrown ingredients and traditional preservation methods, they’ve created a magnetic pull for locals and globetrotters alike.

🥩 The Flavor Profile:

The menu is a love letter to the highlands, specializing in deep, rustic flavors:
• Kinuday: Artfully smoked pork.
• Pinuneg: Rich, traditional blood sausage.
• Etag: Cured, salted pork that defines "savory."
• Pak-Pako: Crisp river-fern salad to cut through the richness.

👀 The Standout:

The Kinuday jen Baboy (Stir-fried Smoked Pork) stole the show. It’s a literal umami bomb—the salty-sweet balance proves that you don't need a pantry full of spices when your technique is this refined.

⚖️ The Honest Verdict:

Let’s be real: this is authentic gastronomy. Because they stay true to traditional curing, some textures are tough, chewy, or aggressively salty. It’s a bold profile that might challenge the uninitiated, but for a true cultural immersion? It’s an absolute essential. The long line is a small price to pay for a taste of history.

💡 Pro-Tips for your Visit:

• Portions: Dishes are perfect for sharing between 2. Since the prices are incredibly friendly, don’t be afraid to over-order!

• Ask Away: If you aren't adventurous with "nose-to-tail" dining, ask the staff about the ingredients. You don’t want a surprise encounter with pork innards if that’s not your vibe!

• Parking: Spots at the resto are limited. If you’re a pro at parallel roadside parking, you’ll be just fine.

💰PRICE RANGE: $$

**FORKMARK RATINGS are based on HONEST and UNBIASED REVIEW.

Hay Diner Baguio

🍴(FORKMARK RATING): 7.2/10

📍 Center, Sheridan Dr, Camp John Hay, Baguio, Benguet

Step into a time machine at HAY DINER, where retro-chic meets the rustic charm of Baguio! Nestled among towering pine trees with a stunning view of the golf course, this spot serves up American comfort food with a delightful twist. Between the chilly Baguio breeze and the cozy interior, it’s pure nostalgia for your soul (and your stomach!).

Having just opened its doors in early 2026, Hay Diner is already the "it" spot for locals and tourists alike. Its striking architecture and unique vintage atmosphere make it more than just a meal—it’s a full-on experience.

They’ve mastered the American diner classics. We’re talking: Country Fried Steak (The ultimate comfort!) Fluffy Pancakes & Chicken and Waffles and a Beverage Bar menu featuring everything from caffeine kicks to sweet treats.

Our top picks? S’mores Latte: One sip and we were ten years old again! Pure childhood magic in a cup. Iced Dirty Horchata is total must-try. It’s the perfect marriage of caffeine and spice—your new favorite energy booster. Honestly? Their Classic Apple Pie ala Mode tastes like Christmas on a plate. 🍎🥧

❗️Overall: While the prices are a bit higher than your average cafe, you truly get what you pay for. The secret ingredient? QUALITY. You can feel the energetic, retro-vintage pulse of this place in every corner. It’s fun, it’s vibrant, and it’s absolutely captivating.

💡TIP: We saw some other plates flying by and—wow—the portions are on steroids! If you’re coming here, bring your appetite because these meals are built for champions. Definitely worth every cent!

🚘 PARKING: Parking is readily available

💰PRICE RANGE: $$$

**FORKMARK RATINGS are based on HONEST and UNBIASED REVIEW.

Cafe Beam

🍴(FORKMARK RATING): 7.9/10

📍 Unit 1-2 Point A Bldg, DRT Highway, Tarcan, Baliuag, Bulacan
📍2nd Floor, Tower 3, Clark Cityfront Mall, Pampanga

CAFE BEAM serves unique handcrafted pastries, cakes, and signature coffee flavors. Their creativity shines not only through their impressive menu but also in the cafe’s interior design and merchandise.

Established in 2021, they quickly captured social media's attention, earning features in Preview PH (2021) and Discovery MNL (2022).

The "No. 7" coffee (served iced or hot) is a must-try. It is rich without being overpowering, balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and creaminess. You can tell they use high-quality coffee beans and milk.

They frequently introduce creative menu items, like their Dubai Chocolate Whoopie Pie. The rich dark chocolate shell perfectly balances the sweet marshmallow filling, which is stuffed with toasted kanafeh and topped with chopped pistachios. My only wish? A thin layer of pistachio cream inside to make it a bit more moist.

❗️Overall: A great experience! They use high-quality ingredients that set them apart from your typical cafe. The baristas, cashier, and servers are all well-trained. While the coffee machine can be a bit loud at times, it doesn't detract from the vibe. Kudos to the Chef for such a well-balanced menu!

💡TIP: We haven't tried their hot meals yet, but based on what our "neighbors" ordered, the portions look perfect for a full meal. Definitely worth a try!

🚘 PARKING: Parking is readily available (but may vary depending on the store location)

💰PRICE RANGE: $$

**FORKMARK RATINGS are based on HONEST and UNBIASED REVIEW.

YAPPARI STEAK Okinawa Steak House

🍴(FORKMARK RATING): 7.8/10

📍 SM MALL OF ASIA
📍CALLE BISTRO, EVER GOTESCO COMMONWEALTH QC
📍SM CITY EAST ORTIGAS

YAPPARI STEAK serves tender and succulent western cut steaks on a hot stone served with various Japanese sauces, egg drop soup and fluffy white rice.

Originated in Naha City, Okinawa Japan they were open since 2015. Known for their thick cut, high quality beef such as Top Blade served on a sizzling Mt Fuji Lava Stones.

Their famous MISUJI (Top Blade) is the crowd favorite here. Served Rare-Medium Rare, the sizzling lava stone lets you cook it more to your preferred doneness and keeps it warm while you devour it.

We also loved their KARUBI (Rib Fingers), a much more fattier selection. Try it with their Miso Garlic Paste and Wasabi for a more unique experience.

❗️We would appreciate more the quality of the steaks if it is seasoned well enough upon serving specially when you serve such a thick-cut steak.

💡TIP: They serve steaks depending on the size you want (100g, 150g or 200g). But unlike any other Japanese restaurant that we're used to, they don't serve "Unlimited Rice" rice option. So lower your expectations if you come here to make your tummies full.

🚘 PARKING: Mall parking is readily available

💰PRICE RANGE: $$$

**FORKMARK RATINGS are based on HONEST and UNBIASED REVIEW.