Odessa Mama Cafe and Boodmo Brewery — Restaurant in El Nido

A deeply disturbing and racist experience – Shame on the owners!

On July 30th, my girlfriend (a German citizen with Russian roots) and I (also German) decided to dine at Mama Odessa in El Nido town, hoping to commemorate one of our last days on this beautiful island of Palawan, Philippines.

She was especially excited to try the food, as some of the dishes reflected parts of her cultural heritage. It felt like a special moment—until it turned into something truly unsettling.

After we were asked about our backgrounds, the waitress informed us—on behalf of the owner—that Russians are not allowed on the premises. This left us completely stunned.

Despite both of us being German nationals, my girlfriend was singled out because of her Russian roots. To experience such blatant discrimination and hostility based solely on ethnicity is absolutely unacceptable.

Targeting individuals for their background—without knowing their personal values or stance on global events—is deeply offensive and wrong. This is racism, and it has no place on an island as peaceful and welcoming as Palawan.

I have already submitted an official complaint to the Philippine Tourism Board and may take further action. This kind of behavior from the management of Mama Odessa reflects hatred, not hospitality.

Shame on the owners for embracing division and prejudice in a place that should celebrate...

What a surprise to find such crisp and smooth microbrew craft beer in the remote town El Nido in Northern Palawan? Odessa Mama Cafe feature Ukranian food, which is simple and delicious. The Varenyka (water boiled dumpling with various filling) come with different shapes and colours (the flour dough mixed with vegetable juice to get the bright hues). We love the fried cabbage flavour topped with cream sauce. Patty Pocket is fish or meat tucked in a house-baked break pocket, with tasty sauce and veggies. We ordered another serving of fried cabbage dumplings after we finished the first serving in no time! The Cadlao IPA brewed on site is really refreshing. The waiters are very attentive. They always come to our table with great smile on face. We can see the cooks behind the counter working in the open kitchen. And it is easy to spot THE Odessa Mama, Tamara, who is busy with her cooks to prepare the fantastic food. Odessa Mama is a must visit for us whenever we come back to El Nido town. We really feel like eating at home. However, due to the best location in El Nido Town, I like to sit facing the street to watch people passing by. Every body will pass this corner of El Nido sooner or later. And nothing beats having the best homemade Ukranian food with craft beer...

I highly recommend visiting this restaurant. To begin with, the owners are incredibly kind and caring individuals with whom you’ll enjoy conversing. They are also exceptionally generous. When it comes to the food, I suggest trying a bit of everything, but I must particularly endorse the salo and varenyky as my personal favorites. The establishment is always clean and bustling with like-minded people.The prices are both reasonable and affordable considering the exceptional quality of the dishes. Furthermore, you have the opportunity to support Ukraine by contributing to the restaurant’s donations, as the owners are dedicated supporters and volunteers. Many thanks for having us and treating like family 🫶🙏🏻 🇺🇦 Many thanks for standing up for Ukraine!!! Thank you for following your principles and believes! 💪💪💪🇺🇦 Importantly, you won’t encounter any unpleasant scenes with noisy or intoxicated #russianfascists As someone working in this region, I am genuinely shocked and disappointed, and it makes me question why the Philippines still permits #russianfascists to enter the country while Ukraine is bleeding from their attacks and...