Goto Monster Comuna — Restaurant in Makati

A Flavorful Adventure to Goto Monster, Barangay La Paz, Makati City

My journey to Goto Monster in Barangay La Paz, Makati City, was an adventure from start to finish.

I kicked off the night with my first Move It motorcycle ride through Grab, zipping from San Andres Bukid, Manila City to Barangay La Paz, Makati City for a mere 50 pesos.

The thrill of weaving through Manila and Makati's bustling streets set the stage for what was to come.

Stepping into Goto Monster around 8 PM, I was immediately drawn to the tantalizing aromas.

I ordered their signature dish: a hearty serving of crispy lechon kawali (or was it liempo?) accompanied by fluffy white rice and a side of vibrant green leafy vegetables.

The pork was a revelation – tender on the inside with a perfectly crispy exterior that crackled with each bite.

The medley of spices and flavors danced on my palate, creating a symphony of taste that left me craving more.

At just 300 pesos, this feast was an absolute steal.

The portion size was generous, easily satisfying my hunger after a long day of exploring.

The ambiance of Goto Monster added to the experience.

Despite its modest appearance, the restaurant exuded a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The staff were friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience with their genuine hospitality.

While I didn't try their namesake goto (Filipino rice porridge), I saw many patrons enjoying steaming bowls of it.

The aroma wafting from their tables was tempting, and I made a mental note to try it on my next visit.

One minor drawback was the limited seating – it's a small place that can get crowded during peak hours.

However, this seemed to contribute to its charm and local appeal.

As I left Goto Monster, contentedly full and already planning my return, I realized that this hidden gem epitomizes the vibrant street food culture of Manila City and Makati City.

It's not just about the food – it's about the experience, the atmosphere, and the adventure of discovering new flavors in unexpected places.

For anyone looking to experience authentic Filipino cuisine in a no-frills setting, Goto Monster in Barangay La Paz, Makati City is a must-visit.

It's a testament to the fact that sometimes the best culinary adventures are found off the beaten path.

This place has certainly earned its spot on my...

NOT YOUR USUAL CARINDERIA

Goto Monster never fails to give me delicious meals. I've been a patron for over a decade. Back then, a heaping bowl of their lugaw was only P85.

I've also known Jean Hill, the owner, for roughly the same amount of time. After being in advertising for sometime, she ventured into the food business. One thing Jean knows so well is flavor. She mixes and formulates her own line of sauces, from her Adobong Suka, Chili Sauce, Soy Sauce and Fish Sauce.

One comment of foreign foodie friends is that Filipino food is not as vibrant in taste as its other Asian counterparts like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, moreso India, China or Korea. They say that the predominant taste is sweet, sour and salty.

This is where Jean and Goto Monster delivers in spades. Flavor layering is present in all of her dishes, she's able to capture spicy, a bit of bitter and umami. Specially, when you mix in her sauces, they just create a symphony in your mouth.

The humble ambience of her restaurant belies the deluge of flavors in her offerings. I was joking her before that she has the "Louboutin of Lugaw" with her signature red egg (like the red sole) in her rich yellow ochre turmeric broth heightened by tinapa flakes. Pack this in with Ilocano Bagnet and you'd have a whimsical mix of texture, color and taste. They now go for P175 a bowl (vs P85 before) or P117 with my senior discount. For her lugaw, my recommendations would be the Bagnet, then the Chicken Adobo or the Mushroom if you want a vegetarian meal.

She also offers top-notch ALTANGHAPSILOGS or ALmusal, TANGhalian or HAPunan SInangag with itLOG.

My favorites would be the Longganisa, followed by her Tapa then the Chicken Adobo. The great thing with her Silogs is that they already come with her scrumptiously delicious Mustasa Salad. Priced at P250 (P179 with my senior...

Ambience To avoid possible crowds, I went at the hottest time possible, although this made ice-cream the perfect motivator after a delicious meal. This is an open goto joint filled with success and artistic expressions of their welcoming owner, who I was blessed to meet. Find time to go through her matchbox art. They have a long table inside, with a few extra seats at the front.

Food Shitake Mushrooms Lugaw was a first of many things. The main ingredient was one thing, but the more standout experience was the strong ginger and turmeric flavor. It took awhile to adjust to and it became more enjoyable with every scoop. Not everyone may be a fan but I suggest giving it a try. It's healthy and the toppings give it a fresh look.

Among the ice cream pops, the one I initially wanted wasn't available so I tried the Strawberry Cheese. It was very creamy, sweet, and refreshing. The owner was nice to sit and chat with me about her store concept, and she let me try the Mango Sticky Rice. If you're a fan of Suman sa Lihiya with Latik (freshly grated coconut and sugar), then you'll appreciate this for sure! Ice Cream Pops are her recipe so consider trying them.

Service The wait was long but understandable since they prepare fresh goto or lugaw. As the owner explained, there's a timing to place each ingredient. This can get difficult during peak hours, but again, this goto experience is healthy and great for the...