Walking into the Eng Bee Tin flagship store in Binondo, Manila, is like stepping into a culinary treasure trove where heritage meets creative innovation. On this visit, I had the pleasure of sampling three unique hopia creations: Hopia Sisig, Hopia Durian, and Hopia Pineapple. Each dish is a thoughtful reimagining of a beloved classic, pushing boundaries while paying homage to tradition.

Hopia Sisig This creation marries the familiar soft and slightly crumbly texture of traditional hopia with the bold, tangy flavors of sisig. The pastry provides a satisfying base for a savory pork sisig filling that is seasoned with a perfect balance of heat, vinegar, and spices. The result is a complex layering of flavors—robust and slightly audacious. A touch more acidity could perhaps fine-tune the balance even further, but it remains a daring and delicious twist.

Hopia Durian For the adventurous palate, Hopia Durian is a surprising delight. The smooth, inviting hopia shell cradles a rich durian-infused filling that boasts a custard-like texture and an intricate, aromatic profile. The natural sweetness of durian is present but mellowed by an underlying earthiness, making it both bold and approachable. While the flavor intensity is impressive, a slight reduction in durian’s potency might broaden its appeal even more.

Hopia Pineapple Offering a refreshing contrast to its counterparts, Hopia Pineapple bursts with tropical brightness. The light, subtly sweet pastry encases a filling of ripe pineapple that delivers a refreshing tang and a lively citrus note. The balance here is exquisite—zesty without overwhelming the gentle warmth of the hopia. It’s a celebration of local bounty that adds a delightful, sunny twist to the traditional snack.

Overall Experience: Eng Bee Tin excels at reinventing the classic hopia, infusing each variety with a creative spirit while staying true to its cultural roots. The staff’s passion and deep knowledge of their craft enhance the experience, inviting you to savor every bite as a journey through both tradition and inventive flavor exploration. Whether you’re drawn to the savory allure of hopia sisig, the rich complexity of hopia durian, or the refreshing zest of hopia pineapple, this flagship store offers a truly memorable taste adventure.

For those in search of authentic, daring street food with a twist, Eng Bee Tin in Binondo is a must-visit destination.