Ramon Lee Panciteria — Restaurant in Manila

Ramon Lee Review – Santa Cruz, Manila

I recently had the pleasure of revisiting Ramon Lee in Santa Cruz, Manila, a restaurant that has been a cherished part of my culinary memories with my mother. After being closed for some time, I was thrilled to see it reopen and eager to experience their renowned authentic Chinese cuisine once again.

While I didn’t take photos of our dishes due to our overwhelming hunger, I can share that we ordered a variety of items that showcased both the highs and lows of our meal.

We began with the Pata Tim (620 pesos). Unfortunately, this dish did not meet my expectations. The meat was overcooked and had a slightly burnt flavor, which detracted from the overall experience. Given the price point, I felt the serving size did not justify the cost, leaving me somewhat disappointed.

Next, we enjoyed the Hototay Soup (585 pesos). This dish was a standout, with rich flavors and a comforting warmth that made it worth every peso. The combination of ingredients was well-balanced, and it truly showcased the essence of authentic Chinese soups.

The highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the Authentic Chinese Style Chicken (495 pesos). This dish was exceptionally delicious, with tender meat and flavorful seasoning that transported me back to the meals I used to share with my mother. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Ramon Lee.

We also ordered rice, which was served separately at a premium price, but the portion size was reasonable. Additionally, I couldn't help but rave about the Canton Noodles, which were delightful. The texture was perfect, and the flavors were vibrant, making it one of the best dishes of the evening.

Overall, my experience at Ramon Lee was satisfying, despite a couple of missteps. The ambiance evoked nostalgia, and the majority of the dishes lived up to my expectations. I look forward to returning to this beloved establishment, eager to explore more of their menu and create new memories, just like I did...

Back after a few years. Food has deliberately increased. Our parents used to bring us here back in the 80’s. :)

Their bestsellers are the the fried chickens. And known for softdrinks serves in its bottle accompanied by a thick clear glass with manually crushed ice. In 2022, beverages are now sold by the can at ₱58.

It’s our first time to order the FINE MEAL. With signature fried chicken, fried rice, meatballs, pancit bihon, egg soup and a piece of a banana. Extra fried rice is now ₱60 per cup. Meatballs is not so great anymore. The bihon is also bland. But the chicken recipe remains the same - with the taste of marinated chinese herbs. Still juicy and have a fine aroma. Fine meal is loaded with carbs. After your long walks, this is a great stop.

They say the price is insane, I got that the food had become a mediocre and the interiors remain almost the same. But the comfort rooms have greatly improved. Before the CR are very “dugyot” now renovations have been made.

In totality, you will spend a minimum of ₱1,000 for a meal for two. Yes it is quiet expensive. But we paid for the nostalgia, Binondo feels and the fried chicken recipe that we always craved for. Ramon Lee withstand time since 1929!

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Nothing is good with this place. Don't go here. Frankly don't understand how the rating can be above 2 stars. Does filipinos like tastless food and mediocre service? The food tasted nothing, there was no service, the table was full of leftovers and old glasses etc, when we sat down nobody showed us a table or gave us menus etc. Had to call a waiter three times to get a menu. We had Buihon Guisado Special which tasted like someone boiled it in chicken stock (thin chicken stock). We also had Beef Mami which tasted less than a plastic can noodle soup! Finally we had Wonton Soup and same thing here, tasted nothing. I ordered Coke Zero and Pineapple juice but never got it. All in all I usually try to find something good in a review, but in this case there was nothing. We saw like six waiters just hanging in a corner talking and one just sitting next to us looking in his mobile instead of emptying the tables and keeping the place clean. Check the pictures. The restaurant existed since 1929 but I doubt it will exist 2029... Don't go here, it's too expensive and just not good enough! Sorry I can't recommend anything here. Bad experience. There are many better restaurants in the Binondo area, try...