Habanero Kitchen Bar — Restaurant in Quezon City

Habanero had been recommended to us as a must-visit eating out destination in Cubao during our recent trip to the Philippines. Our first attempt at dinner was thwarted by the long 2.5 hour-long wait, but we persevered and came back the next day for lunch, when we also had to wait around for under 1 hour. This place was certainly very popular. However, once we were seated, we were not rushed out by any means, which felt rather nice.

My friend had the oyster sisig which had been specifically recommended to her, as well as the Spam fries (from the sound of the menu and the look of the clientele, we knew not to expect just any old tin of Spam 😀!). Being vegetarian, I ordered one of the very few main dishes which were vegetarian on the menu, the margherita truffle pizza (there was also a 3-cheese pizza option, but I am not too keen on too much cheese). It was a slight shame that none of the Filipino/local dishes had a veggie option, as I can imagine they could have been excellent. The pizza dough was more of a flatbread texture, but I quite liked that, as it was light and crispy. I did not particularly love the truffle, but that might just have been me not being a huge fan of truffle. Although my friend could not finish the oyster sisig as it was far too rich for her tiny stomach, she said it was really delicious. Our desserts, turon and leche flan, had the kind of show-stopping look you'd usually find in Michelin-starred restaurants only. My friend said her leche flan was unlike anything else she had tried. As for my turon, well, once the initial shock of seeing its giant purple cotton candy crest had subsided, I'd say that the turon itself was decent, but rather incredibly and controversially (I'll take the hit, I can only share the experience of my individual palate), we subsequently found turon at the local Savemore nearby at 25 pesos each which tasted far better - the banana much sweeter and the pastry much lighter and more crispy. Go figure. However, as a piece of dessert handcrafting, it was quite worth the money.

Speaking of money, my share of the bill, for main, dessert, and soft drink, came to just a little over 700 pesos (service charge and some extra tip included), so it is certainly reasonably priced for the type of food it serves, the vibe it cultivates, and the clientele...

Gela and I recently enjoyed a filling lunch at this restaurant which offers casually upscale atmosphere that's perfect for all ages and provides a unique and memorable dining destination.

We ordered the following dishes:

1. 1 Kilo Lechon Habanero Lv. 1 (₱955) Crispy edges and melt-in-your-mouth meat and fat. The heat comes from small slits which is imbued with spices, which adds a perfect kick without being overwhelming. Be cautious if you have hypertension; it might make you a bit dizzy. Accompanied by a dipping sauce made of tangy vinegar and cilantro. Ideal for 4+ persons; we had leftovers to share with our families.

2. Habanero Three Cheese Pizza (₱498) A good break from hearty dishes like the lechon and sisig. Surprisingly pairs well with Lengua Sisig. The white sauce can be heavy, so munching on the diced cheese provides a pleasant contrast. The soft, flaky crust holds the sauce and cheese very well. Comes with mango habanero sauce, intensely spicy and available for purchase.

3. Lengua Sisig (₱385) The flavor profile for this one is that it is sweet. Although the ox tongue in this dish is a little understated, I can understand it since it is on a sisig and needs to be diced up.

In summary, our experience at this restaurant was delightful, and we're inclined to return to explore the dessert menu and the bar. Located in Cubao Expo, note that parking is limited and paid upon exit. They have a second floor, and according to friends, it's best to visit before lunch on weekdays or during early dinner hours...

We have eaten in Habanero Kitchen Bar in Cubao at least three times already. The latest one was March 30. And despite the long waiting time every time, the food is that good that we keep on coming back.

Pros: We loved all the food. But our favorite is 1 Kilo Lechon Habanero (hear level 1) P1,195 with mustasa at buro P165 as well as the Habanero 3-cheese pizza P585. Whether we're in group setting or there's just 3 of us, we cannot pass the chance to order these two because they are worth the long lines. The lechon is never fatty or oily. So crispy and juicy at the same time. The pizza is the right amount of thickness, and the cheese is delicious! We also tried the oyster sisig P488, and it was ok, maybe with a strong after taste. We also ordered the Tomato Dill Pasta with mussels P330 and Creamy Mushroom Truffle Pasta P370, and they are good too, but serving is just for one. Despite the long lines, they are a very systematic way of calling you when it's your turn to be seated so that you can go around the compound and check out the other establishments.

Cons: Long waiting time. Allocate at least 30 minutes waiting time just to be seated. And another wait for the food to be served. No dedicated bathroom or wash room. You use the shared bathroom of the compound. 3.. Paid parking even if you eat inside the compound.

Tips: Shorter line during our visit of mid afternoon. They have an air-conditioned room upstairs. Downstairs is...