The grilled salted mackerel set is a typical Japanese meal representing the culture of grilled fish. It consists of mackerel seasoned with salt and grilled, served alongside rice, miso soup, small side dishes, and pickles. Widely enjoyed in homes and casual dining establishments throughout Japan, this simple dish is valued for its method of preparation that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients as well as its high nutritional value, making it a popular and healthy option in Japanese cuisine. With the growing popularity of Japanese food worldwide, this dish can also be found in various countries. For example, in Makati’s Little Tokyo district in Manila, Philippines, restaurants such as Hana Japanese Restaurant offer an authentic taste that is enjoyed by both Japanese expatriates and local people.
The ""Cowboy Especiale"" pizza is a popular local menu item offered at Cowboy Grill, located in the Malate district of Manila, Philippines. Characterized by its generous American-style pizza base topped with a variety of meats and vegetables, it stands out among the grill-centered dishes of the restaurant as a favorite among many customers. In the local culture, it is commonly enjoyed by sharing with friends or family while listening to live music, and is known as a dish that complements the lively atmosphere of the venue.
Lumpia is a type of spring roll that is widely enjoyed in the Philippines. Originating from Chinese spring rolls, it has developed unique variations across Southeast Asia. In the Philippines, lumpia is traditionally filled with meat and vegetables, but in urban areas such as the Divisoria public market in Manila, versions that use only mung beans as filling are also popular as street food. Wrapped in a thin pastry and deep-fried, lumpia is a simple and portable snack. Its ease of preparation, relative affordability, and high nutritional value make it popular among a wide range of people.
Lugaw is a type of rice porridge widely enjoyed throughout the Philippines. Made by simmering rice with ingredients such as chicken, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic, it is characterized by its gentle flavor and thick consistency. Lugaw is a staple not only as a home-cooked dish but is also readily available in eateries, food stalls, supermarkets, and shopping mall food courts. It is commonly eaten for breakfast, as a light meal, or during times of recovery from illness. Various regional and household adaptations and toppings exist, making Lugaw one of the representative and enduring traditional foods of the Philippines.
Cloud 9 is a chocolate bar produced and sold in the Philippines. Marketed under the Jack 'n Jill brand, it is characterized by its structure of caramel, nougat, and peanuts coated in chocolate. Since its introduction in the late 1980s to early 1990s, it has been widely popular among both children and adults due to its affordability and sweetness. There are several varieties, and Cloud 9 is widely distributed in retail stores and supermarkets across the Philippines, as well as gaining popularity among Filipino communities and markets in Southeast Asia and abroad.
McDonald's is one of the world's largest fast food chains, originating in the United States. Its main offerings are American-style menu items such as hamburgers and French fries, while also providing unique products and services tailored to the food cultures and preferences of each country and region. With locations in over 100 countries including Japan, McDonald's has become a symbol of the fusion between globalization and local culture through its standardized services and localized menus.
Crack Pandesal is a type of Pandesal, a traditional bread widely enjoyed in the Philippines. Pandesal traces its origins back to the 16th century during the Spanish colonial period and has since become a staple breakfast bread deeply embedded in Filipino daily life. Crack Pandesal is characterized by its distinctive cracked surface, which gives it a unique appearance and texture compared to regular Pandesal. It is sold at several bakeries in Manila, including Robinsons Place Manila in the Malate district.
Wagyu sirloin, wagyu sushi, moyashi namul, and the smoky highball from Saburomaru Distillery are representative dishes and drinks of Japanese and Korean food culture, enjoying international popularity across regions and eras. These items are noted for providing culinary experiences that blend tradition with innovation. Wagyu sirloin and wagyu sushi are dishes made from carefully selected premium Japanese beef, while moyashi namul is a healthy side dish rooted in Korean cuisine. In addition, the smoky highball from Saburomaru Distillery is known as a drink that showcases the unique qualities of Japanese craft whisky. Such menu items are offered at specialty establishments like Wagyu Manila Malate in the Malate district of Manila, Philippines, playing a role in the globalization and exchange of food cultures.
BITES TIME! is a frozen dessert distributed in Asian regions including Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It is offered by Wall’s, the ice cream brand of the multinational company Unilever. Mainly sold as bite-sized ice cream treats, it features a composition of vanilla ice cream and caramel with roasted nuts, coated in milk chocolate. Variations tailored to local preferences and market needs are also available, making it a popular frozen treat enjoyed by many consumers for its convenience and accessibility.
Take-it is a wafer chocolate snack manufactured and sold by Goya, a Philippine food company. It is mainly offered in individually wrapped packs containing two sticks, featuring a crispy wafer covered in milk chocolate. Known for its packaging and shape similar to ""Kit Kat,"" Take-it is a popular and easily accessible snack widely available at convenience stores and supermarkets throughout the Philippines.
