Betagen is a type of lactic acid bacteria drink that is widely popular in Thailand. Known as a probiotic beverage similar to Japan's Yakult, it has been broadly available in convenience stores and supermarkets across the country, including in Bangkok, since its launch in the early 1990s. Betagen is characterized by its light sweetness and ease of drinking, attracting widespread support from both children and adults amid a growing health consciousness. Unique adaptations to local preferences, such as lactose-free options and a variety of flavors, are also distinctive features of this drink.
Roll Noodles Soup (Thai: ก๋วยจั๊บ) is a prominent Chinese-style noodle dish in Thailand. It mainly consists of rice noodles cut into rolls, served in a clear, peppery, and spicy broth together with various cuts of pork. Highly popular at places such as ""Nai Ek Roll Noodle"" (ร้านก๋วยจั๊บนายเอ็ก) in Bangkok's Yaowarat district, it is widely enjoyed as a staple menu item at street food stalls and casual eateries. As an example of the culinary traditions brought by Chinese immigrants from Fujian Province and integrated into Thai cuisine, Roll Noodles Soup continues to be well loved by both locals and tourists today.
Gyudon M size is a medium-sized serving of gyudon, a Japanese rice bowl dish that originated in Japan. This dish features thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based broth, served over freshly cooked white rice. It is widely enjoyed in Japan, especially at major gyudon restaurant chains and various other eateries. In recent years, gyudon has also spread internationally, with some restaurants such as “Gyunoya” in Bangkok, Thailand, offering locally adapted variations. This article provides an overview of the characteristics and background of the Gyudon M size served at Gyunoya on Thaniya Road, Bangkok.
Ensaymada is a traditional type of sweet bread widely enjoyed in the Philippines. It is characterized by a soft, buttery dough layered with butter, sugar, and cheese before being baked, resulting in a harmonious blend of sweetness and a subtle, salty flavor. The origin of ensaymada can be traced back to a bread from Mallorca, Spain, and it developed uniquely in the Philippines during and after the Spanish colonial period. Today, ensaymada is made in bakeries and homes across the country, and is also popular as a gift or souvenir.
Lapulapu sashimi, tuna tekka-maki, and Asahi Super Dry are Japanese dishes and beverages offered at Misaki Bistro, a Japanese restaurant located in ""Little Tokyo"" in the Makati district of Manila, Philippines. These items incorporate locally sourced fresh ingredients and authentic Japanese cooking techniques, gaining popularity among Japanese expatriates, local residents, and visiting tourists. Lapulapu sashimi features slices of a premium fish caught off the Philippine coast, tuna tekka-maki is a traditional thin rolled sushi, and Asahi Super Dry is a well-known Japanese dry lager beer. Together, they represent the adaptation of Japanese food culture to the local setting and its international spread.
Tonkotsu ramen with ""katame"" noodles is a style of ramen originating in Japan, characterized by its rich pork bone broth and thin, straight noodles. The ""katame"" (firm) noodle preparation is a popular choice in Japan’s ramen culture, especially in the Kyushu region, garnering support among aficionados who value texture. This style has spread beyond Japan to various parts of Asia and the West, giving rise to local variations that incorporate regional preferences and ingredients. At Menya Ippondo in Little Tokyo, Makati, Manila, a version of tonkotsu ramen with firm noodles is served, blending authentic Japanese techniques with unique Filipino adaptations.
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.
