A standout dessert from Margarita Manzke. The crust is remarkably flaky and the filling is loaded with tender strips of young coconut in a rich, creamy base that's not overly sweet, providing a perfect end to the meal.
Tips from diners
This is one of the best versions of Buko Pie in LA. It sells out fast, so if you're a fan, order your slice when you order your main.
The ultimate Filipino comfort food. The rice is cooked down into a rich, ginger-infused porridge that's packed with tender chicken and topped with a perfectly jammy soft-boiled egg, crispy garlic, and scallions. it's warming and deeply savory.
Tips from diners
Add a squeeze of calamansi and a dash of fish sauce to really make the ginger and garlic flavors sing.
A refined version of the Filipino national dish. The pork is braised in a perfect balance of soy, vinegar, and aromatics until tender, served with sinangag (garlic rice) and a runny egg that creates a silky sauce when broken.
Tips from diners
Mix the egg yolk and the adobo sauce into the garlic rice for the best bite. The richness is incredible.
A vibrant and texturally interesting dessert. It's a colorful assembly of various sweet components—like leche flan, sweetened beans, and seasonal fruit—topped with finely shaved ice, evaporated milk, and a scoop of rich ube ice cream.
Tips from diners
It's meant to be mixed! Stir all the layers together so you get a bit of everything in every spoonful.
A vegetarian favorite. The eggplant is grilled until smoky and then flattened and fried in an egg batter, offering a soft, flavorful texture that pairs perfectly with the savory garlic rice and the sweet-tangy banana ketchup.
Tips from diners
The smokiness from the grilled eggplant is the key. It's a very substantial and flavorful vegetarian option.
Sari Sari Store is a tribute to the Filipino neighborhood convenience stores. Chef Margarita Manzke, of Republique fame, uses her world-class technical skill to elevate traditional Filipino flavors, producing some of the most soulful and satisfying rice bowls in the city.
Located inside Grand Central Market. It's a counter-service spot with a few stools, or you can take your food to the communal tables nearby.
It's a high-energy, friendly spot that perfectly captures the spirit of a Filipino sari-sari store. Great for a quick, soulful lunch.
The rice bowls travel very well. If the market is too crowded, head to the nearby Bunker Hill for a picnic.
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