Embark through Quezon City’s Banawe, often referred to as the other Chinatown
When considering Chinatown, Binondo typically springs to mind first. However, there are other vibrant Chinatowns across the country, including one that’s relatively closer, especially for Quezon City residents.
Banawe Street in Quezon City is renowned as a haven for car enthusiasts, attracting many aficionados seeking automotive necessities and accessories. Nevertheless, in recent years, Banawe has also become a hotspot for Cantonese cuisine, with numerous restaurants offering delectable Chinese fare.
Marking its identity as Quezon City’s Chinatown, Banawe boasts its own Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch, a symbol of welcome at the intersection of Quezon Avenue and Banawe Street, generously donated by the Quezon City Association of Filipino-Chinese Businessmen Inc.
On February 9, the Quezon City Government organized the Quezon City Chinatown Heritage Tour, guiding participants through popular Chinese restaurants, temples, and even a toy museum. The day commenced with a light Chinese breakfast at Mandarin Sky, renowned for its exceptional siomai, a dish that would become a staple throughout the tour. Other delectable offerings included beancurd rolls and chicken feet.
The tour also included visits to two temples, Tzu Chi Temple and Sheng Lian Temple, as well as a toy museum, each offering unique insights into Chinese culture and heritage. Following these explorations, the group indulged in an array of sumptuous dim sum dishes at three Chinese restaurants.
Causeway, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, welcomed the participants with a variety of dishes, including crunchy yet tender breaded fried tofu and, of course, more siomai. Next, the group ventured to Cai Hok in Z Square Mall, where they savored pork asado and Ma Lai Go, a delightful yellow steamed cake with custard filling.
The tour concluded at David’s Tea House, a well-known establishment where participants enjoyed more siomai along with sweet and sour pork or fish with rice. Finally, the three-day Banawe Chinatown food fair capped off the culinary journey, offering an array of Chinese delights such as savory dim sum, pancit, tikoy, and tanghulu, delighting visitors along Banawe Street.
Lifestyle News: Embark through Quezon City’s Banawe, often referred to as the other Chinatown
