Are you craving for really, really good Korean beef stew?
South Korea has become one of the most visited countries of our kababayans lately. Is it because of the influence of Korean telenovelas? The presence of many Koreans now living in our country has somehow influenced the love for their cuisine too.
I’ve been to Korea four times, once with friends and the other three on food tours. My first food tour was OK, but not great. I felt that even if the food was good, I could have found better ones. The second one was much better but, compared to my Japan food tours, it still had a lot of catching up to do. But my third, just after the pandemic, was a revelation. Our meals were unique and outstanding. I can now safely say it is comparable to my Japan food tours. Plus, to women, this paradise with all the beauty products and makeup available.
With regards to Korean food, I used to love a restaurant in the Burgos area called Masan. On its menu was delicious, authentic Korean food. I’m not sure if it’s still around. This was also where I tried white kimchi, which was delicious.
Occasionally, I will have Korean meals on our table at home. I just get the marinades and grill the meats myself with the kids and serve them with all the sidings. We all have fun. It becomes a family affair, where everyone participates.
But if I like to be spoiled and served, my kids and I like to go to Masil in the Pasig area. Tiendesitas is the branch we visit. A great indicator of a good and authentic Korean restaurant is the presence of Korean nationals. Many of the tables at Masil are occupied by Koreans.
Masil so far has the best tasting Korean beef stew. Tender, melt-inyour-mouth beef short ribs, it is not too sweet and the soy sauce tastes just perfect. It’s hard to eat this stew without rice. I also order the chicken, but I just ask the restaurant staff to grill it so we don’t do it ourselves and end up smelling like it after. We wrap the chicken in mustard leaves, lettuce, raw garlic, hot sauce, seasoned sesame oil and munch away. I love Masil’s version of the pajeon or Korean pancake. It’s my favorite. It comes alive with the soy vinegar sauce. I ordered the cold soba and that was unique and delicious too. The chapchae can be inconsistent—sometimes good, a few times not so. I have to be more adventurous with my choice of dishes. I want to discover something different.
I now love Korean food. When made well, it is delicious and healthy. I also loved the ice cream desserts, especially in this weather.
Check out Masil at Tiendesitas complex. +63 2 8633 5838
Happy eating!
A great indicator of a good and authentic Korean restaurant is the presence of Korean nationals. Many of the tables at Masil are occupied by Koreans.