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BF Homes Parañaque has become a real culinary destination in Metro Manila, with the long stretch of Aguirre Avenue as the bullseye. Restaurants, eateries, coffee shops, bars and bakeries pepper the long avenue, attracting even those from the north to make the trek and go on a food trip.
But the question is: where do the cool and laidback residents of Parañaque choose to eat? First, you have to know that they don’t really just stay in Aguirre, for one, or in BF for that matter. Second, they’re generally laid-back. Comfort and affordability take precedence over ambiance. And besides, they really just like to hang. They live comfortably right next to family and friends who are also, more often than not, their classmates and batchmates, orgmates and busmates.
That said, below is our 7-point guide on how to eat like a BF Parañaque local. On weekends — or when they have the time — you’ll most probably find locals hanging out in these establishments, where legit southern vibes exude.
FOR STREET-STYLE CHILLIN’
Mang Raul’s (CRM Avenue, BF Homes Almanza, Las Piñas (Near Holy Family Parish); 2:30pm-9:30pm, Tues-Sun; +63920 6122150)
Established 1996, this barbecue joint is pure awesomesauce thanks largely in part to the sweet red sauce that Mang Raul uses for his usual array of Filipino isawan staples: barbecue, isaw baboy, isaw manoy, adidas, tenga, hotdog. He sells about 3,000 barbecue sticks on a daily basis, often running out of goods way before closing time.
Locals’ tip: If you don’t want to wait long, come get your isaw fix early — as in before 5pm-early. Or perhaps, you may want to do as the locals do: pre-order by texting Mang Raul at the number above. Leave your name, your orders and the pick-up time.
FOR A MOUTHFUL OF ZEN
Tatsunoko (452-A El Grande Ave, BF Homes, Parañaque; 11am- 10pm; +63 2 825 0551)
Tatsunoko has been in the business for 20 years — it’s what used to be Bento-Ya. Authentic enough to draw in real Japanese customers, this hole in the wall serves cheap but scrumptious Japanese favorites! The menu is extensive, ranging from Donburi (PHP125-200) to Sushi and Sashimi (PHP65-230) to Yakimono (PHP110-170) and a lot more.
Locals’ tip: Forget that the place may seem a bit too dingy. In fact, forget you can see and just eat. Think of your meal here as spending less for your eyes and more for your growling tummy. There are many other Japanese restaurants in BF but in Tatsunoko, your money can and will go a long way.
FOR WHEN YOU’RE UP FOR WHATEVER
Ruins (President’s Avenue, BF Homes, Parañaque (Near Pergola Mall); 12pm-12am)
Locals call it Ruins but it’s real name is Good Shepherd Bazaar. It’s actually a tiangge, like a smaller version of Greenhills or Divisoria. Deep into the sea of clothes, gadgets and toys is a humble haven of food stalls. There’s really not much wow-factor to everything, but Ruins wins on two accounts: the number of choices and value for money.
Locals tip: That last remaining PHP50 in your pocket? Go to Ruins and you can have: a stick of Crispy Chicken Buchi (PHP15), Fried Isaw (PHP10), and some refreshing Calamansi Juice (PHP20), and you still have change! In case you’re craving for something heavier and your wallet allows it so, there are also stalls offering sizzling plates, burgers and Shawarma, and Korean food.
FOR SWEET AND STEADY AFTERNOONS
Milky Moustache (67 Aguirre Ave, BF Homes, Parañaque; 12pm-12am; +63 939 9262514)
Milky Moustache is a place that most girls would love: a quaint, well-lit space with lovely furniture, light pieces and words of inspiration on the walls. And it’s true: Milky Moustache is frequented by ladies of all ages, for quality chismisan. There’s not a lot of people here, mostly because their milkshakes are pricey (Mario/Kitkat flavor will cost you PHP170, while the English Moustache/Cookies and Cream will set you back PHP150) but that’s what makes it perfect for chika. Milkshakes are beautifully served in mason jars, as if crafted straight out of Instagram and Pinterest.
Locals’ tip: It gets busy 6pm onwards so if you want a private chikahan portion, come earlier.
FOR EASY AND UNPRETENTIOUS DRINKING
Mulligan’s (57, 61 and 107 Aguirre Ave, BF Homes, Parañaque;24/7 Mon, Fri & Sat, 3pm-3am on other days; +63 2 8073128)
To have three branches of the same establishment in one street says a lot about Mulligan’s. It gets loud and crazy when there are sporting events, like a UAAP game or NBA All-Stars, shown on TV. Otherwise, it’s a nice chill place to enjoy a drink or four with friends. is also quite exceptional at this Irish Gastro Pub. Try their gigantic Chili Nachos (PHP270), Sizzling Salpicado (PHP250) and Pizza (starts PHP290).
Locals’ tip: Happy hour is from 10am-8pm!
FOR WHOLESOME FUN
Puzzles Board Game Lounge (287 Aguirre Ave, BF Homes, Parañaque;3pm-12am; +63 917 8555755)
If you find yourself spending too much time on video games, you might want return back to reality (and still play) at Puzzles. For PHP100, you can play as much board games as you want. Its panini sandwiches (starts PHP190), Sur-Fries with Dip (PHP140), a slice of its Oreo Afraid of the Dark cake (PHP140) or specialty coffee (starts PHP150) are awesome one-ups.
Locals’ tip: If you’re there with your significant other, avoid the game Resistance, please. It will really test the strength of your relationships.
FOR HOME AWAY FROM HOME MEALS
Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen (B1, L36 Tropical Ave cor Tropical Palace, BF International, Las Piñas; 11am-10pm; +63 2 5191977)
Eating at Mama Lou’s is like having a hearty Sunday meal at your Grandma’s place. What used to be a humble little house is transformed into a homey go-to restaurant of residents of the south. Mama Lou’s serves authentic Italian fares like the Special Thin Crust Pizza (starts PHP350), Spaghetti Seafood Olio (PHP315), Rollo di Pollo (PHP390) and a lot more. Sure, Mama Lou’s recently opened a branch up north in UP Town Center, but nothing beats the original, no?
Locals’ tip: You’ll notice that tables are usually for parties of 4 and above. That means: Patrons come here more for Sunday family lunches rather than Friday night dates.
Headline photo: Roxanne Jacutan
