Savoring Filipino Flavors in Houston: A Culinary Exploration

Being away from home makes me miss all the delicious food at home. I’ve been craving for Filipino food since we moved to the states 3 months ago. Finally, Houston has solid Filipino spots!

You know that feeling when you stumble upon a hidden gem right in your new city? That's exactly what happened when we decided to explore the Filipino food scene here in Houston. With an eager stomach and a sense of adventure, my husband and I set out to ‘Be More Pacific’ right before New Year.

Walking into Be More Pacific was like stepping into a little slice of the Philippines, right in the heart of Texas. The vibe was casual, yet exciting, with the kind of menu that made my taste buds tingle in anticipation. We kicked off our feast with lumpiang shanghai (pork spring rolls) for our appetizer.

At first bite, it didn’t give me quite the taste of home. The flavor was a bit bland, the sauce didn’t taste like our usual sweet & spicy Jufran staple, but it grows on you.

For our main meals, we ordered kare-kare & sizzling bistek.

Let me tell you, the kare-kare was this rich, velvety affair—a stew so indulgent, it felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. However, the bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) accompanying it didn't quite hit the traditional note I was hoping for—missing that punchy, salty tang that usually complements the dish so well.

But the sizzling bistek? Imagine our surprise when it tasted more like a Filipino twist on fajitas! It may not have been quite the traditional bistek we expected, but it was an intriguing twist that had us chatting all night. His dad is hispanic and he grew up with mexican food. He agreed that the food here is more catered to mexican taste or american style, more than filipino food.

And just when I thought it couldn't get better, my husband spotted the karaoke room. Oh yes, nothing like belting out a tune after a good meal! With happy hours sweetening the deal, offering craft beers and cocktails, it quickly became a night to remember. It’s not just about the food here; it’s about the fun too.

Still hungry for more Filipino goodness, we decided to try Gerry's Grill from the comfort of our couch. Bicol Express, adobo rice, and pancit palabok were on the menu. The Bicol Express, typically a creamy and spicy dish laden with tender pork and a robust coconut sauce accented with chili, was unfortunately more fat than meat. However, the adobo rice—savory and deeply flavored with garlic and soy sauce—paired beautifully with the pancit palabok. This noodle dish, topped with a rich, shrimp-infused sauce, crunchy chicharrón, and a sprinkle of hard-boiled eggs, was a meal all on its own, singing stories of Filipino street food with each bite.

Pancit Palabok

Adobo Fried Rice

These experiences really highlight the diversity and vibrancy of Houston's food scene. If you’re looking for a night out with friends, Be More Pacific is your go-to for both delectable dishes and a joyful atmosphere. Or, enjoy a night in with Gerry’s Grill, bringing a taste of the Philippines straight to your door.

Have you ever had a meal that surprised you and left you craving more? I’d love to hear about your favorite food finds. Sharing these little adventures makes exploring new cuisines all the more delightful.

For more insights into Houston's Filipino food delights, check out reviews for Be More Pacific or see what's cooking at Gerry's Grill on Yelp.

So whether you're a seasoned food explorer or just someone who loves a good meal, Houston's Filipino restaurants are the adventure you didn’t know you needed. Kain tayo! 🍽️