Last weekend, I joined an unforgettable sponsored food crawl through Makati’s bustling dining scene — a flavorful adventure made possible by Panda Plates, foodpanda’s initiative to spotlight local restaurants and empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the digital age.
Stop 1: Hummus Elijah Our journey began at Hummus Elijah, the beloved Poblacion spot serving authentic Mediterranean fare. We dipped warm, fluffy pita into velvety hummus, paired with crisp falafel and fresh tabbouleh. Light yet satisfying, it was the perfect opening act for the feast ahead.
Stop 2: Spotted Pig Next was Spotted Pig, where comfort food took center stage. Known for its hearty portions and bold flavors, the highlight was their signature pork belly — slow-cooked to tender perfection, with crackling skin that delivered a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Stop 3: Songkran From there, we dove into the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Songkran. Aromatic green curry, tangy som tam (papaya salad), and perfectly spiced pad thai showcased the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy that Thai cuisine does so well.
Stop 4: Nolita Joe’s We ended on a high note at Nolita Joe’s, a New York-inspired pizzeria that knows how to impress. Giant slices loaded with fresh toppings and gooey cheese transported us straight to the streets of Manhattan — the perfect indulgent finale.
Beyond the Food While our stomachs were more than happy, the bigger takeaway was seeing how these local restaurants are thriving thanks to foodpanda’s support. By connecting them to a wider online audience, Panda Plates helps preserve each eatery’s unique flavors while giving them the digital tools to grow in a competitive market.
From Mediterranean dips to Thai spice, from crispy pork belly to New York pizza, the Panda Plates Makati food crawl was a celebration of flavor, culture, and community.
Each stop told a story — and together, they painted a delicious picture of how local dining is evolving in the digital era.
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