If you’re looking for affordable and creative Filipino food in Mandaluyong, then look no further than St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant. Thanks to Chef Nick Pelaez whose name has made a mark in catering services for the last 12 years, a restaurant with innovative cuisine and eclectic “see-and-be-seen” ambiance where you can feel right at home was born.
Who could have thought that it’s here that I would get to try Adobo sa Dilaw, Adobong Crocodile, Tempura with Vinegar Dip, and Civet Coffee for the first time? At St. Nicholas, you just have to bring a good sense of adventure for an enjoyable mealβwithout having to use your platinum card. π
with Chef Nick Pelaez
Review of St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant (Plainview, Mandaluyong City)
Ambiance: β β β β β
With cool surroundings and a quiet lounge scene, St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant is a must-visit for many residents in the area and even those who travel all the way from their faraway hometowns.
The simple table and chair setting matched with life-sized ceramic statues of saints are reminiscent of a quaint house of worship with retro vibes. I felt a bit like going back in time when stress was just a word and not a way of life. I hope there’s new-age music or the sound of waterfalls playing to aid a more relaxing experience to the peaceful and almost spiritual-looking place.
Every corner is designed differently with colorful backgrounds that remind me most of studio photo shoots. This cherry blossom background, for instance, can fool anyone to think that we’re in Japan. Haha, there goes my wishful thinking. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot conveying a picture-perfect setting.
Had I only known that St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant has these interesting backdrops that many people spend hours trying to create in Photoshop, I would have prepared for costumes and brought accessories to look more realistic. Well, I’ll definitely return with my family next time and be matchy matchy with the rest of the dΓ©cor. If you’re thinking of the same thing, you can choose from so much cute accessories & jewelry here. π
Service: β β β β β
Service was laid-back and well synchronized. Food arrived not too long and servers were responsive. I like the idea of having a bell that customers can ring to get their attention quickly. The menu merits considerable exploration, so you’d do wise to listen to the servers’ recommendations and house favorites.
Food: β β β β β
Okoy or Crispy Shrimp Fritters, made withΒ baby or small shrimps, are usually served as an appetizer in Filipino meals. Turn that to the sentient side of the food chain and you get Okoy Gulay (PhP 99) made with cabbage, river spinach (kangkong), and carrots. These pan-fried vegetable fritters were quite good enough to at least tempt the staunchest of vegetarians. No starchy binders and fillers!
There’s no road map on how to eat those fritters, but it’s highly suggested to dip them into St. Nicholas’ homemade vinegar. Suka Pinakurat (fermented coconut sap) was a crazy-good accent which gave a mix of aged depth and bright acidity in every bite.
As weird as its name sounds, Poqui-Poqui (PhP 95) turned out to be a beautiful plate of grilled eggplants, tomatoes, onions, and lightly beaten eggs. With mushy and squishy texture, this well-loved Ilocano vegetable dish was light on salt and great alongside the main meal.
Moving on to the mains, the Sweet Chili Garlic Prawns (PhP 199) arrived and I saw myself smiling. I won’t tire of the magical combination of garlic and chili with sweet bursts of the sauce. The prawns had a nicely charred crust and a plump, juicy, and bouncy texture. Plating them with crunchy toppings such as shredded cabbage and homemade pickles would have punched a higher score in my book.
Ebi Tempura with Suka Dip (PhP 199) was another shamelessly delicious seafood entree. It may look and taste like an ordinary Japanese-style ebi tempura, but wait until the dish changes its core when you use vinegar as condiment instead of the tangy tempura dipping sauce. Try all red vinegar, black vinegar, and white vinegar (as shown in the picture above) if you’re not sure what type you’re in the mood for. π The black vinegar for me was perfectly creditable.
The “calorie-laden” Sizzling Pork Sisig (PhP 99) was crispy and wickedly good. There was nothing sophisticated about itβsisig is sisigβbut it was palatable with fats and all. π It’s a taste of nostalgia, especially for balikbayans, I bet.
Adobong Manok at Baboy sa Dilaw (PhP 199) was cooked with turmeric (luyang dilaw) instead of soy sauce for the traditional adobo recipe, resulting to a yellow adobo rather than the brown version. Turmeric tasted like a less intense ginger or a musky orange that’s both peppery and earthy.
Out of the ordinary, Tinolang Chicken sa Pakwan (PhP 199) (Chicken Soup with Watermelon) came out as a refreshing twist to the conventional Pinoy comfort food, Tinolang Manok (Chicken in Ginger Broth). With a bit of kick from the sweet flavor profile of watermelon, the soup was intensely aromatic, warm, soothing, and easy to eat.
Presented as “butterfly-style,” Paru-parong Tilapia (PhP 199) had a wonderful crust that wasn’t overcooked or dry. The sparse simplicity was boosted by the Sweet Tamarind SauceΒ whose texture was thick and almost like paste, rendering the whole dish intriguingly fruity.
I’m not one who fancy eating exotic food, but I can make an exception when opportunity knocks. In terms of taste and texture, the Adobong Crocodile (PhP 299) was like a cross between chicken and pork; chewiness was wholly absent. Loaded with soy sauce and some herbs, this dish showed off the inventiveness St. Nicholas’ kitchen can deliver when playing fast and loose with tradition.Β
Cigar-shaped Turon de Tsokolate (PhP 75) can be my everyday afternoon snack (if only that’s possible). π It’s a delicious precursor to dinner or a dessert to share. Deep-fried until golden-brown crisp, these turon had paper-thin pastry skin finished with chocolate filling. Wow!
Subtly sweet, the Chocolate Lava Ala Mode (PhP 199) is a great quick-fix dessert that owns an easy convenience. Its interior, while still gooey, was satiny molten chocolate pouring out. Chocolate ice cream on the side made it taste even better. Chocoholics, this is a must-order for yourself! Folks with dietary restrictions, beware.
Honeyed Fruit in Ice Cream (PhP 199), bulked up with fresh bits of chopped mangoes, was too sweet for my liking. The inescapable flavor of honey can satisfy a sweet tooth that has been longing for a lusciously decadent treat.
Choco Banana Shake (PhP 65) and Strawberry Banana Shake (PhP 65) were decent but I prefer those that are thicker and natural with pulp and fiber presented.
I didn’t intend to have another cup of coffee anymore since I have met my caffeine quota for the day after breakfast, but the scent of freshly brewed Civet Coffee (PhP 135) called me forward and I just had to give in. Civet coffee’s fine flavor was like a mix of coffee and roasted ground nuts. It is reportedly from caffeine jitters that go through wild civets’ digestive system working as sort of a defacto depulping machine yielding partially-digested beans coated with various internal essences and enzymes. Awesome.
Price for Value: β β β β β
After typing “PhP 199” for seven times on this review, I can almost guess that everything else on St. Nicholas Catering Restaurant’s menu is likely on that same price point. This casual go-to spot in Mandaluyong showcases varied dishes with generous portions teetering the borderline of great. Obviously, Chef Nick isn’t afraid to take risks with food he creates, which means that there will be no shortage of exciting items here at good value. π
About Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco
Health and technology freak. Food and lifestyle blogger with a large appetite for food and travel.
Indeed there’s always a new dish or coffee flavor to try for the first time. Excellent shots!
Thanks, Karl! Sarap na sarap ka yata sa civet coffee ah, haha. See you again next time. π
All those mouth watering dishes look amazing! And those back drops would definitely set the seen for family get together pictures. How long have they been opened for?
The restaurant has been opened since last year, however their catering services started 14 years ago and they’re still operating until now. The background story of the business is inspiring. π
This looks like a wonderful restaurant. I like how you said the restaurant gave you a feeling of home. The menu seems to have an ecclectic style. It was very interesting to read about the civet coffee. I had never heard of this before.
Yeah, I have heard about that civet coffee processing before and I have wanting to try it for the longest time, but I could not find any place serving it. If you want to try an affordable cup of civet coffee, you know where to go. π
This looks like a really fantastic place to eat and visit! I love the decor and those backdrops really do make for great group photos! All of your photos have my mouth watering, but especially the Ebi Tempura, that would be the very first thing I’d want to try! Oh, and that civet coffee sounds like the perfect way to end a fantastic meal!
Everything was satisfactory and unique in its own. I would love to return and try more of their dishes with my family next time. Hope the tastes will be consistently adequate. π
What a brilliant place to eat – I love that the corners were all decorated differently – and the cherry blossom one reminded me of home [not Japan, sadly for me]. You ate crocodile? π Oh no! I could never do that since I love them so much but people do say they are delicious!!
Haha yes, I just had to try a spoonful of that crocodile dish with rice to fill my curiosity on its taste and texture. Now I have something to say whenever people ask about it. You should try it, too, when you have the chance. π
Oh my gosh those shakes look amazing!! All of these pictures are making my mouth water, it all looks so good. I know my husband would be all over those entrees, however I would call dibs on the cake. What a great day of food!
Yeah, as a true gem of a spot, St. Nicholas Restaurant is a winner and it’s been featured in so many shows and articles online. Flavors of food are different but good. π Check it out!
I got hungry looking at all these food. The crispy shrimp okoy looks so good and I love how they butterflied the Tilapia. And that Chocolate Lava cake is screaming my name!What a great place to dine in.
Seafoods here make fireworks as they stand out, while the inventive soup with watermelon and adobo sa dilaw would be must-try items that pack more complex flavor profiles than the usual.
What a great review! That prawn dish is calling my name and I always swear I can smell it from here too! it is great when you can share the experience with friends! As the fun food memories and laughter about the experience never ends!
Thanks, Joanne. π Come here on a weekend and be welcomed with a great staff overseeing the eclectic and funky setting where you’re bound to have fun.
I’m a vegetarian, and I’d totally be tempted by those delicious looking fritters, they remind me of Indian pakoras or onion bahjis : -)
And that volcano cake is to die for… I was on a cruise last month and ate something similar every evening! The warm gooey chocolate and the cold ice cream was an inspired combination!
Sounds great. I thought the veggie fritters would be a star dish for you. Add the desserts to your choices and some vegetarian-friendly dishes on the menu. Give a thumbs-up to the well-priced, traditional fare.
This food looks amazing, especially the desserts. I have never had Filipino food, but I’m sure I will one day. I’m so glad that you remarked about the atmosphere of the establishment. Honestly, that’s a make or break aspect of dining out–even overtaking the quality of the food. I’ve had some good food at some terrible places and because of that, have never gone back. That’s such an important piece!
So true. Apart from the atmosphere, I am also particular about service. Staff here were generally friendly and efficient, so there’s nothing to worry about. Feel free to drop by at St. Nicholas whenever you feel like trying Filipino food with a twist. π
That looks like such a fun restaurant. I love finding new and tasty places to eat. I also really like the rustic feel of the restaurant and how they have such fun wall hangings so people can entertain themselves while waiting for food. That’s pretty ingenious. People love taking photos, so why not give them a variety of backdrops to keep them busy for a bit? Sounds like the owners are pretty shrewd business people.
Right, people now like to take pictures all the time-mostly selfies and the food before eating. It’s nice to share experiences with friends as they might also want to try it out, too, at their convenient timing. These backdrops indeed were eye-catching. Nice! π
Wow this catering has a bright future with their delicious food. Are they a member of FCAP?
I’m not sure what FCAP is. Maybe you can call them to inquire. π
St. Nicholas place has a simple and humble restaurant interior design. The identity matches the name of the restaurant perfectly. And as a Marketing graduate, a restaurant’s brand(branding) identity is very important to the extent to which is has been thought through.
Actually this restaurant was named after the owner of the father who passed away. It’s also a way of remembering his dad as a tribute.
I’m drooling at the Poqui-poqui and sweet chili garlic prawns. They look so delish! π
Yeah those two are enough to satisfy your crave! π Don’t forget to order rice.
I love the concept, it was like backyard feel kind of resto that serves home made dishes.
I laid my eyes on Ebi tempura, this is weakness. Hahaha.
Ebi tempura is also my weakness. π Pairing it with vinegar is a cool concept, but I still prefer mayonnaise as condiment for it.
I was here and the tinolang chicken sa pakwan stood out and would love to have a second taste of this delectable pinoy favorite…
The recipe is very interesting and I would be glad to know how he does it. So original!
Everything looks so yummy! However they need to work on their walls, and make a lil’ effort to decorate but aside from that the food looks superb!
Eclectic is the theme here, and I don’t have much to complain about that. It’s different and it’s good to be. π
Sabi ko na nga ba, so sure ako na I have read a similar review of this Resto. good thing I see my son Dennis sa photo. I’ve shared this post na to my wife and we’ve been planning to visit the place.
Haha what, anak mo si Dennis? Wow, small world! Yeah, please do check this out. I’m sure your wife will love the food here. π
Wow, I’ve never heard of St. Nicholas Catering before and I’m always a sucker for food reviews. The food looks great, if you’re into local dishes that it. I’m dying to taste the coffee but I can’t yet! #PreggyProblems
Ohh you can soon! π This restaurant is medyo tago from the busy community but it’s easily accessible when you point the location address on the map. Parking may be a problem so I suggest that you go earlier than the peak of dining hours.
This is the place where the background depicts a quite and serene place for a couple to eat together while reminiscing their lovely and romantic love affair with an affordable foods to sustain their stomach cravings. I love the place.
What a description. You nailed it, Sir Gil. π It would be nicer if they the sound of waterfalls on the background. Super tranquil.
I like the simple setup plus the price point is really affordable. It’s really a value for money restaurant.
Yup, this can be a highly recommended restaurant where you can treat all your barkada and office mates when celebrating a birthday or some special occasion. Prices don’t break the bank and food tastes are not disappointing. π
The design of the place is simple yet elegant is there. Foods looks so tempting that I want to visit there.
Come here and try their delightful dishes, and I bet you will have a good time. π
The chocolate lava ala mode is so tempting. I also love to try their Poqui-Poqui and Tinolang Manok sa Pakwan
Those are nice Filipino comfort food that you’d always want to return back to. π The chocolate lava ala mode is a perfect dessert to round out the meal.
I have never tried this restaurant before but it looks good and Filipino-ish in theme. I hope we could come here too.
Trying out dishes here is a good way to introduce your palate to Filipino food with a twist. The flavors are not too overwhelming. π End it with a cup of civet coffee so you can have something to write home about.
Poqui poqui! I just came from a trip to Ilocos, so finding poqui poqui in a resto in Manila is a delight! It’s deceivingly yummy for a simple eggplant dish. π
The name sounds quite funny but gosh it’s really delicious. Taste is simple and good as it is. π
Wow! This restaurant looks like a great place. Craving for shrimp right now. I just love seafood. π
St. Nicholas has a lot of seafood dishes for you. π You can’t go wrong with the ebi tempura and the sweet chili garlic prawns.
The prices are really affordable and I love the idea that there’s different backdrops for customers to enjoy and imagine themselves in.
Yes, every corner is unique and the ambiance plays a large role in keeping you feel cozy and comfortable. π
This is one Filipino restaurant that offers something unique such as crocodile dishes and Civet coffee. The lava cake is mouth watering.
If you fancy trying exotic food, St. Nicholas can get that part covered. π Try the crocodile adobo and civet coffee so you’ll tick them off your must-try list.