3 Tips for Business Success from Chef Tatung

On a breezy November afternoon in BGC, the aroma of spices mingled with the hum of conversation at The Kitchen by Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Renowned chef, restaurateur, and content creator, Chef Tatung Sarthou, wasn’t just there to cook—he was there to inspire.

As part of Sun Life’s Coffee & Play event, Chef Tatung served up more than just his signature peri-peri chicken and chicken macaroni. He dished out the wisdom that has guided his own ventures, offering aspiring entrepreneurs a taste of what it takes to succeed in business. Here are his three essential tips for turning dreams into reality.

1. Define Your Success and Design Your Plan

“Success will happen by design, not by chance,” Chef Tatung said, his voice confident yet approachable. He explained that the first step to any successful endeavor is having a clear vision. For him, success isn’t just about opening doors—it’s about building an organization that thrives long-term.

“Be intentional,” he urged the audience, emphasizing the value of nurturing a team of leaders and hard workers who share your vision. “Your business should have the right people to help expand it.” Just like perfecting a recipe, success requires precision, preparation, and a pinch of determination.

2. Be a Problem-Solver

Running a business is no walk in the park, and Chef Tatung knows it firsthand. “Every day brings challenges,” he shared. “But successful businesses exist because they solve other people’s problems.”

For Chef Tatung, a problem-solving mindset isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. He described it as part of an entrepreneur’s DNA, a way of approaching obstacles with curiosity and creativity. Whether it’s a supply chain hiccup or an evolving market trend, every problem presents an opportunity to innovate.

3. Seek Professional Help to Grow

As the conversation turned to financial management, Chef Tatung didn’t mince words: “Get advice from people who know finance.” He reminded the audience that growing a business involves navigating complex financial and legal landscapes. The right experts, he explained, can help ensure a solid foundation for success.

For budding entrepreneurs, these words carried weight. Many nodded in agreement, their pens busy scribbling notes.

A Taste of Inspiration

As Chef Tatung wrapped up his talk, the audience sampled the dishes he prepared during the demo, savoring not just the flavors but the lessons behind them. The event didn’t end there. Participants dove into Sun Life’s original board game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices, designed to teach strategic thinking and decision-making—skills every entrepreneur needs.

For Sun Life’s Market Segment Manager for Business Owners, Renee Co, the event was about more than sharing tips. “We want to empower our clients to make the bright choice in achieving their life and business goals,” she said, thanking Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for their collaboration.

Chef Tatung’s tips are a reminder that success, much like cooking, requires the right ingredients, a thoughtful process, and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re plating your first dish or launching your first business, the recipe for success is within reach—with a clear vision, a problem-solving mindset, and the right support team to guide you along the way.

For more resources to grow your business, visit Sun Life’s Business Owner Program. Follow @SunLifePH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates on future events.

Details provided in a tecent press release.

Cuisine that tastes like home at Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Nothing beats the warmth and comfort of home-cooked Filipino food. Whether it’s adobo, sinigang, or a plate of pancit, these dishes remind us of family gatherings, our lola’s kitchen, and the familiar flavors we grew up loving. At Tindeli, Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou has captured this feeling of home with his newest culinary venture—a Filipino-themed café and deli that combines the best of tradition with a modern touch.

Located in Gateway Mall’s Palenque food arena, Tindeli brings the essence of Filipino food to life in a setting that feels cozy and welcoming. Chef Tatung’s vision for Tindeli is simple: a place where Filipinos can come together to enjoy classic dishes, artisanal cured meats, and fresh-baked breads, all in one spot. It’s a café where the food tastes like home but with the quality and care of a chef’s touch.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
A Culinary Dream 10 Years in the Making

Tindeli isn’t just another restaurant. It’s the result of a decade-long passion project that combines the Filipino tindahan (corner store) with an upscale deli experience. Chef Tatung, who is known for his expertise in Filipino cuisine, wanted to create a space where everyday comfort food could be celebrated and elevated.

The deli side of Tindeli offers a variety of Filipino-style cured meats, baked goods, and pasalubong treats. Whether you’re grabbing a bite to eat or taking home something special, Tindeli’s offerings are designed to remind you of the flavors of home.

Dining at Tindeli: A Feast of Familiar Flavors

After attending Chef Tatung’s birthday celebration at Quantum Skyview in Gateway Mall, my fellow foodies and I headed to Tindeli for dinner. The moment we stepped inside, we were welcomed by the warmth of the interiors—solihiya-patterned walls, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, and an ambiance that made us feel at home.

We were treated to a spread of dishes that highlighted the best of Tindeli’s menu:

Salted Egg Fries. A playful take on the popular salted egg flavor. The fries were crispy, with a generous coating of savory, salted egg powder that made them irresistible.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Chicken Macaroni Salad. This creamy side dish was a nostalgic reminder of Filipino celebrations, with tender chicken and macaroni mixed in a creamy dressing and topped with oodles of cheese.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Okoy. These crispy shrimp fritters were perfectly fried, delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite. A classic Filipino street food brought to the dining table.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Chop Suey. A colorful and hearty mix of vegetables and meat stir-fried in a savory sauce, it added a fresh and vibrant touch to our meal.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Dinuguan. A rich pork blood stew with tender meat, the dinuguan had a deep, hearty flavor that was both comforting and satisfying.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Pancit Canton. Stir-fried noodles with a medley of vegetables and meat, this dish was a celebration of flavors that Filipinos know and love.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Kare Kare. This peanut-based oxtail stew was thick, creamy, and flavorful. Paired with bagoong (shrimp paste), it was a delicious reminder of home-cooked meals.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Our meal ended with an array of indulgent desserts that made for a sweet conclusion:

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Strawberry Shortcake. Light, fluffy, and filled with sweet strawberries, this cake was a refreshing and fruity treat.
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Mango Cake. Light and fluffy, with luscious mango and cream on top and in between layers, this cake celebrated the sweet tropical fruit that is a Filipino favorite.
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Blueberry Cheesecake. Rich, creamy cheesecake with a tart blueberry topping, perfect for those who love a balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Peanut Butter Choco Cake. Decadent and indulgent, this cake combined the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite.

To complement the meal, we enjoyed a variety of refreshing drinks:

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Pink Guava Iced Tea. A fruity, tangy beverage that was both sweet and refreshing.
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Sago’t Gulaman: A Filipino classic made with tapioca pearls and caramel jelly, served in sweet syrup—a perfect drink to accompany the meal.
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Kape Americano: Made from beans sourced from Mt. Apo and Sultan Kudarat, this coffee was bold, flavorful, and a testament to the quality of Filipino-grown beans.
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
A Pasalubong Haven

Tindeli isn’t just about dining in. It’s also a haven for pasalubong—those take-home goodies that Filipinos love to share with family and friends. From giant ensaymadas to homemade galantina, there’s no shortage of options for anyone looking to bring a piece of Tindeli home.

One of Tindeli’s signature items is the Tindesal—an oversized, open-faced pandesal topped with generous fillings like chicken salad and longganisa spread. It’s a playful take on the classic Filipino bread roll, made even more indulgent.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung

Chef Tatung also offers his range of house-made cured meats and baked breads, including his classic sourdough and ube pandesal. These items are made in-house with the highest quality ingredients, offering a taste of home that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying at home.

The Future of Tindeli

Tindeli’s first branch in Gateway Mall is just the beginning. Chef Tatung has big plans for the future, aiming to open more branches in key cities across Metro Manila and beyond. Over the next few years, he plans to bring Tindeli to more locations, sharing his love for Filipino cuisine with even more people.

Chef Tatung has expressed plans to target opening ten new branches next year alone, expanding the Tindeli experience while staying true to the quality and authenticity that defines it.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Tindeli by Chef Tatung
Why You Should Visit Tindeli

Tindeli is clearly a celebration of Filipino culture, tradition, and flavors. Whether you’re sitting down for a meal with family, grabbing a coffee, or shopping for pasalubong, Tindeli offers an experience that brings the comfort of home to every bite.

With its cozy ambiance, carefully curated menu, and Chef Tatung’s dedication to preserving and elevating Filipino cuisine, Tindeli is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves food that tastes like home.

Tindeli by Chef Tatung is located at Palenque, Upper Ground B, Gateway Mall 2, Cubao, Quezon City, open for dine-in and delivery weekdays from 10am to 9pm and weekends from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 916 4688084.

Another branch is located at 45 Kamuning Road, Barangay East Kamias, Quezon City.

Know more about its menu and offers by following Tindeli by Chef Tatung on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant. Food items are served free of charge.

Cook with Chef Tatung Sarthou: Ignite Your Passion

Last Saturday afternoon, the Quantum Skyview at Gateway Mall 2 buzzed with energy as home cooks, food enthusiasts, and aspiring chefs gathered for “Cook with Chef Tatung: Ignite Your Passion.” This special event offered a unique chance to learn from Chef Tatung Sarthou, a culinary icon known for his Simpol philosophy, which simplifies traditional Filipino recipes. The venue was lively with product displays from sponsors like Masflex Cookware, Nestlé, Maggi, and NutriAsia, who also provided a range of freebies to attendees.

Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung

Meet the Culinary Maestro

Chef Tatung Sarthou is a name that resonates deeply in the culinary world. With over three million followers across digital platforms, his influence extends from his popular digital show, Simpol, to his international appearances at Madrid Fusion and the Village Internationale de la Gastronomie in Paris. His work in promoting Filipino cuisine globally and his role as a resource speaker on Netflix’s Street Food showcase his dedication to elevating Filipino flavors.

Chef Tatung is also a successful restaurateur with ventures like Pandan Asian Café, Tatung’s Private Dining, Azadore and Tindeli. His creative agency, Vertikal Kreatives, manages major culinary projects and campaigns for top brands. This event was a testament to his commitment to making cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Interactive Cooking Demos: A Culinary Showcase

The centerpiece of the event was Chef Tatung’s interactive cooking demonstration. Attendees watched closely as Chef Tatung, alongside Menchie Porciuncula—winner of the “Get a chance to cook with Chef Tatung” contest—prepared his Birthday Spaghetti. This dish featured a delightful mix of carrots, bell peppers, and sausages from Tindeli, demonstrating how simple ingredients can create a flavorful meal.

The collaboration didn’t stop there. Chef Tatung also teamed up with Chef Jackie Ang Po to craft a unique Bibingka Cheesecake. Chef Jackie, known for her work with Fleur de Lys and Del Monte Kitchenomics, added her expertise to this innovative dessert, blending traditional Filipino flavors with modern techniques. Their joint efforts highlighted how combining different culinary styles can produce extraordinary results.

Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung

Simpol Tips and Kitchen Hacks

Chef Tatung shared valuable tips and kitchen hacks that resonated with both seasoned cooks and beginners:

  • Patience is Key: “Add ingredients little by little when cooking; take time to develop the flavors,” Chef Tatung advised. He emphasized that patience is crucial for achieving the best results in cooking.
  • Adapt and Innovate: Chef Tatung encouraged cooks to be flexible. “Authenticity is not the basis for us to feed our families. Use what you have and let creativity guide you.” This approach is all about making the most of available ingredients and adapting recipes to fit your needs.
  • Seasoning Throughout: One of his essential tips was to season food step by step. “Season your food every step of the way, not just at the end,” he said. This method ensures that every part of the dish is flavorful and well-seasoned.
  • Understanding Fundamentals: Chef Tatung stressed the importance of mastering basic cooking techniques. “We need to understand the fundamentals. Whether cooking salmon or tilapia, improper seasoning or overcooking can ruin the dish.” His focus was on learning the basics to create delicious, well-balanced meals.

Engage and Taste: A Hands-On Experience

The “Taste and Learn” segment was a highlight of the event. Select participants had the opportunity to taste Chef Tatung’s dishes and gain insights into his cooking techniques. This interactive portion allowed attendees to experience the flavors firsthand.

Exciting Prizes and Giveaways

The event also featured a range of prizes and giveaways that added excitement to the day. Trivia games rewarded winners with Tindeli vouchers and Simpol aprons, while the raffle offered a variety of prizes. Attendees could win kitchen essentials like Masflex cookware, with major prizes including La Germania gas stoves and online cooking classes with Chef Jackie. These giveaways, along with product displays from sponsors, made the event even more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung
Cook with Chef Tatung

The Big Reveal: Simply Simpol

One of the most anticipated moments was the reveal of Chef Tatung’s latest cookbook, Simply Simpol. This new addition to his bestselling series emphasizes the simplicity of cooking. What sets this book apart is its inclusion of QR codes that link to cooking videos. Readers can use their phone cameras to access these videos online, making it easier to follow along with Chef Tatung’s recipes. The book will be available starting October 2024 for Php490 at National Bookstore, Shopee, Lazada, Fully Booked, Tiktok Shop, and Amazon.

Inspiring Home Cooks

As the event concluded, it was clear that Chef Tatung’s influence extended beyond his recipes. His approach to cooking—making it accessible, creative, and enjoyable—left a lasting impression on everyone present. Whether they were seasoned cooks or just starting out, attendees left feeling inspired and empowered to explore their culinary passions.

Chef Tatung’s dedication to simplifying cooking and sharing his love for food continues to resonate with a wide audience. Through events like this, he shows that anyone can create delicious meals at home with a little creativity and a lot of heart.

Know more about Chef Tatung and his various endeavors by visiting his website or by following his social media platforms: Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok.

Insider tips for an experience you’ll adore at Azadore

One of the greatest perks of being a foodie is the joy of discovering hidden culinary gems and sharing insider tips about favorite restaurants. Azadore, the latest venture by celebrity chef and internationally awarded author Myke “Tatung” Sarthou, is one such gem nestled in Quezon City. With its unique blend of homey nostalgia and modern culinary excellence, Azadore is not just a restaurant but an experience waiting to be savored.

I’ve previously enjoyed its unique charms before when I dined here with my officemates and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to explore more of its Spanish-themed menu during a recent get-together with my foodie friends.

And now, I can share some tidbits to help you have an experiences you’ll definitely adore at Azadore.

The Origin Story

Chef Tatung’s vision for Azadore is deeply rooted in his childhood memories and Cebuano heritage. The concept of Azadore draws inspiration from family gatherings at his grandparents’ house, where the aroma of grilled meats filled the air, and everyone contributed their signature dishes to the feast. The name itself is a playful combination of “asador,” meaning “grill” in Spanish, and “adore,” reflecting the love and cherished memories associated with these gatherings.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 1950s home on Scout Fernandez Street. Interior designer Ivy Almario has transformed this ancestral house into a dining space that exudes both modern sophistication and nostalgic charm. Aside from a spacious indoor dining area, an airy al fresco section is also available outside that leads to its fully stocked bar – Bebeme – and a newly opened bakery. Original architectural elements have been preserved, blending seamlessly with contemporary design touches to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Must-Try Dishes

Azadore’s menu is a celebration of both local and international flavors, expertly crafted to evoke a sense of home-cooked comfort with a gourmet twist.

Starters

Dinner Rolls and Butter (complimentary). Warm housemade dinner rolls and creamy butter will tide you over while waiting for your food.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Azadore Salad (Php820). This standout dish features mixed greens, romaine, burrata, grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, chimichurri, and a honey balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing start that’s both vibrant and flavorful.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Caesar Salad (Php550). A classic Caesar with a twist, this salad includes romaine lettuce, Parmesan, a poached egg, garlic confit, and a slab of wood-smoked bacon, offering a rich and smoky flavor profile.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Salpicao (Php 720). Tender beef tenderloin cooked with garlic confit, butter, and a red wine sauce, creating a dish that’s bursting with savory goodness.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Truffle Chips (Php380). Homemade potato chips drizzled with butter, parsley, white truffle oil, and truffle paste, finished with pecorino Romano. These chips are a luxurious treat that perfectly balances crunch and flavor.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Chili con Carne (Php390). Made with Azadore’s signature chili and hearty ground beef and served with crunchy corn nachos, it’s a great start addition to any meal.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Mains

Smoked Pork BBQ Ribs (Php1190). These wood-smoked pork ribs are served with coleslaw and grilled corn, offering a tender and flavorful bite.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Grilled Mixed Sausage (Php790). A variety of homemade sausages, including chorizo, kielbasa, and morcilla, served with hand-cut fries and pickled red cabbage.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Lola Pura’s Lengua ala Sevillana (Php820). A hearty dish featuring ox tongue in a creamy mushroom sauce with truffle paste and truffle oil, paying homage to Chef Tatung’s grandmother.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Moussaka (Php490). A classic Greek dish with beef ragout, grilled eggplant, and béchamel sauce, delivering rich and comforting flavors.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Azadore’s Fried Chicken (Php670). Southern-style fried chicken fillet served with coleslaw and a choice of three mushroom gravy or barbecue bourbon sauce.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Paella Mixta (Php1200). A flavorful mix of chicken, shrimp, clams, and smoked chorizo with French beans and bell peppers.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Paella Negra (Php1350). Rich with seafood and squid ink, this dish includes octopus, shrimp, clams, and French beans.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Paella Bisteka (Php1600). Featuring flat iron steak, king oyster mushroom, smoked bacon, bell peppers, and truffle paste, this paella is a hearty and indulgent option.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Pizza and Pasta

Pepperoni Pizza (Php880). A classic pepperoni pizza loaded with soffritto, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Gambas Pizza (Php980). Shrimp pizza with garlic confit and green chili, topped with soffritto, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Traditional Carbonara (Php520). An authentic recipe with spaghetti, wood-smoked bacon, pecorino Romano, and fresh cracked black pepper.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Bolognese (Php490). Spaghetti tossed in hearty ground beef sauce slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and tomatoes, served over pasta.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Cakes
Azadore Insider Tips
Almond Sans Rival (Php310/slice). A decadent layered meringue cake with French rum buttercream and almond slices.
Azadore Insider Tips
Purple Yam (Php280/slice). A soft and fluffy cake layered with vibrant purple whipped cream.
Azadore Insider Tips
Carrot Cake (Php345/slice). Rich with chopped walnuts, raisins, pineapple, and premium lemon cream cheese frosting.
Azadore Insider Tips
Truffle Chocolate Cake (Php340). A decadent chocolate pudding cake with silky ganache.
Azadore Insider Tips
Mango Cake (Php280). Light vanilla sponge cake layered with homemade mango puree and fresh mango.
Azadore Insider Tips
Drinks
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Te Frio Lemon (Php250). A refreshing lemon iced tea.
Azadore Insider Tips
Sangria (Php400). A classic Spanish drink, perfect for a relaxed meal.
Azadore Insider Tips

Insider Tips for the Best Experience

To ensure you have the best possible experience at Azadore, here are some insider tips:

  • Best Times to Visit: For a more relaxed dining experience, visit during weekdays or early lunch hours to avoid the weekend rush. On the other hand, dining here in the evening will make the most out of the restaurant’s uniqe ambiance.
  • Reservations: Due to its popularity, it’s wise to book in advance. Call +63 917 101 0070 to reserve your table.
  • Special Requests: If you have dietary preferences or are celebrating a special occasion, inform the staff ahead of time. They are accommodating and will ensure your needs are met.
  • Exploring the Menu: Don’t hesitate to try seasonal specials and heirloom dishes. Chef Tatung regularly updates the menu to keep it fresh and exciting.
  • Outdoor Dining: The Breezeway Terrace offers a delightful al fresco dining experience, perfect for enjoying the garden views.
  • Private Dining: For intimate gatherings, consider booking one of the private dining rooms, which offer a cozy and exclusive setting.
  • Parking and Accessibility: Azadore has limited parking space, so arriving early ensures a hassle-free visit. The restaurant also employs a valet service to help you find your parking spot. If your vehicle is blocking another from exiting, do your fellow diner a solid and move your car immediately.
  • Meet the Chef: Take the opportunity to interact with Chef Tatung if he’s around. His stories and insights add a personal touch to your dining experience.
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Events and Celebrations

Azadore is an ideal venue for large gatherings, with an indoor seating capacity of 113 and an al fresco area that can accommodate 180 guests. Whether it’s a family reunion, birthday, anniversary, wedding, or corporate event, Azadore’s spacious and beautifully designed setting makes any celebration special. The unique design elements, such as the dynamic breezeway wall and original architectural features, create a memorable backdrop for your event.

Azadore provides a journey through flavors and memories, masterfully crafted by Chef Tatung. With its diverse menu, inviting ambiance, and exceptional service, Azadore promises an experience that will linger in your heart and taste buds long after your meal. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite, an extravagant meal, or a place to celebrate life’s special moments, Azadore has something for everyone.

Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips
Azadore Insider Tips

Visit Azadore at 111 Scout Fernandez Street, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Quezon City. The restaurant is open Mondays to Thursdays from 7am to 1am and Fridays to Sundays from 7am to 2am. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 917 101 0070. Follow Azadore on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok or visit its website for regular updates and promotions.

Come and experience the world of Azadore, where every meal is a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant. Food items are served free of charge in exchange for honest feedback and this feature.

Check out my previous post about Azadore:

A Spanish-inspired Feast from Chef Tatung at Azadore

Indulging in a delightful lunch with my officemates at Azadore, Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou’s newest restaurant in the Tomas Morato area, was a culinary adventure that transported us harried office workers to a world of international flavors with a touch of homegrown flair. There, we were able to experience Chef Tatung’s passion for food and sense of nostalgia which resulted to a memorable dining experience.

Romancing the Grill: Chef Tatung’s Concept

Drawing inspiration from his cherished memories of backyard barbecue parties and family gatherings, Chef Tatung crafted Azadore as an international grill with a heartwarming touch of home. The name itself, a playful fusion of “asador,” meaning “fire pit or grill” in South American countries, and “adore,” symbolizing love and cherish, perfectly captures the essence of this culinary haven.

A Journey Back in Time: The Converted Ancestral Home

As we stepped into Azadore, housed in a converted ancestral home on Scout Fernandez Street in Quezon City, we were instantly captivated by its timeless charm. The mid-century post American-era family home, transformed into a beautiful dining destination, enveloped us in a nostalgic embrace inspired by Chef Tatung’s childhood memories of grilling in his Cebu garden and his grandmother’s dining table.

Azadore
Azadore
Azadore
Azadore

Converting an almost 80-year-old home into a 300-seater restaurant was no small feat, but with the expertise of interior designer Ivy Almario, the team infused their unique style into the space while preserving its classic allure. The original footprint of the house was respected, paying homage to its architectural bones. Original materials and flooring were retained, gracefully blending the past with a modern twist. Azadore embodies the idea that we can embrace the present and future while staying connected to our roots and cherished traditions.

A Haven for Gatherings: Azadore’s Unique Spaces

Azadore offers a haven for both large and intimate gatherings. With an indoor seating capacity of 113 and the Breezeway Terrace, an al fresco area accommodating 180 people, the restaurant provides an ideal setting for various occasions. Whether it’s a family reunion, a milestone celebration like a birthday or anniversary, or even corporate events such as product launches or seminars, Azadore can caters to various large group functions. Former bedrooms have been transformed into private dining rooms, offering a more intimate ambiance for special gatherings.

Azadore
Azadore
Azadore
Azadore
A Spanish-Inspired Respite: Our Flavorful Escape

Amidst the hustle and bustle of our busy workday, we found respite in Azadore’s Spanish-inspired dishes. Chef Tatung’s vision of serving Spanish fare the way we Filipinos know and love them truly came alive in our lunch experience. Here are the highlights of our delectable feast:

Dinner rolls and butter

This much appreciated complimentary dish helped to tide us over while waiting for our orders to be served.

Azadore
Azadore

Paella Negra (Php1,350)

A captivating dish featuring rice flavored with squid ink, adorned with succulent octopus, shrimp, and clams. The flavors mingled harmoniously, creating a medley that pleased both the eyes and the taste buds. It is served with a side of creamy aioli but I preferred the rice dish without it.

Azadore
Azadore

Salpicao (Php690)

Tender cubes of beef tenderloin sautéed to perfection in garlic, butter, and wine. This may be a little “sauce-ier” than my usual preference for salpicao but it went well with our paella.

Azadore
Azadore

Gambas con Chorizo (Php950)

A mouthwatering combination of prawns, garlic, homemade smoked chorizo, parsley butter, and a hint of lemon juice. The flavors danced on our tongues, showcasing the skillful fusion of Spanish and Filipino influences.

Azadore
Azadore

These dishes were served in portions that suited our group of four quite well, resulting in well-satisfied foodies who can happily go back to being corporate drones.

In addition to savoring the sumptuous dishes, we couldn’t resist capturing the moment with some delightful photo opportunities. Azadore’s charming ambiance and visually appealing presentations provided the perfect backdrop for our Instagram-worthy snapshots.

Azadore
Azadore
A Culinary Adventure Awaits at Azadore

Azadore, Chef Tatung’s newest restaurant, has undoubtedly become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a delightful blend of international and local flavors. The passion and expertise poured into every aspect of this culinary gem, from its nostalgic concept to its converted ancestral home, make it a truly exceptional dining experience. Whether you’re planning a gathering with loved ones or simply seeking a delectable respite from the everyday, Azadore promises a journey that will satisfy both your palate and your heart.

Azadore
Azadore

Embark on your own gastronomic adventure and discover the warmth and flavors of Azadore, where the love for food and cherished memories come together in perfect harmony.

Azadore is located at 111 Scout Fernandez Street, Barangay Sacred Heart, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 12 midnight. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 917 101 0070.

Stay updated on its menu and offers by following Azadore on Facebook and Instagram.

Culinary journey at Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Part of the fun of traveling is the eating the local food. By tasting the signature dishes of the locale – see what flavors the people savor, how they use available ingredients and more – you get to learn much about their culture and history.

Sadly, I haven’t been able to travel to our neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, as other priorities got in the way. However, there is a way to get a taste of Southeast Asian flavors, thanks to Pandan Asian Cafe.

One of the recent ventures by Chef Mike Sarthou (or more widely known as Chef Tatung), Pandan Asian Cafe brings iconic Southeast Asian dishes to Quezon City’s dining public.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

The resto is situated where Lazat Fil-Asian Restaurant & Bar used to be. It maximized the place’s open and airy layout, adding vibrant greens from decor and plants, which add to the feeling of freshness.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Before the pandemic made itself known, I had lunch here with my officemates. Our Southeast Asian meal consisted of:

Nasi Goreng (Php285).  The Malay version of fried rice with chicken, eggs and vegetables and distinctly flavored with sweet soy sauce called kecap manis.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Orange Chicken (Php450).  A variation of General Tso’s chicken wherein battered chicken is served drenched in fruity orange sauce.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Salt and Pepper Squid (Php340). The Chinese version of fried calamari wherein squid pieces are covered in light batter, then deep-fried to become crispy on the outside, tender and chewy on the inside.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Sticky Rice (Php210). Traditional Thai dessert of sticky rice in coconut cream sprinkled with sesame seeds and served with mango slices.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

Iced Vietnamese Coffee (Php160). Also known as ca phe da, it is made by allowing hot water to drip through medium to coarse-ground dark-roasted Vietnamese-grown coffee beans into condensed milk then stirring with crushed ice.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

I’m glad with the break from the usual lunch fare that Pandan Asian Cafe provided our group. I just found the portions a little small.

Pandan Asian Cafe, Tomas Morato

During the ECQ, the resto temporarily halted its operations but re-opened last July. It also expanded its offers to include party platters of its best-selling dishes for takeout or delivery.

So if you feel like expanding your culinary horizons, drop by or order a food tray to go.

Pandan Asian Cafe is located at 76 Scout Limbaga Street, Laging Handa, Quezon City, open daily from 11am to 11pm. For inquiries, reservations or delivery requests, call +63 2 83550998, +63 2 83515279 or +63 917 7748999.

Pandan Asian Café Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato