Introduction
Gone are the days when Filipino cuisine was a well-kept secret, whispered among immigrant families and culinary adventurers. Now, a global appetite for diverse flavors is driving a surge in popularity, and Cleveland is slowly but surely joining the feast. Filipino food, a vibrant tapestry woven from Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences, offers a unique symphony of sweet, savory, sour, and umami tastes. Imagine succulent meats marinated in soy sauce and vinegar, comforting noodle dishes brimming with fresh vegetables, and exotic desserts that dance on your palate. Filipino food boasts a rich culinary heritage built upon foundational ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and the bounty of the sea. And while Cleveland might not yet be celebrated as a Filipino food mecca, a growing and vibrant scene of restaurants, eateries, and markets provides a delicious gateway to experiencing authentic and captivating Filipino dishes. This article aims to guide you through some of the best places to find Filipino food Cleveland has to offer, and to introduce you to the dishes that define this captivating cuisine.
Delicious Filipino Food Restaurants in Cleveland
Cleveland is home to a handful of restaurants dedicated to showcasing the authentic flavors of the Philippines. Each offers a unique experience, from traditional family-run establishments to innovative spots that are putting a modern spin on classic dishes.
Spoonful of Sugar: A Sweet and Savory Destination
Located on the outskirts of Cleveland in the West Park neighborhood, Spoonful of Sugar is a newer restaurant gaining a following for its flavorful dishes and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is family owned and operated, with the recipes passed down through generations. The ambiance is casual and cozy, inviting diners to relax and enjoy a taste of home.
The must-try dishes at Spoonful of Sugar include their signature Chicken Adobo, cooked to perfection in a tangy soy sauce and vinegar marinade, and their crispy Pork Sisig, a sizzling platter of chopped pork belly seasoned with chili peppers and onions. For a taste of comfort, the Beef Caldereta, a hearty stew simmered in tomato sauce with potatoes and bell peppers, is a sure bet. Price ranges are generally affordable, making it an accessible option for those looking to explore Filipino food Cleveland offers. “We wanted to create a place where people could come and experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality and the deliciousness of our food,” says the owner. “We use only the freshest ingredients and prepare everything with love.” Regular customers rave about the authentic flavors and the generous portions.
Lola’s Filipino Restaurant: A Cleveland Classic
Lola’s Filipino Restaurant, tucked away in a strip mall in Parma, has been a mainstay of the Cleveland Filipino community for over a decade. Lola, meaning grandmother in Tagalog, embodies the heart and soul of traditional Filipino cooking. The restaurant’s interior is simple and unpretentious, focusing on the food and the community it serves. Stepping inside Lola’s feels like walking into someone’s home, filled with the comforting aromas of simmering stews and sizzling meats.
Lola’s specializes in classic Filipino dishes prepared with traditional methods. Their Kare-Kare, a rich peanut stew with oxtail and vegetables, is a standout dish, as is their Lechon Kawali, crispy deep-fried pork belly served with a tangy liver sauce. The Pancit Bihon, a stir-fried noodle dish with vegetables and meat, is another popular choice. Lola’s price points are very reasonable, making it a great option for families and those on a budget. “I learned to cook from my mother and grandmother,” explains Lola, the owner. “I want to share the flavors of my childhood with everyone in Cleveland.” Customers often comment on the authenticity of the food and the welcoming atmosphere.
Exploring Filipino Dishes: A Foodie’s Guide
To truly appreciate Filipino food Cleveland has, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some of the key dishes that define this vibrant cuisine. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the country’s history and cultural influences.
Adobo
Considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines, Adobo is a culinary cornerstone. The basic recipe involves marinating meat, typically chicken or pork, in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves. The meat is then simmered until tender and infused with the savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of the marinade. Variations abound, with some cooks adding sugar for a sweeter profile, while others incorporate chili peppers for a spicy kick.
Sinigang
This iconic sour soup is a beloved comfort food, especially during colder months. Sinigang derives its distinctive sourness from various souring agents, such as tamarind (the most common), guava, kamias (a sour fruit), or even vinegar. The soup typically contains meat or seafood, along with an array of vegetables like water spinach (kangkong), radish, eggplant, and string beans. The result is a flavorful and refreshing soup that tantalizes the taste buds.
Pancit
A collective term for Filipino noodle dishes, Pancit encompasses a wide range of preparations and flavors. Pancit Bihon features thin rice noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat, while Pancit Canton utilizes thicker egg noodles. Pancit Palabok is a unique dish topped with a rich, savory shrimp sauce, crispy pork rinds, and hard-boiled eggs. Each type of Pancit offers a distinct textural and flavor experience.
Lumpia
These Filipino spring rolls are a popular appetizer and snack. Lumpia Shanghai are small, crispy rolls filled with ground pork and vegetables, while fresh Lumpia (Lumpiang Sariwa) are larger, unwrapped rolls filled with a variety of vegetables and a sweet peanut sauce. Whether fried to golden perfection or enjoyed fresh, Lumpia are always a crowd-pleaser.
Lechon
A celebratory dish reserved for special occasions, Lechon is a whole roasted pig, traditionally cooked over charcoal. The pig’s skin becomes incredibly crispy and crackling, while the meat remains juicy and flavorful. Lechon is a centerpiece of Filipino feasts and symbolizes abundance and prosperity.
Halo-Halo
This iconic dessert is a vibrant and refreshing concoction that embodies the spirit of Filipino cuisine. Halo-Halo, which translates to “mix-mix,” features a medley of ingredients, including shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, fruits, leche flan (caramel custard), ube ice cream (purple yam ice cream), and more. The ingredients are layered in a tall glass and then mixed together before being enjoyed.
Ube
This purple yam has quickly gained recognition beyond Filipino communities for its vibrant color and nutty, vanilla-like flavor. In Filipino cuisine, ube is used to make an array of desserts, including ube halaya (ube jam), ube ice cream, ube bread, and ube cake. The rich flavor and striking color of ube make it a beloved ingredient.
Filipino Markets and Grocery Stores in Cleveland
Beyond restaurants, Filipino markets and grocery stores offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the ingredients and flavors of the Philippines. These stores are a treasure trove of imported goods, snacks, and hard-to-find ingredients.
Manila Oriental Market: A Cleveland Staple
Located in the heart of Cleveland’s AsiaTown, Manila Oriental Market is a long-standing establishment that caters to the Filipino community and adventurous home cooks alike. The market boasts a wide selection of Filipino ingredients, including various types of noodles, sauces, spices, and canned goods. You can also find a variety of Filipino snacks, such as dried mangoes, banana chips, and polvoron (a crumbly shortbread cookie).
One of the highlights of Manila Oriental Market is its selection of fresh produce, including tropical fruits and vegetables that are difficult to find elsewhere in Cleveland. You can also find prepared foods and take-out options, such as lumpia and adobo. For beginners, it’s a good idea to start with some of the basic ingredients, like soy sauce, vinegar, and bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), to experiment with Filipino cooking at home. Exploring the aisles of Manila Oriental Market is a journey in itself, offering a glimpse into the culinary culture of the Philippines.
The Filipino Community in Cleveland
While not as large as in other major cities, the Filipino community in Cleveland contributes significantly to the city’s cultural diversity. Food plays a vital role in maintaining cultural connections and celebrating traditions within the community. Filipino gatherings and celebrations are often centered around food, with families and friends sharing dishes passed down through generations.
Unfortunately, Cleveland doesn’t have large scale, dedicated Filipino festivals on a regular basis, making the restaurants and stores highlighted here even more important for experiencing the culture. If you want to learn more about local gatherings check community bulletin boards in the markets mentioned here, and keep an eye out on social media.
Conclusion
Filipino food offers a captivating blend of flavors and cultural influences, and Cleveland is slowly but surely embracing this vibrant cuisine. From the comforting warmth of Adobo to the refreshing sweetness of Halo-Halo, there’s a dish to tantalize every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Filipino cuisine, Cleveland offers a delicious and welcoming opportunity to experience the flavors of the Philippines. Start with the recommended restaurants, then explore the markets for home cooking inspiration. So, go explore and discover your new favorite dish! The journey through Filipino food Cleveland has to offer is one of taste, culture, and community. Enjoy!
