Today marks the 161st birth anniversary of the esteemed Philippine national hero, Jose P. Rizal, and it sparked a yearning for Filipino cuisine within me. To honor this literary luminary, I opted to indulge in a meal from Bilao, a renowned Filipino restaurant in New York City, using the DoorDash app.
Assuming Kabayan was the sole Filipino eatery in the city was my oversight; evidently, there are numerous other Filipino establishments, including Bilao, which I discovered today.
Perusing through Bilao’s menu, I found myself torn between several equally enticing options. Ultimately, I settled on “bulalo” – a hearty beef shank soup slow-cooked for hours until the meat and ligaments tenderly separate from the bone. This savory broth boasts a medley of vegetables, including corn on the cob, cabbage, potatoes, onions, and scallions, reminiscent of flavors from the Tagalog region of the Philippines.
Though the price may lean towards the upscale side for someone of modest means like myself, I reasoned that I seldom indulge in food delivery and deemed it fitting to savor Bilao’s culinary offerings.
Contemplating my order, I decided on bulalo, along with spring rolls or “lumpia,” as well as garlic rice.
After a brief wait of over half an hour, my order arrived.
True to expectations, the bulalo did not disappoint. Its robust, unadulterated broth evoked memories of home-cooked meals prepared by my mother, aunt, and grandmothers.
For a $20 Filipino soup, the portion size proved ample for three moderately hungry individuals, though with larger servings of rice, it could easily satisfy a family.
I wholeheartedly recommend Bilao to diners considering placing an order for delivery.
However, I must confess my slight disappointment with the spring rolls, priced at $11 for several small pieces. Pairing them with another dish could enhance their value; perhaps offering three pieces with every order of noodles, such as canton or bihon, would make them more appealing.
Grateful for the satisfying experience with bulalo, I may explore Bilao’s other offerings in the future, such as kare-kare, lechon kawali, and menudo. Perhaps on Manuel L. Quezon’s day, I’ll indulge in one of these delightful dishes.
