A couple of days I had to do my usual research on the "best eats" near the land of the Growling Tigers. And in doing so, there seemed to be a place which people recommend the most. Even Mark Wiens of Migrationology, a food vlogger I look up to came over and gave it a try. MANG TOOTZ.
I just can't hold of my excitement! For easier access. Locating Mang Tootz was a breeze. It is along the same street and already being an institution, everybody knows it. Walked around two blocks and we're there. Yey!
We're both starving and here's what we ordered right away.
- Korean Pork Barbecue
- Bicol Express
- Grilled Pork Liempo
- Two Cups of Rice and Two More!
- AND Banana Rhum-A
We opted to eat outside to have a better feel of the place. At the sidewalk. The tables and chairs were covered by tents.
Started with the lukewarm egg drop soup. The Korean Barbecue and Liempo were both OK but nothing spectacular. What we loved was the Bicol Express! The pork slices were fork-tender and sauce was creamy and a little oily and spicy.
And of course, the star of the show, the BANANA RHUM-A! This was Mr. Tootz' version of the infamous "Turon" or Fried Banana Roll. Believe me. Their version is definitely one, if not the best that we've tried! Bananas were naturally sweet. The skin was crunchy and glazed with syrup. It had a hint of "banana essence" flavor to it. Sprinkled with sesame seeds and their "magic powder." Oh boy! They were really really good that we had to order some more to take home!
I may have been somehow disappointed with some of the dishes but the Bicol Express and the Banana Rhum-A surely made up for it! I will still recommend Mang Tootz to family, friends and followers should you be in the area.
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