R. Ma Mon Luk

A year and about 3 months ago, I went to Ma Mon Luk to try my first bowl of noodles there. And since then, I've been wanting to go for another bowl.

This quaint restaurant has long been running since who-knows-when (I didn't do my research) but who would care if the food is good. I would guess that little of this place has changed in a long while. The chairs and tables add to that effect.


It reminds me of the old chinese restaurants (here we go again with me and my nostalgia). While I was there, I could imagine how busy the aisles would be... How the noise of spoons and porcelain clashing at each other fill the room constantly... And, how full of people it might have been back then.


I've been there twice and I've noticed that people just come and go (I watch them step in and go out --- while I'm taking my dear time with my food). Many would also pass for a quick take-out of their siopao. It seems like people who go there stay for not longer than 10 minutes. And me... I was there for about an hour (both times).

The food was good. There was something refreshing about the noodles. Maybe I was too used to instant noodles that this felt like it was special. But I swear, the noodles is a must try. I already mentioned they have siopao. But, I haven't mentioned that the siopao there is humungous. Okay, I've seen bigger but it's still amazing how big it is compared to the normal siopao you buy elsewhere. Those are basically all that's in their menu... and siomai... how much simpler can the menu get! And nothing beats a hot bowl of noodles with siomai and a serving of asado siopao all partnered with ice cold Coke!!! Yum!!!



When you visit, don't be surprised if:

- you catch a glance of roaches. They are generally everywhere and I did see one of those creepy crawlers. But hey, what can you expect if you're in Quiapo. I wouldn't be surprised too if I see rats; and I've seen rats --big ones, even-- in posh restaurants so I guess they're everywhere too.

- they serve your siomai in broth (I'm not sure if it has been that way in the "olden" times or if it should really be served that way.)

- the servers seem a little stoic. They all look that way. But, they're cool people. They have the best stoic customer service you can experience. They're really nice.



Where is R. Ma Mon Luk? Quiapo, not far from the Quiapo church along the highway on the side where the church is. You can walk along and wander until you see their sign inside the sidewalk (and yes, inside the sidewalk. It's like that in Quiapo).
Your Budget? If you want noodles, siomai and siopao with a drink, then be ready with Php 300, but that's already more than enough.