I’m still amazed with how Kapitolyo transformed from a quiet residential area to one of the busiest foodie destinations in the Metro. I remember how we’re limited to two options, St. Gerald’s (a homey café near my school) or Three Sisters (one of the pioneers in the area that sells delicious barbecue and pancit bihon). Now, I have so many options that I also need my toes to count it.

The spotlight this time is on Red Panda Bistro. I planned to try this place out with N a few months ago but the menu didn’t appeal to us so we went to Gostoso instead. I was still curious about the place though so when M invited me for dinner, I suggested Red Panda.

Since the cuisine is Chinese, I wasn’t really that ecstatic in choosing what to eat. Plus, I was so embarrassed for arriving late and looking harassed with uncombed hair. Anyway, we decided to go for the following: Roast Duck Dumpling (PHP115), Broccoli and Cauliflower Cheese Gratin (PHP380), and Chinese Style Ossobucco (PHP490).

First served were the dumplings.

Roast duck meat, celery, shiitake mushrooms, carrots—it wasn’t anything fancy but it was okay. Unfortunately, it left a bad impression when the wonton wrapper was too sticky to the point that it won’t separate from the paper wrapper (which is not edible). Well, it frustrated M… quite a lot.

Next served was the broccoli and cauliflower cheese gratin. I loved this one as I like broccoli. I loved the mix of the chewy texture of cheese and the slight crunch of the broccoli and cauliflower. Plus, the taste wasn’t overwhelming.

But the slow cooked beef shanks dish was the best one that night. The meat was slow cooked so it was so soft that you don’t even need to chew! It also had a slight sweet taste which is quite something expected from Chinese dishes.

It was a good dinner. But it might take me a while to visit this place again as there are just too many new restaurants to visit.