The moment you enter the restaurant, the modern interior with cultural touches will instantly draw you in. As you’re seated at your table with a smile by the friendly staff, you will immediately think, “So, this is Filipino hospitality.” Welcome to Kalamansi Kafe.
Have the best time at Kalamansi Kafe
Among the roster of establishments located in Suan Phlu, a lovely neighborhood in Sathorn, you would be surprised to find a Filipino restaurant hidden in plain sight. It’s near landmarks such as Marriott Courtyard, Somerset Park Suan Phlu Bangkok, Saawaan, and Smalls, but its unassuming facade might make you think it’s just another cafe or resto-bar.
However, upon entering, you will see how vastly different it looks from the outside. The sleek, minimalist interior exudes an upscale vibe, while the hints of Filipino culture (wooden decor, murals of Philippine jeepneys, etc.) make it feel more homey and inviting.
Minimalist interior of Kalamansi Kafe
The staff at Kalamansi Kafe are all Filipinos, which makes the whole dining experience even more authentic. People from the Philippines are known for being warm—always smiling and genuinely friendly. That’s what you can expect here as well.
The Filipino staff at Kalamansi Kafe
While all these factors can enhance your experience at the restaurant, it’s the food that will truly leave a lasting impression. And rest assured, you’ll be craving the meals at Kalamansi Kafe again and again.
Filipino cuisine is generally characterized as savory and salty. However, depending on the region, you can enjoy dishes with their own specialties. The extensive menu at Kalamansi Kafe allows you to pick and choose what you feel like having at the moment.
Note: Don’t be shy to ask if there are items on the menu that are written in Filipino. The friendly staff will be happy to describe the dish for you and tell you the ingredients used.
For first-timers, it can be overwhelming to choose from their wide selection of food, from appetizers down to desserts. Here are some recommendations that are a good introduction to this underrated cuisine.
Kalamansi Kafe: Drinks
Order Calamansi Juice or some Filipino beers to kick-start your meal. Calamansi is the Philippines’ version of lime. It has a good balance of sweet and sour and is refreshing overall.
Kalamansi Kafe: Appetizers
BBQ Platter with Calamansi Juice
The BBQ Platter (THB 635) is great for a group of 3-4 people. It consists of 3 pork BBQs, 3 slices of grilled meat, 1 grilled chicken, and various grilled cuts (liver, heart, intestines, etc.). It may sound daunting, but don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it!
Kalamansi Kafe: Mains
Pancit Palabok
Start with Pancit Palabok (THB 189). It’s a unique noodle dish in the Philippines with a savory shrimp sauce that you’ll thoroughly enjoy. It has plenty of crunchy toppings, which give the soft noodles a nice contrast.
Classic Adobo
Then, feast your senses with Adobo (THB 240), a classic Filipino food that everybody has probably heard of. It’s meat marinated in soy sauce and vinegar and results in a scrumptious stew best paired with rice.
Kare-Kare
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Order the Kare-Kare Bagnet (THB 320), crispy pork belly with peanut sauce. Don’t be turned off too soon! The taste will surprise you, and this might even become your new favorite. Be sure to eat Kare-Kare with the shrimp paste for maximum flavor.
Note: A vegan menu is available at Kalamansi Kafe.
Kalamansi Kafe: Desserts
Barkada Halo-Halo
Cap off your meal with Halo-Halo (available in Solo or Group size). Halo-Halo is essentially the bingsu of the Philippines, with the difference being that it mainly consists of milk along with shaved ice, topped with various ingredients such as coconut jelly, red beans, banana, ube ice cream, custard/flan, and more.
It’s perfect for hot summer days, but even on regular days when you crave something light.
Pro tip: Order extra ube ice cream and leche flan, and mix them into the Halo-Halo. You’re welcome!
These are just some of the things you can look forward to at Kalamansi Kafe. On your next visit, try other specialties such as Sinigang, Sisig, Chicharon Bulaklak, Buko Pandan, and more.
Tara. Kain? Tag someone you want to try some Philippines food at Kalamansi Kafe with!
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