Some restaurants just exist. Then there are the ones that become part of your life. The places you remember from childhood birthdays, post-class tambays, and spontaneous “Asa ta mokaon?” lunches. Penong’s is one of those.
Photo from WIM in Davao
I had lunch at their Malvar branch last Friday, and even though I didn’t order my usual Inato 1—the one with three pork barbecue sticks and unli rice that’s practically muscle memory at this point—I still left feeling like I’d time-traveled. Everything on the table tasted like the Davao I grew up with. But also? Some things were new. And surprisingly excellent.
What Makes Penong’s, Well, Penong’s
Photos from WIM in Davao
This isn’t a restaurant that’s trying to reinvent itself every year. It doesn’t have to. For over two decades, Penong’s has stuck to what it does best: great grilled food, big servings, and a proudly Filipino dining experience that somehow always feels like home, even when you’re eating beside strangers.
The Unli Rice OG
Photo from WIM in Davao
Before “unli rice” was a fast food buzzword, Penong’s had already been doing it. You’d order a meal and, without even needing to ask, someone would be ready with your next scoop of rice. For many Davaoeños, this was the place you went to after a long day when you just needed something filling and familiar.
Yes, You Still Clap Twice
It may feel awkward at first, but the “clap twice” system is iconic. Instead of shouting or awkwardly waving your hand, two claps, and someone shows up. It’s a small but memorable quirk that makes Penong’s stand out.
What We Ordered at Penong’s Malvar
This visit wasn’t a solo meal—it was a full-on barkada feast. Here’s what we had and why it’s worth trying:
Fiesta Plate
This massive platter came loaded with four pieces of Chicken Barbeque, 8 pieces Pork Barbeque, 2 pieces of Longganisa, 2 pieces of Grilled Pork Chops, 1 serving of Penong’s Grilled Liempo, and 1 Salted Egg. Best of all? It only sets you back ₱1,480. It fed all of us and still had leftovers. This is the perfect platter for barkada/family meals, potlucks, or even picnics.
Crispy Chicken Skin
Finally on the menu—and well worth the wait. Priced only at ₱135, it’s light, crispy, and not oily at all. It was so good, I clapped twice for extra rice ten minutes in.
Bulalo, Sinigang na Hipon, and Sinigang na Bangus
It’s not really a full Filipino feast without a serving of sabaw. These servings were absolute comfort in a bowl. The bulalo was hearty with tender beef and rich broth, while both sinigangs had that clean, sharp asim you crave on a rainy day.
Kinilaw
The Penong’s Kinilaw uses fresh Malasugue, soaked and cooked with a balance of vinegar, cucumbers, onions, and green mango. Fresh, acidic, and a little spicy, this was the perfect counterbalance against all the grilled and fried food on the table.
Utan sa Penongs
If you’re looking for some vegetables, Penong’s also serves some of the best Pinakbet in Davao. You can order between the pork or the seafood Pinakbet.
Why Penong’s Still Belongs on Your Davao Food Trip
Consistency
The flavors haven’t changed in decades—and that’s what makes it special.
Value for Money
Meals are affordable, and the servings are generous.
Cultural Comfort
From the clap rule to the unli rice, everything about Penong’s is proudly Filipino.
Great for Groups
Whether you’re out with friends or family, there’s always something for everyone.
Homegrown and Proud
It’s one of the few Davao-born chains that never lost its original charm.
Mangaon Ta?
Penong’s doesn’t need to chase trends or put truffle oil on its barbecue. It knows what it is—and that’s exactly why it continues to thrive. If you’re in Davao and looking for a place that feels like home (and feeds like one too), get the Fiesta Plate. Add the chicken skin. Try the kinilaw. Clap twice. You’ll get it.
ALSO READ: A Night Out in Davao: 7 Restaurants and Bars to Dine and Unwind
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