Thai Me Up and Fil Me Up: Two Cuisines, One Gastronomic Destination in Cagayan de Oro

 

When in Manila, I always look forward to having dinner with friends or former co-workers that I seldom see since I settled down South. One of our favorite dining destinations is a Thai resto where we indulge and enjoy a very hot Tom Yum Goong and Pad Thai along with a lemongrass and mint cooler while we update each other about our latest adventures. I love the creative orchestration of different flavors in Thai cuisine, especially its distinct spicy taste.

Lucky for me, there is one place here in Cagayan de Oro City where I can get my Thai food fix and still enjoy my all-time favorite Filipino foods in one place.

Thai Me Up is a homegrown food haven specializing in Thai cuisine and is one of the go-to places when in Cagayan de Oro City. The owners actually love Thai food so much that they studied in prestigious Thai culinary institutions and consulted their dishes with some prominent Thai chefs before establishing the restaurant in 2009. To ensure that they only offer authentic Thai dishes, they also import their ingredients directly from Thailand, except for their fresh herbs, which they grow locally.

Understanding the market’s indomitable love for Filipino food, Fil Me Up was launched in 2012 as an additional offering for their growing clientele. Now, Thai and Filipino food lovers can bond and share moments together in one place at Thai Me Up and Fil Me Up Restaurant. In my book, that’s a double check!

Since I am the type of customer who also enjoys the non-food bits and pieces that contribute to the over-all dining experience, allow me to be your virtual guide and show you around the property first. This food haven exhibits a mix of Filipino and Thai cultural mementos that beautifully blend well with its delicious food selection.

When inside the property, the first thing you will notice is this kalesa that provides a Pinoy ambiance to the place.

 The main entrance to the restaurant is adorned by ornate woodwork, bricks and fresh tropical greenery.

The receiving area provides a comfortable nook for customers waiting to be seated or awaiting their take-away. This space also showcases some plaques awarded to the restaurant.

The main restaurant area has a shabby chic appeal adorned by various decors that complement each other to provide a warm venue that is very conducive for a casual dining experience. 

  

While waiting for your food, try looking around the restaurant area. You will surely enjoy the various decors and furnishings as much as you will enjoy your meal later on.

I love this set of colorful chandeliers that actually boost the cheerful mood of the place.

This cozy corner where an old poso and a classic electric fan are placed on top of a vintage television automatically brings back some throwback childhood memories.

 

I also love this dining set of wooden two-seater chair paired with old school stools and an iron sewing machine stand recycled into a table.