OPINION: Top 3 Best Eateries in Sta. Mesa, Manila
My freshman year in college is one of the most unforgettable parts of my life. However, that year is actually the last school year before the pandemic started. Studying at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Main Campus is one of the biggest decisions I made as a teen. Luckily, I was able to find the best people I shared memories with—friends who became my emotional support, when getting burned out with our college tasks, friends with whom I can rely on during hard times, and of course, friends that I shared delicious and hearty meals with. In regards to that, here are my top three favorite eateries in Sta. Mesa, Manila.
Master Buffalo
You would know that the food tastes good when people line up and wait outside. Walking past the College of Engineering, stands Master Buffalo, the best-flavored chicken wings. This budget-friendly restaurant is located along the street of Anonas, just behind Pureza street. They offer various flavors in their hot and savory chicken wings. My personal favorites are honey garlic, honey mustard, and Korean Soy. If you love spicy, Master Buffalo also offers three levels of spiciness. Starting from least to the spiciest is the normal, mild, and 911. New and trendy flavors are also now offered, like the salted egg, and lemon pepper.
Aside from its mouthwatering flavors, they are also student-friendly in their prices. I remember it being 49 pesos, which includes two pieces of chicken wings and a cup of rice. However, due to inflation, their prices may have increased by now.
So what do you think? Tara, MB.
Kiratz Eatery
Next on the list would be Kiratz. One may argue that this is not the most popular sizzling house there. However, their al fresco dining may be the reason it’s my favorite. Located in the rear part of Puregold Sta. Mesa, students would wait for a table to eat. Whenever I am too lazy to cook, Kiratz is my go-to eatery. My choice on their menu would be their sisig, prepared in a hot and smokey sizzling plate. That is why it is better to keep a little distance away while it is being served. Chunks of pork, together with a squeeze of calamansi, removes the tiredness of your whole day. For only 50 pesos, Kiratz’ sizzling sisig is also a friend to a student’s wallet.
Chef Akang’s Lutong Bahay at Pansiteria
Lastly, Chef Akang’s Lutong Bahay at Pansiteria is a warm hug when you miss home-cooked meals. Their dishes are prepared in a clay pot, making the food more appetizing. Some of the best on their menu are sisig, sinigang, and bulalo. I always love Chef Akang eatery for their original Filipino viands at the most affordable price. In addition, Akangistas can taste fresh and healthy ingredients in every bite.
So, when you have a chance to visit or do an errand in Sta. Mesa, don’t forget to try these three diners!
