Ever been to Café Juanita in Kapitolyo, Pasig City? It’s a spot for its mouthwatering Kare-Kare. If you were lucky enough to dine there before all the lockdowns, you’ll understand why I’m calling it a quaint find.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through my experiences at Café Juanita and explain why I think it’s worth rediscovering, especially in these new normal times. Let’s dive in and explore together!

Ambiance at Cafe Juanita

Café Juanita offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for groups of patrons. The spacious interior provides ample room for guests, while the unique décor offers memorable photo opportunities. However, one downside is the limited parking availability. Despite this, Café Juanita remains a good choice for those looking for a comfortable and visually appealing dining experience.

Food Quality

At Cafe Juanita, their Kare-Kare is an ace. Served in a rich, creamy peanut sauce that’s both savory and slightly nutty, it’s packed with tender beef, tripe, and vegetables like eggplant and string beans. The sauce is perfectly balanced, complemented by a hint of shrimp paste (bagoong) that adds a delightful umami kick. It’s a dish that’s comforting yet sophisticated, capturing the essence of traditional Filipino cuisine with every bite.

As for their Bistek Tagalog, it’s a dish that sings with simplicity and taste. Slices of tender beef are marinated in soy sauce and calamansi (Filipino lime), then pan-fried to a golden brown perfection. The marinade infuses the beef with a tangy and savory flavor that’s enhanced by the caramelized onions on top. Every bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures and a burst of zesty citrus notes, making it a true Filipino comfort food classic.

Both dishes at Cafe Juanita are crafted with care, showcasing distinct Filipino flavors that will leave you craving more.

I’ve tried several other dishes at Cafe Juanita before the pandemic, and honestly, most of them didn’t quite hit the mark for me. They were okay, but they didn’t have that wow-factor that would make me want to come back for more.

Bistek Tagalog, Chicken Pandan, Kare-Kare

Chicken Pandan

Pad Thai

Service Quality

The staff are highly praised for their prompt and friendly service. They are also known to be highly accommodating, going out of their way to ensure that all guests have an enjoyable dining experience. Whether you are a regular or a first-time visitor, the staff will make you feel welcomed and valued.

Final Thoughts

Cafe Juanita is a mixed bag for me. While their Kare-Kare and Bistek Tagalog are undeniably standout dishes that showcase rich flavors and careful preparation, some other dishes I tried didn’t quite impress. The ambiance is cozy and the service is usually good, but it’s the inconsistency in the overall dining experience that gives me pause. If you’re craving Filipino classics done well, it’s worth a visit for those standout dishes alone, but manage your expectations on the rest of the menu.

Rating

DISCLOSURE: Stop guessing and start tasting! We are dedicated to making sure our readers get all the information they need, as well as an honest perspective on their dining experiences. Our reviews are entirely based on experience and paid for with our own money – so you can trust that we’re providing an accurate and reliable review each time.

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