A Taste of China: Fantaste

Clay pot rice has been one of my favorite Chinese dishes. Fluffy rice topped with blanched greens and your meat of choice, each bowl is guaranteed to be filling. Healthy too! And I'm so glad that there's a restaurant in town that specializes in clay pot rice. 

Hello, Fantaste.

Positioned as a pioneer authentic clay pot restaurant in Manila, Fantaste has a wide selection of options to choose from, fifteen to be exact. 

I usually get Mushroom and Chicken for its light and clean flavor but its Braised Beef Brisket (PHP340) was great too. This bowl of tender beef chunks and tendon had that addictive mild spice to it that would make you want more. 

Other new clay pot rice bowls worth checking out are Spareribs with Black Bean Sauce (PHP320), Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetable (PHP320) and Stir-fried Squid with Soy Sauce (PHP320). 

I recall that the clay pot rice bowls come with salted egg before but the sunny side up egg was not a bad alternative.

Aside from clay pot rice, make sure to grab its Cantonese Steamed Vermicelli Roll (PHP150) and Fried Noodles with Three Shreds (PHP150) as well if you're around early. 

The Cantonese Steamed Vermicelli Roll really impressed me. I first thought that it was Chinese Cabbage but was surprised with its soft texture. The light savory flavor of the roll was perfect as an appetizer.

Fried Noodles was also good. It's good for sharing if you plan to order anything else or a filling meal for one if you want to wolf down one on your own. I also love its snappy texture!

Grab one of China's famous drinks while you're at it. They have my favorite coconut milk and sweetened herbal tea. And if you want something hot, go for Red Jujube (PHP120). 

Fantaste delivers in Makati, BGC, Pasay and Ortigas and accepts bulk orders! Simply get in touch with them via Instagram @Fantaste_restaurant or at +63 2 851 9256.

Fantaste is located at 118 Valero Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City.