Vacations are an exciting opportunity to reconnect with friends, explore new places, and embark on culinary adventures. This week, my wife and I, both currently working in Arizona, had the pleasure of visiting our friend Jeff and Rhea and their family in Florida. Jeff, a fellow Filipino, and I both work in the hospital laboratory field, and his invite to visit him coincided with our planned week-long vacation. Little did we know, we were about to embark on a journey that would take us thousands of miles away to our home – through our taste buds!
Kabayan Grill, a Filipino restaurant nestled in the heart of Orlando, Florida, was our destination. Upon setting foot in the establishment, we were instantly greeted by the comforting aromas reminiscent of our childhood kitchens back in the Philippines. The familiar scent of simmering adobo and roasting meat wafted through the air, immediately transporting us back home.
The vibrant menu at Kabayan Grill boasts an array of traditional Filipino dishes, each promising an explosion of flavors that Filipinos know and love. As a table of hungry and excited diners, we decided to dive into a culinary adventure with some of the most iconic Filipino dishes – Bulalo, Penakbet, Bicol Express, Chicken Adobo, and the ever-favorite Sisig.
The Bulalo, a rich bone marrow soup, was a comforting reminder of the many family meals shared back home. The Penakbet, a medley of fresh vegetables sautéed in shrimp paste, brought us back to our mothers’ home-cooked meals, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The Bicol Express, with its tantalizing blend of pork, coconut milk, and chilies, was a fiery journey to the heart of Bicol. The Chicken Adobo, cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, and a symphony of spices, was a taste of Filipino history in every bite. The Sisig, a sizzling platter of chopped pig’s head and liver, marinated in a special sauce and seasoned with chili peppers, was a delightful explosion of textures and flavors.
What made our dining experience even more unique was the playful use of ‘hugot lines’ – witty and often heart-wrenching one-liners from Filipino pop culture – written on the restaurant’s walls. These hugot lines added an element of humor and a deeper connection to our Filipino heritage while we enjoyed our delicious meal.
Our gastronomic journey was not complete without delving into the sweet world of Filipino desserts. We shared a huge bowl of Halo-Halo, a beloved Filipino dessert that’s a colorful mix of sweetened fruits, jellies, and crushed ice, topped with a scoop of ube ice cream. My wife opted for the refreshing Buko Pandan, a creamy concoction of young coconut and pandan jelly in sweetened cream.
In summary, our dining experience at Kabayan Grill was an absolute delight. The food, atmosphere, and service were all exceptional, earning a well-deserved rating of 10/10. It was more than just a meal; it was a journey that allowed us to experience the warmth and comfort of home right in the heart of Florida.
Kabayan Grill is a true culinary gem that offers a taste of the Philippines in Orlando, Florida. Whether you’re a fellow Filipino craving a taste of home or a curious foodie looking to explore the rich and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine, Kabayan Grill offers an unforgettable dining experience that you shouldn’t miss. From the rich, savory dishes to the delightful desserts, and the inviting ambiance with a dash of Filipino humor, every aspect of Kabayan Grill is a testament to the beauty and flavor of the Philippines.
