Italian-American dining in Chinatown

MANILA, Philippines - Manila's Chinatown is always a must-visit. No matter how many times you've been there, you'd always find something new to discover.

And recently we learned that casual dining restaurant Italianni's has opened a branch right in the heart of the historic destination. Italian-American dining in the middle of a Chinese food haven?

"Binondo's heritage and historical appeal blend beautifully with Italianni's old world charm," explained Bistro Holdings VP for operations RC Tiongson about the restaurant's decision to open in the area. "There is a tremendous array of restaurants here and we are excited to offer our own brand of cuisine."

Some of the restaurant's most loyal clientele, after all, belong to the Filipino-Chinese community.

Like its other branches, Italianni's Chinatown can be both an intimate setting for romantic dates and a place where families and huge groups can gather. It is a cozy 110-seater that carries the restaurant's signature welcoming atmosphere and decor.

Likewise, it has the restaurant's newly introduced menu selections: a whole steak range (Italianni's used to offer only tenderloin in its menu) that includes the U.S. T-bone, Ribeye and U.S. NY Steak; meat choices like the Crispy Pork Ribs and Flaming Chicken; and appetizers Alaskan Crab Dip, Crab Croquette, Italian Pockets (the Chicken & Shrimp were our favorite), and Clams de Manille.

The restaurant likewise beefed-up its pasta selections with the Spaghetti Al Nero, Penne with Italian Sausage, Shrimp Penne Mascarpone (a must-try), Crab Pasta and Forrestiere Fettuccine.

For desserts, there's the Limon Di Cielo and Budino De Pane, which is just as good as its old Pane Budino from years past.

The new Italianni's branch is at the 2nd level of Lucky Chinatown Mall and is open from 10 am to 10 pm.