MANILA, Philippines - Filipinos have long considered Chinese food as their own. They consider some dishes as their comfort food; others as part of their celebrations. Who hasn't had congee while recuperating from an illness at one point in his or her life or served pansit during a birthday or fiesta?
The long list of Chinese restaurants in the country is testament to its love of Chinese cuisine. In whatever city you are in the Philippines, you are sure to find a dining establishment that serves Chinese dishes, even ones that have given their own twists to old favorites.
Chinese cuisine is not just about good food, however. For the Chinese, food also stands for harmony and relationships. They believe that it is about bringing people together.
This is what Mr. Lido had in mind when he first opened Panciteria Lido in Manila in 1936. This dining institution's first home was located at the bustling street of T. Alonzo, where it became a must-visit for those who craved its Pugon-Roasted Asado.
Barbecued Asado is a staple dish in Chinese restaurants. It is only in Panciteria Lido and through Lido Cocina Tsina's nine restaurants in Metro Manila, though, that you can find the Pugon-Roasted Asado. This dish makes use of a 76-year-old recipe and involves meticulous preparation.