Family Dining at Mangan Restaurant, MOA – A Filipino Food Experience

Discover our family dining experience at Mangan Restaurant, MOA. Honest review of Pinakbet, Kare-Kare, Sisig, and more—plus why the Turon is a must-try!

First Impressions of Mangan Restaurant, MOA

Another weekend meant another food bonding moment with the family—and this time, our cravings led us to Mangan Restaurant at SM Mall of Asia (MOA). As expected on a Sunday, the restaurant was packed, and we had to wait around 15 minutes before being seated.

The interiors gave off a Filipino-inspired ambiance with a Kapampangan twist. The couch seating was comfortable, and service was surprisingly efficient considering the crowd.

It’s worth noting that while many assume “Mangan” reflects Ilocano cuisine (since Mangan means “eat” in Ilocano), the restaurant actually highlights Kapampangan cooking traditions.

For reference:

• Ilocano: Mangan tayon (Let’s eat)

• Kapampangan: Mangan tana (Let’s eat)

• Pangasinense/Zambal: Mangan tamoy na (Let’s eat)

The Dishes We Tried

Pinakbet

• Verdict: A bit pricey for the portion.

• Taste: More Tagalog-style than the traditional bagoong-heavy Ilocano version. The toasted garlic toppings were a nice touch, but it lacked the savory punch of bagoong.

Nilagang Baka

• Serving Size: Small for its ₱400+ price tag.

• Taste: Under-seasoned with overcooked vegetables. Only the sweet corn stood out.

Kare-Kare

• Portion: Mostly vegetables with very little meat.

• Taste: Average; the bagoong lacked depth and sweetness.

Pancit Palabok

• Presentation: Visually appealing.

• Taste: Over-sauced, with an unusual twist—sliced kamias instead of calamansi. Portion was on the small side.

Pork Sisig

• Taste: Standard, nothing remarkable compared to other Filipino restaurants.

Turon (Dessert) ⭐

• Highlight of the Meal!

• Presentation: Golden, crisp, and beautifully plated.

• Taste: Perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. Truly the best part of the dining experience.

The Menu at Mangan Restaurant

While Mangan draws inspiration from Kapampangan cuisine, the menu also features a broad mix of classic Filipino comfort food—from Kare-Kare and Nilaga to Sisig and Palabok. This variety makes it a solid choice for families who want different favorites on one table.

Final Verdict

• Food Taste: Average overall, with Turon being the standout.

• Serving Sizes: Small relative to the price.

• Ambiance & Service: Comfortable and welcoming despite the busy crowd.

• Budget: On the pricier side for family dining at MOA.

Would we come back? Yes—but mostly for dessert bonding over Turon or when craving Filipino comfort food after a day at the mall.

FAQs About Dining at Mangan Restaurant, MOA

Q: Does Mangan Restaurant at MOA accept reservations?
A: As far as we observed, reservations aren’t usually accepted since it’s inside SM Mall of Asia. Expect a short wait during peak hours.

Q: Is Mangan Restaurant authentic Kapampangan cuisine?
A: While the name “Mangan” comes from Kapampangan, the menu is a mix of Kapampangan dishes and broader Filipino favorites.

Q: What dish should I try at Mangan Restaurant?
A: Don’t miss the Turon—crispy, sweet, and the highlight of the menu.

Q: Is Mangan Restaurant budget-friendly for families?
A: Serving sizes lean small compared to the price, so it’s not the most budget-friendly option if you’re dining as a group.