All things considered, 2020 was actually a great year for discovering new food. Closed quarters and limited resources pushed culinary creativity into new territories, with the added challenge of making sure the food is still good after making the trip from pan to plate. As tradition dictates, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best delivery spots we’ve come to love in the past year.
Presenting, the Nolisoli best of food delivery top 10 list (in no particular order, of course):
Spicebird Grill
When we heard that the popular Boracay restaurant was opening its doors at The Grid, we couldn’t have been more excited to try it out. Although nothing beats enjoying their piri-piri chicken beachside, enjoying it for lunch during a workday isn’t bad at all. And an added bonus to their presence in Manila? Their sauces are also for sale (in case you’re in the mood for some kitchen experimentation).
[READ: Boracay’s Spicebird is coming to Manila next week and they will have delivery]
Lazy Oeuf by Metronome
Metronome’s “fast food” concept is another quarantine favorite we’ve enjoyed numerous times in the last year. Some standouts that deserve special mention are their French onion burger with foie gras and duck confit on brioche. Honestly, stuffing a sandwich with foie gras was a little unheard of, but we’re glad it happened.
[READ: The most indulgent and ingenious sandwiches of quarantine so far—available for delivery]
ChowCiao
Chef Josh Boutwood’s foray into the world of comfort food did not go unnoticed. It went repeatedly ordered and promptly devoured. Aside from convenience, ChowCiao’s chicken and pizzas offer variety with different flavors and combinations to choose from. If you’re a fan of Japanese food like we are, the furikake fried chicken is an option you should consider.
[READ: Chef Josh Boutwood is launching a fried chicken and pizza menu. Here’s how you can order online]
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
When you think of delivery food, steak is probably one of the last things that comes to mind. You’d typically be right about that, but Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is the exception to the rule. Instead of cooking your steak and sending it on its merry way, the restaurant actually comes to you.
Their micro-catering service sends a mobile kitchen to your location and leaves your food at the door so you never have to slice through an overdone steak ever again. It’s genius.
[READ: What’s making me happy: All the food trips I’m enjoying from my own dining room]
Gallery by Chele
It’s no secret that we’re big fans of chef Chele Gonzalez here at Nolisoli, but it’s for good reason. Gallery by Chele is one of the most unique and innovative food concepts we’ve come across, and that translates to their dishes available for takeout and delivery. Every meal is an experience, and boy do we love experiences. They also recently launched Deli by Chele (which is a charcuterie lover’s dream come true).
[READ: Deli by Chele is Chef Chele Gonzalez’s new cheese and charcuterie project]
Ultramen
We were a little devastated when we heard the Wrong Ramen was closing down, but Lowbrow Casual Restaurants Group has carried on its spirit with Ultramen. Strictly speaking, Ultramen is actually more of a DIY ramen kit, but the bowl of noodles and rich broth waiting for you at the end of the minimal cooking journey is definitely worth it.
[READ: New ramen concept from the makers of Wrong Ramen and other new restaurants to try this week]
Sambar
If you haven’t tried anything from Sambar yet, we suggest that you pick up the phone and place an order right now. Everything on their menu is worth a try, especially if you like Southeast Asian flavors. Though technically not a dish, their mushroom X.O. sauce is one of the best things we’ve eaten this year. Just scoop it onto a bowl of hot rice and you’re good to go. Seriously.
[READ: A mushroom sauce so tasty you only need to pair it with rice]
Papa Pancitan
Papa Pancitan, The Moment Group’s latest concept, takes its cue from traditional Filipino party flavors. The restaurant serves its pancit in huge bilaos that remind us of pre-quarantine fiestas in the province. Aside from the noodles, its ube cheese balls are also worth mentioning as a great way to end any feast.
[READ: The Moment Group is launching a pancit concept, just in time for holiday preparations]
Mapishi
African food is a cuisine that hasn’t hit the mainstream yet, but Mapishi is working hard to make it happen. This quarantine food business was one of our most unique (and tastiest) finds this year. They make hearty, filling Swahili food, which makes for a great introduction to the cuisine.
Taco Mata
Though the non-traditional taco stall is no longer at its Poblacion location, they’re still serving up a party with every bite. Taco Mata takes their favorite flavors from different New York neighborhoods and uses the taco (or a bowl of rice) as its vehicle. Here’s a pro tip: make sure you order an extra serving of orange sauce when you get their sweet potato fries. You’ll need it.
[READ: Missing Poblacion nights? These New York-inspired tacos can help]