We last dived into the world of legitimate and original Filipino cuisine when we visited the Philippines, a gorgeous place. With those misses in mind, we’ve been eager to introduce you to a new breed of Filipino dishes available exclusively at Kusina Natin To’.
This restaurant is located in Al Satwa, Dubai, directly across from the Iranian Hospital. Kusina Natin To’ has taken on the challenging task of representing locally produced Filipino-style cuisine on a budget to the mid-range dining establishment.
You’ll arrive in an ample eating space, where intimate group dining experiences may be hosted properly, after negotiating and being surprised by the historical nature and its dark, luxurious décor with a touch of Filipino origin.
Kusina Natin To’s menu is divided into several distinct types of Filipino cuisine, including both traditional and modern culinary styles. You can then experiment with large portions of various group meals or even an a la carte menu. All of the Kusina Natin To’s sound incredible, and we could have quickly just stared at them.
The following are the must-try dishes at Kusina Natin To’:
Seafood from the Cajun region (Group meals for 2-3 or more)
A great concept is the Cajun Seafood Festival dinner. Crabs, shrimp, shellfish, and squid are all cooked and seasoned to perfection. The distinctive Cajun sauce (a combination of several seasonings such as paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a secret ingredient) was a huge winner.
Bulalo Steak (2-3 pax per serving)
We’re all familiar with the spicy and aromatic Bulalo soup, but the Sizzling Bulalo Steak in this restaurant is a must-try. Yes, you read that correctly. Bulalo Steak is a type of beef that comes from the Philippines. Bulalo on a sizzling dish with flavorful gravy is a must-try. Its salty and sweet flavor, along with a kick of heat, can excite all of your senses.
Balbacua (2-3 pax per serving)
The presentation is complemented by a silky mouthfeel of delicate meat when served hot. Balbacua is a meal from the Visayas and Mindanao regions. Its soup is light and refreshing, as well as delicious.
Sisig (chicken or beef) (2-3 pax per serving)
When you go to Kusina Natin To, don’t forget to get this sisig Delux (chicken or beef) to have a taste of Pulutan and Pinoy Style sisig. This menu’s crispness and chili punch bite are a must-try. This is one of their most impressive menus.
Pansit Bihon (2-3 pax per serving)
Enjoy the platter of Pansit bihon with your family and friends. The main features of the traditional pansit that we are expecting are truly upscaled and perfectly mixed in its soy sauce and bounteous veggies and meat. It will always be up to you if you want a beef or chicken meet. Customization is widely accepted.
Papaitan (2-3 pax per serving)
When is the last time you taste your standard papaitan? If you had it in the Philippines, worry no more; it is now in Dubai. There’s a real depth of flavor to the broth and comes across as a Filipino standard “pait.” The chef knows it! Perfect for parties.
Chicken Kawali (2-3 pax per serving)
Like the traditional Litsong Kawali, Chicken Kawali is a whole chicken marinated into different spices with lemongrass inside. It is deep-fried for several minutes. Amazingly, it’s crispy like litson kawali. You can even experience the crispness of it up to the bones. The meat was tender and juicy.
Beef Kare-Kare (2-3 pax per serving)
Are you looking for the perfect kare-kare? The taste is gorgeous. It is like those fresh peanuts are ground and cooked. In this serving of 2-3, this will not be enough for you. I assure you that you will order another serving for it. The beef is so tender and juicy. The combination of sauce and bagoong alamang is just perfect!
Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet (2-3 pax per serving)
We take a look at their famous sweet and sour fish fillet from here. Their version of this dish is very Filipino, where Sweet is much more drowned than the sourness of the plate, but it tastes fantastic. I tell you!
Dating a Bangus (2-3 pax per serving)
Of course, it is boneless! Fried Daing na Bangus is perfectly marinated in Filipino vinegar with a touch of oriental spices. Another mouthwatering meal for you.
At this point, we’re highly impressed but also have some big decisions to make. But, telling you this, this is a highly recommended restaurant. The service has been excellent, but it was also clear that they have super friendly staff to attend to each customer now and then.