Are your Maranao tastebuds feeling homesick, or are you craving a Maranao gastronomic experience? Matanos Halal Restaurant in Quezon City is dedicated to providing Halal food for Maranaos, health-conscious diners and casual food lovers looking to recharge in the heart of the bustling metro.

The decision to establish a restaurant focused on native cuisine in the metropolis seemed bold. However, for Aliah Basher, the city’s diversity provides the perfect backdrop for rekindling a love for Halal and traditional Filipino dishes.

And Aliah was right. The restaurant, which opened on 21 August, has drawn a steady stream of customers eager to sample its signature meals. But none of this would have been possible without Aliah’s deep desire to celebrate and showcase Maranao cuisine, which is often underrepresented.

“The idea came from my parents, who have always been passionate about food and preserving our cultural traditions,” says Aliah.

Preserving their native culture is a mission Aliah embraced, and opening a restaurant became the best way for the proud owner to share and promote Maranao culture while connecting with people from all walks of life through the rich flavors of traditional cuisine.

Matanos prides itself on meticulously preparing its dishes, sourcing spices from Malaysia and sakurab from Mindanao to ensure both freshness and potency, bringing out authentic Maranao flavors.

“We make a conscious effort to support local producers and certified Halal suppliers, though we do face occasional challenges in maintaining a consistent supply with proper Halal certification,” Aliah explains.

Opening a Halal restaurant was not just a dream come true for Aliah but also for Maranaos living far from Lanao. The restaurant is transparent about maintaining its Halal standards.

“We are Halal-certified by HICCIP, and all our staff are Muslim,” she adds. “We personally handle the chicken slaughtering to ensure it follows proper Halal procedures. Maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and compliance with Halal guidelines is essential for us.”

They also take the time to educate customers, especially non-Muslims, about Halal practices.