A filipino meal you won’t soon forget

Giving into your Balay Dako food cravings got easier with the opening of Azela by Balay Dako in Robinsons Manila.

Azela is a celebration of Filipino comfort food, inspired by Chef Tonyboy Escalante’s Lola Azela, whose unforgettable home-cooked meals in Bacolod continue to bring comfort, connection and cherished memories to their family.

What to eat first at Azela

Azela delightes diners with its array of comfort Filipino dishes. Must-try appetizers are the Chicken Skin Cracklings, packed with crunch and flavor, and the Gambas Al Ajillo, with succulent garlicky shrimps cooked just right, with shiitake mushrooms and fresh chili for some zing. They also offer Fried Tawilis, Fried Asohos, Lumpiang Shanghai, Lumpiang Shanghai Wrap and Tokwa’t Baboy for appetizers.

One of the unexpected hits was the Chicharo at Hipon, a nostalgic dish that reminded everyone of home with sautéed snow peas and shrimps cooked simply with garlic and onions, and the Laing na Gabi at Tokwa, with tofu wrapped in taro leaves and braised in coconut milk. Do not skip these vegetable dishes during your visit!

The meal wouldn’t be complete without trying their soup selection, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Sinigang na Ulo at Tiyan ng Salmon sa Miso instantly earned rave reviews at the lunch table.

The House Favorites section of their menu might be overwhelming, and the temptation to overorder is strong. So, bring family and friends to share the dishes. Indulge in their Kare-kare Klasik, a stew made with ox tail, tripe and knuckles, simmered in a rich peanut puree sauce infused with the flavors of eggplant, pechay, and string beans. Add some sizzle to your table with their Sizzling Bulalo na Baka, a braised dish featuring imported beef smothered in a delectable mushroom sauce.

Don’t miss out on their signature dishes, including Sisig na Baboy, Crispy Maskara, Fried Inasal, Kansi and Piniritong Adobong Baboy. Experience for yourself how each dish at Azela is crafted with heart, ensuring that every bite transports you back to the warmth of home-cooked meals.

No meal is complete without dessert, and Azela doesn’t disappoint. Be sure to try their Leche Flan, Puto Bumbong, and Antonio’s Housemade Sorbetes, especially the Avocado and Ube flavors.

Back at home

Azela is a culinary experience for those who crave the comforting flavors of home, but desire a touch of refinement. Step inside Azela, and you’ll feel right at home. The space blends Filipino nostalgia with easy elegance, inspired by the heritage houses of Silay City and the spirit of Balay Dako.

Wood accents, breeze blocks and large framed photographs create a cozy, soulful atmosphere, perfect for everything from lively family gatherings to quiet solo meals. Every detail invites you to linger, laugh and savor.

Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply unwinding after a long workday, Azela offers a dining experience that feels both familiar and elevated.

Nestled in the heart of Robinsons Manila, Azela is conveniently located for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine Filipino dining experience. With its affordable pricing, Azela caters to both everyday dining and special occasions, with main dishes ranging from P250 to P500.

Whether you’re revisiting the comforting tastes of your childhood or exploring Filipino cuisine for the first time, Azela by Balay Dako promises a meal you won’t soon forget.