Support Boracay’s beloved restaurants with their Manila Pop-Ups

Pamela Cortez The closure of Boracay begged a really important question: what happens to the establishments and the locals’ livelihood? For restaurateurs Odette and Nowie Potenciano, whose businesses were located on the island, there was no other answer but to find their employees a place to continue working, no matter how temporary.

Four of their beloved concepts, Spice Bird, Poketo, Fat Rice and Coco Mama, have found homes in Century Mall’s Hole in the Wall food hall until August 15. Aside from supporting their staff (who they have also brought to Manila), you must really, simply, come for the food.

Coconut cream with Mango Spice Bird was one of the couple’s first concepts, and quickly became famed for their take on Portuguese piri-piri. The abridged menu in Hole in the Wall includes the chicken that made them famous, and the pork belly board that is just as delicious. Each plate is hefty and comes with a gener —ous amount of sides, the serving is not meant to be shared but should be. Find their popular sauces at the front of the counter; if you’re afraid of heat, the one enhanced by citrus pairs beautifully with the already spiced meats. Don’t miss out on the chicken skin either.

Fat Rice is an innovative concept that brings together influences from around the Southeast Asian region with winning results. Beef rendang has deep, rich gravy, and the cereal prawns are crispy.

Yakitori Bowl with Pork Belly, Tsukune, Chicken Wings drenched in crab fat are the right amount of sticky, sweet, and salty, but it’s the not-too-familiar Cha Ca

La Vong that is really spectacular. Cod with dill comes in a smokey skillet, and is eaten over a fishy sauce with peanuts and chewy noodles.

Whatever your fancy, all of the Potenciano’s concepts are exceptional. You can even visit their popular breakfast spot in Canvas Alabang, and partake in their pancakes and roesti. But I urge you to make your way to at least one, and help out Boracay residents in return.