I recently had the pleasure of finally visiting this restaurant after months of anticipation, and I can confidently say it exceeded all expectations. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting, creating the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The staff, especially Lawrence, were incredibly friendly and welcoming, adding a personal touch to the visit. To my delight, Lawrence surprised me with an array of tasty dishes, showcasing the culinary excellence of the place.I eagerly tried their turon and lumpia, and I was not disappointed. The flavors were exquisite, leaving me craving more. What truly set this restaurant apart was Lawrence's exceptional hospitality. He greeted everyone who walked through the door by name, creating an atmosphere of familiarity and making each customer feel valued and appreciated. It's rare to find such personalized service.Every aspect of this establishment, from the impeccable customer service to the inviting environment and, of course, the delectable food, deserves a solid 10/10. I recommend trying this spot to anyone seeking a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary. This place won't disappoint, and I'm confident it will become a favorite for many!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tufu L.
Never a fail when I come in, close to being back home (808). Always great vibe, braddah always have a smile, the food is tooo good, hot n ready! Let's goooooo cheeeee
Christy D.
Service is family friendly. Food flavorful . Prices are reasonable and portions are plentiful. Located in shopping center so plenty of parking.
Maryann G.
Food is salty and small amount for the prize you pay!!Please use a better plate!! I will not go back to that place.
Terri M.
I love Filipino food especially if it's authentic. The lumpia and pancit were tasty. The adobo not so much. It took three times coming here to actually be able to try the food. The first time I went on a Sunday because it says open on Sundays but they are not. The second time I came I went on a Saturday at 5 PM and they were already all cleaned up though they close at six. So the 3rd time was a charm. But it wasn't "amazing".
Shira dlReyes
Yep the old lady was rude. She’s just not happy serving customers. There’s a comment about this already from Arcelli Gamboa 2 months ago. No wonder why her assistant looked so stressed and scared to make a mistake.. I feel sorry for her, cash register jammed and her assistant’s face was worried and scared that she tries to put up a smile despite the negativity. Though food was okay. I just think they would attract more customers if the old lady was warm and welcoming and shows love with her work or better yet stay away taking orders.. can’t handle stress.. first I asked for a straw for my soda then i asked if they have ice and a cup for my drinks she gave me the “buntong hininga” and said anong kailangan mo ice sa cup I just nod and she said bibigyan kita i didn’t wanna escalate it anymore i took the cup with ice but no straw. I needed extra spoons and i just asked it from her assistant who was very polite and nice she still smiles even though there’s a lot worry painted on her face..kudos to you i may not know your name but hands down for your patience. If only I’m rich I will get you out of that place and give you a better job with good pay.
Robert Neal
Lots of interesting choices and a ton of food - great value! Very friendly operators.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Sam Moraleda
Down to earth comfort food. Very tasty. Very friendly
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kent L.
Being originally from San Diego and now moving to Monterey, it has been extremely difficult to find good Asian food. After visiting Camalig Filipino Cuisine, I know that I have found the place to visit every time I have a craving for Asian food. The food here is delicious! Their halo halo is packed full of great ingredients like flan, coconut, ube ice cream, and all sorts of beans. Their Turon was amazing, with nice slivers of bananas wrapped in a thin fried crepe.Their "crackin sauce" (soy sauce, peppers, lemon juice) was so good I could just add it to rice and eat it alone. Their pork belly was a good mixture of lean and fatty pieces and had a flavor similar to charsui. Pork stew, sinegang, lumpia, fried taro balls...everything was a hit for me. I would say the food here is good not only just compared to the local area, but I'm sure it would be a hit even in areas with more Asian restaurants like San Diego or LA.The staff was also super friendly. Laurence had wonderful recommendations and was constantly checking in to make sure our first visit was a good one. We felt well taken care of. We would definitely come back!Note that it is cash only, but they have an ATM inside if you forgot to bring cash.Halo halo was about $7, 2 item combo plate was $12.50.Thanks for making our first visit great Laurence!
Arceli Gamboa
It's funny that the complaint is only directed to one person, "the lady of the owner". I went there once and never returned. I asked if she could heat up my sinigang sabaw, "she responded with, "it's already hot." I said, I wanted it a little hotter. She took a deep breath, took the bowl and heated it. She returned with a sour face look. I said thank you, she did not respond. She seemed irritated that I asked. This woman has no business being in this business if she is rude and unprofessional. I returned 2 years later to give it another chance; she is still rude and unfriendly. I will never go back there again, ever. Rude and unprofessional.
This is a wonderful find. I never imagined Salinas would have an excellent Filipino restaurant. Delicious pork belly was prepared! The atmosphere and service are both good. You should definitely give it a try.
Dru Looks
The only Filipino restaurant in the area but don’t go out of your way just for this. I starred on my radar in case I might pass through the area and we did. Although you can get your fill here if you’re hungry enough but nothing worth driving for. No restroom either. So avoid!You might as well take it to go because if you dine it, you’re food will be crammed in a small plate. Cash only, atm machine inside.
Stan Williams
I happened upon this establishment during a lunch break. It’s nestled in a shopping center and there wasn’t much of a wait. The restaurant aesthetically feels very down-to-earth and there is tv playing in the background. I didn’t check the restroom and they do have high chairs for the kiddos.There were many varieties of food that I couldn’t make an initial decision on what I wanted… but luckily the waitress let me try most of the dishes. I landed on the Chicken Adobo, which is spectacular. I can’t say it enough… some of the best chicken I’ve ever had. The bbq pork on a stick was cold (weird) but maybe that’s how it’s presented? The rice was also good. My friend had some noodles which were excellent.I’m definitely going back. The prices are very reasonable (12.50 for two sides and rice) and they staff there were very nice.Price: $24 (w 20% tip)3/30/23I went back today and had the pork adobo w/ rice. It was Excellent! They had new dishes and I tried them all. The waitress was very nice about it. A huge to-go plate for under $11. I was feeling pre-COVID price vibes.I will say that this restaurant does not have a restroom for the public. I'm not happy with that.
Jemily Chey
So I came here for the first time today and let me just tell you: the food is AMAZING, the owner is amazing, and if I could give the restaurant 10 stars, I definitely would.1st- customer service: I came in near closing time but I went to pick up something I pre-ordered earlier. I was talking to the owner and I told him what a horrible experience I had at the other Filipino restaurant I went to while he was getting my food ready. While talking about that, I mentioned that I was craving some some garlic rice and the owner went out of his way to make that for me when he was in the middle of closing the restaurant! THATTT is customer service. I didn’t expect him to, he just went out of his way to do that. There was also some food left and since he was closing, he also gave me different food to try as well.2nd- food: I just got home and the food is freaking AMAZING. Probably one of the best Filipino food that I’ve ever had. I’m a pretty picky eater but I’m telling you, this place has really amazing food. I tried a little bit of everything: garlic rice, adobo, beef stew, pancit, and pork belly and literally everything is ***chef’s kiss***!HIGHLYYY recommend this place, not only for their food but for their customer service!!! I’m definitely going to be a regular here from now on and it works out bc I don’t want to cook dinner when I get off from work AND I get to eat good food :)Thank you!!!
Jem M.
So I came here for the first time today and let me just tell you: the food is AMAZING, the owner is amazing, and if I could give the restaurant 10 stars, I definitely would. 1st- customer service: I came in near closing time but I went to pick up something I pre-ordered earlier. I was talking to the owner and I told him what a horrible experience I had at the other Filipino restaurant I went to while he was getting my food ready. While talking about that, I mentioned that I was craving some some garlic rice and the owner went out of his way to make that for me when he was in the middle of closing the restaurant! THATTT is customer service. I didn't expect him to, he just went out of his way to do that. There was also some food left and since he was closing, he also gave me different food to try as well. 2nd- food: I just got home and the food is freaking AMAZING. Probably one of the best Filipino food that I've ever had. I'm a pretty picky eater but I'm telling you, this place has really amazing food. I tried a little bit of everything: garlic rice, adobo, beef stew, pancit, and pork belly and literally everything is ***chef's kiss***!HIGHLYYY recommend this place, not only for their food but for their customer service!!! I'm definitely going to be a regular here from now on and it works out bc I don't want to cook dinner when I get off from work AND I get to eat good food :)Thank you!!!
I recently had the pleasure of finally visiting this restaurant after months of anticipation, and I can confidently say it exceeded all expectations. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting, creating the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The staff, especially Lawrence, were incredibly friendly and welcoming, adding a personal touch to the visit. To my delight, Lawrence surprised me with an array of tasty dishes, showcasing the culinary excellence of the place.I eagerly tried their turon and lumpia, and I was not disappointed. The flavors were exquisite, leaving me craving more. What truly set this restaurant apart was Lawrence's exceptional hospitality. He greeted everyone who walked through the door by name, creating an atmosphere of familiarity and making each customer feel valued and appreciated. It's rare to find such personalized service.Every aspect of this establishment, from the impeccable customer service to the inviting environment and, of course, the delectable food, deserves a solid 10/10. I recommend trying this spot to anyone seeking a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary. This place won't disappoint, and I'm confident it will become a favorite for many!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Never a fail when I come in, close to being back home (808). Always great vibe, braddah always have a smile, the food is tooo good, hot n ready! Let's goooooo cheeeee
Service is family friendly. Food flavorful . Prices are reasonable and portions are plentiful. Located in shopping center so plenty of parking.
Food is salty and small amount for the prize you pay!!Please use a better plate!! I will not go back to that place.
I love Filipino food especially if it's authentic. The lumpia and pancit were tasty. The adobo not so much. It took three times coming here to actually be able to try the food. The first time I went on a Sunday because it says open on Sundays but they are not. The second time I came I went on a Saturday at 5 PM and they were already all cleaned up though they close at six. So the 3rd time was a charm. But it wasn't "amazing".
Yep the old lady was rude. She’s just not happy serving customers. There’s a comment about this already from Arcelli Gamboa 2 months ago. No wonder why her assistant looked so stressed and scared to make a mistake.. I feel sorry for her, cash register jammed and her assistant’s face was worried and scared that she tries to put up a smile despite the negativity. Though food was okay. I just think they would attract more customers if the old lady was warm and welcoming and shows love with her work or better yet stay away taking orders.. can’t handle stress.. first I asked for a straw for my soda then i asked if they have ice and a cup for my drinks she gave me the “buntong hininga” and said anong kailangan mo ice sa cup I just nod and she said bibigyan kita i didn’t wanna escalate it anymore i took the cup with ice but no straw. I needed extra spoons and i just asked it from her assistant who was very polite and nice she still smiles even though there’s a lot worry painted on her face..kudos to you i may not know your name but hands down for your patience. If only I’m rich I will get you out of that place and give you a better job with good pay.
Lots of interesting choices and a ton of food - great value! Very friendly operators.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Down to earth comfort food. Very tasty. Very friendly
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Being originally from San Diego and now moving to Monterey, it has been extremely difficult to find good Asian food. After visiting Camalig Filipino Cuisine, I know that I have found the place to visit every time I have a craving for Asian food. The food here is delicious! Their halo halo is packed full of great ingredients like flan, coconut, ube ice cream, and all sorts of beans. Their Turon was amazing, with nice slivers of bananas wrapped in a thin fried crepe.Their "crackin sauce" (soy sauce, peppers, lemon juice) was so good I could just add it to rice and eat it alone. Their pork belly was a good mixture of lean and fatty pieces and had a flavor similar to charsui. Pork stew, sinegang, lumpia, fried taro balls...everything was a hit for me. I would say the food here is good not only just compared to the local area, but I'm sure it would be a hit even in areas with more Asian restaurants like San Diego or LA.The staff was also super friendly. Laurence had wonderful recommendations and was constantly checking in to make sure our first visit was a good one. We felt well taken care of. We would definitely come back!Note that it is cash only, but they have an ATM inside if you forgot to bring cash.Halo halo was about $7, 2 item combo plate was $12.50.Thanks for making our first visit great Laurence!
It's funny that the complaint is only directed to one person, "the lady of the owner". I went there once and never returned. I asked if she could heat up my sinigang sabaw, "she responded with, "it's already hot." I said, I wanted it a little hotter. She took a deep breath, took the bowl and heated it. She returned with a sour face look. I said thank you, she did not respond. She seemed irritated that I asked. This woman has no business being in this business if she is rude and unprofessional. I returned 2 years later to give it another chance; she is still rude and unfriendly. I will never go back there again, ever. Rude and unprofessional.
Restaurantji Recommends
This is a wonderful find. I never imagined Salinas would have an excellent Filipino restaurant. Delicious pork belly was prepared! The atmosphere and service are both good. You should definitely give it a try.
The only Filipino restaurant in the area but don’t go out of your way just for this. I starred on my radar in case I might pass through the area and we did. Although you can get your fill here if you’re hungry enough but nothing worth driving for. No restroom either. So avoid!You might as well take it to go because if you dine it, you’re food will be crammed in a small plate. Cash only, atm machine inside.
I happened upon this establishment during a lunch break. It’s nestled in a shopping center and there wasn’t much of a wait. The restaurant aesthetically feels very down-to-earth and there is tv playing in the background. I didn’t check the restroom and they do have high chairs for the kiddos.There were many varieties of food that I couldn’t make an initial decision on what I wanted… but luckily the waitress let me try most of the dishes. I landed on the Chicken Adobo, which is spectacular. I can’t say it enough… some of the best chicken I’ve ever had. The bbq pork on a stick was cold (weird) but maybe that’s how it’s presented? The rice was also good. My friend had some noodles which were excellent.I’m definitely going back. The prices are very reasonable (12.50 for two sides and rice) and they staff there were very nice.Price: $24 (w 20% tip)3/30/23I went back today and had the pork adobo w/ rice. It was Excellent! They had new dishes and I tried them all. The waitress was very nice about it. A huge to-go plate for under $11. I was feeling pre-COVID price vibes.I will say that this restaurant does not have a restroom for the public. I'm not happy with that.
So I came here for the first time today and let me just tell you: the food is AMAZING, the owner is amazing, and if I could give the restaurant 10 stars, I definitely would.1st- customer service: I came in near closing time but I went to pick up something I pre-ordered earlier. I was talking to the owner and I told him what a horrible experience I had at the other Filipino restaurant I went to while he was getting my food ready. While talking about that, I mentioned that I was craving some some garlic rice and the owner went out of his way to make that for me when he was in the middle of closing the restaurant! THATTT is customer service. I didn’t expect him to, he just went out of his way to do that. There was also some food left and since he was closing, he also gave me different food to try as well.2nd- food: I just got home and the food is freaking AMAZING. Probably one of the best Filipino food that I’ve ever had. I’m a pretty picky eater but I’m telling you, this place has really amazing food. I tried a little bit of everything: garlic rice, adobo, beef stew, pancit, and pork belly and literally everything is ***chef’s kiss***!HIGHLYYY recommend this place, not only for their food but for their customer service!!! I’m definitely going to be a regular here from now on and it works out bc I don’t want to cook dinner when I get off from work AND I get to eat good food :)Thank you!!!
So I came here for the first time today and let me just tell you: the food is AMAZING, the owner is amazing, and if I could give the restaurant 10 stars, I definitely would. 1st- customer service: I came in near closing time but I went to pick up something I pre-ordered earlier. I was talking to the owner and I told him what a horrible experience I had at the other Filipino restaurant I went to while he was getting my food ready. While talking about that, I mentioned that I was craving some some garlic rice and the owner went out of his way to make that for me when he was in the middle of closing the restaurant! THATTT is customer service. I didn't expect him to, he just went out of his way to do that. There was also some food left and since he was closing, he also gave me different food to try as well. 2nd- food: I just got home and the food is freaking AMAZING. Probably one of the best Filipino food that I've ever had. I'm a pretty picky eater but I'm telling you, this place has really amazing food. I tried a little bit of everything: garlic rice, adobo, beef stew, pancit, and pork belly and literally everything is ***chef's kiss***!HIGHLYYY recommend this place, not only for their food but for their customer service!!! I'm definitely going to be a regular here from now on and it works out bc I don't want to cook dinner when I get off from work AND I get to eat good food :)Thank you!!!