The hunt for our 28th stop begins.We left the house around 9:30 AM this morning fueled by anticipation , bound for Lola Helen in Marikina, a Michelin-selected restaurant and today’s primary target. An hour later, dreams were gently crushed. The doors were closed, and we were told they wouldn’t be opening for the day due to several staff members calling in sick. A reminder that even the best-laid food plans are subject to real life.
Onward to Plan B. Palm Grill along Tomas Morato beckoned, and I was already fantasizing about their duláng (the 7-sampler), especially the elusive pyanggang chicken. We arrived a few minutes past 11, only to be met with another pause—doors still shut, opening pushed to 12 noon. The food gods clearly had other plans.
Enter Plan C: Some Thai, just a few buildings away.
We arrived around 11:30 AM to find the small space already buzzing. I counted 26 chairs—every single one occupied. From outside, we admired the interiors: a bold red-and-cement palette, punctuated by vivid scarlet lamps .We were fourth in line, but the wait was mercifully short.
As we were seated, my eyes immediately caught the Michelin 2026 signage to my right, alongside nods from Tatler , an award recognizing Chef Jorge Mendez and the striking crimson glass emblem further front. A quiet affirmation that we were exactly where we needed to be.
The menu was refreshingly simple—red and white, no unnecessary clutter. Casual dining done right. Service was handled by Jasmine and Paul: efficient, brisk, and genuinely cheerful—the kind of energy that tells you staff morale is high and hospitality is sincere.
We ordered:
Papaya salad , Crab curry (50g) , Pad Thai with shrimp , Pineapple rice, Thai lumpia rolls Mango sticky rice
I opted for hot water with a twist of lemon, while my handsome hubs went for the classic Thai milk tea.
Presentation-wise, the crab curry and Pad Thai easily exceeded expectations for a casual restaurant. The vermilion curry was a visual feast—my eyes happily lapping up the fiery hues that mirrored the crab’s own carapace. The Pad Thai followed, plated cleanly and pristinely, understated yet confident.
As I took it all in, one thought lingered:
What an outstanding restaurant, and how deserving it is of a Michelin Bib Gourmand—an award that recognizes excellent food at a reasonable price.
Another plan derailed, another discovery made. The chase continues—and sometimes, the detours are the real reward. 🍽️✨
scarlet glass emblem
SOME THAI is located at corner Scout, 195 Tomas Morato, Sct. Fuentebella St, Quezon City,
Pigoutmanila 