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To All The Restos I’ve Loved Before

Words by: Gianina Belardo, Migs Casanova, Alexa Juliano, Bella Palma, and Audrey Tan

Art by: Andrea Abaya, Gabs Cawili, and Rynzy Ilagan

I miss you. I know it’s been a few months and I swear I wasn’t trying to avoid you; I just didn’t know how to tell you—ang mahal mag-padeliver.



To Chubby Chicken,

You’re one of the places I miss the most. I miss walking along Esteban Abada with friends, going to Chubby Chicken to celebrate the end of an exam we pulled an all-nighter for. I miss being greeted by the friendliest staff, and ordering the best chicken strips out there. I miss being asked, sweet or spicy?, and all the energy and conversation that would take place at our usual table. You treated me so well.


To Gubat,

You were my favorite. I’ve never met a resto with Lechon Kawali as good as yours. It was so easy to introduce you to my friends—they all instantly loved you. You were always there for me when no one was around to hold my hand. You made me feel so comfortable. Even though my next class would be just across the street, I would always be late because you’re just that kind of restaurant—the kind that made me want to stay.


To Pepper Tree Foods,