Owners Amy Besa and Romy Dorotan mix and match Filipino dishes in a distinctly successful way at this neighborhood café. Arguably one of the most fast-growing and intriguing cuisines on both coasts, this outpost from the team behind "Memories of Philippine Kitchens" flaunts a smart, urbane mix of local families and savvy gourmands. Sharing is key so you can sample a bit of everything, including pajeon, a delicious Korean-style scallion-and-shrimp pancake. Then linger over the universally loved pancit luglug (call ahead to order); or oxtail kare-kare, braised in a sauce of peanut butter, onions, tomatoes and garlic.

The dessert carte may just unveil such enticing treats as champorrado, house-made ice creams and sorbets. Infused shochu is a hit at all times.