Location: Philippines

Make it your next Friday night pit stop

Banchetto, Italian for “feast,” has been abuzz among the foodies of the Metro as a must-visit for the adventurous and the thrifty. Originally organized for the loads of call center workers in the area, Banchetto is a night market held on the streets of Emerald Avenue in Ortigas, which is closed down from vehicular traffic, for the duration of the event. The market opens at midnight every Friday and runs through 6 o’clock, Saturday morning. For first timers, coming at midnight would be best, to enjoy the sights and sounds and glorious smells of some vendors actually cooking dishes on the spot. Obviously an al fresco set up of dining, customers take their treats to go and dine along the streets, on building steps and sidewalks, if not on the tables and chairs set up there for the lucky few who make it early enough to sit. Payment is strictly on cash basis, and the idea is for customers to possibly enjoy a full hearty, delicious meal with but a hundred Pesos (approx. USD2.00).

Most food served are pre-prepared to cater to its customers who enter the festivities simply to enjoy a quick break and resume work. There are also those incidental foreigners who’ve come to make their visits a habit in hopes of stocking up on cooked food as they vacation or work here. Vendors are more than happy to tell you everything about their wares and sometimes even let you indulge in a free taste because they know their dishes are so good, you’re definitely going to want to buy. Drinks are also available, but alcohol is not allowed. As the event is held to cater to the call center meal time rush, the human traffic that pile up on the rows that divide one column of aromatic stall from another are heavily packed but parking is pretty easy as it is allowed along the streets of the event; just some things to prepare yourself for. And of course, being in a tropical country where an umbrella is your next best accessory, you might also want to come armed with this, especially nowadays when the rains just come and go.

To give you a better idea of the cuisines to expect, here is a rundown of some popular favorites: Vigan Longganisa (cured sausages from the province of Vigan), all sorts of grilled meats and barbecues, rice toppings, burgers, Japanese Takoyaki, savory French favorites and desserts, and all the cookies, pastries and cupcakes you can eat!

I’m actually writing this as I wait for my next visit, and my mouth’s watering as I write. I can even smell those Angus Beef Skewers on the grill, just waiting for my fifty Pesos. Yes, Fifty! I admit, I was quite hesitant to share the secret, but it’s just too cool to not share. So yes, make it your next Friday night pit stop. Prior to going out, on your way home from work, whatever. Here’s hoping you don’t grab my parking slot or beat me to a table! It’s definitely a worthwhile foodie experience.