Lai Lai in Binondo: Affordable, Yummy Chinese and Seafood Offerings
Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, is a must-visit dining destination for anyone craving authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine. The area is packed with amazing restaurants, eateries, and cafes, Lai Lai Seafood Restaurant is a top pick for good reason.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Located in the basement of Chinatown Lai Lai Hotel at the corner of Ongpin and Sabino Padilla Streets, this fine Chinese restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists looking for delectable Chinese fare at fairly affordable prices.
Lai Lai offers a wide variety of seafood and Chinese food dishes, perfect for solo and groups of diners alike. Savor the bounty of seas with their mouth-watering Oyster Balls (Php 480), Salt & Pepper Shrimp (Php 580), and seasonal specialties like Crab Rice and Crab Sotanghon. If you’re looking for classic seafood flavors, try their Fried Fish Fillet (Php 680) or Sauteed Squid (Php 680).
Oyster Ball
Crab Rice / IMAGES from Philippine Primer
For meat dishes, order Sweet & Sour Spareribs (Php 580), Pata Adobo (Php 680), Homemade Kikiam (Php 480/2 pcs), Black Pepper Beef (Php 580) and Beef Broccoli (Php 580). Carnivores will also can also enjoy Fanbone (Php 780) and Stewed Pork (Php 480).
Vegetable dishes are also available, such as Mapo Tofu (Php 350), Amplaya Tausi (Php 350), and Spicy Cabbage (Php 350).
IMAGE from Chinatown Lai Lai Hotel 来来大酒店 Facebook page
Now, let’s talk about the dining area. Lai Lai’s interiors are well-lit and spacious. It has aquariums with live seafood, red lanterns hanging from the ceiling, and large round tables in yellow linens, perfect for large celebrations like gatherings and business luncheons.
IMAGES from Philippine Primer
Near the dining area is a buffet-style counter for affordable bento meals adorned with a red and gold motif and displays of traditional Chinese ornaments like a red paper dragon. Please note that this is NOT AN ACTUAL BUFFET, but a section where guests can choose dishes for their bento sets.
IMAGES from Philippine Primer
For those who prefer having a quick break, Lai Lai also has a cafe in the hotel’s lobby. This smaller area has a cotemporary look, thanks to marble-topped tables, snug chairs, and Chinese-inspired decor. It’s perfect for enjoying a cup of tea, a snack, or dessert while passing time.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Be it for an indulgent Chinese feast or a steaming cup of coffee, Lai Lai should at the top of your list when exploring Binondo.
