The Great Buddha Cafe in Binondo: Cafe, Restaurant, and Souvenir Shop in One
Owned by the renowned Chinese delicacy brand, Eng Bee Tin, The Great Buddha Cafe is known for offering appetizing and innovative Chinese dishes. The restaurant is located just above the flagship store of Eng Bee Tin, a popular food chain known for its delicious hopia and other Chinese treats, with several branches in Makati and Metro Manila.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
The Great Buddha Cafe is designed for comfort, featuring round tables that can seat 5 to 6 people. The spacious and clean layout invites guests to relax and unwind, making it the perfect stop for a break during a Chinatown stroll.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
An added bonus is the souvenir corner on the same floor, where guests can browse and shop while waiting for their meal—a delightful way to enhance the dining experience.
The shop highlights local products that both represent the rich culture of the Philippines and China. Some of the featured products are handwoven bags, keychains, and other locally made items.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
The Great Buddha Cafe boasts a well-curated menu that will surely satisfy your appetite when you’re craving for some Chinese specialties. The cafe’s menu is a diverse selection of classic Chinese dishes, including Chinese-style clay pot meals, fried rice, soups, Chinese-style stir-fried noodles, and dim sum.
The Shrimp Hakaw, also known as Chinese shrimp dumplings, is a popular treat among the dimsum lovers as you’ll taste the distinct flavor of the shrimp in every bite.
Shrimp Hakaw (Php 168) / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Another signature is the Seafood Beancurd Roll, made up of fresh seafood and ground pork wrapped with beancurd sheets. You’ll love this light dish as the soybean flavor perfectly complements the savory taste of the special sauce.
Seafood Beancurd Roll / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Next, if you’re into a hearty dish, have a taste of their best-selling Steamed Spareribs. The tender and flavorful spareribs are served with fresh vegetables on top of white rice.
Steamed Spareribs (Php 260) / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
Another thoughtful touch to the restaurant is the clean restroom located on the third floor, ensuring guests enjoy a convenient and pleasant visit from start to finish.
For those seeking a casual yet satisfying meal in the heart of Chinatown, The Great Buddha Cafe offers both delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
How to get here
- The Great Buddha Cafe is located at 628 Ongpin St, Binondo, Manila.
- From Ayala, walk towards Paseo De Roxas. Upon reaching, ride a bus going to Baclaran-Malanday via Edsa Ayala. Get off at FB Harrison Street.
- Head to Gil Puyat LRT station and ride the LRT going to Roosevelt. Then get off at Carriedo Station. From there, The Great Buddha Cafe is about a 10-minute walk.
This first appeared in Philippine Primer Japanese and English January 2020 issues.
