The Pig Pen in Alabang: A Millennial Take on Asian and European Cuisine
From the same people who brought you the Black Pig, The Pig Pen is its “little brother” that specifically targets the younger people (aka millennials).
The Pig Pen’s first branch opened in Nuvali way back 2015 and this one in Commercenter, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
IMAGE from The Pig Pen Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
What makes The Pig Pen different from The Black Pig is that it has a modern take on both Asian and European food that are well-known as comfort food–and they’re cheaper to boot!
Somehow retaining the name from The Black Pig, the owners wanted to use “pig pen” as they want it to serve as a gathering place for groups of friends or families. “You have to have a lot of humor to be able to not take it literally [laughs],” managing partner Berna Garriz said.
Despite the differences in their concept, though, The Pig Pen is still handled by the same chef behind The Black Pig, Carlos Garcia Rodriguez. He may be preparing more European dishes, but still prides in using Asian ingredients.
To start off, sample their Asian Salad. This healthy starter is made from pickled cabbage and orange slices atop a fresh bed of greens, all drizzled with its signature goma dare dressing for that creamy, sesame-flavored finish. It’s the perfect starter to cleanse the palate or a light, refreshing side that complements any main. It’s really refreshing to eat especially on a hot summer day!
Asian Salad / IMAGE from The Pig Pen Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
One of the crowd favorites for the main course is the slow-cooked Pork Ribs: slowly simmered until fall-off-the-bone tender and slathered in a homemade BBQ sauce for that perfect sticky, sweet and smoky finish. This is served with pickled cabbage that perfectly balances the richness of the meat.
Pork Ribs / IMAGE from The Pig Pen Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
Also try the Grilled Tamarind Chicken, which boasts a tangy sweet and sour flavor. Served hot off the grill, the smoky aroma will surely call all taste buds to attention. You’d want to pair this with rice, but you can also eat it as it is (bonus: it pairs really well with the cocktails).
Grilled Tamarind Chicken / IMAGE from The Pig Pen Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
End your meal with the Banana Cheesecake, a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting The Pigpen. The creamy filling and caramelized banana topping have just the right amount of sweetness and tartness, while the base gives the dessert a crumbly, buttery texture.
Banana Cheesecake / IMAGE from The Pig Pen Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
Ultimately, The Pig Pen is ideal for the adventure seekers who are looking to try unique and yet value-for-money food. It surely won’t disappoint as the authenticity of their food will entice you.
If you’re looking for drinks, they have a selection of exquisite alcohols to choose from. According to Berna, the best sellers for cocktails are Tinto de Verano, Mojito, and Sangria.
The Pig Pen also boasts a modern, Instagrammable interior that any millennial would love. “We wanted it to have a sense of ambiance for the customers,” Berna said.
IMAGE from The Pig Pen Restaurant & Bar Facebook page
You’ll particularly like the windows as it’s reminiscent of the one you see in a traditional Filipino home.
So if you’re looking for a chill hangout spot with your Southie friends, look no further than The Pig Pen!
