Retuning for my yearly jaunt to Palawan and El Nido would once gain demonstrate how things change here, with some old favoutits gone and some nice new entrants, one if which being Big Mamas!
Slightly sadder though were the closures chief among them being the the Ukrainian restaurant Odessa Mama, which is now boarded up with only the signage remaining.
The El Nido nightlife scene
El Nido is the main tourist part of the island of Palawan, until recently known as the best island in the world. That title has now been lost, but the island retains much if its warmth and charm.
Now being such a popular destination with tourists has meant that El Nido ha changed a lot in the 15 years, or so that I have been coming. Black outs are no more, the nightlife has become somewhat eclectic and, well there is even a McDonalds here now.
With this in mind many are now searching out more undiscovered places, such as Port Barton.
Big Mamas Restaurant El Nido
Big Momas Restaurant is located on the main high street of Ek Nido, as well as being on the side that faces the beach, thus offering seaside dining. Compared to other bars and restaurants alongside here it is much more Filipino in style and is certainly more of a lunch, or early evening place.
The restaurant itself is pretty small and straddles both the high street and a tint section of the beach – alongside the kitchen.
Food at Big Mamas El Nido is classic Philippines beach side BBQ, which means all meat and seafood dishes are covered. Our group got squid sisig, buttered shrimp, pork BBQ, chips, garlic rice and my favorite load dishes kinilaw. For the uninitiated this the local version of ceviche and when done well is pretty amazing.
This was also served quickly, efficiently and with drinks came to less than $30. Value wise the Philippines still takes some beating and while its cuisine will not win too many awards is still much better than the fare offered just next door in Indonesia for example.
Overall this is no world beater, but offers some of the best value seafood dining on the beachfront of El Nido.
You can check the YPT list pop Philippines Tours here.
Big Mamas Restaurant Address;
beachfront,
C. Hama,
El Nido,
Northern Palawan
Palawan Province
Republic of Philippines