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Enjoy seasonal Filipino faves

A La Carte Columns

December 25, 2016

Story By: Ellise Kakazu |

Rellenong Bangus ($25.50) and Seafood Paella ($26.95) L. TABUDLO PHOTO

Rellenong Bangus ($25.50) and Seafood Paella ($26.95) L. TABUDLO PHOTO

One thing many of us look forward to during the holidays is enjoying a festive meal with loved ones. And Max’s of Manila is the perfect place to do so.

The eatery offers an array of beloved Filipino dishes, and now offers a few seasonal items until Jan. 5.

The first is Embutido ($11.95 per loaf, $35 per pan), which is a Filipino-style meatloaf. It’s a winning combination of ground pork, sausage, relish, raisins, cheese, bell pepper and eggs. General manager Maly San Luis says that Embutido is savory, sweet and tart, and served with sweet banana sauce.

Another seasonal treat is Rellenong Bangus ($25.50), which is milkfish stuffed with ground pork, minced milk-fish, relish, raisins, carrots, celery, onion and garlic. According to San Luis, the chef must go through a “tedious process” to present customers with this decadent fish.

Embutido ($11.95 per loaf, $35 per pan) FILE PHOTO

Embutido ($11.95 per loaf, $35 per pan) FILE PHOTO

“The procedure requires removing the entire inside of the milkfish while keeping the entire skin intact,” San Luis states. “The meat that is removed is seasoned with spices and vegetables and is stuffed back into the fish. The fish is then cooked and served whole.”

Seafood Paella ($26.95) is another delicious dish one can dive into before the holidays are over. The tomato-and paprika-based paella features shrimp, squid, fish, mussels, bell pepper and onions.

Whether one indulges in the eatery’s seasonal or regular menu items, customers always can expect fresh, authentic Filipino cuisine at Max’s of Manila.

“(The restaurant’s goal is) to consistently delight our customers with great food and excellent service in a clean and comfortable environment,” San Luis states.

Max’s of Manila

DILLINGHAM
801 Dillingham Blvd., Honolulu
599-5034
Open daily, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Christmas and New Year’s Eve, 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Christmas and New Year’s Day, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

WAIPAHU
94-300 Farrington Hwy., Waipahu
676-1504
Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Christmas and New Year’s Eve, 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Christmas and New Year’s Day, 10:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Waipahu, HI 96797

Honolulu, HI 96817

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