Found in its menu are staple Filipino dishes, these include the ever popular adobo and roasted pig or “lechon," a dish served during feasts, festivities and other special occasions, and undoubtedly a favorite in the Philippines. In truth, most Filipino dishes are not spicy like Thai food but Leo’s does serve “Bicol Express” which is a mixture of whole hot chilies and coconut milk. Stir-fry dishes are also available, many of which are a combination of noodles seasoned with lime and lemon. As with many Filipino dishes, most are served with rice. Aside from walk-ins, Leo’s offer catering services for parties. The restaurant is about 10 minutes north of Edison, across Interstate 287.
Leo's Barbecue
497 Stelton Rd.
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
908-668-5050
tropicalhutcatering.com
Pilipino Ihawan is derived from two Filipino words, Pilipino (Filipino) and Ihawan (a type of cooking that involves char broiled food). As with many Filipino restaurants, the menu revolves around traditional Filipino food such as chicken tinola, which is a soup flavored with ginger or sinigang na bangus, which is a seafood soup flavored with tamarind, as well as many fish and squid entrees that are popular among locals. Desserts unique to the Philippines are also served with options like the palitaw (ground glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk,) bibingka (rice cakes) and kutsinta. With a casual and cozy atmosphere, Pilipino Ihawan is situated 15 minutes southeast of Edison, near South Amboy in the Laurence Harbor.
Pilipino Ihawan
4500 Bordentown Ave.
Sayreville, NJ 08972
732-651-8556
feast4u.com/ihawan/
Casa Manila Philippine Cuisine has on its menu some, if not all, of the most well-known and traditional Filipino dishes. This restaurant is highly regarded among natives from the Philippines for its authentic homemade-style flavors. Also favored among fans of Filipino cuisine, this restaurant’s menu includes barbecue entrees as well as lechon, kare kare (ox tail) and the crispy pata (deep-fried pork skin), plus desserts such as the coconut with pandan leaves. Located 20 minutes from Edison, Casa Manila also features catering and take-out service.
Casa Manila
1921 Morris Ave.
Union, NJ 07083
908-687-8900
