BREAKING: Chef Chance Anies has officially launched his highly anticipated restaurant, Manong, located at 1833 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, aiming to celebrate Filipino American culture through innovative cuisine. This exciting opening is a heartfelt tribute to Anies’ childhood, drawing inspiration from the chain restaurants where his mother worked, and it promises to deliver a unique dining experience that resonates with local and international audiences alike.
Manong, which translates to “elder brother” in the Filipino Ilocano language, offers a menu that reflects Anies’ biracial heritage. The restaurant features American favorites with a Filipino twist, including chicken skewers grilled with banana ketchup barbecue sauce and creamy pasta made with American cheese and coconut milk Alfredo sauce. A standout dish, The Bloom Shroom, is Anies’ creative version of the classic Bloomin’ Onion, made with enoki mushrooms.
The diverse menu also includes traditional Filipino dishes, such as Lechon liempo, a whole roasted pork belly, and the Balong burger, a half-pound burger served on four pandesal buns. In a nod to his family’s entrepreneurial spirit, Anies is bringing Rita’s Water Ice to the restaurant, featuring house-made ice cream in flavors like mango, ube, and pandan.
The cocktail menu at Manong is equally compelling, with drinks named after significant Filipino figures and experiences. The Otso Otso cocktail is a creative take on a calamansi margarita, named for a popular Filipino dance. Another highlight is the Larry Itliong, an old-fashioned inspired cocktail named after one of the original Manongs who emigrated to the United States in the early 1900s.
As Philadelphia gears up to host the world during the 2026 events, Chance Anies envisions Manong as a must-visit destination. He hopes diners will leave not only satisfied but also enriched with knowledge about Filipino and Filipino American history.
This opening is not just about food; it’s about connection and culture. Anies’ journey from a food cart with his first restaurant, Tabachoy, to this new venture signifies a deep commitment to community and heritage.
Visit Manong today to experience a blend of flavors and stories that reflect the rich tapestry of Filipino American life. For more updates, check their Instagram page or visit the restaurant at the Fairmount location.
Don’t miss your chance to savor these unique dishes and drinks that are already capturing the attention of food enthusiasts and cultural advocates alike!
