Thursday in Manila brought heavy rain from the tropical storm “Ofel.” It was payday, and the next day was a holiday. The perfect way to celebrate was to eat out. We considered ordering delivery, but the storm made us worry about riders facing flooded streets. Instead, we searched for a restaurant near our workplace. Someone suggested Hap Chan, and everyone agreed.
Finding Comfort Food at Hap Chan
Armed with umbrellas that proved useless against the strong winds, we walked through the storm. After a short search, we ended up at Hap Chan Tea House in McKinley Hill. The restaurant promised authentic Chinese food, with choices like dim sum, congee, noodles, rice meals, and desserts. At that point, we were too hungry to question the claim of authenticity. We quickly secured a table, grateful to escape the downpour and the growing line of diners outside.
The atmosphere inside Hap Chan was lively despite the weather. Families, groups of friends, and employees filled the dining area. The restaurant was warm and welcoming, providing the comfort we needed after braving the storm.
What We Ordered
Eka and I ordered the Salt and Pepper Spareribs, a dish known for its crispy texture and savory taste. Darrel and Hayfah chose Beef Brisket with Vegetables, while Jd opted for Lechon Macau. The roasted pork came with perfectly crisp skin and tender meat, a true highlight of the meal.
Apple, a certified dim sum lover, ordered Japanese Siomai and Shrimp Siomai. Jd and Darrel added Hakao and Ham Suy Kok to the table. Eka completed the spread with Masachi, a dessert made with glutinous rice flour filled with sweet paste.
Each dish arrived hot and well-prepared, filling the table with rich aromas. The variety of flavors gave everyone something to enjoy, from savory spareribs to delicate dumplings.
Menu Range and Prices
One of Hap Chan’s strengths is its wide menu that caters to different budgets. Prices start at just PHP15 for a simple fried egg. The most premium option, a quarter of Roasted Peking Duck, costs PHP490. This wide range makes Hap Chan accessible for both quick meals and special gatherings.
Other popular menu items include congee, noodle bowls, and rice toppings. Their dim sum selection is extensive, featuring classics like siopao, shark’s fin dumplings, and radish cake. The variety ensures that guests can explore Chinese cuisine at their own pace.
Why Hap Chan Works for Employees
The rainy season in Manila often makes dining out difficult for employees. Long walks through flooded streets can turn a simple lunch into a stressful task. At McKinley Hill, however, options like Hap Chan make things easier. The restaurant offers reliable food at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among young professionals in the area.
Hap Chan is not only about food but also about convenience. Its location in McKinley Hill provides accessibility for nearby offices and residences. Combined with fast service and consistent flavors, the restaurant has built a loyal following.
Overall Dining Experience
Our meal at Hap Chan was more than just a payday treat. It was a reminder of how food can bring comfort during stormy days. Despite the weather outside, the restaurant delivered a warm dining experience filled with laughter, stories, and flavorful dishes.
The staff managed the busy crowd efficiently, ensuring that food arrived quickly. The restaurant’s simple but cozy interiors created a casual environment, perfect for group dining. Hap Chan showed that good food, affordable prices, and reliable service can make any rainy day better.
Hap Chan Tea House
Unit BNC One World Square
McKinley Hill Road, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig
Contact: (02) 856-0399
