FoodAfter a year’s absence of local cuisine among student-run stalls, Holy Smokes marks the return of Filipino food to JSEC. “There was a Filipino stall two years ago, KKK, after that wala na ‘ata, so we wanted to bring [Filipino food] back. And we wanted to bring sisig back,” says Holy Smokes co-owner Stephanie Lee.
Taste
The Chicken Inasal is a staple done up to standard that supplies enough meat to satisfy midday hunger. The Pork Sisig is moist and hearty, with a chili slice here and there to add a dash of color and a spicy kick to boot. The Liempo is especially tender and rich in seasoning, making it better than the average. All meals are served with java rice with a hue that makes one’s meal particularly appetizing.
When it comes to sides, one can choose between crispy chicharon and fried egg, which is recommendable with the Pork Sisig. Holy Smokes’ sweetly-flavoured and thinly-molded Banana Turon is a welcome desert.
Concept
While many other JSEC stalls boast unique cuisines from around the world, Holy Smokes is not out of the ordinary. However, they know exactly what they are and what they serve: Filipino comfort dishes that are easy for one to return home to.
Value for money
Set at a standard JSEC price of Php 90 for solos and Php 120 for combos, Holy Smokes does the trick for those craving for a familiar kind of Filipino meal around the SOM area. The rice portions are particularly generous, as with the usual Filipino palette.
Final verdict
The dishes from Holy Smokes are well-made staples that you almost can’t go wrong with, whether that be in size or in flavor. It’s a Pinoy’s slice of home away from home.
Rating: 4/5
Photo by Trina Camacho.
