Savoring Tender Beef in the Philippines: Your Guide to Perfect Cuts and Delicious Restaurants

Buying tender beef in the Philippines can be a challenge, but with some knowledge and careful selection, you can find the perfect cut to enhance any dish. Whether you're cooking at home or dining out, this guide will help you make the right choices for your meal.

How to Select Tender Beef

Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for achieving tenderness. Here are some tips to help you select better quality meat:

Choose the Right Cut

Some cuts of beef are naturally more tender than others. Look for cuts like:

Tenderloin Ribeye Sirloin Flank steak, when cooked properly Chuck eye, a more affordable option

Each of these cuts has unique characteristics, so it's important to note their differences to find the best fit for your cooking needs.

Check for Marbling

Look for meat with good marbling, which are small flecks of fat within the muscle. This fat helps keep the meat tender and flavorful. Marbling is a key indicator of tenderness and flavor in beef cuts.

Buy Fresh

It's important to purchase beef from reputable markets or butchers that sell fresh meat. Avoid pre-packaged or frozen beef if possible, as it may have been stored for longer periods. Freshness directly impacts the quality and taste of the meat.

Ask the Butcher

Don't hesitate to ask your butcher for recommendations on the best cuts for tenderness. They can also provide tips on cooking techniques to enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.

Consider Dry-Aging or Wet-Aging

Beef that has been aged, either dry-aged or wet-aged, tends to be more tender. Ask if the beef has been aged before purchasing, as this can significantly improve the quality of the meat.

Explore Local Brands

Some local brands or farms may offer higher quality beef. Research or ask around for recommendations to find the best options in your area.

Opt for Proper Cooking Techniques

Tenderness can also be influenced by cooking methods. Use techniques like marinading, slow cooking, or grilling to enhance tenderness. Preparing your beef properly is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Enjoy Tender Beef at Renowned Filipino Restaurants

To satisfy your craving for tender beef, explore these 13 delicious places in the Philippines. Each restaurant offers a unique take on classic comfort food and inventive dishes:

1. Abuela's - Makati

Abuela, meaning 'grandmother' in Spanish, serves Filipino heirloom recipes with a twist by Chef Marco Legasto. Their Slow-Roasted US Angus Beef is marinated in wine, spices, and a mixture of herbs. Orders must be placed 3 hours in advance.

2. 75 Lilac Cafe Kitchen - Marikina

At 75 Lilac Cafe Kitchen, enjoy a unique take on classic comfort food. Their Roast Beef is served with mushroom gravy sauce and rice, offering a traditional yet innovative dining experience.

3. Relish at Ponte - Makati

Relish at Ponte is a cozy modern bistro restaurant serving cross-continental food inspired by family favorites. Enjoy their Roast Beef with Egg and Roast Beef Sandwich in beautiful and welcoming interiors designed by sisters Ivy and Cynthia Almario.

4. The Farm Organics - Alabang

The Farm Organics Resto is a farm-to-table concept restaurant that serves certified organic grass-fed beef sourced from their breeding cattle farm in Masbate. This socially conscious agricultural business has been operating since 1976.

5. Bizu - Multiple Branches

Bizu is a premier French patisserie offering signature Parisian-style pastries and desserts. As a bistro, they also serve European comfort food attuned to the Filipino palate. Try their Signature Ten-Hour Roasted Angus Beef Belly with potato gratin, grilled vegetables, horseradish, and mushroom espagnole.

6. Pancake House - Multiple Branches

Pancake House, one of the most loved and go-to family restaurants, serves familiar comfort food and breakfast favorites. Their Roast Beef is a classic bestseller, making it a must-try for beef lovers.

7. Dome Cafe - Mandaluyong

Dome Cafe is a franchise from Australia known for having the World’s Finest Coffee. They also offer comfort food meals such as Roast Beef Belly.

8. Olympia's Gourmet - Multiple Branches

Self-proclaimed 'House of Roast Beef,' Olympia's Gourmet serves Western comfort food such as roast beef pasta, burgers, and more. Their Roast Beef is cooked in red wine, making it extra flavorful.

9. Quina Pastry Shop Restaurant - Quezon City

At Quina Pastry Shop and Restaurant, enjoy home-cooked comfort food like beef kaldereta, adobo sa gata, and their Roast Beef in Mushroom Sauce. Order dishes in platters for sharing or take-home for potluck occasions.

10. Rodrigo's - South Manila

Located in South Manila, Rodrigo's is an underrated restaurant known for its mean and tender meat dishes, including their Angus Roast Beef. You can have it unlimited with sides included.

11. H Cuisine - Multiple Branches

H Cuisine proudly proclaims to be the 'Home of the Most Awesome Angus Beef Belly' and serves different kinds of meat dishes too. Foodies rave about their beef belly, which is also served with demi-glace gravy and a side of vegetables.

12. The Beef Barn - Eastwood

The Beef Barn specializes in slow-roasted US Angus beef, smoked bacon, and savory chicken meals at budget-friendly prices. They are open until 4 AM for late night and after-party cravings.

13. Texas Roadhouse - Multiple Branches

A legendary Western American steakhouse, Texas Roadhouse is famous for their hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bones ribs, freshly-baked bread, and made-from-scratch sides. Their Cowboy Roast Beef is a must-try.

While Mario’s in Quezon City is omitted, it’s a popular choice for those seeking tender beef, as it was the first place the author's family went to. For food lovers looking for excellence, you might want to explore Mario’s for a genuine Filipino dining experience.

Whether you're buying beef to cook at home or dining out, these tips and recommendations can help you find and savor the perfect tender beef in the Philippines.