Mabuhay Kitchenette is a popular destination for anyone seeking authentic Filipino comfort food. Known for its traditional flavors and welcoming atmosphere, this establishment serves as a hub for the Filipino community and food enthusiasts alike. Whether you are craving a hearty bowl of Sinigang or looking for the perfect crispy Lumpia, understanding where to find their locations and what to expect on the menu can help you plan the perfect meal. This guide provides all the essential details you need to enjoy a genuine Filipino dining experience.
Where to Find Mabuhay Kitchenette
Mabuhay Kitchenette has established a presence in key areas where Filipino culture thrives. Currently, they operate locations in both Southern California and Nevada, making it convenient for locals and travelers to get their fix of traditional home-style cooking. Having multiple locations allows them to serve a wider audience while maintaining the consistent quality that patrons have come to expect.
Cerritos, California Locations
Cerritos is a central hub for the Filipino-American community in Los Angeles County, and Mabuhay Kitchenette is a staple in this area. There are two primary points of interest for diners in Cerritos. The first is located at 12233 Artesia Blvd, Cerritos, CA 90703. This location is often frequented by those looking for a quick lunch or a take-out dinner for the family. The second location, often referred to as Mabuhay Kitchen, is situated at 17220 Norwalk Blvd, Cerritos, CA 90703. Both spots offer a variety of classic dishes and are known for their friendly service.
Las Vegas, Nevada Location
For those living in or visiting the Silver State, Mabuhay Kitchenette brings the flavors of the islands to the desert. The Las Vegas branch is located at 3975 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89119. This location is conveniently situated near the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the Las Vegas Strip, making it an excellent alternative to the typical tourist fare. It provides a taste of home for residents and a delicious discovery for visitors exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene.
Understanding the Menu and Dining Style
One of the most important things to know before visiting is the style of service. Mabuhay Kitchenette typically operates as a turo-turo restaurant. In Tagalog, “turo-turo” literally translates to “point-point.” This is a traditional Filipino way of dining where various prepared dishes are displayed behind a glass counter. Customers simply point to the items they want, and the staff serves them as part of a combo meal or as individual portions.
Popular Main Courses
The menu at Mabuhay Kitchenette rotates based on availability and freshness, but there are several staples that you are likely to find on any given day. These dishes represent the core of Filipino cuisine, balancing salty, sour, and sweet flavors.
- Chicken and Pork Adobo: Often considered the national dish of the Philippines, this features meat marinated and braised in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns. It is savory, slightly tangy, and perfect when paired with steamed white rice.
- Kare-Kare: This is a rich oxtail or beef stew cooked in a thick peanut sauce. It is traditionally served with a side of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) to provide a salty contrast to the nutty flavor of the sauce.
- Sinigang: A sour soup typically flavored with tamarind. It usually contains pork, shrimp, or fish along with an assortment of vegetables like radish, eggplant, and long beans. It is the ultimate comfort food for many.
- Lechon Kawali: For those who love crispy textures, this deep-fried pork belly is a must-try. The skin is fried until it crackles, while the meat remains tender.
- Pancit Bihon: A classic noodle dish made with thin rice sticks, stir-fried with vegetables and small pieces of meat or shrimp. It is a symbol of long life and is present at almost every Filipino celebration.
Side Dishes and Appetizers
No Filipino meal is complete without a few sides. Lumpia Shanghai is perhaps the most famous appetizer—these are small, golden-brown spring rolls filled with minced meat and vegetables, served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. You may also find Tortang Talong, which is a smoky grilled eggplant omelet that serves as a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
Desserts and Refreshments
Filipino desserts are known for their vibrant colors and unique ingredients, such as purple yam (ube) and coconut. After a savory meal, a sweet treat is the perfect way to balance the palate. Mabuhay Kitchenette often provides traditional favorites that are hard to find elsewhere.
Halo-Halo
The most iconic Filipino dessert is Halo-Halo, which means “mix-mix.” It is a refreshing concoction of shaved ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients like sweetened beans, coconut strips, fruit slices, and flan, all topped with a scoop of ube ice cream. It is as much an experience as it is a dessert.
Other Sweet Treats
- Lechon Flan: A rich, creamy custard topped with a clear caramel syrup. It is denser and silkier than the Spanish version of flan.
- Cassava Cake: A moist cake made from grated cassava, coconut milk, and condensed milk. It has a unique, slightly chewy texture that is very satisfying.
- Sago’t Gulaman: A cold beverage made with brown sugar syrup, tapioca pearls (sago), and gelatin (gulaman). It is the perfect drink to wash down a heavy meal.
Catering and Special Occasions
In Filipino culture, food is meant to be shared. Mabuhay Kitchenette understands this tradition and offers catering services for parties, birthdays, and community gatherings. Instead of the standard individual portions, you can order large trays of their most popular dishes. Ordering a full tray of Pancit or a large container of Adobo is a cost-effective and delicious way to feed a large group of people. If you are planning an event, it is recommended to call the specific location a few days in advance to discuss their catering menu and pricing.
Tips for Your First Visit
If you are new to Filipino food or visiting this specific kitchenette for the first time, keep these tips in mind to make the most of your visit:
- Go Early: Since many dishes are prepared in batches for the turo-turo counter, the best selection is usually available shortly after the lunch or dinner rush begins.
- Ask for Recommendations: The staff is usually very knowledgeable about the ingredients. If you aren’t sure about a specific stew or vegetable dish, don’t hesitate to ask what’s in it.
- Try the Combo: Most patrons opt for a combo meal, which typically includes a choice of one or two entrees served with a generous portion of rice or noodles. This is the best way to sample different flavors at a reasonable price.
- Check the Daily Specials: Some dishes, like Dinuguan (savory pork blood stew) or Pinakbet (vegetables with shrimp paste), might only appear on certain days of the week.
Conclusion
Mabuhay Kitchenette offers a genuine gateway into the rich world of Filipino culinary traditions. By providing easy access to home-cooked meals in Cerritos and Las Vegas, they ensure that the vibrant flavors of the Philippines are never too far away. Whether you are a longtime fan of Filipino food or a curious newcomer, visiting one of their locations is a great way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like it came straight from a family kitchen. To learn more about diverse food cultures or to find answers to other lifestyle questions, feel free to explore our other helpful articles.