Menu of The Great Buddha Cafe in Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Menu Overview

The Great Buddha Cafe, perched on the second floor of UBE Tower along Ongpin Street in Binondo, Manila, offers a compelling culinary journey into authentic Chinese flavors with a contemporary touch. This restaurant has quickly made a name for itself among locals and visitors seeking generous portions of well-executed classic dishes at reasonable prices.

One cannot discuss The Great Buddha Cafe without highlighting their Xiao Long Bao Pork Soup Dumplings. These soup dumplings burst with rich, savory pork broth, encased in a delicate, thin wrapper. Many patrons, including regulars, swear they rival or even outshine other famed spots, thanks to their juiciness and perfectly balanced seasoning.

The Claypot Rice Beef with Tendon is another standout dish. The slow-cooked beef tendon blends tenderly with flavorful rice, delivering a smoky, comforting mouthfeel that speaks of traditional Chinese culinary techniques. Equally worthy is the Beef Hofan, where perfectly cooked, chewy rice noodles marry savory beef strips, achieving harmony in texture and taste.

For a treat beyond the mains, their Giant Moon Cake and Seafood Roll are worth sampling. The moon cake offers a substantial bite of sweet and nutty richness, while the seafood roll brings a crisp exterior paired with a fresh, oceanic filling that complements the diversity of the menu.

The Great Buddha Cafe’s soups reflect sincere craftsmanship. The Hot and Sour Soup, praised by customers, balances tanginess and spice efficiently, warming the palate before the main course. Other options such as the Shrimp Wanton Soup and Seafood Spinach Soup showcase fresh ingredients and flavors that are comforting without overwhelming.

Congee lovers will appreciate the variety offered, especially The Great Buddha Cafe Congee itself—a hearty and flavorful porridge that embodies a perfect balance of smooth texture and rich taste. The Beef and Meatball Congee follow closely behind, each serving a generous portion that satisfies as a light meal or a comforting snack.

Desserts here are pleasant surprises. The Choco Lava Pao melts with molten chocolate at every bite, contrasting nicely with the crisp exterior. The Peanut Balls and Flaky Egg Tart offer gentle finishes to the meal, while Custard Lava Buchi brings a silky custard encore that shouldn’t be missed.

Customer experiences underline the inviting atmosphere and the value for money, though some note delayed soups and less accessible stairs as minor setbacks. The service, cleanliness, and thoughtfully spaced seating enhance the overall dining experience, making The Great Buddha Cafe a highly recommended stop for Chinese cuisine enthusiasts in Binondo.

For anyone craving authentic flavors loaded with tradition and heart, mixed with generous servings and thoughtful presentations, The Great Buddha Cafe’s menu delivers with depth, warmth, and a satisfying variety that honors Chinese culinary heritage in Metro Manila’s gastronomic landscape.