Gumbo gives us a taste of Cajun-Creole style cuisine right here in Manila.
When people think of American food, 9 times out of 10 you’re gonna hear hamburgers, pizza, fried chicken, and fries. But there’s a hot pot of flavor in New Orleans that comes in the form of Cajun-Creole cuisine. Makes sense because this cuisine is the product of a melting pot of French, Spanish, West African, Amerindian, Haitian, German, Italian, British and Irish cooking!
Since opening in 2006, Gumbo has established itself as the go-to restaurant for people who want to try New Orleans cuisine thanks to the wide range of Cajun-Creole dishes on its menu. Managing director Albert Alavera studied at the New Orleans School of Cooking, so you can be sure that Gumbo’s dishes have authentic Louisiana cooking behind them.
Gumbo is by the same group behind Burgoo so you can count on the food being good. They have also successfully managed to carry over the same warm, friendly ambiance (but with a New Orleans flavor!), making it a great place to eat with your family.
Its interiors usually feature lots of Cajun-inspired decorations ranging from murals to framed posters to carnival masks and hats, all of which make for a pleasant dining experience.
INSIDER TIP: You can ask to try on the festive hats and headdresses and even get a picture wearing them.
Gumbo has a reputation for large servings, which are great for get-togethers. Here are some of their must-try dishes you can share with your family and friends the next time you’re there. Be sure to make a reservation via the Booky app, especially if you’re a big group!
Gumbo’s appetizers are big enough to share and delicious enough to want all to yourself. It’s a good thing the restaurant has Grande Servings, is what we’re saying.
Four Seasons Salad
Greens, slices of ham and mixed fruits
Calamari Fritti
Large rings of squid battered and deep fried
When in New Orleans, eat like the New Orleanians do. Gumbo (a spicy meat or seafood based stew served over rice) and jambalaya (a dish made with meat and vegetables mixed with rice similar to paella) are both classic examples of Louisiana cooking.
Seafood Gumbo
Spicy stew made with every fish in the sea (not literally), served with rice
It may not look like much but this gumbo packs a punch! The best way to eat gumbo is by mixing the rice in with the rest of the stew before anything else. This way you get a good balance of rice, meat and stew in every bite.
Seafood Jambalaya
Seafood and spices mixed with rice, similar in appearance to paella
You’ll know when your order of jambalaya is ready to be served because the waiters will shout, “AHHHH! Jambalaya!” as they bring it to your table in an Instagram-worthy moment.
INSIDER TIP: Can't handle the heat? Let your server know. While Cajun food is traditionally spicy, you can have the spice levels of your dishes modified to suit your taste.
The American South is also well known for its comfort food, so it comes as no surprise that Gumbo also serves delicious ribs, steaks, chicken and pasta.
Spaghetti Puttanesca
Tomato-based sauce made with olive oil and garlic
Bourbon Baby Back Ribs
Tender baby back ribs made with Gumbo’s special bourbon sauce
Dessert is the best way to finish off a hearty Southern-style meal, and Gumbo stays true to its Cajun identity with some definite winners.
Mississippi Mud Pie
Chocolate ice cream topped with chocolate syrup; great for sharing!
INSIDER TIP: Gumbo's Mississippi Mud Pie is good for 3-5 people-- or 5-6 hungry kids!
So now you know that there’s no need to go all the way to Louisiana to try New Orleans-style cuisine. Just check out Gumbo’s list of branches on the Booky app and make a reservation to get discounts on total bill and a FREE dessert!
