Hoy, Batchoy!

Alexis Yap
Lex in the city

BATCHOY nights have become our thing, but we don’t get to do it as much as we want since we have to drive far to get the good ones. One of our favorites is Vcnt’s. It is located near the “sabongan” in Mandaue. Their Super Batchoy comes with egg and it’s up to you to get a side of francis bread to complete your meal. Want more soup? All you need to do is ask and a steaming, almost boiling, full bowl of extra soup will be delivered to your table.

Then one night a few weeks back, we decide to try out Romero Vergara’s batchoy. Romero, the living legend in make-up, has recently opened his very own batchoy house called Row’s. It is located at the vicinity of the old Ramos Market, at the portion of his home that used to be a beauty shop for many years.

This famous batchoy is the recipe of his Ilongga mother and that is probably why it was such a delightful bowl complete with the right ingredients.

I went with some friends and all of us agreed that not only the batchoy was good, but the beef steak, bihon guisado, and fried chicken were also quite tasty. There were other delicious-looking items on the menu that we look forward to trying next time.

The place has a very cozy feel that we decided to stay for a few drinks. We even had the pleasure of Romero’s company that night and anyone who knows him will tell you that there is not a dull moment with him around. We first got a table inside but eventually moved to the al fresco area when some tables freed up. We didn’t expect to stay so long, but I’ll tell you, it may have been the crystal candleholder that made me hang out a while longer.

I’m so glad Romero decided to open up his home to serve some delicious food. Now, batchoy nights can be in full force when we wouldn’t have to drive that far anymore for most of the time.