Hanayo: Authentic and Affordable Korean Restaurant in Recto (Closed)

I recently discovered an authentic and affordable Korean restaurant called Hanayo located just beside the Philippine Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PSPCA) Clinic and in front of University of the East (UE) in Recto.  We sometimes bring our pets to PSPCA for a cheap vaccination because its an non-profit organization so I've noticed Hanayo before.

Hanayo has a large red sign that's pretty hard to miss when passing by Recto Avenue.   It also has a banner indicating that they do deliveries too.

Although it may offer a limited space housing less than 10 tables, it does not fall short in terms of style.  I just love the color scheme.  It was also clean and well-ventilated with its ceiling fans.

It also bulletin board their customers who are mostly Koreans post at.  During my visit, I noticed that most of the customers are Korean students from the nearby universities. 

Their best sellers is posted on their wall to entice you to order them.  And, they are pretty effective.  

They adopt a pay-as-you-order system so you have to walk up to the counter at the end of the restaurant to order.  Upon payment they will give you a receipt so you can await your order at your table.  Don't forget to pass by and grab some napkins and utensils by the rack near the counter.  

Food

♥ Galbi Jgim (135 php)

Complimentary Rice, Soup and Side Dish

Although I consider eating as a social activity, this are one of the few occasions where I had no choice but to eat alone.  I ordered the Galbi Jgim which is one of my favorite Korean dishes.  To my surprise, they gave generous servings for an affordable price.  The korean stew had huge chunks beef chunks and a large slice of radish.  It was very savory that I think this can even be good for two.  The meat was so tender too.    One order already comes with a cup of rice, soup and two side dishes or banchan : Kimchi and Spicy Korean Tofu.

♥ Dong Won Sikhae Drink (35 php)

For drinks, I ordered a canned Dong Won Sikhae Drink which is deliciously sweet and refreshing.  This reminded me of the dessert drink at Sariwon.  But, of course, this was a bit lacking in comparison to the freshly made one.  

Update: (April 10, 2013) Passed by this today and it's now closed and replaced by a new Korean restaurant named "Korean Style"which still exist until my last visit (August 19, 2016)

Update: (January 20, 2014) A friend tipped me that there is a Hanayo Grill Restaurant in Tomas Morato offering delicious Korean dinner buffet for only 550 php net.  I'm not sure if its the same establishment as I have yet to try it.

Tsinoy Foodies Verdict
Hanayo is one of the best places to visit for an authentic and affordable Korean meal.  I highly recommend this place.  If you're not convinced check this place out and see Koreans patrons enjoying their orders.  They serve great food at great proportions at a price that's easy on the pocket.  I don't think there's anything else you can ask for.  They also sell an assortment of Korean ice creams.  Invite your friends for ice cream because they have group promos for those.

Tsinoy Foodies Review Rating		Hanayo Menu
Ambiance	★★★	Noodles | Specialities 1 | Specialties 2 | Specialties 3 | Doutbap | Set Meals | Others and Drinks |
Taste	★★★★
Service	★★★
Price	★★★★★
♥=Favorites or Recommended

Hanayo Korean Restaurant U.E. Branch
Business Address	2036 CM Recto Ave, Quiapo, Manila, Metro Manila
Business Hours	9am-9pm
Payment Options	Cash
Service Charge
Budget/Person	70-200
Free WiFi	No
Unlocked Foursquare Perks	None
Contact	(0923) 740-2197
Other	Facebook Fan Page

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