Bar Abong

My chef buddy told me the menu had changed and I make appointment with her instantly. The visit turned out to be more than just a meal; it felt like being invited into a series of stories told through food.

Every dish stood confidently on its own. Each plate carried a distinct personality, and together they created a dining experience that felt thoughtful and deeply personal. My palate was thoroughly delighted.

That’s the magic of her cooking — even with simple plating and unapologetical local ingredients, she transforms them into something memorable, especially when she shares the inspiration behind each dish.

The anchovy lemon pasta arrived incredibly aromatic. The stir-frying technique intensified the savoury depth of the buttery anchovies while keeping the pasta lively and textured while the lemon rewrites the ending.

A generous squeeze of lemon elevated the entire flavour profile for me, adding brightness and balance, though Mr. Hubby preferred it without — proof that a small adjustment can completely change the experience.

One standout element was the zhoug sauce, which quickly became my obsession of the night. Think pesto, but with a Middle Eastern soul and a gentle spicy kick. I loved it so much that I asked for extra.

The ebi sando was another highlight. I tore off a piece of the house-made sourdough and dipped it into the leftover broccoli Caesar sauce — an accidental combination that turned into pure indulgence.

Then came the buttery, flaky lobster quiche. Modest appearance, but the flavour delivery was exceptional. The lobster was steamed, and its essence infused into leeks and onions, creating a deeply savoury filling.

Her version of peanut sauce noodle is another level. Fine angel hair absorbed the rich peanut sauce, studded with crunchy peanut bits and ended with a subtle spicy note. It was creamy without being heavy.

We ended the evening with bread pudding, a warm and comforting finale that closing the chapter. A sweet, satisfying ending to a dining experience that reminded me how powerful thoughtful cooking can be.

Some meals feed you. Some meals impress you. This one reminded me why I love food in the first place. It’s not just about expensive ingredients or fancy plating, it’s about the thought, skill, and intention behind every bite.

Kthxbye.

Bar Abong is managed by a dear school friend of mine who now helms the kitchen as its main chef. She’s working passionately to make sure every dish is thoughtfully prepared and served with pride.

She has this magical touch in the kitchen — every dish she creates somehow manages to surprise me, leaving not just my stomach full but my heart warmed too. My personal favourite? Her housemade pesto soba.

Who would’ve thought that earthy pesto could pair so harmoniously with Japanese soba noodles? The moment I took a bite, it literally melted in my mouth, and the fragrant aroma of the pesto lingered on my palate.

And then, her handmade crispy sourdough with local tenggiri, housemade tartar sauce and crunchy coleslaw — an absolute chef’s kiss! Every element sings freshness and creativity, a true reflection of her artistry.

Here’s are the other dishes I ordered & suggested by her:
🍳 Kundasang asparagus
🥬 Charred miso cabbage
🍝 Soba pesto
🦑 Jicama squid ball
🐟 Stingray sambal served with steamed hot rice
🥪 Fish sandwich
🍮 Abong pudding

Fun fact — she told me “Abong” means dizzy or blurred vision after being drunk in Bajau. An unexpected meaning for a name. Another must-try is their natural house wine which pairs beautifully with the dishes.

Kthxbye.

New place in town, nice atmosphere, good food and service.
Most of the items in their menu are special. definitely not the usual norm menu