Abi's Resto Grill: The Original Mongolian Barbeque Grill and More

When we talk about Filipino food in Gensan, Abi's is one of the names that often come to mind. One of the reasons might be their food's distinctly Asian-fusion taste that's very familiar to the Filipino palate: a taste of home in every bite. Aside from that, the reason why their food is always delicious is because of how they prepare their food. Even the tiniest of details matter and they make sure that the ingredients are fresh and safe to eat.

 

Located at corner Tiongson and Ventilacion Streets, it's a short drive from downtown or one tricycle ride away from the mall. They open from 4:30pm to 10pm, with an open-air, roofed setup with plenty of tables and chairs that are perfect for families and groups.

Being able to last 20 years in the business is no joke. It requires hard-work and consistency which the pillars behind Abi's apparently has. Their secret weapon? The original Abi's chef from 1997 is the same chef who cooks their special food until this day. Nothing truly beats a good meal prepared not only with talent but also with passion and with a heart. Apart from the freshest ingredients that they use, they also make their own sauces that they use to season their food and also as dip to some of their dishes. I particularly love the Tilapia Chicharon's dip that is sweet and a bit tangy which compliments the salty and crispy, deep-fried fish.

Abi's specialty is the Mongolian Barbeque with a Filipino twist that is cooked right in front of you in a 1-inch thick mizuno table. This is necessary for better heat retention, which helps the meat to become tender and warm upon serving. They also have the original Abi's Pork barbeque which tastes nothing like the others. It is perfect to eat with a warm cup of rice. But I assure you, you won't be able to stop yourself from eating more that one cup because of how good it tastes.

Abi's Mongolian Barbeque

Imbao Soup

 What I love most about Abi's is how meticulous their food preparation is. For instance, I'm already used to eating Imbao Soup with a little stench and black remnants from the shell's outer layer but the Abi's version raised the standard for me. The soup is very clear and the usual stench and aftertaste is gone. This makes the real flavor of the clams stand out.

Abi's Pork Barbeque

Aside from their classic favorites, they have also reinvented their menu by adding Korean dishes. It comes with Pork and Beef Strips, Kimchi, Chapchae and Green Salad Wraps for an affordable price of P799. Their other food are also priced just right so you'll be satisfied without spending a lot.

The place is definitely worth checking out. Before food parks and cafes, there was Abi's and now they're back and better than ever, to serve you with classic favorites that would definitely make you come back for more.