Last January 2, we had a meaningful late lunch at Mann Hann SM Fairview, one of those meals that stay with you not just because of the food, but because of the people you shared it with. This lucnh is extra special to me because it wasn’t just another restaurant visit — it was our last lunch together before Ate Arlene’s family flew back to Dubai on January 5.
Joining us were Ate Arlene’s family, Kuya Jojo’s mom, Tita Lou, Mama Lucy, and Papa Sony. It felt like one of those slow, unhurried lunches where stories flowed easily, laughter filled the table, and everyone was just present — savoring the food and the moment.
Mann Hann and a Trip Down Memory Lane
I honestly haven’t been to Mann Hann in quite a while, but stepping back inside immediately brought back memories. Mann Hann was one of my nanay’s favorite Chinese restaurants when she was still alive. She always said the food here was delicious — comforting, flavorful, and very classic Chinese.
I couldn’t help but think of her as we browsed the menu. And yes, while Mann Hann is on the pricier side (especially since the servings are a bit on the smaller side), I have to agree with her — the food really is good.
What We Ordered at Mann Hann SM Fairview
We ordered a good mix of dimsum, mains, and rice dishes — perfect for sharing, family-style.
Xiao Long Bao (₱325)
We started with the Xiao Long Bao, and this is always a must-order for me in any Chinese restaurant. Mann Hann’s version had delicate wrappers with a generous amount of savory soup inside. Each bite had that comforting burst of flavor, especially when dipped lightly in soy sauce with a bit of ginger. It’s the kind of dish you eat slowly, appreciating every piece.
Green Seafood Soup (₱505)
The Green Seafood Soup was warm, soothing, and packed with seafood goodness. The broth was light yet flavorful, with fresh-tasting seafood that made it feel hearty without being heavy. This is the kind of soup that feels perfect for sharing — especially when you want something comforting to start the meal.
Mapo Tofu (₱375)
I really enjoyed the Mapo Tofu, mainly because it wasn’t overly spicy. The tofu was soft and silky, swimming in a savory sauce that had just the right amount of kick without overpowering the dish. If you’re someone who enjoys Mapo Tofu but prefers it milder, this one’s a good choice.
Eggplant with Minced Pork (₱345)
This was one of my personal favorites. The Eggplant with Minced Pork had tender eggplant pieces that soaked up the sauce beautifully. The minced pork added richness, and the overall dish was savory, slightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying with rice. Definitely comfort food at its finest.
Lutong Lechon Macau (₱505)
The Lutong Lechon Macau didn’t disappoint. The pork was crispy on the outside and juicy inside, with that familiar lechon Macau flavor that’s rich and indulgent. It’s one of those dishes that instantly disappears once placed on the table — a clear sign that everyone loved it.
Yang Chow Fried Rice (₱495)
No Chinese meal is complete without fried rice, and the Yang Chow Fried Rice was the perfect partner to all our dishes. It was fragrant, fluffy, and generously loaded with ingredients. Simple, classic, and very satisfying — especially when paired with the saucy viands.
Dessert & Drinks: A Refreshing Surprise
For drinks and dessert, Ykaie, Daddydoodledoo, and I shared the Lemon Basil Frost (₱185).
Imagine a frozen lemonade, bright and refreshing, with lots of basil mixed in. It sounds unusual, but it works so well. The citrusy tartness paired with the aromatic basil made it incredibly refreshing — perfect after a heavy Chinese meal. I honestly wished we ordered more.
Coffee Stop at Caerus
After lunch, we headed over to Caerus for coffee — because no family lunch is complete without a coffee stop.
I ordered a hot café americano paired with their ube cake, and this one truly surprised me. I’m not really fond of ube desserts, but this cake changed my mind.
What made it special was the thin custard brûlée layer on top — creamy, slightly caramelized, and indulgent. Inside, the filling had chunky ube halaya bits, giving it texture and just the right amount of sweetness. It was rich without being overwhelming, and so, so good with coffee.
This lunch at Mann Hann SM Fairview wasn’t just about good food — it was about family, memories, and those quiet moments you don’t realize are special until you look back.
With Ate Arlene’s family leaving for Dubai just a few days later, this meal felt like a gentle pause before life moved on again. It reminded me how food has this beautiful way of bringing people together, holding memories, and making moments last a little longer.
And maybe that’s why meals like this stay with us — long after the plates are cleared.
