Manila Sunset in Cerritos, California, stands as a beacon of authentic Filipino cuisine, bringing a vibrant array of flavors that capture the essence of the Philippines. This beloved restaurant has cultivated a loyal following by offering dishes that are not only rich in taste but also deeply rooted in tradition.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Filipino food or a curious first-timer, the Manila Sunset menu promises an exciting culinary journey filled with bold spices, savory marinades, and comforting home-style favorites.
Located in the heart of Cerritos, Manila Sunset has become a go-to spot for those seeking hearty meals that combine cultural heritage with modern dining convenience. The menu reflects a thoughtful balance between classic offerings and innovative twists, ensuring that every visit brings something memorable.
From the moment you glance at the menu, you’ll notice the careful curation of choices designed to satisfy diverse palates while emphasizing the freshness and quality of ingredients.
Exploring the Manila Sunset Cerritos menu reveals a dedication to both flavor and authenticity. The selection showcases the culinary diversity of the Philippines, with dishes that range from savory stews to flavorful grilled meats.
With ample options for vegetarians, seafood lovers, and meat enthusiasts alike, the menu is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and culinary excellence. Each dish tells a story, inviting guests to experience the warmth and richness of Filipino hospitality.
Signature Appetizers: A Flavorful Beginning
The appetizers at Manila Sunset set the stage for a delightful meal, featuring classic Filipino starters that are both comforting and exciting. These small plates serve as perfect introductions to the bold flavors that define the cuisine.
Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying a solo meal, the appetizers are crafted to awaken your palate.
One of the standout appetizers is the Ukoy, a crispy shrimp and vegetable fritter that’s light yet packed with flavor. This dish is expertly fried to a golden crisp, accompanied by a tangy vinegar dipping sauce that balances the richness.
The use of fresh shrimp and shredded vegetables highlights the restaurant’s emphasis on quality.
Another popular choice is the Lumpiang Shanghai, Filipino-style spring rolls that are stuffed with seasoned ground pork and vegetables. These rolls are expertly rolled and fried to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
The accompanying sweet and sour sauce complements the savory filling, making it a crowd favorite.
Appetizer Highlights
- Ukoy – Shrimp and vegetable fritters with vinegar dip
- Lumpiang Shanghai – Filipino pork spring rolls served with sweet and sour sauce
- Chicharrón Bulaklak – Crispy fried pork intestines, a crunchy and flavorful treat
- Kinilaw – Filipino ceviche with fresh fish marinated in vinegar and spices
“The appetizers at Manila Sunset provide a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them an essential part of the dining experience.” – Frequent Customer Review
Main Courses: Rich and Diverse Filipino Classics
The heart of the Manila Sunset menu lies in its main courses, which showcase a wide array of traditional Filipino dishes. Each entree is prepared with care, reflecting the rich culinary heritage and regional influences that make Filipino food so unique.
From savory stews to grilled specialties, the main dishes offer something for every taste.
The Adobo is a must-try staple, featuring tender chicken or pork simmered in a marinade of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. This dish is a perfect example of the balance of salty, sour, and savory flavors that Filipino cuisine is known for.
The meat is cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, making it a comforting favorite.
Another highlight is the Kare-Kare, a rich peanut-based stew traditionally served with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables. The dish is paired with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) to enhance its deep, umami flavor.
This stew stands out for its creamy texture and the complex layering of tastes that make it a culinary treasure.
Popular Entrées
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Adobo | Chicken or Pork, Soy Sauce, Vinegar, Garlic | Savory, Tangy, Aromatic |
| Kare-Kare | Oxtail, Peanut Sauce, Vegetables, Bagoong | Rich, Nutty, Umami |
| Lechon Kawali | Crispy Pork Belly, Garlic, Pepper | Crispy, Salty, Juicy |
| Sinigang | Pork or Shrimp, Tamarind Broth, Vegetables | Sour, Savory, Refreshing |
Each dish is served with steamed rice, which is essential for soaking up the flavorful sauces and broths. The menu also offers options to customize spice levels and portion sizes to suit individual preferences, ensuring a satisfying meal for all guests.
Seafood Selections: Fresh and Flavorful
Manila Sunset’s seafood offerings celebrate the Philippines’ rich maritime heritage, providing fresh catches that are expertly prepared to highlight their natural flavors. These dishes are often enhanced with traditional Filipino seasonings and cooking techniques, offering a distinct taste experience.
One signature seafood dish is the Grilled Bangus (milkfish), which is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices before being grilled to perfection. Its crispy skin and tender meat create a delightful contrast, making it a popular choice among regular patrons.
Seafood lovers will also appreciate the Halabos na Hipon, simply boiled shrimp served with a side of spiced vinegar or garlic butter. This preparation emphasizes the freshness of the shrimp and the simplicity of Filipino coastal cooking.
Seafood Favorites
- Grilled Bangus – Marinated milkfish with a smoky, charred flavor
- Halabos na Hipon – Fresh shrimp boiled and served with dipping sauces
- Inihaw na Pusit – Grilled squid seasoned with garlic and vinegar
- Pinakbet – A vegetable and shrimp stew flavored with fermented shrimp paste
“The seafood dishes at Manila Sunset capture the essence of Filipino coastal cuisine, offering freshness and bold flavors in every bite.” – Local Food Blogger
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Inclusive Dining
Recognizing the diverse dietary preferences of its clientele, Manila Sunset offers a carefully curated selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These menu items maintain the authentic flavors of Filipino cuisine while excluding meat and animal products.
The Laing is a popular vegan dish made from dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, chili, and spices. It offers a creamy texture balanced by its spicy undertones, making it satisfying for those seeking plant-based comfort food.
Another choice is the Gising-Gising, a spicy vegetable dish featuring chopped green beans and coconut milk infused with chili peppers. This dish delivers a punch of flavor and heat, perfect for adventurous eaters looking to enjoy Filipino cuisine without meat.
Vegetarian/Vegan Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Dietary Notes |
| Laing | Dried Taro Leaves, Coconut Milk, Chili | Vegan, Dairy-Free |
| Gising-Gising | Green Beans, Coconut Milk, Chili | Vegan, Spicy |
| Ensaladang Talong | Grilled Eggplant, Tomatoes, Onions | Vegetarian, Vegan Option |
These dishes are thoughtfully prepared to ensure that no one misses out on the rich tastes and textures that define Filipino cooking. The menu also allows customization to accommodate food allergies and preferences, making Manila Sunset a welcoming space for all diners.
Family Meals and Combos: Sharing the Experience
Manila Sunset understands that Filipino dining is often a communal experience, which is why the menu includes family-sized meals and combo platters. These options are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying a variety of flavors in one sitting.
The family meals typically include a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetable dishes, paired with large servings of rice. This approach allows diners to sample multiple specialties while fostering a shared dining atmosphere.
Combos are also available for smaller groups or individuals wanting to try a balanced selection without overwhelming portions.
Popular Family and Combo Meals
- Fiesta Platter – A generous assortment of lechon kawali, lumpiang shanghai, grilled shrimp, and pancit
- Adobo Combo – Choice of chicken or pork adobo served with rice and a side vegetable dish
- Kare-Kare Set – Peanut stew served with oxtail and a vegetable medley, complete with bagoong
“The family meals at Manila Sunset are perfect for sharing, bringing everyone together over a delicious and authentic spread.” – Community Event Organizer
These group options provide excellent value and convenience, making Manila Sunset a popular choice for family dinners, office lunches, and special occasions. The ability to customize the combos with preferred dishes adds a personalized touch to every order.
Desserts and Beverages: Sweet Endings and Refreshing Drinks
No Filipino meal is complete without indulging in traditional desserts and refreshing beverages, and Manila Sunset offers a delightful selection to round out your dining experience. The desserts capture the sweetness and tropical flavors beloved in Filipino culture.
The Leche Flan is a silky custard dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with a smooth texture. It is a crowd-pleaser and often a satisfying conclusion to a hearty meal.
Another popular dessert is the Halo-Halo, a colorful mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, fruits, and evaporated milk, providing a refreshing treat especially during warm days.
For beverages, Manila Sunset offers traditional options such as Buko Juice (fresh coconut water), Sago’t Gulaman (sweet tapioca pearl drink), and classic Filipino iced teas. These drinks are thoughtfully paired to complement the flavors of the dishes.
Dessert and Drink Options
| Item | Description | Notes |
| Leche Flan | Rich caramel custard dessert | Sweet, Creamy |
| Halo-Halo | Mixed shaved ice with fruits and jellies | Refreshing, Multi-textured |
| Buko Juice | Fresh coconut water served chilled | Natural, Hydrating |
| Sago’t Gulaman | Sweet tapioca pearls and jelly drink | Sweet, Chewy |
“The desserts and drinks at Manila Sunset provide a perfect balance to the savory dishes, completing the meal with authentic Filipino flavors.” – Culinary Enthusiast
Ordering and Dining Experience: Convenience Meets Comfort
Manila Sunset in Cerritos offers a seamless dining experience that caters to both dine-in guests and takeout customers. The restaurant prides itself on attentive service and a warm atmosphere that mirrors Filipino hospitality.
The menu is thoughtfully organized to facilitate easy ordering and quick service without compromising quality.
For those preferring to enjoy their meal at home, Manila Sunset provides efficient takeout and delivery options through popular platforms and direct orders. Packaging is designed to maintain the freshness and temperature of each dish, ensuring that the quality is retained outside the restaurant.
The staff are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations or accommodate special requests. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a seasoned fan, the team at Manila Sunset is dedicated to making your dining experience enjoyable and memorable.
Dining Services
- Dine-In – Comfortable seating with a relaxed ambiance
- Takeout – Convenient packaging for meals on the go
- Delivery – Available through multiple platforms with reliable service
- Custom Orders – Special requests and dietary accommodations welcomed
“Manila Sunset combines authentic Filipino flavors with friendly service, creating a dining experience that feels like home.” – Restaurant Reviewer
Conclusion
Manila Sunset in Cerritos, CA, offers a compelling menu that beautifully captures the diversity and richness of Filipino cuisine. Each section of the menu, from appetizers to desserts, presents dishes crafted with care, using authentic ingredients and traditional methods.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality, variety, and customer satisfaction shines through in every bite, making it a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike.
Whether indulging in the crispy Ukoy, savoring the hearty Kare-Kare, or enjoying a refreshing Halo-Halo, diners are treated to an immersive experience that celebrates Filipino culture and culinary artistry.
The thoughtfully curated vegetarian options and family-sized meals demonstrate Manila Sunset’s inclusive approach, catering to a wide range of tastes and dining occasions. Beyond the food, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service create a sense of community that enhances the overall enjoyment.
For anyone seeking an authentic taste of the Philippines in Cerritos, Manila Sunset stands out as an exceptional choice. Its diverse menu, balanced flavors, and dedication to tradition invite guests to explore and appreciate the vibrant world of Filipino cuisine in a comfortable and inviting setting.
This combination of culinary excellence and hospitality ensures that every visit to Manila Sunset is not just a meal, but a memorable cultural journey.
