Manila Sunset Restaurant in West Covina stands as a vibrant beacon of Filipino cuisine, capturing the essence of traditional flavors with a modern twist. Known for its warm ambiance and authentic dishes, the restaurant offers a culinary journey that transports diners straight to the heart of the Philippines.
Whether you’re craving classic adobo, fresh lumpia, or the rich sweetness of halo-halo, Manila Sunset promises a menu that satisfies every palate.
With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold seasonings, the menu at Manila Sunset reflects the diversity and depth of Filipino cooking. The thoughtfully curated offerings cater to both newcomers and seasoned aficionados, making it a beloved spot for family dinners, casual lunches, and special celebrations.
The combination of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors in each dish highlights the complexity of Filipino cuisine while remaining approachable and comforting.
Beyond the food, Manila Sunset’s commitment to excellent service and a cozy atmosphere enhances the dining experience. Guests are often greeted with friendly smiles and prompt attention, ensuring that every visit feels like a special occasion.
The West Covina location has quickly become a local favorite, praised not just for its food but also for the genuine hospitality that accompanies every meal.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection at Manila Sunset Restaurant offers a delightful introduction to Filipino flavors, setting the tone for the meal ahead. These starters are crafted to excite the palate with a variety of textures and tastes, from crispy fried treats to fresh, vibrant rolls.
Among the favorites are the classic Lumpiang Shanghai, which features savory ground pork wrapped in a thin, crispy wrapper. These spring rolls are perfectly seasoned and served with a tangy dipping sauce that complements the richness of the filling.
Another popular choice is Ukoy, Filipino shrimp fritters that are crunchy on the outside and tender inside. The delicate balance of flavors makes them an ideal snack or sharing plate.
Additionally, the Tokwa’t Baboy, a combination of fried tofu and pork, offers a savory and satisfying bite with a slightly sweet and sour sauce.
Popular Starters
- Lumpiang Shanghai: Ground pork spring rolls with sweet chili sauce
- Ukoy: Crispy shrimp fritters served with vinegar dip
- Tokwa’t Baboy: Fried tofu and pork with soy-vinegar sauce
- Ensaladang Mangga: Green mango salad with tomatoes and shrimp paste
“The starters at Manila Sunset perfectly capture the essence of Filipino street food—bold, flavorful, and irresistibly crispy.”
Main Course Specialties
The main course menu at Manila Sunset is a celebration of the Philippines’ most beloved dishes, each prepared with care and attention to authenticity. Diners will find a range of hearty and flavorful options that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Signature dishes like Chicken Adobo showcase the Filipino mastery of balancing tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Slow-cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves, this dish is a comforting staple that never disappoints.
Another highlight is Beef Caldereta, a rich, tomato-based stew with tender chunks of beef simmered with potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers.
For those seeking seafood, the Grilled Bangus (milkfish) is a must-try. Served whole and marinated with traditional spices, it offers a smoky, flavorful experience that complements the lighter dishes on the menu.
Hearty Filipino Classics
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Chicken Adobo | Chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic | Savory, tangy, slightly sweet |
| Beef Caldereta | Beef, tomato sauce, potatoes, carrots | Rich, hearty, mildly spicy |
| Grilled Bangus | Milkfish, traditional spices | Smoky, savory, aromatic |
“Our main courses are designed to comfort and delight, offering a true taste of Filipino home cooking with every bite.”
Seafood Delights
Seafood lovers will find Manila Sunset’s menu particularly enticing, as it features a variety of fresh and expertly prepared dishes that showcase the bounty of the Philippines’ coastal waters. The restaurant takes pride in sourcing quality seafood to ensure each dish is both fresh and flavorful.
One standout is the Sinigang na Hipon, a sour shrimp soup infused with tamarind and fresh vegetables. The tangy broth is both refreshing and comforting, perfect for those who appreciate complex flavors.
Another favorite is the Grilled Squid, marinated and charred to perfection, served with a garlic soy dipping sauce that enhances its natural sweetness.
For a more indulgent option, the Seafood Kare-Kare offers a creamy peanut sauce enveloping a medley of shrimp, crab, and vegetables. This dish is rich and hearty, showcasing a unique blend of textures and tastes.
Seafood Highlights
- Sinigang na Hipon: Tamarind-based shrimp soup with fresh vegetables
- Grilled Squid: Marinated and charred, served with garlic soy sauce
- Seafood Kare-Kare: Peanut sauce stew with shrimp, crab, and veggies
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter sauce
“Each seafood dish is crafted to bring out natural flavors while honoring traditional Filipino cooking techniques.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Manila Sunset is attentive to guests with dietary preferences, offering a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that do not compromise on flavor or authenticity. These options highlight fresh vegetables and traditional Filipino seasonings to provide satisfying alternatives.
The Laing dish features dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili, creating a creamy, spicy experience that is both comforting and vibrant. Another popular choice is Pinakbet, a medley of local vegetables sautéed with shrimp paste, which can be prepared vegan by request.
For a lighter option, the Ensaladang Talong offers a grilled eggplant salad mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a tangy vinaigrette, providing a fresh and lively start or accompaniment to any meal.
Plant-Based Selections
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Dietary Notes |
| Laing | Dried taro leaves, coconut milk, chili | Vegan, spicy, creamy |
| Pinakbet | Mixed vegetables, shrimp paste | Vegetarian (vegan upon request) |
| Ensaladang Talong | Grilled eggplant, tomatoes, onions | Vegan, fresh, tangy |
“Our vegetarian and vegan dishes celebrate the rich flavors of the Philippines without relying on meat, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.”
Rice and Noodles
Integral to Filipino cuisine, rice and noodle dishes at Manila Sunset complement the main courses and bring their own unique appeal. These staples are presented with a variety of ingredients and flavors to enhance the overall dining experience.
The Garlic Fried Rice is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, infused with the aroma and flavor of sautéed garlic. It’s a simple yet essential part of the Filipino table.
For noodle lovers, the Pancit Canton is a must-try, featuring stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables, shrimp, pork, and a savory soy-based sauce.
Another dish, Arroz Caldo, is a comforting rice porridge with chicken, ginger, and scallions, often enjoyed during cooler weather or as a soothing meal any time of day.
Staple Sides
- Garlic Fried Rice: Fragrant rice sautéed with garlic
- Pancit Canton: Stir-fried egg noodles with meat and vegetables
- Arroz Caldo: Chicken rice porridge with ginger and scallions
- Plain Steamed Rice: Essential complement to all Filipino dishes
“Rice and noodle dishes are the heartbeat of Filipino meals, providing a comforting base to the bold flavors found on our menu.”
Desserts and Sweets
No Filipino meal is complete without indulging in traditional desserts, and Manila Sunset offers a delightful array to satisfy any sweet tooth. These treats combine sweet, creamy, and refreshing elements that provide a perfect finale to the meal.
The Halo-Halo stands out as a signature dessert, a colorful mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, fruits, and topped with leche flan and ube ice cream. This layered dessert offers a wonderful contrast of textures and temperatures, making it a fan favorite.
Another popular option is the Leche Flan, a smooth caramel custard that melts in your mouth. For something lighter, the Buko Pandan is a refreshing dessert made with young coconut and pandan-flavored jelly in a sweet cream sauce.
Sweet Endings
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Description |
| Halo-Halo | Shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, leche flan, ice cream | Refreshing, layered, colorful |
| Leche Flan | Eggs, milk, caramel | Rich, creamy custard |
| Buko Pandan | Young coconut, pandan jelly, sweet cream | Light, sweet, aromatic |
“Our desserts are crafted to offer a sweet conclusion that honors Filipino traditions and leaves a lasting impression.”
Beverages and Drinks
The beverage menu at Manila Sunset complements the food perfectly, featuring a variety of traditional Filipino drinks and popular refreshers. Whether you prefer something cool and fruity or a warm comforting drink, there is an option to suit every mood.
One of the signature drinks is Sago’t Gulaman, a sweet and refreshing concoction of tapioca pearls and jelly served in a chilled sweet syrup. For a richer taste, the Salabat is a ginger tea that warms the soul, often enjoyed after a hearty meal.
Additionally, Manila Sunset offers fresh fruit shakes made from tropical favorites like mango, avocado, and calamansi, providing a naturally sweet and refreshing accompaniment to any dish.
Refreshing Selections
- Sago’t Gulaman: Tapioca pearls and jelly in sweet syrup
- Salabat: Traditional ginger tea, warm and soothing
- Mango Shake: Fresh mango blended with ice and milk
- Calamansi Juice: Tart and refreshing citrus drink
“Our drinks are designed to refresh and complement the rich flavors of our food, offering both traditional and innovative choices.”
Conclusion
Manila Sunset Restaurant in West Covina offers a truly authentic and comprehensive Filipino dining experience, reflected in its diverse and thoughtfully crafted menu. From appetizers that awaken the palate to hearty main dishes brimming with tradition and flavor, every item is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines.
The careful attention to ingredient quality, preparation techniques, and presentation ensures that each dish feels both familiar and exciting. The inclusion of vegetarian and vegan options also demonstrates Manila Sunset’s commitment to accommodating diverse dietary needs without sacrificing authenticity.
Whether you are a first-time visitor eager to explore Filipino cuisine or a seasoned fan seeking comfort in classic favorites, Manila Sunset promises an inviting atmosphere and a menu that delights at every turn.
Paired with traditional beverages and satisfying desserts, the dining experience here is both memorable and rewarding. It’s no surprise that this West Covina gem continues to earn praise for its genuine flavors and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving the tastes of the Philippines.
