EVERY FOODIES' MECCA: TUTUBAN’S FOODSTREET

Deliciously sinful and yummy pata tim...Hmmm, need I say more?

Filipinos love to eat. Each time there is an occasion—be it to celebrate birthdays or town fiestas or just simple family gathering/reunion, food will always be a huge part of it. And because of this tradition, street food had been a part of our Filipino culture as we all love to converse in the presence of food.  Yes, street food or street dishes similar to those found in other Asian countries like Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Macau among others.  These informal food feasts are typical scenes on these countries where they originated.

Inihaw na pusit or grilled squid, regardless if it's stuffed or plain is a good choice!

In the Philippines, Manila is the top destination for practical and adventurous diner. Tutuban Center’s “FoodStreet” is an example of gustatory delight district where people from all walks of life prefer its simple, makeshift and unassuming stalls.

This is the place to be if you’re looking for clean, fresh, inexpensive and ready to eat meals. If you’re to ask me, this one’s a whole lot better than fine dining or fancy restaurants, and even better than greasy fast-food joints. With a wide variety of foods to choose from, you could relish the taste of home-cooked meals while dining out.

For those interested to try being a street-food trader/entrepreneur, Tutuban’s FoodStreet is offering spaces for rent. Situated at the main thoroughfares of its historic (it’s located in an old railway station) and commercial mall, future tenants will surely attract clients among the shoppers, students and yuppies (young professionals) who frequent the mall.

Filipinos' favorite sisig with rice and lots of chili!

The good news among budding entrepreneur, the street-food enterprise only requires a small amount of capital. The trader only needs the most basic cooking skills, management acumen, simple facilities, and a serving of affordable yet delicious lunches, dinners and snacks.

Though small scale, this type of venture has a big potential for generating income—even employment—so it’s not impossible for the street-food trader to have an average earnings that can be three up to 10 times higher than the minimum-wage worker. And it’s more practical because you can be your own boss after growing tired of the corporate race. It’s a pretty good investment too for returning OFW’s (Overseas Filipino Workers) or if you’re a bored housewife that has excellent culinary skills, a FoodStreet stall is perfect for you.

Delicious Affordable meals with drinks on the side.

Appetizing offerings include Hong Kong style noodles, Chinese siopao and siomai, Persian shawarma, the Filipino staple Silog variety, isaw, balut, chicharon, fishballs, and banana cues; or even grilled liempo, squid, chicken, bangus fish, yummy English muffins and American baked goodies.

The prospective food trader may not only earn high income but he will be helping the local economy as well in terms of taxes, as micro-industries such as street-selling promotes financial self-sufficient for families as well.

Yummy Crablets dipped in locally spiced vinegar will make your trip memorable!

One significant concern about street food is health and sanitation. However, FoodStreet and Tutuban Center officials assure tenants that the mall administration takes this aspect of business seriously. Hygiene, cleanliness and waste disposal will adhere to the strictest standards as imposed by law and national and local health department.

Security of both the businessman and his consumers is also utmost consideration. There will be roving and plainclothes security personnel to ensure the safety of everyone.

Tutuban Center’s FoodStreet invites entrepreneurs to open your business at Tutuban Center and taste success in your own terms.

Tutuban’s FoodStreet operations will be from 6am to 12 midnight starting July 1, 2012. For leasing inquiries, contact: Gina Villamor and Mary Anne Suralta at 251-1661 local 125, or direct line at 253-1769. 

Post Script: I like the smell of grilled meats and seafood’s wafting in the air. It gives foodies like me sense of thrill. So if you're like me, go ahead and visit these street foods stall at Tutuban Center beginning July 1, 2012! You’re sure to have a feast at a reasonable price!