ICYDK: Binondo Institution Wai Ying Has a Spot at This Mall Food Court
No need to line up at their OG spot.
(SPOT.ph) Wai Ying is at the top of the list whenever you're food-tripping in Binondo. The Chinese institution has been around since forever, and is considered pretty much vital when visiting the area—which usually means there's a loooong line to get in. Still, don't let that stop you from grabbing a bite! You can head to their branch over at the 168 Shopping Mall food court; less chances for a line to build up there.
Also read: This Hidden Kapitolyo Gem Serves Up Juicy Ribeye Steak Under P500
We try the Wai Ying 168 Shopping Mall food court branch
Tucked into a corner at the 168 Shopping Mall in Divisoria, quite close to the Binondo neighborhood, is a Wai Ying. Yup, the famed spot has a mini branch here at this shopping and eating hub. Just look for the roastings hung up on their storefront. We visited around lunch time on a weekend, and there was a bit of the line, but nothing compared to how the OG branch can be. We waited just around 10 minutes to get to the front, and yup, it was worth the wait.
Also read: Binondo Food Trip? Hop on a Jeep From Cubao to Lucky Chinatown's New Transport Hub
What to order at the Wai Ying in 168 Shopping Mall
For comfort eats, we gave the Beef Mami (P220) a go. The big bowl was full of perfectly cooked noodles, tender beef cuts with lots of litid, and a soulful broth. The Asado (P300 for 1/4 kilo) was one heck of a treat: tender and moist cuts of pork with a sweet and saulty sauce perfect to drizzle on. There was even a Lemon Chicken Rice (P250) that we hadn't expected on the menu. The hearty plate had chunky bits of oily chicken while the sauce gave more of a flavoring vibe than fresh citrus.
For dim sum, we ordered the Shrimp Chong Fan (P160) and Hakaw (P160). The hakaw was not as fresh as we had hoped, but was chock full of juicy shrimp. The chong fan did not disappoint. The wrapping was just the right amount of thickness, giving it a chewy mouthfeel, while also allowing the plump shrimp flavor to shine. Give it a drizzle of light soy sauce for added depth of flavor.
We ended our meal with the Lava Pao (P125). The soft bao gave way to a smooth and sweet custard filling that had a hint of salted egg. Definitely a great way to cap off a hearty meal.
Wai Ying has a branch at 3/F 168 Shopping Mall, Soler St., Binondo, Manila.