Yes, the name refers to the same Manila Bay where Admiral Dewey and friends sank the Spanish fleet, after which the Philippines became an American colony and, eventually, an independent country. But history is a side dish and food the main course at Manila Bay, the first and (we think) the only Filipino restaurant in the Philadelphia area, and the place to experience a cuisine that's a unique blend of Chinese, Spanish, American and native Filipino influences.
Manila Bay is close to Route 1 and I-95. It's on the so-called "ethnic strip" of businesses on Castor Avenue in the city's Northeast section, which experienced major population changes in the latter part of the 20th century. It has a small bar and a dining area that seats about 50.
The menu includes Filipino specialties as well as some Chinese and Japanese dishes. The chef, when asked to generalize, told us that Filipino cuisine includes a lot of vegetables and can sometimes be similar to Chinese, but without all the soy sau...
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