CargoFish - Pasig

Hidden in a corner of one of the many malls in Manila is a rare find - a fish and chips stand/store. The first few bites are heavenly, but the next few may bring you back to reality. However, the greasiness is the essence of fish and chips. There are no "healthy" options here, but they offer cheap beer to counteract those cholesterol inducers. For a little over $3, you get two sizable pieces of cream dory and three sides of your choice - chips, rice, mashed peas, and more. The pricier fish go for around $5, while the beer costs less than a dollar. The lack of ambiance may be a downside, as you essentially eat under the open sky, but at least they provide seating. My only complaint is the loud party music playing from morning until night.

This restaurant is new, but I have already been there twice and enjoyed both visits. The menu is easy to navigate - you can choose your fish. I chose Scampi, which was made with real scampi, unlike some places that use Monkfish and call it scampi. My wife opted for Cod, which is currently at a premium price in Europe. You can also choose two sides - we chose slaw and traditional chips, while my wife chose sweet potato. Next, you select a sauce - I went with mushy peas, a classic English choice. Of course, there is vinegar and salt available. The packaging, with a box and a wooden fork indicating your fish choice, is a neat idea. The food was piping hot and delicious. You can dine outside or take your food to the food court. My only complaint is that the music is so loud that you have to shout your order. However, when you take your food into the food court, it is quiet and air-conditioned.

I opted for the cod with chips, onion rings, and mushy peas, and I was impressed by the quality of the food. It was probably the best fish & chips I've had in Manila. The prices were reasonable, and a meal for two with a couple of beers only cost us 760 Pesos. I will definitely be returning to CargoFish in the future.