Are You Tired of Chinese Food?

If you are, then you should definitely read this. You've never had Chinese food like this before. It's something different yet familiar to us. Even from entering the restaurant, we did not think it was serving Chinese food, or any Asian food for that matter. The ambiance and interior gave a more American vibe. Just notice how the color red isn't the color you'll first see here! At Ping Pong Diplomacy, they try to produce classic Chinese dishes with a twist that make them somehow recognizable to anyone that tries them.

Does Pingpong Diplomacy serve fusion cuisine? "Not quite," says Chef Noel Mauricio. Interpretation, he says, is definitely a better word to describe the Chinese-American inspired menu he and Chef Him Uy de Baron designed to leave each customer surprised, intrigued, and definitely wanting more. And yes... We were definitely surprised, intrigued, and wanting more!

Techpreneur turned restaurateur Charles Paw explains that after the Cold War, the first formal communication between the United States and China was the exchange of table tennis players. This was their first act of diplomacy. It was their first attempt to thaw the ice, and the inspiration behind the theme and name of his new restaurant. When brainstorming menu items for Ping Pong Diplomacy, Paw's vision was to take his customers back in time to the seventies — when Americans didn't know much about China beyond stereotypes. 

But all of these elements simply set the stage, because the spotlight stays on the menu. We've tasted a lot of dishes from their menu and honestly, we found everything delicious! Although we loved many from their selection, we'll be sharing our picks that we recommend for you to try!

1. Simple Fried Eggs  

We might be too tired of eating eggs for breakfast, lunch, and even dinner, but this one is an exception. Honestly, it caught us at first bite! It's something different from the usual sunny side up or omelette you love. You will love this more!

2. Crunchy Eggplant  

Okay, this one really did it. For you guys who don't eat eggplant like us, this one doesn't take anything like it! It has a sweet and savory taste, you won't even feel like you're eating eggplant. Way to go, PPD! 

3. Sweet and Sour Pork  

Another Chinese food favorite, especially for the kids! It's, again, not your familiar orange-colored sweet and sour pork. It still has the same sweet taste, so you don't have to worry about it tasting any different.

4. Chopsuey  

Again, for those who don't like vegetables, you might get converted when you have a taste for their version of chopsuey. With the variety of vegetables included, you can taste the flavors of each one! 

5. Sesame Beef and Broccoli  

You might recognize this dish if your dads order beef with ampalaya in your typical Chinese restaurant, but instead, this one is more friendly with broccoli as alternative to the bitterness you hate. Definitely a must try! 

6. Original Egg Tart  

Save the best for last! Do we even have to say anything? Like, who doesn't love egg tarts? 

For a unique experience of progressive Chinese fare, visit the Ping Pong Diplomacy at the 3rd floor of SM Aura. You can also find them at @pingpongdiplomacyph

Much love, 

Candis & Daphne