Having grown up on my mom’s and grandma’s Filipino cooking and still eating Filipino food three times a day to this date, I don’t often choose Filipino restaurants when dining out, but this dinner catch-up with friends led me to Czarina’s Restaurant in Marikina, and I was genuinely surprised as they’re not just serving Filipino comfort food, they’re redefining it by giving familiar dishes a fresh twist!
The outside of Czarina’s is clean, simple, and inviting. The white walls gave it a neat and modern look, while the warm lighting adds a cozy feel. Too bad as it was raining when I visited so I couldn't take more photos of the outside area.
There's a lot of potted plants by the entrance and al fresco area, which soften the space and make it feel a bit homier. The glass windows also let you see into the restaurant, showing a glimpse of the lively and well-lit interior.
The main dining that can accommodate 26 pax has a cozy, fresh ambiance, and I could say it was thoughtfully designed. The light wooden furniture and soft blue chairs created a relaxed and inviting vibe, while the avocado-themed mural and indoor plants adds that earthy charm. And to top it off, the staff are genuinely friendly and accommodating, adding to the welcoming experience.
They’re currently on soft opening, so expect the menu to grow with more dishes in the coming weeks. In the meantime, here’s what we got to try during our visit:
Soft Rolls & Homemade Dips (₱340) - As someone who loves bread, this was really good! The freshly baked, buttery soft rolls were served with homemade dips that took it to another level. The liver pate, avo hummus, chili garlic hot honey, and mango salsa all paired perfectly with the bread.
The perfect platter for a “Tita” catch-up and honestly, I wasn’t wrong as this is their Tita Chips Platter (Php380) - It came with a mix of homemade root crop chips, nacho chips, cheesy creamed kangkong dip, avo hummus, and mango salsa. I didn’t read the description on the menu beforehand, so I was expecting the usual nachos and dips, but I was surprised by the root crop chips! They added a fun twist and paired so well with all the dips. One bite, turned into five, it's a bit addictive.
Puto or Pancake? Why not both with the Puto Pancake (₱280) - made with puto batter but cooked like a pancake, this dish is topped with sweetened saba, langka, whipped cream, and a drizzle of patis caramel. It’s a playful twist on familiar flavors. The texture reminds me of bibingka, soft and slightly dense.
This isn’t usually my go-to silog order, but the Asuhos Silog (Php350) really surprised me. The battered and fried daing asuhos fillet was perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Paired with fried rice and vinegar, it all came together so well. I might just have a new favorite, could this be my next go-to after tapsilog? Something I need to think of! Hehe.
Next up: the mains, and trust me, there are some unique picks worth checking out!
A standout signature dish? Czarina's Pistachio Kare Kare (Php920) - slow-roasted beef belly, served with a rich and creamy pistachio kare-kare sauce. It comes with fresh local vegetables and their homemade bagoong alamang on the side. The pistachio twist adds a subtle nuttiness that sets it apart from the usual, making this classic comfort food feel a little more special without losing its familiar charm. Definitely one of the highlights on the menu! Order the rice platter as this should definitely be partnered with rice and an extra rice!
Pinoy Spaghetti & Fried Chicken (Php 345) - a comforting plate of sweet Pinoy-style spaghetti loaded with crumbled longganisa, sliced hotdogs, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses. It’s perfectly paired with crispy fried chicken fingers. This classic combination is sure to delight both kids and the young at heart!
Cziczig Pizza (Php500) - a creative twist on their signature Cziczig, this pizza comes loaded with mornay sauce, mozzarella, eggs, aioli, and crispy chicharron, all brought together with a side of garlic chili honey. It's best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but impressively, the toppings stayed crispy even after it cools down.
Shifting gears to desserts, because the best meals always end on a sweet note!
The very first Chocolate Pistachio Knafeh Cake (Slice: Php320 | Whole: Php2400) originally from The Taste of Czaczacza but is also available here that’s because both spots are owned by the same chef! It’s rich, nutty, perfectly balanced in sweetness and generously made. A MUST TRY!
Mango Royale (Slice: Php320 | Whole: Php1680) - a refreshing layered treat featuring sweet, juicy mangoes crowned on a bed of light cream. A touch of blueberry on top adds a pop of color. It’s the perfect balance of fruity, creamy, and indulgent.
Red Velvet (Slice: Php230 | Whole: Php1550) - a timeless favorite! Soft, moist layers same as the ube cake with the signature red hue, perfectly paired with a smooth, tangy cream cheese that balances the sweetness. Just the way I like my red velvet cake!
Last on the list, but top in flavor - drinks worth trying:
Ubas at Nata (Php230) - this refreshing grape juice combined with chewy nata de coco offers a perfectly balanced, subtly sweet flavor and a bouncy texture with every sip. Simple yet refreshing!
Mangga Saba (Php230) - a smooth, creamy blend of ripe mangoes and sweet saba bananas, finished with a crunchy topping of crushed banana chips. The flavors balance perfectly, offering a refreshing and satisfying treat without being overly sweet. Indeed, a merienda but in a glass.
Iced Honey Citron & Ginger Tea (Php210) - refreshing blend of zesty lemon, soothing honey, and a subtle kick of ginger served over ice. Light and uplifting. Also available hot for a cozy alternative.
Raspberry Smoothie (₱223) – a refreshing blend of summer berries, perfectly smooth with a creamy finish. Well-balanced and not overly sweet, it’s a great pick for berry lovers.
Langkasoy (Php240) - creamy blend of jackfruit and roasted cashew that delivers a subtly sweet, nutty flavor. This would be a good choice for those who likes jackfruit or just up to try something new!
If you're craving Filipino comfort food, Czarina's Restaurant might just be your new favorite spot. Czarina’s brings the warmth of home to every plate, without overdoing it. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this place is all about familiar flavors, good portions, and that signature Filipino hospitality.
Bonus: they have parking space and a VIP area that can comfortably accommodate groups of up to 40 pax, perfect for family gatherings or celebrations.
Czarina’s Restaurant located at 15 Bacolod Street, Marikina City, and welcomes guests Wednesday to Monday (closed on Tuesdays) from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. For table reservations, contact them at +63 995 388 5143. Stay updated by following them on Facebook and Instagram.
