On Attacking Food: Boodle fight at Quiapo Quiapo

Growing up, when we went on picnics where seafood was served, it was a given that we would eat with our hands. What was the point of using plastic utensils when one cannot eat shrimp, fish, crab and mussels properly! Paper plates were often used, but once in a while, banana leaves would also make their way to the table. While my girls would sometimes eat using their hands, this was pretty much limited to chicken wings and pizza. So, we figured, we might as well expose them to this wonderful experience of sharing and enjoying food—kamayan style (using hands).

With some of our friends, we checked out the Boodle Fight (Budol fight to some) at Quiapo Quiapo. Boodle fight is a military style of eating where long tables are prepared and food is set on top of the banana leaves--viands and rice ready to eat using your bare hands. As soon as the food is set, folks are ready to "fight" and "attack" the food. 

In an unassuming complex in Mississauga, we had booked our Seafood Budol days in advance. We arrived to a long table being set with banana leaves, just waiting for the food to be brought out. Once we were all ready,  our server heaped on steamed rice, a variety of yumminess—mixed Seafood, fried Tilapia, shrimp, grilled meat (Inihaw na Liempo), Pork Adobo, okra, and bowls of green mango salad (with shrimp paste!). The kids totally enjoyed the experience and dug right in along with the adults after washing hands!

Seafood Budol (Boodle fight)

The fried Tilapia was the main winner for me. It was crispy and not oily. Delish! Even the kids loved this. The others were just ok. In my opinion, there was too much rice in proportion to viands (and according to our server, they can bring out more rice—not viand—if we had wanted!). Still, we were not able to finish everything on our leaves, so maybe, the serving was just right. 

At $23 per person (half for kids), it was a bit pricey. But I guess you pay for the experience. This experience can be easily replicated at home if you have patience to prep everything that goes into this. It will be worth it, though, as everyone is sure to enjoy!  Happy Eating!

p.s. They also have Cebu style lechon (roasted pig) for ordering. Sources say it is really good! But be ready to come over early on the weekend (when it is available), as it tends to sell out.

Cebu-style lechon at Quiapo Quiapo