News: Articles

Binalot’s New and Improved Mr. Binagoongan and My Dinuguan: Mas Pinasarap Mas Pinadami!

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Binalot, the beloved Filipino fast-food chain, has long been a favorite for those seeking a taste of home-cooked Filipino meals on the go. Known for their traditional “binalot” style of packaging, their meals have captured the hearts and palates of many. Binalot’s commitment to quality and authenticity has been unwavering, and it is with great excitement that they introduce their new and improved Mr. Binagoongan and My Dinuguan dishes.

More than just a change in packaging, Binalot has enhanced these two iconic Filipino dishes in a way that will leave your taste buds craving for more. The portions are bigger, the flavors richer, and the experience unforgettable. While there has been a slight price increase, the value you receive is absolutely worth it. Let’s dive into the details of these revamped delicacies that are set to take your taste buds on an extraordinary journey.

Mr. Binagoongan: Bolder Flavors and Larger Servings

Mr. Binagoongan is a classic Filipino dish that combines crispy pork belly with a rich, savory shrimp paste sauce. This dish has always been a crowd favorite, and now it’s even better. The improvements made by Binalot include a heartier serving size and an even more flavorful shrimp paste sauce. The crispy pork belly remains the star of the show, but it’s now accompanied by a sauce that’s not only bolder but also perfectly balanced.

The shrimp paste sauce in the new Mr. Binagoongan is made from an exquisite blend of shrimp paste, tomatoes, garlic, and chilies, which imparts a delightful kick of spice and a burst of umami to the dish. The generous serving size ensures you won’t be left wanting for more, and with each bite, you can savor the succulent pork belly and the unforgettable flavors of this Filipino favorite.

My Dinuguan: A Perfect Balance of Creaminess and Flavor

Dinuguan, often referred to as “chocolate meat,” is a dish that has always been cherished for its unique blend of rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. Binalot’s new My Dinuguan takes this beloved dish to a whole new level of culinary excellence. The serving size has been increased to give you more of this delectable dish to relish, and the flavors have been further refined to ensure it remains a staple on every Filipino’s plate.

The key to the improved My Dinuguan lies in its perfectly balanced sauce. The rich pork blood stew has been meticulously crafted to maintain its classic flavors while adding a velvety creaminess that enhances every bite. The pork meat and offal are tender and cooked to perfection, making every mouthful a delightful experience.

Value for Money

While the price of these revamped dishes has gone up to Php130 each, it’s essential to understand that the increase is more than justified. With larger servings and enhanced flavors, you’re getting more value for your money. Binalot’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and adhering to traditional recipes means you can enjoy a taste of home-cooked Filipino goodness without the fuss of preparing it yourself.

Franchise Signing Marks Milestone for Binalot as Paolo Espenilla and Aileen Espenilla Expand Their Footprint

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Binalot, the Philippines’ beloved and iconic Filipino fast-food chain, is excited to announce a significant milestone in its journey of expansion. The husband-and-wife team of Paolo Espenilla and Aileen Espenilla have officially signed a franchise agreement to open their second Binalot store at Double Dragon Eight, Metro Manila. This comes as a remarkable achievement for the Espenilla family, as they embarked on their Binalot franchise journey with the successful launch of their first store at 168 Mall, Divisoria, Manila.

Binalot, known for its delicious and traditional Filipino dishes served in banana leaves, has been a part of Filipino culture for over two decades. The brand’s commitment to preserving local flavors and traditions has made it a favorite among food enthusiasts and families across the nation.

Paolo and Aileen Espenilla’s decision to expand their franchise and open their second Binalot store reflects not only their entrepreneurial spirit but also their passion for promoting Filipino cuisine. Their first store at 168 Mall has already garnered a loyal customer base and established a reputation for providing authentic Filipino meals in a convenient and eco-friendly manner.

Mr. Rommel Juan, the CEO of Binalot, expressed his excitement about this partnership, stating, “We are delighted to have Paolo and Aileen Espenilla as part of the Binalot family. Their dedication to serving quality Filipino food aligns perfectly with our brand values. We believe that their second store at Double Dragon Eight will not only enhance our presence in the heart of Manila but also bring the taste of home-cooked Filipino meals to even more people.”

Binalot’s Grand Opening at 168 Mall: A Celebration of Filipino Flavors (July 3, 2023)

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On July 3, 2023, Binalot, a well-loved Filipino food chain, proudly announced the grand opening of its newest branch at the bustling 168 Mall. Located in the heart of the city, this highly anticipated event drew in food enthusiasts, local residents, and tourists eager to savor the rich and authentic taste of Filipino cuisine. The grand opening was a celebration of the vibrant flavors that define Filipino food and a testament to Binalot’s commitment to preserving and sharing the country’s culinary heritage.

Binalot’s grand opening at 168 Mall was a resounding success, with long queues of excited customers eager to sample the restaurant’s offerings. The menu showcased a wide array of traditional Filipino favorites, such as adobo, sisig, and sinigang, all expertly prepared using authentic recipes handed down through generations. The event not only provided an avenue for Filipinos to reconnect with their culinary roots but also introduced foreign visitors to the unique flavors and hospitality that embody the essence of Filipino culture. Binalot’s expansion to 168 Mall represents a significant milestone in the brand’s journey, as it continues to spread the joy of Filipino cuisine and foster a sense of community through the love of food.

BInalot , highlighted at the ASEAN Workshop on Sustainable Food Packaging and Globalization

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Food Writer and Scholar Ige Ramos Highlights Binalot’s Heritage Packaging at ASEAN Workshop on Sustainable Food Packaging and Globalization

Renowned food writer and scholar, Ige Ramos, captivated attendees at the ASEAN Workshop on Sustainable Heritage Food Packaging and Globalization, held at Universiti Putra Malaysia in Putrajaya from June 12-14. Ramos selected Binalot as a prime example in his insightful talk, focusing on the company’s commitment to promoting heritage packaging in the culinary world. Rommel Juan, CEO of Binalot, wholeheartedly supports Ramos’ drive to raise awareness about the importance of heritage packaging in food.

Binalot, a renowned Philippine food chain, takes immense pride in its utilization of traditional and eco-friendly packaging materials. The company’s signature approach involves wrapping their meals in banana leaves, symbolizing the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines while advocating for sustainable practices. Inspired by Ramos’ dedication to this cause, Rommel Juan expressed his agreement and shared Binalot’s firm commitment to preserving and promoting heritage packaging.

During the workshop, participants had the privilege of witnessing the presence of acclaimed Chef Gene Gonzales, who joined Ige Ramos to demonstrate the art of preparing Binalot meals. Chef Gene Gonzales, a well-respected figure in the culinary industry, showcased the meticulous process of creating Binalot, further highlighting the importance of heritage packaging.

The workshop shed light on the presence of similar heritage meals across Southeast Asia, such as Nasi Lemak in Malaysia and Gudeg in Indonesia. These dishes, like Binalot, incorporate banana leaves as a packaging medium, celebrating the culinary legacies of their respective countries. The use of banana leaves not only enhances the visual appeal of the meals but also provides an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional packaging materials.

Looking ahead, Binalot aims to introduce and promote even more sustainable packaging options within its product lineup. With a strong focus on preserving the environment while showcasing the diverse culinary traditions of the Philippines, Binalot remains committed to ensuring that future generations can enjoy authentic meals while minimizing their ecological impact.

The ASEAN Workshop on Sustainable Heritage Food Packaging and Globalization, held at Universiti Putra Malaysia, served as a platform for scholars, industry experts, and food enthusiasts to discuss and explore innovative approaches to sustainable packaging. Ige Ramos’ compelling presentation, supported by Rommel Juan’s endorsement, inspired attendees to embrace heritage packaging as a means of preserving cultural traditions and contributing to a more sustainable future.

As the global market increasingly prioritizes environmental consciousness, the promotion of sustainable packaging in the food industry plays a crucial role. Binalot and its Southeast Asian counterparts demonstrate that traditional packaging methods not only preserve cultural heritage but also align with global sustainability goals. Through their dedicated efforts, these companies actively contribute to a more eco-friendly and culturally diverse culinary landscape.

With an unwavering commitment to heritage packaging and sustainable practices, Binalot and its supporters envision a future where traditional flavors are savored, cultural legacies are celebrated, and the environment is respected. Their mission serves as an inspiration for others to embrace similar initiatives and work towards a more sustainable and culturally diverse world.

Binalot: Celebrating Almost 30 Years of Authentic Pinoy Fast Food and Filipino Culture

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Binalot, the beloved Filipino fast food chain, proudly celebrates its remarkable journey of nearly 30 years as the true Pinoy fast food destination. Since its establishment in 1996, Binalot has remained committed to serving Filipino favorites, lovingly referred to as “Pinoy-vorites,” including adobo, sinigang, bistek, tapa, sisig, and many more. Beyond its delectable offerings, Binalot has also become a powerful advocate for promoting Filipino culture, humor, and values.

As a homegrown brand, Binalot has captured the hearts and taste buds of Filipinos nationwide by offering a unique dining experience rooted in authenticity. The brand’s name itself, which means “wrapped” in English, pays homage to the traditional practice of wrapping meals in banana leaves, reminiscent of the warm hospitality and care found in Filipino homes. Binalot’s commitment to preserving Filipino culinary traditions and flavors has made it a beloved institution for locals and tourists alike.

Binalot’s menu showcases a wide array of Pinoy-vorite dishes carefully crafted to deliver an unforgettable taste of home. From the rich flavors of adobo simmered in a blend of soy sauce and vinegar to the comforting tang of sinigang’s tamarind soup, Binalot captures the essence of Filipino cuisine with every bite. Additionally, the brand’s famous “silog” meals, featuring a combination of garlic fried rice and various proteins, including tapa and longganisa, have become staple favorites among loyal customers.

Beyond its culinary prowess, Binalot takes pride in promoting Filipino culture, humor, and values. With vibrant and inviting store designs that showcase traditional Filipino elements, Binalot creates a welcoming ambiance that resonates with customers. The brand’s commitment to fostering a sense of community extends to its witty and relatable marketing campaigns that highlight Filipino humor and celebrate the values of unity, resilience, and joy.

“We are incredibly proud of Binalot’s journey over the past three decades. Our unwavering commitment to serving authentic Pinoy-vorite meals has allowed us to become a part of the Filipino culture and daily lives of our customers,” said Judee Morente , Chief Operating Officer of Binalot. “We believe that food is not just sustenance; it’s a powerful medium that connects people, preserves traditions, and promotes our unique Filipino identity. We are honored to be a platform that showcases the richness of our culture, humor, and values.”

As Binalot approaches its 30th year, the brand remains dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences that capture the essence of Pinoy-vorite flavors and Filipino culture. With a passion for celebrating the country’s heritage, Binalot continues to be a shining example of how food can be a catalyst for preserving and promoting the diverse tapestry of Filipino identity.

About Binalot: Established in 1996, Binalot is a renowned Filipino fast food chain that prides itself on serving authentic Pinoy-vorite meals wrapped in banana leaves. With a diverse menu featuring Filipino classics like adobo, sinigang, bistek, tapa, sisig, and more, Binalot has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists seeking a taste of home. Beyond its culinary offerings, Binalot is dedicated to promoting Filipino culture, humor, and values, creating a warm and welcoming environment for its customers.

By

News Core Admin June 14, 2023

DOST and Royal Government of Bhutan Representatives Explore Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc Commissary

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[Parañaque, June 13] – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently organized an industrial visit to the Commissary of Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc, a leading Filipino fast food chain. The visit was held in collaboration with representatives from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Employment from the Royal Government of Bhutan, as part of their Industrial Visit, SME Promotion, and FPI (Food Processing Industry) program.

The industrial visit aimed to foster knowledge sharing and promote cross-cultural collaboration between the Philippines and Bhutan in the field of food processing and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The delegation, consisting of officials, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, had the opportunity to explore Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc’s commissary, gaining insights into the company’s operations, processes, and best practices.

Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc, renowned for its authentic Pinoy-vorite meals wrapped in banana leaves, opened its doors to the delegation, showcasing its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable practices. The visit provided a unique opportunity for the Royal Government of Bhutan representatives to witness firsthand the success story of Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc and gain valuable insights into the fast food industry in the Philippines.

The representatives from the Royal Government of Bhutan expressed their appreciation for the warm reception and the opportunity to learn from Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc’s experiences. They were particularly impressed by the company’s focus on preserving traditional Filipino culinary practices while incorporating modern food processing techniques and sustainable packaging solutions.

“We are grateful to have had the opportunity to visit the Commissary of Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc. The insights gained during this visit will contribute significantly to our efforts in promoting SMEs and developing the food processing industry in Bhutan,” said the representative from the Royal Government of Bhutan. “We were impressed by Binalot’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and the preservation of cultural heritage. We look forward to exploring potential collaborations and implementing best practices learned from this visit.”

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) emphasized the importance of such collaborative visits in strengthening international partnerships and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise. Through initiatives like the Industrial Visit, SME Promotion, and FPI program, DOST aims to support the growth of SMEs and foster economic development through the sharing of best practices, technology transfer, and capacity building.

Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc is honored to have hosted the delegation from the Royal Government of Bhutan and the representatives from DOST. The visit served as a testament to the company’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainable practices in the food processing industry.

By

News Core Admin 

Donate your FREE Extra Rice Campaign

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From the “Donate Your Free Extra Rice Campaign”, we were able to provide meals to the frontliners of the SM City Sucat Vaccination Center! Just by donating the free extra rice with your Binalot orders, you’re able to help frontliners who are continuously serving Filipinos. Donate your extra rice today!

Binalot celebrates the kindness of Filipinos during pandemic

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by 2nd Opinion May 13, 2021

This pandemic has dragged on to its second year and unfortunately, we do not see an end to it very soon. The Philippine economy has suffered its worst contraction in history. Of course, it is not just the Philippines but pretty much the rest of the world that is reeling from its negative impact. So many companies have closed down and those who stayed behind have contracted operations. Numerous jobs have been lost. But one good thing has emerged from this devastating crisis, this is the innate kindness of Filipinos. The community pantry is an example of this.

From the very beginning of the pandemic, there have been many efforts by Filipinos from all walks of life to help out their fellowmen. This has recently become even more apparent with the introduction of community pantries in many parts of the country. This most recent charitable effort emphasizes that people may give what they can and take only what they need.

For its part, Binalot has mobilized its own effort since the start of the pandemic by launching its BAYANI program. This program accepts donations from people who want to help and use these to send food to medical frontliners who are the most exposed to the virus.

Cristina Martinez, Binalot’s Marketing Manager says that this way, Binalot celebrates the Filipino Bayanihan spirit. “We wish to highlight the ordinary people who have contributed to feed and support the frontliners, people like husband and wife corporate executives Brian and Judy Medina, and even culinary instructor Chef Alvin Magpantay. Even Filipinos who live abroad chipped in such as IT executive Edwin Mance who sent his assistance all the way from Munich, Germany, Jayjay Veloso from Canada  and pharma executive Jay Garcia with wife Michelle who’s a registered nurse based in San Mateo, California. At the local front, Japanese automotive executive Susumu Myokan went out of his way to contribute and support. The list goes on and on”.

She adds that well-meaning corporations such as Nissan Philippines and the Lucio Tan Group of Companies, and organizations like Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines and Viccoap have supported it.

“We just wish to celebrate the kindness and generosity of the Filipinos and our tendency to help each other during conflict and crisis. And now that there is finally what we hope to be an end in sight for this pandemic with the steady arrival of Covid 19 vaccines, Binalot is now targeting to send food to the vaccination center volunteers to help speed up the end of the pandemic. In this, we need your help”. 

Binalot pivots to residential, community-based “Cloud Franchises” amid pandemic

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By 2nd Opinion April 20, 2021

Filipino fast food chain Binalot has never been shy in introducing new and innovative concepts in the food industry. And this time, amid this pandemic that saw the dramatic increase in food delivery, welcome “cloud franchises”.

From being the first truly Filipino fast food franchise when it started in 1996 to becoming the poster child for SME CSR when it set up its DAHON program in 2006, Binalot has always had the pioneering spirit.

Judee Morente, Operations Manager of Binalot says that since the start of this pandemic, Binalot has never stopped its operations. “We focused on how to keep our employees busy and more importantly, keep them employed. Binalot came up with the Bayani (Biyaya at Yaman Alay Natin sa Inang Bayan) program which enabled good-hearted individuals to donate food for both our medical and non-medical frontliners”.

“Truly, this pandemic has affected the food industry worldwide. And Binalot was not spared. Sales decreased to less than half as people stayed home, they stayed away from the malls and office spaces and factories became vacant. Thus, most of our current sales are in the form of delivery sales”. 

But the pandemic stretched on, with a second round of enhanced community quarantine in place in Metro Manila and surrounding provinces. And with almost no end in sight, Binalot has decided to pivot to a new business model. 

Introducing the Binalot home kitchen-based franchise or Binalot Cloud Kitchen for short. Morente explains that now, you no longer need to find a space in a commercial area to open your own Binalot franchise. “With our cloud franchise, you can simply open one at your own home. All we require you to have is your kitchen and a dedicated refrigerator and freezer for the Binalot stocks. Binalot will train you and your staff on operations, food handling, marketing, human resources and will even set up your delivery system. Food service is going to be fast, convenient and affordable because of reduced overhead costs”. 

Binalot CEO Rommel Juan says that with more people working from home nowadays, residential area food deliveries are up. “We and our prospective franchisees aim to target this new, rapidly-growing segment by focusing on residential area cloud franchises. And with our Binalot Cloud Kitchen, you can do it from the comfort of your home kitchen”.

“At Binalot, we try to see the opportunity in every crisis. Problems are seen as challenges that need to be addressed. There is a need and we provide an opportunity to fill this need. So now we want to give this opportunity to offer Binalot to cloud franchisees to serve their own residential areas and have a profitable business for themselves”.

For inquiries you may email ilovebinalot@gmail.com.  Or visit www.binalot.com

Read More: https://2ndopinion.ph/

Binalot Story

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By: Jerry Jao

I was a new a graduate around 20 years ago... I was fired and I was looking for a job...pero natagalan ako s apaghahanap so I opted to do networking, insurance a real estate salesman... so to make the story short, All around salesman parang electrolux man. Everyday I would be going around Ortigas for seminars client meeting etc, etc. But due to limited money, I think 200 lang dala ko kada araw kasama na dun ang transpo and I have to be in ortigas by 9am until sometime 4am the next day..lam mo na trabahong networker after 6pm ang client. So with limited money in my pocket araw araw I would go either Robinson's Galleria or Sharilla Fast Food area to take my lunch & dinner, at ang palaging order ko yung Adobo Rice with Egg kasi yun lang ang budget ko and afford ko. There are times na palapit pa lang ako sa cashier pinupunch na order ka kasi alam na nila yun ang oorderin ko nanaman. Minsan tinanong ako bakit yun lagi order ko so I just answered "Yan kasi paborito ko"...(well, partly true) and di ko masabi na yan lang kasi kaya ko (during that time P25 lang yan). There are times ma may kasama akong fellow networker na kaya lang sumasabay sa akin para makalibre ng lunch and I would buy 2 packs nyan ang kakain kami at minsan nagsabi din sya sa akin yun lang daw nililibre ko sa kanya puro Adobo Rice with Egg lang...(Kainis ng nagpalibre lang nagreklamo pa...) If you know Ismael Abaya o Bart Abaya...I was dealing with hin na din during that time. And During that Time nababasa na kita sa Entrepreneur Magazine but di pa tayo personally magkakilala. I was so inspired about your story and the story of where the adobo Rice came from that after a few years I decided to go to business and Invited my friends to start lunch delivery services in Binondo gaya ng ginawa nyo. I tried not to get commercial space kasi napakamahal and I could not afford it. We called it Sa Kusina ni Mang Tabby... literal yun kusina lang meron kami at wala nang iba no dine in no nothing. And Tabby is what my family calls me kasi tumataba na ako during that time. Sad to say, to business last only 1 and a half year. and wit this I loss my friends who became my partner. Hangang nang makilala kita sa PMA... Until now i can't forget how your story and your brand have been part of my struggling years. And how your story inspired me to become an entrepreneur.