This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Everyone is familiar with the merlion, that iconic representation of Singapore. It is a mythical creature with a lion’s head and the body of a fish, designed to be the logo for the Singapore Tourism Board back in the early 60s. Nothing mythical or imaginary, though, about the authenticity of the food at the Merlion’s Cuisine. It’s a Singaporean cuisine restaurant at the EVIA Mall on Daang-Hari Road in Las Piñas. Its full name seems to be Merlion’s Cuisine A Truly Singapore Restaurant. Whew, that’s a mouthful! But its spicy and delicious mouthfuls of great Singaporean dishes do not disappoint.

It was the unexpected sight of perfectly roasted ducks and chickens hanging from their window while walking beneath a faux sky in a pseudo-Venetian plaza which drew us in. We walked in to a clean and modern space — basic and nothing fancy yet tasteful, which I think reflects the owner’s food philosophy.

While waiting for our main dishes, we had Roti Prata for starters, dipped in their rich and spicy Beef Curry. Hoo, hot and tasty! Our appetites were definitely honed for more. Everything we ordered was delicious and tasted authentic, much like in the great hawker food tradition of Singapore. Especially the Laksa — they serve Chicken Laksa on weekdays and Shrimp Laksa on weekends only. It had just the right kick of spiciness and the curry-coconut soup was superb! The prices were most reasonable and the service was excellent, too. The chef/owner himself is Singaporean but that’s all I know about him. Whoever he is, I’m glad he opened this restaurant here. We are definitely coming back for more.

Merlion’s Cuisine is on the Ground Floor of Evia Lifestyle Center — a Villar-owned mall along Daang-Hari Road in Las Piñas. To reserve a table, call +63917.6289877 or +63917.7113743.