Bakmi Nyonya

Ayuningtyas Hatta Poetri

4.0

From Bakmi Nyonya, we had the Mie Goreng. It's basically authentic Indonesian stir fry, in a way, a counterpart to the more popular yakisoba. I like that they don't scrimp out on the ingredients, plus, they make their own noodles! It's a mix of sweet, savory, and spicy, so it's definitely an interesting dish. I wish we could've tried their other offerings too though.

Fuad

4.0

Bakmi Nyonya is the reason why I want to visit Pioneer Street Market.  They specialize in Indonesian Food.  There aren't many restaurants that offer the aforementioned cuisine. I looked for their stall first.  Without any hesitation,  i got the Beef Rendang while he opted for Nasi Goreng (I paid php 310 for both,  good deal,  eh?)History lesson for the Indonesian Cuisine Neophyte.Nasi Goreng has been called the National Dish of Indonesia.  Nasi Goreng refers to fried rice in Indonesian.  The dish comprises of shallot, garlic, tamarind and chilli and accompanied by other ingredients, particularly egg, chicken and prawn.  Other versions is made with ikan asin (salted dried fish) which is also popular across Indonesia.Rendang is a spicy meat dish which originated from the Minangkabau ethnic group of Indonesia.  It is traditionally prepared by the Minangkabau community during festive occasions such as traditional ceremonies.Rendang is revered in Minangkabau culture as an embodiment of the philosophy of musyawarah, discussion and consultation with elders.  It has been claimed that the four main ingredients represent Minangkabau society as a whole.The meat (dagiang) symbolises the Niniak Mamak, the traditional clan leaders such as the datuk, the nobles, royalty and revered elders.The coconut milk (karambia) symbolises the Cadiak Pandai, intellectuals, teachers, poets and writers.The chilli (lado) symbolises the Alim Ulama, clerics, ulama and religious leaders. The hotness of the chilli symbolises Sharia.The spice mixture (pemasak) symbolises the rest of Minangkabau society.That's history alright.  Who would've thought a dish had so much significance in a nation's history.  After reading the Wikipedia article,  i have a newfound respect for Beef Rendang.  And bad versions is considered blasphemy in my book.Bakmi Nyonya's beef rendang tastes legit.  The beef is tender,  the coconut milk is cooked perfectly,  i know because I have eaten a helluva lot of coconut milk based dishes.  The consistency is thick (if it's the other way around,  it would taste iffy).  I would've prefer my Rendang really spicy but subtle level of heat is ideal for some.  They serve some spicy sambal sauce on the the side if you prefer more heat. He liked the Nasi Goreng.  He even said that he would get two orders on our next visit.  The beauty of this dish is it's simplicity.  Meat,  rice and spices.  A simple equation that gives out an awesome product. I will try other items on their menu on my next visit!

Dhenyel V.

5.0

Pioneer Market takes the cake with extra cream for having a well organized and balanced food hub. It also boasts two other important elements- ample parking and a comfortable environment with its cool air conditioning. Personally, this is the best place to experience an amassed group of restaurants or stalls in one area.  It definitely tops Gastropark, Mercato, Legaspi and Salcedo Markets.