Having lived in the Annapolis area for most of my life, I’ve visited most restaurants around here at least once. I find myself saying old-timery things like, “I remember when that all just used to be a parking lot” or “That place used to be a Friendly’s, and before that, it was Bob’s Big Boy!”
All that is to say- I have never had such a unique meal in the Annapolis area as I had at Lasang Pinoy recently.
Photos courtesy of Chelsea Harrison.
According to their Facebook page, Lasang Pinoy is a “family-owned restaurant with a fresh new vision of elevating Filipino cuisine to a fine dining level.” Their grand opening was June 30, 2023 in the former Nando’s spot on the Generals Highway side of Westfield Annapolis Mall (1000 Annapolis Mall, Space 187).
The space is colorful and bright, and the tables allow for some people watching while still feeling private. My husband and I decided to try Lasang Pinoy based on the recommendation of Annapolis Moms Media writer and Local Food Find expert, Sarah Amyot. Dinner at Lasang Pinoy + a movie = date night perfection in my book. But you might not have room for popcorn!
Here are some highlights of our meal and must-trys!:
- Drinks: We started with cocktails, but on another occasion I would love to try their (NA) juices- they all look so refreshing and creative, like the Avocado Colada Smoothie! The cocktails were great too!
- Appetizer: We tried Lechon Kawali (crispy deep-fried pork belly). This was a generous portion and a great starter. I’m a sucker for a good sauce and this comes with two that really enhance this app!
- Freebie! We were also pleasantly surprised by some complimentary little muffins called Puto (slightly sweet steamed mini rice cakes)- warm, soft, and colorful!
- Entrees: We shared Pancit (Wok-fried rice noodles with carrots, cabbage, green beans) and Bistek (thinly-sliced beefsteak braised in soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, ground black pepper, and onions cut into rings.) We loved both! Generous portions so we had an awesome lunch the next day too!
- Dessert: We had to try the Halo Halo (flavored crushed ice with evaporated milk, leche flan, sweetened beans, coconut strips, palm fruits, jackfruit, coconut gels). It is a spectacle of a dessert and could definitely be shared by 4 or more people! The flavors and textures are an unexpected combination, and it is just fun to eat. Definitely a dessert unlike anything I’ve had before, and I want to take the kids back because they would be all over it.
- Happy Hour: Did you know? Lasang Pinoy has Happy Hour specials most days of the week, with added perks for different featured groups each day: Wednesday- First Responders; Thursday- Healthcare Workers; Friday-Educators; Saturday & Sunday-Veterans & Active-duty get an exclusive HH on the weekends!
- Good to Know: Lechon (whole roast pig) is available for both catering and/or dine in. All Lechon (whole roast pig) orders must be placed at least a week in advance. Catering is also available for pick-up.
- Know Before You Go: Don’t be like the table that was there the night we went that sent the Piniritong Isda (whole fried Snapper served with mango salsa) back to the kitchen for them to remove the head. When they say whole fish, they mean whole fish! (Don’t worry, he won’t bite!)
For an unforgettable meal of Filipino faves (or new faves!), check out this unique, family-owned small business the next time you swing by the Westfield Annapolis Mall!
Lasang Pinoy
(443) 949-9580
1000 Annapolis Mall, Space 187, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours:
Sunday-Thursday: 11:00AM – 10:00PM
Friday-Saturday 11:00AM – 12:00AM
Local Food Finds