The ambiance is great, clean washroom:) food is great (love the beef bulalo, beef soup) chicharong bulaklak is yummy and smells good. The service is prompt and the crew who serves us is very nice.
Been here twice. Order Kare-kare if you're not familiar with Filipino food yet. Authentic filipino food in an authentic filipino ambiance. This place feels like home!
If you're looking to dine at the most authentic Filipino restaurant in the city, you've found the right place. I've given Kalesa a 5 star review; not only was the food spectacular, the insides of the restaurant was beautiful. A 'kalesa' is known as a horse drawn calash used in the Philippines, one of the modes of transportation in the 18th century. And I have to say, the inner aesthetic perfectly matches it's name. Decorated with wheels and vintage portraits of these vehicles. Even the washrooms themselves fitted the decor. We'd ordered two servings of their famous BBQ, a bowl of Bulalo and of course some rice to go with it. All dishes well worth their pricing. Each BBQ dish came with two skewers plated atop some banana leaves on a dish. It also came with a side of achara and I think some vinegar as well. Unfortunately did not get to try the sauce on the side, frankly because there was no need for it. The dish shone on its own. The Bulalo came in an extremely generous serving, enough for a 4 people I would think. And even came with a side of Patis ( fish sauce) to go with it. No complaints about this dish, it was amazing. We also ordered some flan and macaroni for dessert, but we were too full and just took it to go. Again, both dishes worth its pricing. My only complaints would be the pricing of the iced tea which is a drink we both ordered. $2.50 a cup and no refills. Although it was the lunch rush (around 12:30 pm) there was only one server, no complaints there however, he was very hospitable and service was quick. Overall 5 star review for a great experience. Those looking for a taste of the Philippines should find their way to this restaurant. Kalesa tasted like home to me. And that, I think, is one of the highest compliments.