Quezon City is known for being the biggest city in Metro Manila. The area around P. Tuazon and 17th Avenue has plenty of food spots that stay open late. Pares Retiro sits along this busy corner serving Filipino comfort food. The restaurant focuses on beef pares which is a traditional braised beef dish.

Key highlights:

- Open 24 hours on weekends for late night cravings
- Affordable prices ranging from 100 to 300 pesos per person
- Multiple branches across Metro Manila with delivery options

PROFILE

Pares Retiro operates several locations throughout Quezon City and nearby areas. The restaurant chain started to bring Filipino beef pares to more neighborhoods in Metro Manila. The main specialty is beef pares which means pair in English. The dish gets its name because the braised beef comes paired with fried rice and soup. Most branches stay open 24 hours especially on weekends. The restaurant also offers delivery through GrabFood and Foodpanda for people who want to order from home.

AMBIENCE

The dining space has a casual no-frills setup with basic tables and chairs. The lighting tends to be dim which some guests say makes the place feel like a KTV lounge. The restaurant is not air-conditioned so expect an open-air dining experience. The place stays clean according to multiple reviews even though the facilities are pretty simple. Parking can be tricky during busy hours but the restaurant has staff who watch the cars. The restroom is available but some guests mentioned the floor gets slippery.

MUST-TRY

The Classic Pares is the main dish everyone orders when they visit. The beef is braised until tender and served with a slightly sweet savory sauce over garlic fried rice. Kamto is another popular choice which is a beef noodle soup with rich broth. The soup is refillable so you can get more if you want. Sisig is available for people who want something different from beef. The minced pork dish comes sizzling hot on a plate with egg on top.

FOOD

The beef in the pares is tender and comes in generous portions. The sauce has hints of Chinese five-spice or anise which some people love and others find unusual. The garlic fried rice is supposed to be a highlight but reviews are mixed. Some guests complained the rice came out crusty or burnt instead of fluffy and aromatic. The eggs are cooked to order whether you want them scrambled or over easy. Reviewers mentioned the kitchen does a good job getting the eggs exactly how you ask for them. The side dishes like kangkong with garlic bits taste fresh and work well with the heavier meat dishes.

SERVICE

Service quality varies a lot depending on which branch you visit and what time. Some servers like Gabriel at the P. Tuazon branch get praised for being responsive and proactive. Other reviews mention long wait times even when the restaurant is not busy. Guests have complained about calling servers multiple times before getting attention. The food usually comes out within 20 minutes but can take longer during peak hours. Staff sometimes get orders wrong so it helps to double check before leaving with takeout.

PRICING

A regular beef pares meal costs around 95 to 150 pesos depending on what you add. Combo meals with drinks and eggs run between 130 to 220 pesos. Sisig portions are big enough to share among three people for about 169 pesos. The prices are budget-friendly compared to other restaurants in Metro Manila. Some guests feel the portions got smaller over time while prices went up. The value is still decent if you order the classic pares and skip the more expensive items.

SUMMARY

Pares Retiro delivers solid Filipino comfort food at prices that work for regular visits. The beef pares is the clear winner on the menu with tender meat and flavorful sauce. The ambience is super casual and the service can be hit or miss. Going during off-peak hours probably gives you a better experience than late night rushes. The restaurant works best when you stick to their specialty dishes like pares and kamto. Skip the experimental items and you will leave satisfied.

FAQs

Is Pares Retiro related to the original pares restaurant in Retiro Street?

No, Pares Retiro is not affiliated with the original pares place in Retiro Street La Loma. The staff confirmed they are a separate business even though the name sounds similar.

Does Pares Retiro offer delivery service?

Yes, the restaurant partners with both GrabFood and Foodpanda for delivery. You can order through either app and get the food delivered to your location.

What are the operating hours for Pares Retiro?

Most branches operate 24 hours especially on weekends. Some locations have different hours so it helps to check the specific branch before making late night plans.