Progressive Filipino cuisine is having a moment. While restaurants like Toyo, Hapag, Inato, and Metiz have long reimagined Filipino food through inventive techniques and a focus on indigenous produce and heritage ingredients, a new wave of establishments is making Filipino food both bold and accessible. Recent openings such as Po and Pilar, Offbeat Bistro, and now Rico’s Café are pushing the conversation forward. Rico’s, in particular, is carving out its own identity with what it calls Finopino—a distinct, sophisticated take on Filipino cuisine. Tucked inside the Sta. Elena Golf and Country Estate in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Rico’s Café has quickly earned a loyal following since its launch last year. The café’s calm setting and refined take on local fare offer diners a welcome escape from the city. Lunchtime has emerged as the ideal window to enjoy both its thoughtful menu and the great views. At the core of Rico’s Café is..
