A trip down memory lane

Tambayan Ni Pedro—a typical sari-sari store that depicts the owner’s tambayan in Manila.

It has nostalgia written all over it, bringing back bits and pieces of what the ’80s and the ’90s were all about.

Pedro ’N Coi, a quaint nook tucked in the eastern side of the metro, is a product of fond memories and mutual love for home cooked Filipino meals by couple Lloyd and Shamcey Lee.

Although Lloyd is involved in a textile business and Shamcey, aside from her stint as a beauty queen, is an architect by profession, the couple shared a penchant for Pinoy food.

Lloyd is Chinese, but grew up in Manila and was raised with the influence of Pinoy food. Shamcey meanwhile hails from Gen. Santos City and, through her mom, was also exposed to Filipino dishes.

Byaheng Busog features an original 1978 Sarao Jeepney.

To make the concept a tad more interesting, the couple decided to divide the place in three areas, each representing a fond memory for either of them.

One of these areas is Tambayan Ni Pedro—a typical sari-sari store that depicts Lloyd’s tambayan during his childhood in Manila, where he would usually fork his allowance over chips and soda.

The ground floor meanwhile features some of Lloyd’s favorite TV shows such as Ok Ka Fairy Ko and Okidoki Doc.

Another area is the Byaheng Busog represented by an original 1978 Sarao Jeepney. This highlights another exciting section inside the restaurant although in some branches, the element of transportation is represented by a Love Bus or both.

Pedro ’N Coi, a quaint nook that allows one to travel back in time.

The third section is the Bahay Ni Coi usually seen as part of the second level of a typical Pedro ’N Coi restaurant. This depicts the old house of Shamcey’s family in Gensan.

Must try for first time diners at the Pedro ’N Coi include Ihaw Moto; Baked Chicken Barbecue; Sizzling Sisig Awww, which is freshly-baked porkloin or chicken, sauteed with onions, topped with poached egg, garlic-miso mix and leeks; and Mayor Bistek, marinated beef with a hint of Philippine lemon.

Other best sellers are Joey De Lecho; Kaldereta Ni Ka Noli; Manok Ni Pedro; and Pata Kang Kare-Kare Ka.

Pedro ’N Coi is located at Il Centro, Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall in Cainta, Rizal.

The nook brings back bits and pieces of what the ’80s and the ’90s were all about.

Pedro ’N Coi is a product of fond memories and mutual love for home cooked Filipino meals.-PHOTOs: AUGUST DELA CRUZ