Bobby L.
Yelp
Ever since I saw the KQED story about this Filipino dessert spot/bakery, I've had my fair share of... almost everything!
I'll start with their Pan de sal. It's not the usual "by the bag" purchase that you would see at Valerios Bakery. These mini rolls you buy per piece and it's usually straight out of the oven. I had to wait for these a few times before, and it's worth the short wait. Get em while they're hot and fluffy!
Their ensaymadas here are soft, fresh, not too sweet, and nicely packaged. Having different flavors like oreo, green tea, and dulce de leche are a plus and great for parties or gifts. Just don't be alarmed that some toppings stick to the packaging. I use the packaging as a messy plate and do the wipe and bite technique. I'm a fan of their regular cheese, ube cheese, and salted egg.
It's been a while since I've had a good empanada. Here at Ellis, I found a GREAT empanada! The chicken filling included a mix of carrots, peas, raisins and had a noticeable bell pepper-y taste. Breading is light, flaky, and buttery. Again, these come out fresh from the oven. Perfect for a snack or light lunch. Pairs well with a Coke!!
I finally had their Pistachio Sansrival cake. It's tall and pleasing to the eye. I prefer the shallower sheets of this type of meringue layered buttercream cake. Nevertheless, the taste was out of this world, with their version of French buttercream and nuttiness of the pistachio. Not too sweet, light and crisp. Better when served lightly frozen. Their Silvanas were also a treat for me. These puck-sized treats mimicked the light and crispy texture, with that magical buttercream filling.
Creamery is in their name and they didn't disappoint in the ice cream department. Ube, pistachio, and sweet corn are my favorites... for now.
Their halo halo dessert was just okay for me. I guess I'm used to more ingredients to mix mix. The Ube ice cream made this dessert. I was more impressed with their Buko Pandan with that vanilla-coconut-ty taste with little amount of jelly nuggets. A dynamite iced dessert, even during wintertime!
When KQED says, "This Filipino gas station dessert shop is among Norcal's most delicious secrets," I'd have to agree. Although, it's not really a secret anymore.
Can't wait to get me some fresh-out-of-the-oven goods this week!