A few years ago, Aldrin and Laura Tabora decided to share their love of Filipino cuisine all over Auckland with their own Food Truck — Hapunan. The husband and wife team worked in the hospitality industry, and a recent trip to Aldrin’s home city of Manila had re-ignited their interest in its bustling food scene.
With their full-of-flavour fare gaining traction back here, they have opened a dedicated takeaway pitstop so fans always know where they can get their fix. Inspired by their cute leaf-printed caravan that is still on-the-go (when it is safe to do so), the petite permanent outpost in Huapai is an essential stop if you’re going for a weekend drive or walk out west.
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On the menu, Hapunan serves up traditional dishes with a twist. For starters, we can’t go past the Prawn Siomai, which sees prawns, bamboo shoots and mixed vegetables freshly steamed in a light pastry, and served with ginger soy dressing and chilli garlic oil — or the Pata Tim, which layers pulled pork hock in a steamed bao bun, topped with pickled cucumber, fresh coriander and chilli.
As a main event, the classic Adobo Del Diablo marinates chicken thighs in a rich coconut cream sauce with turmeric, bay leaves and peppercorn, then is served with atsara slaw and coconut rice. Rich but balanced, the Beef Kare Kare is slow-braised for 18 hours and served with an extra thick and smooth peanut butter sauce, topped with crispy bagoong (a Filipino sautéed shrimp paste).
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Along with the savoury dishes, the beloved Buko Leche Flan dessert is essentially a coconut crème caramel topped with toasted coconut chips and jackfruit crumbs. Another must-try is the Ube Pandesal — a unique purple doughnut filled with ice cream and topped with toasted coconut for a feast for the eyes, as well as the tastebuds.
Driving up demand for a modern spin on Filipino fare, Hapunan is well worth a drive-by when you are next in Huapai.
Opening hours:
Tuesday to Saturday:
12pm-3pm & 4pm-8pm
Hapunan
316 Main Road
Huapai