After enjoying a dim sum feast at Tim Ho Wan, we skipped our usual Starbucks run and headed straight to Nono’s for dessert and coffee.
The first Nono’s restaurant opened in Quezon City at UP Town Center in April 2017.
Nono’s was founded by Chef Baba Ibazeta-Benedicto, a well-known pastry chef who first made her name through her bakery business, Classic Confections, which supplied cakes and pastries to cafés and restaurants around Manila.
Eventually, she launched a full-service comfort food restaurant and named it Nono’s, after her father.
The Nono’s Ambiance
I love the ambiance at Nono’s. Bright light and warm interior details make the restaurant feel spacious yet cozy. The layout never feels cramped, making it an ideal dining spot for large family gatherings or long catch-up sessions with friends.
The Savory Mains
While Nono’s is famous for baked goods, we also sampled a few signature savory dishes.
Nono’s Homestyle Fried Chicken
This dish arrives with parmesan corn on the cob, a soft dinner roll, country gravy, and honey. The buttery roll is delicious, and the savory parmesan pairs brilliantly with the sweet corn. However, the chicken itself relies on a very thick batter. If you prefer a thinner coating, the heavy breading might overpower the meat.
Pork Belly Balsamic Cooked in Garlic
This dish completely stole the show. Slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, the tender pork belly features a rich garlic-balsamic reduction and a topping of crispy fried greens. Paired with garlic rice and a grilled tomato, it delivers a fine-dining experience on a casual comfort food menu.
Nono’s Sweets We Tried
Chocolate Oblivion Cake
As a huge fan of chocolate cakes, I had to order Chocolate Oblivion Cake (₱245) . It is moist, packs deep cocoa notes, and avoids being overly sweet. The walnut praline adds a delightful crunch that elevates every bite.
Vitto’s Chocolate Cake
Vitto’s Chocolate Cake (₱215) is a classic, straightforward chocolate cake that delivers pure, simple nostalgia.
Blueberry Cheesecake
Their Blueberry Cheesecake (₱285) is rich, dense cream cheese sits atop a buttery graham crust, balanced out by a tart blueberry compote that cuts through the richness. I like it!
Pain au Chocolat
Meanwhile, my friend’s spouse ordered the Pain au Chocolat (₱195). It was a huge, buttery, and flaky croissant with dark chocolate inside.
Red Velvet Cheesecake
Lastly, my friend ordered the Red Velvet Cheesecake (₱245). I tried it too – moist red velvet base paired with a creamy cheesecake layer and rich, tangy cream cheese frosting.
We stayed far longer than planned—Nono’s just creates the perfect atmosphere for lingering over good food and conversation.
Also read: Luk Foo Cantonese Kitchen
Verdict
Whether you visit for savory main courses or decadent desserts, Nono’s delivers a reliable comfort food experience. While the Homestyle Fried Chicken features a extra-thick crust, the Pork Belly Balsamic shines as a world-class masterpiece. Pair those dishes with a slice of Chocolate Oblivion Cake or Blueberry Cheesecake, and you have the ultimate recipe for a great meal with friends.
