No. 1 Malatang was exactly what I needed after a vacation full of good (and honestly, too much) food—thanks to my wife’s amazing cooking. I ended up gaining some weight, but I couldn’t really complain. When you’re home and the food keeps coming, saying no gets harder every day. Eat here, eat there, nap, repeat. That was the routine!
Fast forward to the day before my flight back to work—I was already in Manila and wandering around Robinsons Ermita, looking for something light and healthy to eat. That’s when I stumbled upon No. 1 Malatang on the ground floor.
• It’s a super customizable hotpot spot with over 100 fresh ingredients—vegetables, meats, seafood, noodles, tofu, balls, greens—you name it .
• You get to pick your base as well: they offer 10 types of noodles and 8 flavorful broth options to choose from, like Classic Malatang (spicy), ox bone (creamy white), laksa, clear tomato, or tomato with ox bone .
1. Grab a bowl.
2. Fill it with whatever ingredients you like—up to your heart’s content.
3. Weigh it.
4. Choose your broth and spice level (from mild to blazing hot).
5. Pay at the counter.
6. Sit back and watch as your bowl is cooked fresh right in front of you—takes just a couple of minutes.
• Mix and match ingredients for a healthy balance: lots of veggies, lean proteins, and just a little noodle or tofu for substance.
• Spice it your way: mild, medium, spicy, or extreme—you’re in control .
• If you like creamy richness, try the Ox Bone milk-based soup. It’s popular for being smooth and comforting .
• Prefer savory flavor without broth? Go for a dry bowl stir‑fry style—you still pick your ingredients but skip the soup, coated in house marinade instead .
• Visit at off‑peak hours if possible—no crowds, quicker service, more time to browse ingredients .
• Don’t worry if you’re unsure what to choose—the staff are super friendly and always happy to walk first-timers through the process.
I chose plenty of leafy greens, mushrooms, tofu pieces, cauliflower, shrimp, and a small portion of noodles. I went with the ox bone soup base at medium spice. The result? A satisfying, warm bowl that felt light yet hearty—just what I needed to reset after vacation.
No. 1 Malatang is quick, fresh, totally customizable, and pretty healthy if you load up on veggies and go light on noodles. It’s perfect for anyone craving something nourishing and filling without the vacation‑weight guilt. Plus, it’s a fun build‑your‑own dining experience right in Robinsons Place Manila.
No. 1 Malatang isn’t just about good food—it’s also about a smooth and friendly experience. From the moment I walked in, the staff were warm, approachable, and patient—especially helpful since it was my first time. They walked me through the steps, gave tips on broth and ingredient combos, and didn’t rush me while I loaded up my bowl.
Even while the place was getting busier, they stayed attentive and cheerful. You can tell they’re used to guiding first-timers and regulars alike without making you feel lost or overwhelmed.
The service was quick, my food was cooked perfectly, and they even checked in to make sure everything was okay once I started eating. That kind of attention makes a big difference—especially when you’re dining alone or looking for a place to decompress.
If you’re in Robinsons Ermita and craving something fresh, filling, and customizable with top-notch service on the side—No. 1 Malatang is definitely worth a visit.
Seafarer and Family Man
I'm Dexter— a seafarer by profession, a traveler by passion, and a homebody by choice.
