Among the most sought-after cuisines in the world is Filipino cuisine. Due to the vast culture and history of the Philippines, there are a lot of unique dishes to offer. Thus, it’s not surprising how more and more consumers are interested in this type of food.
As an entrepreneur, this opportunity is something you should not miss. But before anything else, you must ensure that you have the ideal vendors for your ingredients and other needs. After all, without the right supplies, you won’t be able to make the dishes on your menu.
To help you get started, here are some suppliers you need for your Filipino restaurant business:
Meats
Many foods from the Philippines consist of either chicken, pork, or beef. Thus, you’ll need a supplier to provide high-quality meats. These ingredients are crucial to creating delicious Filipino dishes.
Make sure to choose a vendor that offers affordable yet fresh products. Many suppliers have a network of local farmers to ensure that their meats are always fresh. So, look for one that can offer the same quality of service.
You can start by visiting the local wet markets around your area. There, you can check the meats available and compare prices. Once you’ve found a good supplier, build a good relationship with them. Don’t hesitate to ask for their contact details and if they can give you updates on their delivery schedules. This way, you can ensure a steady supply of meats for your restaurant.
Rice
No Filipino meal is complete without rice. From dinuguan to arroz caldo, this ingredient is always present. So, you need to have a reliable source for this staple food.
The most common type of rice used in Filipino cuisine is long-grain white rice. But you can also use other types, such as jasmine or basmati rice. Whichever you choose, make sure that it’s of good quality.
You can find rice suppliers by searching online or at agricultural fairs. Take the time to compare their products and prices before making a decision. Also, don’t forget to ask for recommendations from other Filipino restaurant owners.
However, recent reports have shown an impending rice shortage in the Philippines. So, you should ensure a steady rice supply by having more than one supplier. In doing so, you can avoid any business disruptions that may occur.
Seafood
The Philippines is an archipelago, so it’s no surprise that seafood is a big part of Filipino cuisine. Whether grilled, fried, or cooked in soup, there’s always a seafood dish on the menu.
When choosing a seafood supplier, pick one that offers fresh catches. This way, you can be confident that the quality of your dishes won’t get compromised. Cooking seafood is also tricky as a minor inconvenience can affect its quality. So, you need a trustworthy supplier to provide fresh seafood within 24 hours of catching them.
There are many reputable seafood suppliers in local markets or even grocery stores. You can also find them online or through word-of-mouth recommendations. Whichever way you choose, always prioritize quality over price. It’s a non-negotiable factor when it comes to seafood dishes.
Vegetables
Fresh vegetables are also a staple in Filipino cuisine. It’s a key ingredient to complete dishes like pinakbet to sinigang. That’s why you need a trusted supplier that can provide high-quality vegetables.
When choosing a vendor, make sure to visit their market stall or farm. With this trick, you can see the conditions of their products for yourself. It would be best to ask how they grow and transport their vegetables. These factors can affect the quality of the produce.
By visiting your potential supplier, you can get an idea of their business practices. As a result, you can decide if they’re the right supplier for your restaurant.
Cooking Oil
Of course, you won’t be able to cook dishes without cooking oil. Whether frying or sautéing, this ingredient is a must-have in your kitchen.
Canola oil from the Philippines is the best type of oil to use in cooking. That’s because it can withstand high temperatures without compromising its quality. It also has a neutral taste, so it won’t affect the flavor of your dishes.
When looking for a supplier, choose one that can provide you with good-quality oil. Many companies offer canola oil, so take the time to compare their products. Also, remember to check the expiration date before making a purchase. You wouldn’t want to use expired oil in your dishes. Once you’ve found a reliable supplier, build a good relationship with them. This way, you can be sure that you’ll always have a steady supply of cooking oil.
These are only some things you need to consider when opening a Filipino restaurant. By having the right vendors, you can be sure that your business will run smoothly. So, take the time to find suppliers that can provide good-quality ingredients. In doing so, you can serve delicious Filipino dishes that your customers will love.
