We attended the opening of Secret Recipe at SM Santa Rosa, Laguna, the Malaysian restaurant chain’s third Philippine location, and were pleasantly surprised. It was our first time trying the brand, and after a full meal of spicy, fragrant dishes that leaned on authenticity rather than novelty, we left impressed and already planning our next visit.

The restaurant opened on November 6 at the ground floor of SM Santa Rosa. Known abroad for its cakes, Secret Recipe in the Philippines presents a broader table. The menu offers Southeast Asian staples built on balanced flavors, herbs and spices. It is the sort of place that works for a quiet meal or a casual gathering, with interiors that are warm and floral. Soft lighting, patterned details and a welcoming room make it suitable for an unhurried lunch or dessert and coffee in the afternoon.

We began with the Starter Platter, a sampler of Spicy Tomato Drummettes, Chicken Satay, Deep Fried Wonton and Seafood Spring Roll. The variety set the tone for the meal, each dish crisp or tender in the right places, served with dips that leaned savory with a hint of sweetness from Southeast Asian spices. From there, the flavors deepened.

The Singapore Laksa was a standout. Its broth was rich and layered, spiked with sambal that provided heat without overwhelming the coconut base. Fresh shrimp sat over flat rice noodles, making it hearty and satisfying. We also liked the Nasi Goreng Ayam, a fried chicken dish with fragrant rice and sambal on the side. Crisp on the outside and juicy within, it was simple but well executed.

Seafood Medley Pasta brought linguine tossed in a creamy and spicy sauce with baby scallops, shrimp and blue mussels. The Char Kuey Teow leaned smoky and savory, with Chinese sausage and shrimp folded into flat noodles. For something more traditional, Nasi Lemak came with coconut rice crowned with anchovies, peanuts, cucumber and chili sauce, while Beef Rendang offered tender stewed beef in coconut and spice. These dishes showed range and respect for Malaysian flavors.

Secret Recipe also gives desserts equal attention. A slice of Hokkaido Triple Cheesecake was light but creamy, a contrast to the richer Blue Butterfly Pea Cheesecake. Chocolate Indulgence lived up to its name, a cocoa sponge with layers of Belgian white and dark chocolate, finished in melted chocolate.

For first-time diners like us, the experience revealed a concept deeper than cakes. The food was bold, comforting and built with an authenticity that surprised us in the best way. We now look forward to visiting the branches at Shangri La Plaza Mall and One Ayala, knowing what waits: heat, texture and flavor carried well across the table.