The buzz: Finally, a Filipino restaurant in Shanghai. As far as we know, this is the only one. Good news for everyone: Filipinos get a slice of home, and everyone else gets to try their cuisine. We’re all happy.

The décor: From the outside, Luneta looks a bit like a gelateria or upscale Italian – glass front, warm lighting, sleek bar stools and soft cream walls. Old maps of the Philippines and paintings of old time Manila are dotted tastefully around. Stairs at the back lead to a little mezzanine seating area. There’s a small stage set up for live performances, and a couple of seating booths.

The food: This was our first time eating Filipino food, so we didn’t have anything to compare it to. However, the diners on the table beside us were from the Philippines, and they assured us that the fare was authentic. We started with the spring rolls which were pretty standard pork and veg affairs (¥22 per portion of six) and a green salad with egg, and vinegar dressing. For the main course we tried the chicken and pork adobo – a special Filipino dish consisting of meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns. The portion was a tad on the small side – we wanted more of the tasty, tender meat. But at only ¥38 a portion, you might as well order two. The half roast chicken was nicely cooked, and the accompanying papaya salsa added some tang. For sides we had bowls of incredibly tasty garlic rice (¥8 each) and garlic mashed potato (¥15).

The drinks: Very reasonably priced wine – reds and whites by the glass for between ¥28 and ¥38. Plus the usual raft of beers, and a great cocktail list featuring such little-known gems as the Black Widow and the Leapfrog, all ¥28 each.

Why you’ll be back: If you’re from the Philippines this will be a welcome addition to your Shanghai dining map. If you’ve been to the islands and loved the food, Luneta will help you relive your Manila memories. For complete novices, this is a great place to try Filipino classics. Plus, it’s cheap too, so it goes straight onto our list of places to go for tasty food on the wilderness weekends before pay-day.