Dinner at Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine

Last Saturday was Ykaie’s Recognition Day 2025—and wow, what a day it was! 🌞 Aside from it being super kadooper hot (hello, peak summer season 😅), our hearts were overflowing with pride. Our baby girl Ykaie was recognized With High Honors AND she made it to the Bronze Seal Principal’s List! 🎉🎓✨ Proud is an understatement. I think my heart grew ten sizes that day! To celebrate her awesome achievement (and maybe to cool down a bit from the heat lol), we went out for dinner. And not just any dinner — my sister (who goes by her alter ego, “Anney” haha) decided to treat us to Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine! 🥢

The last time we ate here was last year pa –can you believe it? So we were extra excited to revisit all our favorites and try some new dishes too!

Of course, I had to order their Hot and Sour Soup (₱240). It’s my absolute fave. It came out piping hot (literally steaming in this already-hot weather, pero laban lang haha). It was packed with pork, tofu, and mushrooms—flavorful, comforting, and soooo satisfying.

Then we got not one but TWO orders of Xiao Long Bao (₱310 each) because these juicy little dumplings are Ykaie and Twinkle’s ultimate favorites. As soon as the basket hit the table, those two were already armed with their chopsticks. 😂 They love the broth-filled surprise inside each dumpling!

Now, one thing Twinkle always insists on getting is the Bola-Bola Siopao (₱130). Honestly, I think she loves it more for the Hello Kitty design than anything else (cutie overload 🐱💕), but hey, it’s good siopao! The bola-bola filling was generous and flavorful, and it was served warm and fluffy—just how we like it.

We also tried something new this time: the Chicken Chow Mein (₱335). First time ordering it, and we all agreed—it did NOT disappoint! The noodles were perfectly stir-fried, not too oily, and had just the right mix of veggies and tender chicken. YUM.

Another highlight of the night? General Tso’s Chicken (₱335). This dish is dangerously good. I’m serious. Sweet, spicy, and super crispy—we all kept “sampling” it until it was almost gone. 😂 You know it’s a hit when everyone’s sneaking in bites in between conversations!

Aaand of course, a little something unusual but totally “us”— Fried Intestine (₱380). I know, I know, not everyone’s a fan of offal dishes, but this one’s a classic fave in our family. Crunchy, flavorful, and weirdly addicting. If you know, you know!

All in all, it was such a fun and delicious celebration dinner. Nothing beats good food, great company, and celebrating milestones that remind you how fast your kids are growing and how proud they make you every single day.

Here’s to Ykaie and all the little (and big!) wins in life. We’ll keep cheering you on, girl!

Tien Ma’s Taiwanese Cuisine is located at 437 N.S. Amoranto Sr. St, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City.