Karlo Pacana
Hala Paella Spanish Comfort Food in Cebu
Longing for some Spanish comfort food? Want to taste a variety of Spanish dishes without emptying your pockets? Looking for a fast food joint in town that would grant your cravings in an instant?
Logo of Hala Paella Spanish Comfort Food
The King of Sinulog is off to Hala Paella located in Banilad Town Center, an instagrammable food joint that serves Spanish food at an instant. The restaurant actually got its name from a football reference which roughly translates to ‘Let’s go Paella!’ and not the Cebuano term ‘hala’. Read on as I share to you what this Spanish fast food establishment has to offer.
Getting There
Assuming you’re already in Cebu City, tell the taxi driver to drop you off at Banilad Town Center near Gaisano Country Mall and look for the yellow shop with a big Hala Paella sign on it beside Dimsum Break. A number of public utility jeepneys pass this route however the nearest PUJ stop is about 300 meters away from the mall.
Ambiance
The place though roughly about 15 square meters in area is technically a small food joint, quite a practical move since it’s a startup business. However, it makes up for its design: touches of brick walls all around the place, its brand letters formed by multiple light bulbs and artistic graffiti on steel paelleras. Good enough for a quick casual stop-over or take-outs if you prefer since it’s accessible by the driveway from the mall’s parking lot. The establishment could accommodate about 30 people in one setting.
Food
They have ready to eat Spanish Paella in 6 different versions (Aligue, Chorizo, Lechon, Negra, Pollo and Valenciana) and 3 serving sizes (solo, grande and familia). I am torn between Paella Negra (black paella due to squid ink) and Paella Valenciana (paella containing chicken, chorizo, pork, and seafood). Other must-try dishes on their menu include chuletas (juicy and tender pork rib chop), lengua (ox tongue In gravy-like sauce) and cazuela (pork casserole). You should also try their churros and maiz ala plancha for dessert. Finish the meal with a glass of Sangria (combination of red wine, fruit, sweetener and brandy).
Price
A typical meal for two would cost around PHP300. A solo paella costs around PHP100, appetizers around PHP80, main courses around PHP110, churros at PHP68 and a glass of sangria at PHP98. If you’d ask me, I believe it’s quite affordable in exchange for a quick Spanish meal.
Service
Cooking time is fast. However, the service times are affected during peak dining hours as the place gets really jam-packed especially on weekends. Don’t expect a service that could rival that of a fully-functioning restaurant. Better drop by on non-peak hours, take-out your order and eat at the peace of your own home.
Overall, if you’re looking for a Spanish quick fix or you would want to explore Spanish food, then Hala Paella is perfect for your curious appetite. Later!
Contact Information
Hala Paella is located at Banilad Town Center beside Dimsum Break. You may call them at +63 (32) 344 4252. You may also check their Facebook page and Instagram account for promos and updates.
