Village Connect
Food lovers in Manila are about to discover a new level of heat and comfort as Mala King Premium Hotpot officially opens its first branch at Arcovia City, Pasig. Known for the bold, tongue-tingling flavors of Chongqing, China, Mala King offers Filipinos a chance to savor one of Asia’s most beloved communal dining experiences—malatang—without leaving the city.
A Taste Born from Travel
The idea for Mala King was sparked not inside a kitchen, but during an overseas journey. Founder Kyle Yu recalls how he and his team first experienced Chongqing’s lively hotpot culture. “We were amazed at how the flavors, the freedom to choose ingredients, and the social atmosphere all came together,” Yu shared. “That inspired us to recreate the experience in Manila. We wanted to keep it authentic, but at the same time adapt it to what Filipinos love—big portions, value for money, and meals best shared with friends and family.”
Mala King was built on the promise of authenticity and consistency while staying approachable. Prices remain reasonable despite the premium selections, making it a dining destination that’s both indulgent and practical.
The Soul of Mala King: Broths that Tell a Story
At the heart of every hotpot is the broth. Mala King goes beyond the usual with six carefully crafted bases that span flavors across Asia:
- Mala Original – Sichuan’s fiery signature, with customizable spice levels from one to five. A must-try for spice seekers who crave the perfect balance of heat and depth.
- Golden Chicken – A hearty, clean-tasting broth that highlights the natural flavors of chicken.
- Signature Tomato – Tangy, refreshing, and bright, ideal for those who prefer a lighter, sweeter profile.
- Sukiyaki – Sweet and savory with Japanese-inspired umami notes.
- Premium Bulalo – A Filipino favorite reimagined, rich with slow-simmered beef shank and bone marrow.
- Spicy Tom Yum – Bold, citrusy, and aromatic with a distinctly Thai kick.
This range allows diners to journey across culinary traditions while keeping their hotpot deeply personal.
Sauces that Complete the Experience
Broths set the stage, but Mala King’s wide selection of sauces lets diners fine-tune every bite. Choices range from spicy chili oils and gochujang to herby purées like garlic or spring onion. Sweet blends such as hoisin with caramelized onion or apple-peach purée provide contrast, while classics like soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil remain staples. Each combination unlocks new flavor layers, turning every visit into a unique experience.
Build Your Own Bowl
The appeal of malatang lies in its DIY format, and Mala King leans into that tradition. Guests can fill their bowls with around 20 toppings for just ₱500+, excluding noodles, with rice and free ice cream included.
For diners who prefer noodles over soup, a dry mix option is also available using the same pick-and-pay system. It’s a flexible setup that ensures every customer can craft a meal that fits their taste and appetite.
Freshness on Display
What makes Mala King stand out is its commitment to fresh and premium ingredients. Diners can choose from an impressive variety:
- Meats: marbled beef belly, tendons, chunk flap slices, and shank.
- Seafood: scallops, bamboo clams, blue crabs, sea cucumber, and squid flowers.
- Vegetables: lotus root, bamboo shoots, water spinach, broccoli, and seafood mushrooms.
- Specialty balls and extras: lobster, beef, cheese, and fish balls, alongside siomai, wontons, seaweed, and luncheon meat.
Noodle lovers aren’t left out, with choices ranging from soba and udon to konjac threads. The sheer variety ensures that no two bowls are ever the same.
Drinks to Cool the Heat
To balance the richness and spice, Mala King offers signature iced teas brewed from real leaves—never powdered. Each drink is designed to refresh and reset the palate:
- Mala King Signature: A raspberry cooler with a tangy-sweet kick.
- Watermelon Breeze: Juicy and light, perfect for summer days.
- Orange Sunrise: Bright, citrusy, and cleansing.
These drinks don’t just quench thirst; they elevate the meal into a complete dining experience.
A New Dining Destination in Pasig
With its opening in Arcovia City, Mala King sets out to become more than just a restaurant—it aims to be a place where people gather, share stories, and enjoy the universal joy of food. The cozy interiors, vibrant flavors, and premium yet accessible offerings position it as a must-visit spot for foodies and families alike.
As Yu sums it up: “Mala King is about choices, quality, and togetherness. We want every diner to feel that they are not just eating, but creating a meal that is truly their own.”
From sizzling spice to soothing broths, Mala King Hotpot is ready to redefine the hotpot experience in Metro Manila—one bowl at a time.
📍 Visit Mala King at Arcovia City, Pasig.
🔗 For updates, follow Mala King Premium Hotpot on Facebook, @themalaking on Instagram, and @themalakingph on TikTok.
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