Pink's Manila: The Legendary Hollywood Hotdog Stand Made Its Way to the Philippines

When Pink’s opened its first branch in the Philippines, I wasn’t eager to try its food because an American friend said that its quality is not the same as the ones in the U.S. But my attitude changed when I watched Erwan Heussaff claim that Pink’s burger is his favorite and one of the best in Manila (compared to its similarly-priced counterparts). So I went there to try their burger, as well as their hotdogs and other items.

Pink’s Hot Dogs was founded by Paul and Betty Pink in 1939. It started as a pushcart selling hotdogs and eventually burgers. It then moved to a building that accommodated 80 customers and branched out to other states over the decades. In 2016, the Wildflour group brought the Hollywood icon to the Philippines, the first one outside the U.S., inaugurating its first branch at Shangri-La The Fort. It recently opened its 2nd branch at the Okada casino.

Pink’s Manila doesn’t try to be a carbon copy of its Hollywood counterpart (for one, their hotdog is noticeably smaller). It has it’s own menu, a speakeasy attached to it, and an ice cream selection from its sister company Farmacy.

Let’s now talk about the food!

Hotdogs

Of course, a visit to Pink’s won’t be complete without trying their hotdogs, especially their signature chili hotdog—The Hollywood Legend. The sausage is juicy and has a nice snap, sandwiched in a soft, toasted bun. Then it’s topped with cheddar cheese, mustard, onions, and their signature chili which is flavorful and slightly spicy. I just wish the cheddar is sharper so it doesn’t get drowned out in the flavors.

Aside from The Hollywood Legend, the East L.A. Street Dog, which has Mexican flavor due to the pico de gallo, and Breakfast All Day Dog, which has crispy potatoes and a fried egg on top, are worth trying. And both have bacon-wrapped hotdogs!

Burger

Now, the reason I went to Pink’s!

There are a few varieties available—Barbecue, breakfast, and chili. But I’m sticking to the classic: Cheeseburger with add-on bacon.

The patty is juicy and nicely minced, sandwiched between two toasted, soft buns. The relish and burger sauce are sweet and tangy, and the veggies give a nice crunch.

But for me, the real winner is the bacon. It’s perfectly crisp and melt-in-the-mouth fatty! So don’t forget to add it!

Erwan is right! This is one of the best burgers I have ever had in Manila! I should try the chili next and upgrade with another patty!

Side Orders

What goes well with burgers and hotdogs? Sides, of course!

You can’t go wrong with French Fries and Onion Rings. Bundle them along with your burgers and hotdogs so you can save (portions are huge and same as ala carte).

If you want something unique, try their Popcorn, which is sprinkled with salted egg powder and made tastier with bacon bits. It’s addicting!

But if you’re hungry, go for the The Pink Platter, which has Buffalo Chicken Wings, Chili Cheese Fries, and onion rings. I must say that the wings are delicious, having a nice acidity from the hot sauce.

The Pink Platter (P820). We opted to have the chili and jalapeños of the fries on the side because my wife doesn’t like spicy.

The only letdown among the side orders I’ve tried so far are the Mini Corn Dogs. I didn’t like how the batter is cooked.

My wife and I fell in love with Pink’s Manila. We loved the atmosphere (especially its breezy al fresco dining) and more importantly its food. Even though it may not be the same as the ones in the States, its delicious nonetheless. I highly recommend it to you. And kudos to the Wildflour group for bringing this Hollywood Legend!

For Pink’s Manila branches and operating hours, check their Facebook and Instagram accounts. You can also check their website.