I have heard of Mateo’s multiple times throughout the years I’ve lived in Sioux City, but since it was somewhat out of my way in Sergeant Bluff, I kept forgetting about it. That’s until I
I have heard of Mateo’s multiple times throughout the years I’ve lived in Sioux City, but since it was somewhat out of my way in Sergeant Bluff, I kept forgetting about it. That’s until I decided to do Asian Food Month on my blog.
Building a great reputation
From the annual Small Business Expo, to Downtown Partners startup society, to various bridal fairs I’ve attended, I have seen Mateo’s at multiple events. Sampling food to event goers, reminding them about their catering options, and inviting patrons to try their restaurant.
Opening their doors in November 2018, Mateo’s has steadily become one of the go-to unique and authentic restaurants for Siouxlanders. I’ve heard raving reviews about their dishes, and being that my step-mom is from the Philippines, I’ve been wanting to try this place out for a while now. So, one evening my husband and I specifically set aside time to make our jaunt out here, enjoy a simple diner date, and learn more about Filipino food.
Our initial visit
Upon arriving, off to my right was a mini grocery store with authentic snacks and food from the Philippines! But first we headed to the front desk, ordered our meal, then settled in at our table. Once we got our drinks, and while we waited for our meal, I proceeded to walk around, scoping out all these new product names and labels I had never seen before.
Narrowing down several grocery items we would be adding to our bill before we left, I made my way back to our table just as our appetizers arrived. Starting off with seafood balls and Lumpiang Gulay, which looks like egg rolls, but are not. Consisting of sauteed vegetables, French beans and tofu, this was an excellent introduction to Filipino food.
Being brave with our stomachs
Ordering Kare Kare for myself, my husband got the Pancit Malabon, both were very well prepared, and we both agreed that we will be back to try more off their menu. Now to the fun part, picking out Filipino snacks! No surprise here, my eyes were first drawn to the chocolate Pillows, and then the spicy noodle packs. I had to get one of each, and my husband was super excited about finally finding the sweet and sour sauce he usually gets at the grocery store, but unfortunately, they stopped carrying it. Our pantry has been out of this savory sauce for months, until now! Exclaiming “Now I found my go-to place for this stuff!”, he also picked up a couple cans of spicy canned tuna.
As a side note, the past two years, we have successfully eliminated big box stores from our lives, relying heavily on locally owned small businesses for our purchasing needs, and now we are setting a new two-year goal to eliminate mainstream grocery stores for our buying habits. Our goal is to redirect our weekly trips to the grocery store, and buy direct from various business owners around Siouxland. So, we were excited to find a new gem to add to our list!
Plan your visit
So, if you are looking to break out of your comfort zone, try new foods, and add some variety to your pantry, check this place out. But do like I did, and familiarize yourself with their menu (http://mateokitchen.com/) on their website so you don’t look like a deer in headlights. Also, check out their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/MateoKC2018) for an up-to-date events calendar and catering opportunities.
712-943-1551
300 1st St Suite A
Sergeant Bluff, Iowa 51054
