As foodpanda continues to help the food and beverage industry survive and thrive in the new normal, the on-demand food delivery service feted outstanding establishments that embody the inspiring Filipino traits of determination and resilience.
The pandawards, which celebrate business and entrepreneur excellence under foodpanda, served as the latest of several initiatives designed to show support and appreciation to its growing family of partners and consumers.
“Cooking and concocting something new is a way of life for food and beverage businesses, but the recent year proved to be a test of their character that was beyond their comfort zone," said Daniel Marogy, foodpanda Philippines managing director.
"Through pandawards, we are able to highlight inspiring figures whose hard work, creativity, and positive attitude led to their success. Their stories are an inspiration for homegrown and start-up brands in fighting and winning in the business,” he added.
G Who and Zyberus of Filipino beatbox group Microphone Mechanics, disguised as foodpanda riders out to pick up orders, dropped the beat in an impromptu awarding ceremony on the best of the best, according to customer feedback.
Summa Cum Panda Award: 24 Chicken
Winning the “Summa Cum Panda Award” was 24 Chicken, a Korean fried chicken chain that ranks as one of the highest-rated restaurants on foodpanda with a whopping average of 4.682 stars.
With its high-quality ingredients and budget-friendly prices, 24 Chicken has come a long way since its owner Jeff started the business in 2017 as a one-man team who did all the cooking and deliveries. The brand now has seven branches and an assortment of exciting flavors to choose from, including one of the best-sellers — Jack Daniels boneless deep-fried chicken
“[We are] very grateful for this award,” Jeff said. “We will continue to strive harder to bring the best quality and service to our customers.”
Sarap na Binabalik-balikan Award: Mark & Grace Bakeshop
Mark & Grace Bakeshop began with simple pandesal offerings in 2017. Through the dedication and hard work of its owners, the business has grown and diversified its product portfolio with special pastries.
Foodies can’t seem to get enough of Mark & Grace’s hopia ube topped with sesame seeds, Spanish bread, and fried ube, among other treats.
“Thank you foodpanda for acknowledging our efforts. We will continue to do our job very well to serve our customers,” Mark said.
Go Forth and Multiply Award: EmoTEAra Cafe
Blending the Filipinos’ love for hugot lines and milk tea, EmoTEAra Cafe is among foodpanda’s partner-restaurants with the biggest franchise expansion in recent months.
From a single store in March to 20 today, EmoTEAa Cafe owner Jeffrey said the secret to their success is compassion. He made sure to help his family and friends during the roughest stretch of the pandemic last year by giving them branches of his business.
“As a partner, tinulungan talaga ni foodpanda ‘yung life namin,” Jeffrey said.
Diskartepreneur Award: Jackson’s Fried Chicken
When the pandemic hit, foodpanda worked with the owner of Jackson’s Fried Chicken to satisfy Filipino’s fried chicken cravings. Agile, innovative, and delicious — Jackson’s Fried Chicken hit it big with its crispy and juicy chicken popcorn as well as its winning take on Pinoy spaghetti.
Juan for All, All for Juan Award: Yumzie
A strong sense of camaraderie defines the working relationship of employees for Yumzie. It has also paved the way for the snack bar to take home the pandawards “Juan for All, All for Juan Award.” Yumzie’s selling point is a hodgepodge of savory snacks from siomai to shanghai, to fries and smoothies.
Catch the creative coronation and the winners’ reactions on https://www.facebook.com/foodpandaphilippines. Like and follow the Facebook page, including foodpanda’s official Instagram account at instagram.com/foodpanda_ph. Download and order through the foodpanda app now at www.foodpanda.ph.