SEASIDE STORIES: FRESH CATCHES AND FAMILIAR FACES

In the bustling heart of Baclaran, near the iconic Redemptorist Church, lies a seafood lover's paradise: Seaside Seafood Market & Restaurant.

- RICARDO T. PAMINTUAN

Established in 1974 — long before "farm-to-table" became a trendy catchphrase — this market has been Manila's go-to destination for the freshest catch at reasonable prices.

As Anthony Bourdain once said, "Food is everything we are. It's an extension of nationalist feeling, ethnic feeling, your personal history, your province, your region, your tribe, your grandma." Nowhere is this more evident than at Seaside, where seafood is more than sustenance — it's culture, tradition, and a way of life.

I'm not sure about my grandma, but my wife and I have been Seaside fans for decades, from our days in Manila to our current provincial home. It's our market of choice whenever a seafood craving strikes. A fancy house party? Off to Seaside at 5 a.m. Hosting foreigners or balikbayans? Make that lunch reservation early at one of the paluto restaurants and give your guests a tour of the market. Along the way, you can introduce them to your suking vendor, who will be more than happy to share their expertise on selecting the best seafood.

Take, for instance, the Diego twins — Mary Ann and Miriam — fondly known as "Kambal" (the twins). We've seen them relocate a few times, yet their dedication remains unwavering. Mary Ann curates an enviable selection of marine delights while Miriam offers the juiciest fruits this side of Manila Bay (and if it's not good enough for you, she'll replace it on your next shopping day).

Their days begin at 4:30 a.m. — while most of us are still anywhere but the office. Hard work and a keen eye for quality have allowed them to build comfortable lives, send their children to top-tier schools, and own homes that might surprise those unfamiliar with their trade.