Review: Kalsada brings modern Filipino cuisine to St. Paul

I recently checked out Kalsada, a new Filipino restaurant that just opened in St. Paul.

• Created by the owners of Cafe Astoria, it serves Astoria's brunch in the morning and transitions to a low-lit, upscale restaurant and bar for dinner.

What I ate: I tried the beef pares mami ($14), a Filipino version of pho. The fragrant beef soup is paired with egg noodles, carrot, cabbage, bean sprouts and a soft-cooked egg.

• My server also recommended I try their pika pika ($13): fried shrimp, fish balls and a spicy cooked egg.

My thoughts: The stew's beef was fall-apart tender and flavorful, the broth was delicious and the toppings were a tasty complement. Even on an empty stomach, it was so filling I couldn't finish it.

• I was a little underwhelmed by the pika pika. The egg and Sawsawan sauce were very good, but the fish balls and shrimp were just fine.

Of note: I went the second day it was open, and the restaurant was still working out some kinks.

• Prime reservation times are filling up fast, but half of the dining room is reserved for walk-ins.

Visit: 1668 Selby Avenue, St. Paul. Ample street parking available.