Master Hopia: The Original Pugon-Baked Hopia in Manila

Plenty of the businesses now are those that sparked out of this generation’s creativity. But there are still some businesses that have been around for decades, and still thriving and adapting to the current times. Such is the case for Master Hopia, a hopia shop that was put up way back during the 1960s.

THE STORY

Master Hopia has been around since 1969, and they take pride in being the original place where you can get fresh pugon-baked hopia! It was started by Ms. Angeli’s guakong (grandfather, mother’s side), and has since been a family business that’s jointly being run by the second generation of aunties and uncles.

Hopia has been a famous delicacy during the 60s, and they were quick to jump at this chance to offer this, initially trying to win the Chinoy market, but eventually, tapping into the hearts of everyone they come across! Unlike the packaged ones where you can get from groceries, these are guaranteed to be freshly baked daily, so you’d surely enjoy these immensely.

Currently, the third generation, comprising of Ms. Angeli and her cousins, have been working hard in bringing this family business into the digital world. They are now part of the online and marketing arm of Master Hopia.

THE FOOD

Master Hopia is known for being the original when it comes to serving their customers with pugon-baked hopia. It’s better when eaten right away as freshly baked ones tend to have a crisp crust and moist filling. And best of all, it will still be warm if you eat it right away! These pugon-baked hopias sells at Php 12 a piece, quite affordable already, if you ask me.

If you prefer a savory snack, you may also give their Chicken Pies a try. These pies have a flaky crust that’s not too thick, and ample filling to keep you filled with just one piece. It retails at Php 40 per piece.

THE VERDICT

HOPIA

Master Hopia’s pugon-baked hopia comes in a wide variety of flavors, and there is surely one that will hit the spot. For people who like the classic flavors, the Monggo flavor (mung bean) for you. It is not too sweet, too! Sweet tooths would like Kundol flavor, while those who want a savory twist would definitely crave for their Baboy flavor, another classic. Cheese flavor wasn’t too flavorful for me, and I was hoping it will have a melty center.

Personally, I enjoyed the Ube flavor, though I wish the ube filling was creamier than it is. Taste-wise though, it was good! Macapuno flavor also made me smile, as I almost felt like I was eating bite sized buko pies. And finally, while the Yema flavor was quite sweet, it reminded me of the Yema triangles I used to eat during my childhood. Yum!

Whichever flavor you choose, these pugon-baked hopias will definitely make for a good merienda or dessert.

CHICKEN PIE

If you want a savory treat, their Chicken Pie could be your best bet. Each crisp pie if filled with flavorful shredded chicken breast. I’d prefer if it were bigger that it is, but the overflowing filling makes up for it. The best part is, heating it a bit makes the filling moist and tasty, so make sure to eat it while it’s warm!

Aside from the famous hopia and pies, they have recently came up with several new items including: Peanut Tikoy Rolls, and Custard Cakes. Both seem to be gain traction too, as seen on their social media accounts.

Do check them out when you get the chance! #SupportLocal

Master Hopia has a physical store located in 206 Villalobos Street, Quiapo, Manila. If you cannot drop by, they can cater to your order via delivery (book your own preferred courier). For inquiries and orders, you may contact them through their Facebook account.