Having a meal with the individuals you spend most of your week with and deviating from the regular work schedule has a unique quality. Only now was I able to do exactly that. Lunch at Texas Joe's House of Ribs, smack in the middle of Subic Bay Freeport Zone, was shared with my colleagues. And let me say it was a great escape.
Perfect for a quick food trip, the day was warm and sunny. Texas Joe's has been on our radar for some time mostly because folks would not stop talking about it. Visitors swarm this location, and today I know why. I knew this would be more than just a typical lunch out the moment we entered.
The ambiance was really genuine! We seemed to be taken to a little, primitive Mexican ranch house. Though it was not in a depressing manner, the low lighting accentuated the cosiness of the venue.
It had a real Southern atmosphere thanks in part to wooden interiors, Mexican-inspired decor, and quiet background country music. It was the sort of location where one could simply unwind and savor the present.
We had a great table where we could still see some sunshine slinking through. We were all eager to sample something different as we looked over the menu. The cuisine was Tex-Mex, basically, and everything sounded delicious.
We ordered a little bit of everything so we could all sample several dishes. Perfectly grilled with melty cheese and just the proper amount of flavor, the Chicken Quesadillas individually delighted me.
I happened to glance at the menu and noticed that some of the items were a bit on the pricey side—like the steamed rice, which costs around $1.20. Hehe, I personally find that a little expensive for plain rice. But hey, sometimes we just have to bend our budgeting rules a bit and treat ourselves to the food we really want to try.
Around the table, people laughed a lot. We discussed about childhood, aspirations, families, and even the tiny challenges we seldom bring up at work. Just being ourselves—no emails, no deadlines, no meetings—felt good—real connection.
The meat was incredibly tender and packed with flavor—perfectly seasoned, juicy with every bite, and so soft it practically melted in your mouth. That smoky taste that made it unforgettable.
The vegetables were absolutely delicious—crunchy, fresh, and full of flavor.They were the ideal side dish, complementing the rich meat perfectly and adding a refreshing touch to the meal.
They also have a variety of different sauces you can choose from.
Texas Joe has lived up to the buzz. It is a site that brings people together, not merely a tourist spot. The service was excellent; the quantities were reasonable, and the atmosphere? Right on. I would most definitely advise anyone visiting Subic Bay Freeport Zone. This eatery is worth visiting whether your taste is for nachos, ribs, or just a friendly place to eat.
Still talking and smiling, as we left the restaurant. The simple events like this are a wonderful meal, a comfortable space, and excellent company.
