Andrew Nicholson owns 2 Filipino restaurants in Toronto

ADOBO is a typical answer when you ask a PBA import who’s been to the Philippines for the first time about what Filipino dish he has tried.

But Andrew Nicholson’s reply will let you know how much he adores – and is knowledgeable of the local cuisine.

“(Filipino food is) amazing,” the Bay Area Dragons star said. “Pancit canton is my favorite. I love beef sisig, I love all that stuff.”

The Canadian big man loves the food so much that he owns not just one, but two Filipino restaurants in his native Toronto.

Andrew Nicholson’s Filipino restaurants

Toronto-based Pinoys who miss Filipino food can head over to The Crane Kitchen, which features Asian fusion cuisine that serves Filipino food, including meat and seafood kamayan platters. Right beside the North York spot is The Crane Express Dessert & Bar, which specializes in Halo-Halo, Ube cookies, and buko pandan, among others.

And you can find Nicholson’s favorites there.

“That’s all in our restaurants as well,” he said with a smile.

The 6-foot-9 Nicholson has been a visitor in the Philippines in the past few months, leading the Dragons in their PBA guest stint in the Commissioner’s Cup.

But the NBA veteran has had ties with Filipinos from way back.

Before starring for St. Bonaventure in college, Nicholson studied high school at Father Michael Goetz, a Catholic school in Ontario that, according to Nicholson, is predominantly Filipino. He eventually met Filipino Clyde Pacis, who has been his friend for over a decade and is now his business partner.

A Physics major at St. Bonaventure, Nicholson has been turning passion into profit as he also runs The Paper Crane & Co. – a merchandising business that offers signages and web design.

Nicholson, who turned 33 last December 8, dipped his toes into the food business with an established brand.

After all, Nicholson once operated a Max’s Restaurant franchise, before switching to their current food businesses.

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So don’t be surprised to see him feel right at home in the country and its food.

“Absolutely. I’ve been to the Philippines a couple times before. I really love the country. I love the culture. I love everything about it. It’s nice here, the food’s great. It’s a very good climate, so I’m just happy to be here.”