Before Filipino Heritage Month ends, I wanted to write this blog post to shout out one of my favourite small businesses, which not only are extremely nice anytime I see them but also produce one of the best sweets I’ve ever had! I’ll explain in this blog post, and I highly recommend you check them out after reading my review. Before reading below, make sure to follow me on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook as I will be posting more food content! For a preview of what to expect watch this video below!
About
Tito Parley’s is a small storefront located at 104 Lupin Drive, Whitby, Ontario, selling popular Filipino desserts, silvanas, and sans rival. There is a decent amount of free parking available, and they do run on limited operating hours (open Friday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Tito Parley’s is run by an awesome husband-and-wife duo, Parley and Charmaine, who are super nice and welcoming. Literally the first time I came here, I was coming from an appointment, and they greeted me with such kindness that I knew I wanted to support them from the first conversation. Since then, I have purchased numerous times from them and have always been welcomed with a great attitude. They told me this started as a passion project, and they were working hard and ultimately decided to set up shop here. They also appear at special event markets, especially in Scarborough, which Parley has a connection to (because of their vibe, I initially thought they both were from Scarborough). They also do orders online and have some of their products at different shops, but it’s best to go to their store to get the best experience! Tip: go earlier during the day so certain flavours don’t sell out when you arrive!
In case you were wondering what Silvanas and Sans Rival are, they are both popular Filipino desserts that are primarily made with meringue, buttercream, and nuts. However, the difference is the size, texture, and the way it is served. Sans Rival is a rich, layered cake that is soft and served chilled. While Silvanas are pretty much an ice cream cookie sandwich version of Sans Rival, they are more crunchy, handheld, and served frozen! It is believed that Sans Rival Cakes and Silvanas originated and were popularized by Filipino bakers in Dumaguete City, Philippines. It’s a perfect blend of Filipino culinary and creativity mixed with traditional European dessert techniques. Tip: Be cautious of allergies; they do a good job of asking and also stating it on the packaging, but good to ask when you go.
Price
Although at first glance you might think the prices are high but you do get a lot in each bite, so it’s worth it, especially if you’re treating yourself or others for a special occasion. I personally think the mini ones are the best value for $15, as you get to try various flavours while still enjoying the sweet flavours. However, I will say that for my mom’s birthday, I got the Sans Rival in ube flavour for $65, and it was incredible, great flavour and texture while lasting a few days. Their products do have a shelf life of four weeks, so you’re good. However, I recommend you get their limited edition flavours, even individually, whenever you can, because it can be a while since they come back.
Taste
I wish I had taken notes each time I tried it, but unfortunately didn’t. I will say that when I first visited them, I tried their pandan flavour, which was limited, and it still ranks as my favourite! It was really good because I love how the pandan flavour is the star, where you can enjoy the sweetness without it being too overpowering, and the coconut shavings on top add more character and flavour to the overall treat. My other favourite flavours of theirs are the kopiko, ube, cardamom, matcha, classic, and hazelnut! All their silvanas have great crunch and texture with the nuts and cream inside, but just be mindful when eating, s it can get messy! I would also try their Sans Rival if you can order in advance because it is really filling and tastes better days after when you put pieces in the freezer. Tip: when getting their silvanas bring a cooler bag and put it in the freezer when you get home and take it out 5 minutes before eating if you want it a bit soft.
Overall
All in all, Tito Parley’s offers great products and a great vibe each time I have ordered from them, and I strongly suggest you support their business! Although I have been around Filipino people and Filipino food, I only heard about silvanas through them, and I am so glad I did because it’s a treat that my whole family enjoys! Let me know if you try, and make sure to follow the blog for more food content by giving a follow on Before reading below, make sure to follow on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook!