Many restaurant interiors are done in black, or combined with lighter hues. But there is one dining chain whose movers are internationally in-demand interior designers who have opted for a more cheerful, spring-like ambiance in their elegant restos.

 

Relish Café

2/L, Madison Galleries, Alabang Hills

 

This is the newest member of the Almario chain. As with their other restaurants, it has a lively, fresh vibe. Plus, the chef has surprisingly tweaked some of the traditional recipes.

 

Dining area—Interiors are in light gray with white accents. Fresh flowers in lovely yellows and greens are on the tables, with place mats matching the flowery design on the menu cover. Baskets of greens hang from lamps overhead. It is a happy place.

 

Service—The kitchen is quick to release orders.

 

Staff—Graciously welcoming

 

Suggested orders—The menu is enticing. Start with a tall glass of refreshing cucumber drink. This will last the slow drinker the whole meal. The Amazing Artichoke dip lives up to its name; it’s really amazing how the vegetable dubbed a “nobility” in Roman times has evolved into a creamy dip, the bulb minced and mixed with two kinds of cheese, mayo and spices. It’s a super appetizer with the taco-style chips.

 

Then try the Roasted Pumpkin soup to warm the tummy. Follow up with another tweaked dish, the Chori-Prawns on a bed of fresh greens—a combination of minced Spanish chorizo and prawns.

 

For the main dish, there’s Braised Lamb Shank simmered in red wine, rosemary and tomatoes. Fabulous blend of flavors!

 

Punctuate the hearty meal with a piece (for sharing) of Rhum cake, a house specialty. Coffee is robust and should provide the final perk.

 

Government tax and service charge are included in the bill. Senior cards are honored.

 

Rating – 3 Spoons