It was almost 12 noon and the group was undecided on where to lunch. The car went past a gated village in Makati, on to Pasong Tamo extension, and a most satisfying meal was had in a restaurant quietly located in an interior area, away from the main road.
On another day, dinner at a pioneer Chinese outlet offered long-time favorite table fare.
Terry Selection
Unit 2, Kirriviri Plaza, 2316 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati; tel. no. 8441816.
The place is patronized mostly by Spanish food aficionados who, before or after a meal, browse around the store to buy premium food items, from Marron Glace to Jabuco ham.
Dining area: The stairs going up the second floor has ropes that serve as balustrade. The hall is huge, decorated with Iberian paintings. Light is muted, the place very quiet, diners are almost whispering to each other. It is elegant in its own way.
Service: The menu is handed, but most diners already know what they want to have, which means most of the guests are regulars. Drinks are ordered and served quickly.
Staff: Unobtrusive but responsive and knowledgeable.
Suggested order: A pitcher of Sangria or a bottle of red wine may start one’s meal. Never miss the little flaming “pig” where a chorizo is roasting. Start with it and satisfy your cravings.
It may not be in the menu but the chef can prepare a Seafood Paella in the manner that Black Paella is done, with squid ink giving it a distinct flavor. Follow up with Duck Confit, perfectly done in its fat, each bite a tender sensation.
Then have the Angel Pasta, never mind the additional carbo; it is good with Ementhal Newburg sauce, giving it the elegant taste of butter cream sherry. Punctuate the meal with any of the sweets like Tocino del Cielo.
Government taxes and service charge are added to the bill. Senior cards are honored.
Rating***
Gloria Maris
Theatre Drive, Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa City; tel. 8508802.
Needless to say, the restaurant satisfies one’s craving for Chinese food. It is also ideal for big group gatherings, memorable events, even wedding receptions. This is actually a no-frills dining place; quick service and considerably good food are its aces.
Dining area: This is a huge place where the second floor can accommodate a sizeable group. Red is the color motif of its table cloths, décor etc. The spacing of tables allows easy movement.
Service: Quick—when ordering packaged meals, the dishes come fast.
Staff: Most of them may have logged on long years of service here. They move almost automatically and with efficiency.
Suggested order: Drink your tea and munch on the kropek. The usual cold cuts can then come; the Roast Pork is particularly crispy.
Proceed to the popular Sharks Fin Soup. Order their Chinese-style Fried Chicken, the tender Steak, and the Spareribs with Bean Sauce, and not to forget the Fried Rice. Buche is a good dessert, unless one wants the Taho.
Service charge and government taxes are added to the bill. Senior cards are honored.
Rating**