If you’re hankering for Mediterranean fare that’s rich in flavor and designed for sharing, there’s a new restaurant in Makati that might get your vote. Tapenade recently opened at G/F, Discovery Primea, Ayala Avenue, where Gilarmi Apartments once stood.
Now, the newest luxury hotel from the Discovery Leisure Company caters to corporate and leisure travelers with its 141 guest rooms and suites, and 90 serviced apartments.
During a recent visit, we headed straight to Tapenade’s salad room. Unlike other hotel restaurants that might offer a salad bar within the buffet with a couple types of lettuces, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers and a choice of dressing, Tapenade has gone several steps further with a dedicated salad room.
Inside, you can cobble together your own salad or choose from several premade ones placed in chilled bowls. There is a selection of bread and dips like mashed eggplant and pureed chickpeas as well as cheeses and cold cuts arranged on platters.
Guests can opt for a light lunch or dinner with items from the salad room or they can also order one of several Mediterranean-inspired entrées created by chef Luis Chikiamco and his staff.
“The Mediterranean diet is known for its health benefits, without sacrificing flavor. This is why we decided to offer a gourmet and healthy alternative to the usual buffet experience,” he said in a statement.
That afternoon, the chef sent out a number of entrees including Pumpkin Agnolotti, sweet pumpkin with rosemary brown butter and crispy prosciutto; Chicken Tagine with green olives and lemon confit; and Porcini-Crusted US Angus Ribeye that everyone at the table was able to taste and enjoy.
The chef also has a delicious fish dish with a crust of flavorful homemade pesto. If you like fish, this is one worth trying.
“Mediterranean cuisine is very friendly or familiar to Filipinos, thanks to our Spanish heritage. We chose dishes to showcase flavors that have familiar yet unique tastes,” Chikiamco said.
Tapenade is located next to the hotel’s Gilarmi Lounge just off the main lobby. Guests can enjoy Filipino-inspired bar chow and premium draft beers at the lounge but, if they want something heartier, they can head to Tapenade.
For inquiries, call 9558888. Tapenade is at G/F, Discovery Primea, 6749 Ayala Ave., Makati City.