The Burgos Circle in Forbes Town Center, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, is not easy to find. Looking for it, we ended up on the circuitous driveway of a tall building and ended down on street level down below.
On the other side of town is Omakase, a Japanese restaurant, which never fails to satisfy our craving for a Japanese meal, hence it is a frequently visited dining place.
1521 – FIFTEEN TWENTY-ONE
Burgos Circle, Forbes Town Center, Fort Bonifacio Global city; tel. 5521910
For a group of more than six, the best place to be is on the second level, but the steps are rather challenging to the weak of knees.
Dining area—The management tried to recreate a dining room reminiscent of the Spanish colonial era. On the walls are blown-up images of people in period costumes, which one diner said were not quite of that era. Whatever, this diner was brought back to remembering Lola’s kitchen and dining room.
Service—Regular, considering the kitchen is downstairs.
Staff—Neat, accommodating, knowledgeable
Suggested menu—Credit must be given those who labeled their offerings with original Filipino catchy names. But first, take a glass of refreshing camias juice. Take Dinamitang Queso (cheese wrapped with chili). Go through Ma Amoy Ulam (meaning savor the aroma of temptingly flavored dishes), among which are Talong Mo kay Tulfo (eggplant omelette), Busog na Bangus (rice-stuffed Bangus), Bawang na Manok (chicken cooked with garlic), Hubad na Suman. Whatever it is one prefers, all dishes are done well with blended flavors.
Usual service and government charges are included in the bill. Senior cards are honored.
Rating **
OMAKASE
Basement, Susana Center, Acacia, Alabang, Muntinlupa; tel. 4673150
Unless reservation is made, diners must come early because the restaurant gets full, one may have to fall in line. Beyond looking for new places, we often revisit some to check if quality of food and service is maintained or improved.
Service—Fast. A lady receptionist efficiently checks reservations or availability of table, then leads the guests to their table.
Staff—Most of them recognize frequent diners. They are gracious, even the male attendants.
Suggested menu—The tried and tested fresh sushi and sashimi starters. Plus Japanese fried rice to go with the always crispy Tempura (mixed or prawns alone), succulent Teriyaki Chicken and Tender Beef Sirloin in their special sauces. Cap the meal with either Coffee Jelly or Tempura Ice Cream (this one takes a bit of time to prepare).
The place has indeed maintained the quality of food and service.
Service and government taxes are charged. Senior cards are honored.
Rating ***
