Molito, which means “small mall,” is a new shopping complex in Alabang that’s buzzing with the opening of chain eateries, among them Wooden Horse Steak House, which serves good beef. In another part of town—in Eastwood, to be exact—a lechon fix is offered everyday at Somethin’ Fishy, an eat-all-you-can restaurant.
Wooden Horse Steak House
G/F, Units 2 and 3 Molito Commercial Center, Madrigal Avenue corner Alabang-Zapote Road, Muntinlupa City; tel. 6597522
The board posted by the entrance was the strong come-on. So one day, this diner, while not a steak hound, walked in and was instantly led to a seat with view of the active complex. If a diner wants a different ambiance where he or she can enjoy a good steak, this is the place.
Dining area—Done much like a Western restaurant, where one could almost expect the Lone Ranger and his Tonto to barge in, swinging a lasso. The interior is done in massive dark brown wood, and the chairs and tables are of sturdy material. Dotting the hall are cowboy figures, an oak barrel, and a bench done on a pair of wheels. Period photos are on one wall.
Service—Every dish is served on a sizzling plate and cooked the moment an order is made; waiting time is only a few minutes.
Staff—Polite, unobtrusive, but, almost by instinct, they come as soon as a diner makes eye contact or waves a hand. They are garbed in black cowboy or cowgirl outfits, complete with hats and boots.
Suggested orders—Needless to say, go for the steaks, done as desired with sidings of either mashed potatoes, rice or bread, carrots and beans. For starters, get the Chicken Quesadillas and then choose your beef—Angus Rib-eye, T-bone or Teriyaki-flavored. Less expensive but just as filling and flavorful is the hamburger selection, which includes the Wafu with a slightly Japanese seasoning. Be careful about immediately digging into your meal, as it comes straight from the stove and could burn your tongue.
The resto offers a Kids’ Menu of Little Cowboy, Little Indian and Little Sheriff. Service charge and government taxes are added to the bill. Seniors are given due discounts.
Rating
– 3 Spoons
Somethin’ Fishy
Eastwood Walk, Quezon City
One day, when we were looking for a restaurant that serves whole lechon daily, this one came to mind. The resto belongs to the chain that pioneered the eat-all-you-can, no-leftovers concept of dining.
Dining area—Always full, so come early or make a reservation. You will walk into a huge hall with an expansive array of food. Tables are arranged so close to each other that it is quite difficult to move about.
Service—Reception is gracious and diners are immediately shown to a table.
Staff—Accommodating. While one is to serve him- or herself through the buffet spread, an attendant can be called and asked to get some dish, like a fresh serving of kare-kare (from the kitchen) or additional lechon.
Suggested choices—Go and start light at the Japanese corner where sushi and sashimi are, together with many others. Walk through the buffet spread, get a bit of lechon (be early so you get it fresh) and choose more main courses, from dinuguan to kare-kare. Halo-halo is your best bet for dessert.
Service charge and government taxes are added to the bill. Senior cards are honored.
Rating
– 2 Spoons.
