Spanish casual restaurant Tomatito recently opened its doors in Opus Mall, a new and upscale retail haven located in Bridgetowne Estates in Quezon City. Especially for people living and working in the north part of the metro, this is a new hip and happening hub to indulge in flavorful paellas, well-loved tapas, and other savory Spanish dishes. So, get ready to raise your Sangria glasses and say “Bienvenida!” while enjoying great food amidst the fun, and funky vibe of this ‘sexy’ tapas bar, while savoring contemporary Spanish flair with every bite.
Tapas, also known as signature snacks and small plates, and arguably one of Spain’s most well-known contributions to world cuisine, are authentic and well executed at Tomatito. Salmon TNT, for instance, smoked salmon rolls sitting atop of little air bags with cream cheese and honey and truffle), should be devoured the “two fingers, one bite” way, then…boom, delicious flavors explodes in your mouth. Assorted sexy bites include Pulpo Tomatito (grilled octopus, ham, potato confit, aioli, paprika and extra virgin olive oil), Croquetas (fried potato balls with bechamel made fun and flavorful with jamon and chorizo) and Patatas bravas, Tomatito’s take on fries.
Looking for something that’s both satisfying and tasty? The Filete Air Baguette (two thinly sliced steaks wrapped around an air baguette with Manchego cheese explosion), plus the Gambas Al Ajillo, and the Chipirones Andaluza (deep-fried baby squid) tick all the boxes and have become the most popular Pintxos.
Apart from these appetizers, you may also start with greens such as the Ensalada Verde or the Parillada de Verduras, a colorful medley grilled veggies and mushrooms, that will get your palates ready for the Spanish entrees.
What’s a special Spanish meal without a Paella, Spain’s most well-loved culinary delight? At Tomatito, you’ll never go wrong with their assorted Arroces (rice) like the Paella Verduras (vegetarian), the classic Paella Valenciana, Paella El Chiringuito (with shellfish, shrimp and squid), the signature Paella Negra, Paella Mar y Montanya (pork ribs, squid, shrimp), Paella Iberica (Iberian [ork shoulder, ham, butifarra, shimeji mushrooms, truffle aioli), and Paella Cochinillo—all served with authentic flavors from the kitchen to every table in a traditional Spanish paellera. Tomatito makes perfect paellas, and the wealth of toppings as well as the lightly toasted ‘socarrat’ underneath will never disappoint.
Tomatito also boasts of an array of La Chachineria (cold cuts and cheeses), Pescados Y Carnes (fish and meats) including Pollo Asado, a roasted chicken with grilled vegetables, as well as prime sets, and Para dos Combos which are great for sharing. Pair your dishes with your favorite wines and handcrafted cocktails such as the Rebujito de Tomatito (sherry, mint, bubbles) or the Bubbly Passionfruit Sangria (white wine, gin, passionfruit and bubbles) and other bebidas, cervezas, and cocteles at the bar. To end your meal on a sweet note, peruse the Dulce Tentacion section in the menu and find decadent desserts such as Churros Dos Salsas (comes served with chocolate and dulce de leche dip) and other cake and ice cream options.
The restaurant’s name was inspired by Spanish Flamenco guitarist José Fernández Torres, also known as Tomatito (or “little tomato”). The concept is a mix of Spanish popular culture, a seductive red theme, similar to Spanish bars of the 80’s but offering a modern twist with bold and unique accents and lively interiors that are sure to pique your interest. Tomatito was first introduced in Shanghai in 2014 by maverick Spanish chef, Willy Trullas Moreno. It also has branches in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. In the Philippines, Tomatito has branches at the BGC Corporate Center in Taguig City; Estancia at Capitol Commons, Pasig City; and now at the Level 1 Garden area of Opus Bridgetowne, Quezon City. The restaurant is part of The Bistro Group, the company which owns and operates Bistronomia, a collection of boutique Spanish/Mediterranean restaurants, Las Flores, Rambla, BCN by Las Flores, Rumba, and Tomatito.
Tomatito’s opening in Opus gives more diners another a great place to loosen up and unwind with friends, have a fiesta with family, or enjoy even with just a party of two. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a night out, Tomatito Opus’ sexy tapas, pintxos, paellas, bebidas, and bombas are waiting and waving. So, vamonos amigos!
