Five Restaurants to Try in Salcedo Village
I love food. In fact, I love food more than I love people. And if there’s one question I have in mind when it comes to exploring places I’m not familiar with, it’s always: What’s a good restaurant to try?
I’m a huge fan of the Kapitolyo area, mainly because this was where my family discovered Poco Deli one afternoon while my sister and cousins were at tutor (their tutor place is right beside the now popular restaurant, which recently opened a new branch in Ayala Triangle). I also frequently visit Maginhawa, where a number of small yet yummy (and budget-friendly) hidey-hole places have emerged.
So when I started working in Crazy Monkeys Design Studio last November 2012, who’s office is located in the heart of Valero Street, Salcedo Village, Makati—I spent the first few lunch breaks exploring the area I knew I’d be in forty-five hours a week. The only thing I really knew about Salcedo Village prior to working there was that they had the infamous Salcedo Market (where my uncle and aunt have a regular stall selling the most delicious chicken empanadas in town), open every Saturday from 7am to 2pm. It is, without a doubt, foodie heaven.
My quest to find good places to eat in began my first day on the job. It’s still a long journey—I have yet to try many other places I hear are really good. But for now, here are five restaurants you definitely have to try in Salcedo Village.
1. Relish at Ponte (P300 to P500)
G/F, Ponte Salcedo Building, 120 Valero Street
(02) 843-4075
Love the ambience! It’s serene and homey, and very ideal for an afternoon with friends. One of their best sellers is the slow-roasted grilled beef belly. You can even reserve the entire place if you want to throw a small party. They have a variety of wines and signature cocktails available on their menu.
2. Chocolate Fire (P300 to P500)
G/F PDCP Bank Centre, Leviste Street cor. Rufino Street
(02) 840-3473
I had dinner and drinks here with friends, and if there’s one thing I love, it’s that the place is filled with chocolate. (I have a weakness for anything chocolate!) Chocolate Fire’s mouthwatering desserts are creative, including their Chocolate Cappuccino Ganache Cake. I also like having a good cup of tea here during lunch or in the afternoon.
3. Apartment 1B (P500 to P800)
G/F Unit 1-B One Lafayette Square, 132 Sedeno Street
(02) 843-4075
Hands down, I fell in love with their Three Cheese Vegetable Lasagna—which consisted of ricotta, parmesan, and loads of mozzarella. The ambience is perfect for a romantic date. It’s small, intimate and cozy. I wouldn’t mind coming back here again.
4. Persia Grill (P150 to P300)
Valero Carpark 2, Valero Street
(02) 818-9090
If you’re a fan of kebabs, then you’ll surely enjoy Persia Grill’s. The place is always packed though, but their prices aren’t as expensive and the beef kebab is really good.
5. BrewKus (P300 to P500)
Unit G-02, 139 Corporate Center, 139 Valero Street
(02) 856-7656
I liked my experience here. It was quiet and I was able to enjoy a good book while munching on their Crisp Mushroom Ravioli and Salted Caramel Cheesecake. The staff was really friendly, too.
My mission in looking for good restaurants to try in Salcedo Village is far from over. I still have a number of places lined up, including:
• Bowler Room
• Tsumura
• XO 46 Bistro Filipino
• Claudette’s
• Rue Bourbon
• Malcolm’s Burger
• Alexa’s Deli Café and Wine Bar
Yup, this foodie is way too excited.
Photo credits: Google.com
Grabbed from an old entry from the Chimp Chatterbox: http://www.crazymonkeysdesign.com/chimpchatterbox/five-restaurants-to-try-in-salcedo-village/
