I had just come from a long lunch, and yes, I was quite full. But then I got a call from my good friend Richie, and he asked if I was doing anything after. I said no, so he invited me to Bolero, which, unknown to me, was a Michelin awardee. I was sufficiently intrigued, so of course, I heartily said yes, and my tummy suddenly was far less occupied.
I’m not sure if Richie invited me because of the restaurant name, as a decade ago, I had a photo taken in the Raffles’ Long Bar, where the word was prominently featured in a glorious painting displayed there. Nonetheless, I was sufficiently intrigued. “Bolero” refers to a slow and sensuous dance of Spanish origin, and not the notorious Filipino slang term. And that being cleared up, I headed to the BGC.
Atmosphere and Afternoon Spirits
I arrived at half past two, and was surprised to see a lot of tables occupied, and people were still trickling in, as I was at that hour. It reminded me of our hangouts back during our college days, Tia Maria and Aunt Mary’s Aunt, where we would cut classes and enjoy the afternoon, drinking and yes, more drinking. But these days, the current generation seeks solace in coffee, so that’s their loss. Meanwhile, I decided to start with that classic cocktail, the Aperol Spritz, the irresistible sparkling orange cocktail, so popular initially all over Europe, and now, globally as well. It was refreshingly exquisite.
The Vision Behind Bolero
At that point, Anna, Bolero’s general manager, joined us. She mentioned that Chef Fernando Alcalá of Michelin-recognized Kava in Marbella, Spain, was looking for new opportunities, and chanced upon the Philippines, and hence, Bolero was born. It showcases Modern European cuisine, in a casual chic setting. And it is, comfortable wooden chairs and long broad tables for the expected delights to come. The main wall is dominated by a humongous bar, featuring their bestseller, Mexico’s divine Clase Azul Reposado tequila. Excellent!
First Bites: Ricotta and Dan-Dan Rice
We started off our “merienda” with ricotta, spread elegantly, luxuriously creamy, topped with mint, and served with green onion egg waffles. It was an extremely satisfying dip, and the waffles were toasted and filling. The Dan-Dan Rice followed, a slow-cooked spicy beef sofrito, with eggplants, and surprisingly, peanuts.
This was similar to a paella, rich, and served in a rectangular pan. This was essentially erased from our plates, as it was quite addicting. The flavors and texture contrasted beautifully, and it was one of our favorites that afternoon.
The Main Event (and Next Time’s Lasagna)
Our main course followed, the Slow-Braised Lamb Leg, with mangosteen ketchup. It was mouth watering, and was instantly demolished as well. Bold flavors, and thoughtful craft. This really was Michelin worthy. I looked over at the next table, where my eyes were treated to the most interesting lasagna I’d ever seen, two sheets only, but massive, and charcoal grilled. I was now super duper full, and I remembered that essentially, this was my second lunch in four hours. The lasagna had to wait for my next visit.
A Triumphant Finale: Spain’s Best Cheesecake
I was about to say no more~ until this wonderful slice of cheesecake appeared. “Spain’s Best” , it said on the menu. Now I’ve been to San Sebastian, and tasted its burnt basque cheesecake, but this slice, all the way in Manila, undoubtedly superseded that. The torta de quezo was sooo creamy, it demanded to be eaten quickly. No wonder, every table ordered this. I believe it’s the bestseller, and deservedly so.
I looked at my watch, and was surprised to find out it was past five. We spent almost three hours noshing and chatting like old friends. I loved it. The kind of friendship that develops in a restaurant or bar, that seems to have been built for you. Michelin worthy items on the menu, that practically demanded that you go back for more visits. I surrender, and yes, I plan to return. And that’s no bola, Bolero!
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