MANILA, Philippines—These three choices are in Quezon City, Makati and Muntinlupa. Two are Chinese restaurants with entirely different markets, and the third a tried-and-tested steak house.
The Super Bowl—A chain found in malls. The outlet visited is on the third level of The Gateway, Araneta Center, Quezon City (tel. 9139430 and 9139694.)
The dining area is in Chinese red and black. Its single round table by the door has the “laziest Susan” on top of it. It needed herculean effort to move it around. The air-conditioning unit works well, given a full house.
Staff—Very unsatisfactory service. We noted only about five people serving, surely not enough to cover a big hall, most of them giving customers their backs. It was so difficult to call their attention.
Service—Water was not readily served, not even tea. A main dish was placed on the table ahead of the dimsum.
Suggested meal—Chinese food must be eaten when one has company, preferably from three up, or be limited to very few dishes. Kropecs were on the table. Start with a mix of shanghai rolls, siopao, siomai (P240). If celebrating a birth anniversary, you can try these—Crispy Noodles and/or Birthday Noodles (P230), Golden Fish Fillet with Melted Cheese in Garlic (which actually saved our day, P230), Hunan Tofu with Chili Pork Cutlets (P200) with so-called Super Yang Chow Rice (P395) for a big platter. For dessert, the usual Gulaman (P65) and Almond Jelly with Fruits (P65).
Chinese coffee is normally weak. Move to Figaro on the lower level and enjoy truly robust brewed or blended coffee with the popular rum cake, Food for the Gods and more.
Rating:*
Tin Hau—second floor, Manila Mandarin, Makati (tel. 7508888).
The dining area, spacious, bright and quiet. Two giant aquariums by the entrance give the place a cool atmosphere. Tables have pink brocade cloths, chairs are comfortable. Menus (of set meals) are on each table. There are function rooms for private parties. Ideal to bring kids here.
Staff—A cheongsam-clad receptionist checks reservations, then leads guests to tables where the staff in Chinese-inspired white tops and black trousers with slits that go up to there, take over. They are gracious and smiling. The male restaurant supervisor readily comes when diners seem to be unattended.
Service—nearly impeccable and unobtrusive. Plates, drinks, dishes are introduced by the staff quietly. Tea is constantly hot.
Suggested meal—they have dispensed with the daily buffet and instead offer regular set meals, periodic promo dishes on the higher scale and dimsum. We chose one of the set meals (for 2-4) at P838. This consisted of a duo of appetizers, Szechuan Hot and Sour Soup with Seafood, Honey-Glazed Chicken with Crispy Ginger, Steamed Dory Fillet with Minced Pork and Braised Vegetables. Desserts were Mango Sago and Buchi. Cost goes up to P1,088 depending on the number of diners, but dishes are added. Usual service charge and government taxes. Seniors get discount.
Rating***
Melo’s—a much favored steak chain. We visited the branch in Westgate, Filinvest, Muntinlupa (tel. 7712288 and 7713945).
This stand-alone restaurant is ideal for those who want a little privacy and silence, to enjoy the good food it serves.
Staff—efficient and friendly, while unobtrusive. They greet diners by the door and lead them to tables.
Suggested meal—Steaks are the house specialty. We remember Melo’s as among the first to introduce Angus beef and later, Wagyu. After 20 years, they have perfected them. Order a 6-ounce Wagyu at P960, which comes with vegetables, potatoes, soup of the day and house wine. Or take an 8-ounce Angus beef hamburger (P300) with Caesar salad, French fries and soup of the day. Satisfying! No more room for dessert. But check the menu, if you please.
Ten-percent service charge plus 10-percent VAT are collected. Seniors are equally honored.
Rating***
