MANILA, Philippines ? We all know what Spanish food tastes like; we?ve been colonized long enough to know how it has seeped into our own traditional cuisine. But what about Portugal? Magellan was Portuguese but Portugal?s cuisine is not so well-known in Manila. Probably the most well known dish they?ve got is the cod (bacalhau), which is also Spanish, and that?s about it.

Portugal, being the westernmost tip of Europe, is surrounded on two sides by the Atlantic Ocean and her people are historically a seafaring race. Portuguese food is diverse and distinct. They bring in a lot of elements from different countries into their evolved cuisine such as the spicy Masala which is usually seen in Indian cuisine. Other than the bacalhau, they are also known for their Peri-Peri chicken, which is made of different spices, and for their good wine. In fact, Portuguese wine has been recognized since the times of the Roman Empire and have been associated with the god Bacchus, the god of wine.

On Jupiter Street in Makati, O?Sonho offers traditional Portuguese dishes with a fusion of flavors from the rest of the world.

Don?t wake me up

O?Sonho means dream in Portuguese and the restaurant and bar is chic and intimate. The resto-bar hopes to ?fulfill the dream? of all their clientele with excellent food that is quite unique to the city.

And they accomplish this ten-fold. The food is mouth-watering and unforgettable. The curried Pumpkin soup makes a hearty opener; it is heavy on its own but the flavor is engaging and dynamic.

One must try the bacalhau and enjoy its salty goodness. The Portuguese gambas are a bit spicy but that?s probably how it should be enjoyed. Order the Peri-Peri chicken pasta which is delectable and utterly enjoyable.

But for a truly unbelievable taste explosion, ask for the coffee-marinated pork. It is simply incredible. The meat is tender and juicy and the flavor unlike anything you have ever tasted.

I didn?t get to try their tantalizing desserts because I was already full with just the main courses but the cheesecakes seemed very enticing indeed.

And while Portuguese wine is world-famous, O?Sonho offers a delicious sangria with an extra kick.

Having opened less than a year, O?Sonho has found discerning taste buds in the metro who constantly return to try and sample all the delicacies on the menu. The restaurant is open until the late hours to accommodate people who want to stay and wine for the rest of the evening.

O?Sonho is located at #20 Jupiter Street, Makati (EDSA side). Open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-11 p.m. For reservations, call 896-3289.