MANILA -- What started out as a short trip to Madrid for Marvin Agustin has resulted in the new Spanish restaurant Alqueria, the latest member of the actor-businessman's burgeoning Sumo Sam group of restaurants.
Agustin said he was supposed to stay only for a couple of days but ended up extending his visit for two weeks as he immersed himself in Spanish culture and the cuisine. When he got back to the Philippines, the timeline for Alqeria, located at SM Megamall's swanky Mega Fashion Hall, was accelerated.
“Alqueria” is the Spanish word for the “farmhouse” that was used as homes by rural families. Today, these farmhouses are now used as gathering places.
Resident chef Adrian Nieto is no stranger to Spanish farmhouses having grown up in one. He recounted memories of him growing up in the farm and cooking since he was 11. He boasted that he ended up cooking the family paella because his mom thought his version tasted better.
This is the dining experience Alqueria wants to give.
While most Spanish restaurants in Manila are intimate and traditional, Alqueria, with its bright interiors and open kitchen, is chic and cheery.
Start with the Inasalata Mista (P328), Alqueria’s version of the tuna salad with romaine and tomatoes in olive oil.
You can also opt to start with Spanish tapas like Ancietos de Olives (P228), fresh olives in adobo sauce; and the Chorizo Frito (P228), homemade chorizo with bread and aioli.
Alqueria features new twists to Spanish cuisine, but at the same time, respecting tradition. This is most apparent with the paellas.
Old favorites like the Paella Valencia (P398) and the Paella Negra (P398) are on the menu, along with new variants such as the Paella Del Carne (P388), an all-meat paella; and the Paella Quezo Manchego (P398), made with Spanish chorizo and topped with Manchego cheese, which demand a second visit.
Besides paella, other Spanish staples like Callos (P438) and Lengua Estofada (P398) are also available. Of note is the Bacalao a la Vizcaina (P538), based on an an old family recipe of Nieto, which has the fish simmered in a sauce of reduced tomato and red peppers.
Another favorite is the Cochinillo (P4,998), a roasted suckling pig, served to guests in a traditional manner that uses a ceramic plate to slice the crunchy skin of the pig. Although the pig is tasty on its own, it is served with the chef’s secret sauce. Diners have to phone two days in advance if they want a whole cochinillio to themselves.
Alqueria is also a chocolateria featuring Valor chocolates, the best-selling chocolates in Spain. This adds richness to Alqueria’s signature hot chocolate, Chocolate Caliente (P98).
Accompany this with the churros, which are wonderfully crunchy on the outside and are the perfect ending to a meal when paired with the melted Valor chocolate dip. Churros are available in servings of three pieces (P168) or five pieces (P248) with either melted milk, dark or white chocolate for your dip. Valor chocolate bars are also available for sale.
Alqueria’s price range that will pleasantly surprise visitors. It is affordable compared with other established Spanish restaurants in the city without comprising taste and flavor. Couples who are going on dates, or families wishing to indulge on Spanish food will be feel very comfortable here.
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Alqueria Restaurante Y Chocolateria
3/F Mega Fashion Hall
Building D, SM Megamall
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
