Flavours de España in Tapella and Gaudi

Take time to explore the alchemy of Spain as Gaudi and Tapella brings Flavours de España, a month-long food festival featuring Spain’s most famous regional cuisines.

Spanish and Filipinos same passion for good eats are a huge part of its exciting culture—great meals over good conversation remain both preference for feasts. For this type of epicurean experience, Gaudi and Tapella offers a set menu from Spain’s different regions only P599++ per head.

From today until October 31, both restaurants highlight the northwest and south of Spain, Andalucia and Basque. Evidently, the common staple for both regions are meat and seafood but the difference lies in their unique preparation.

For a rich experience of Basque, start off with chistorra (basque chorizo on baguette slice) and viruta (Serrano ham with alioli on baguette slice). A Basque cuisine is certifiably known for tomatoes and sweet or hot red peppers, the purrusalda (Basque potato and leek soup) is a tasty combo pair, followed by the freshest assorted greens–ensalada de la casa (tossed greens drizzed with house dressing). And for the much- awaited main course, it’s an amazingly tender and generous serving of estofado de cordero  (lamb stew with potatoes), not a fan of lamb?  Then have abonito con tomate (fresh tuna in tomato and pepper sauce) a diet-friendly option of refreshing tuna drizzled with tomato and peppercorns. To cap off the meal, it’s a decadent serving of arroz con leche (creamy rice pudding with cinnamon) velvety and thick, this will surely leave the palate asking for another plate.

Andalucia of the South is something not to be missed too. The historic Islamic influence in its cuisine gives this region a unique culinary identity with the use of olive oil, garlic, and wine as the most important native ingredients. For a truly appetite-inducing starter, croquetas variadas dos salsa  (mushroom, salami, and ham croquetas with romesco and alioli dip) is a favorite delicacy brimming with rich palatable dip. The soup, is an interesting take on tomatoes— gazpacho (fresh tomato and vegetable soup) served cold but delightfully heartwarming. The salad is truly Mediterranean in taste as it is filled with healthy greens and other freshest produced. For the main highlight, paella marisco (fish and seafood paella) is tummy-filling and never boring with its appetizing blend of shapes and colors. Another Mediterranean main course option is the pollo moruno (Moorish chicken with couscous) especially marinated that gives a zestful zing to its flavor. End it light and sweet with tocino del cielo, deemed as the heavenly egg custard of Spain.

Moving on from October 3 to 31, Gaudi and Tapella guide guests to Catalan, rightfully known as the Mediterranean flavor of the northeast.  As the cuisine of this region is infused with olives, garlic, onions, tomatoes, nuts, and dried fruits, the meal from start to finish offers a delightfully refreshing sensation of flavors. The crujentes de jamon (Serrano ham and cheese bites and in phyllo pastry) and ondarza (fried camembert with rapberry sauce) is great choice for a truly-Catalan starters. For a simple yet flavorful soup, sopa de cebolla (onion soup) remains a classic warm up with a certified twist of Span. Feast on ensalada de la casa (Tossed greens drizzled with house dressing) followed by parillada de carnes con patatas pobre y pimientos (assorted grilled meats with stewed potatoes and pimientos) a mix of sweet and savoury ingredients, and a mark of the inventiveness of Catalan cuisine. Or opt for the fideua (seafood noodle paella), brimming with the delicious goodness of seafood, but using unique short pasta called fideua. Chef’s recommendation for dessert is no other than profiteroles con leche (cream puff with vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate). These lovely puffs are complete with worth-relishing dessert indulgence— airy, light, and cloyingly sweet.

Perhaps one of the most famous fares of Spain, worth waiting is the Flavours of Castillan from October 10 to 31. Food here usually gets a high regard for its diversity and sophisticated preparation especially on its stews, asados, and large assortments of desserts. Chorizo al vino  (chorizo stewed in red wine) prepares the palate with truly worth-relishing meals to come, with its tasty balance of spices drenched in olive oil, paired with tortilla de pimientos (traditional Spanish omelet with peppers). Soup is simple but delicate in flavor, sopa de ajo (poor man’s garlic and bread soup) followed by the aromatic pollo al ajillo (chicken in garlic and olive oil) or gambas al ajillo (shrimps sautéed in olive oil, garlic and chili). To conclude the hearty meal, it’s the well-known family dessert recipe, flan dela abuela (grandma’s Spanish leche flan).

Make lunch or dinner a family affair at Gaudi and Tapella, where the experience will take anyone to Spain’s most note-worthy regions. After all, it’s the company that truly completes the treat for a family of discerning foodies. For inquiries and reservations, please call 757.2710 and 856.0473.

Gaudi is located at the Ground Level of cosmopolitan Serendra in Taguig while Tapella at Ground Level of Greenbelt 5. Both restaurants offer a patio for those who want to be seen and the large booths inside good for power talks and intimate chats. Surrounded by top Business offices, theatres and high end shops, it makes an ideal spot for a quiet coffee, a fashionable lunch or a romantic dinner.

Check out Krazy Garlik!

I think it was about a month ago that I got invited to the soft opening of Krazy Garlik, and though a funny thing happened to me there, I enjoyed the food and the ambiance! )

Perhaps you would think that when you go there and eat you’ll leave with your mouth still tasting the garlic, or worse smelling garlic. But no, the garlic ingredient in every dish is so subtle that it just blends well with the rest of the ingredients.

Conclusion: Food at Krazy Garlic is really good! The dishes are a mix of Spanish, Italian, Mexican but with a twist of garlic in every dish.

Resolution: I went back there last night with my college buddies, Deng and Amay. Yes the three silly dwarfs stuffed themselves with seafood in coconut curry (my original fave!), crispy pata (my new fave!), and assorted mushrooms. Drinks were travel ____, chinese snowflakes, and pink slush. We ended dinner with peppermint tea (mine), coffee (Deng’s) and another tea for Amay. Too bad, we didn’t have cameras with us.

Here are the photos during the soft opening.

Krazy Garlik is on the 2nd floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati City. You may call them at 501-3752.

Easter Fun at Tapella Restaurant

Easter gives more reasons to have fun with family and friends with Tapella Restaurant’s Easter Fun. Kids will jump for joy and have a blast on Sunday April 04, 2010 from 4pm-7pm with magics, mimes and clowns! Games and tricks, egg painting contests, balloon twisting, fun filled activities and loads of prizes await kids in the much Easter Egg Hunt. Gather the most number of eggs and get prizes from Star Paper. What’s more is that kid’s will be delighted with dunkin’ donuts upon registration plus yummy spaghetti and other kiddie snacks while enjoying the event. For only php500nett, kids and family will have a holistic Easter Sunday.

Kids at heart will also enjoy sumptuous Easter especial starting from php300 and delight in the comforts of Tapella’s serene ambiance.

TAPELLA is another Spanish dining creation by Gaudi. Located in the cosmopolitan Greenbelt 5, TAPELLA is open all day and night and offers a wide variety of Spanish cuisine served in an informal and relaxed ambience. Headed by Executive Chef Alexandra Cacho, the restaurant specializes in tapas and paellas plus a wider range of salads, pastas and desserts served the Spanish way that will surely perk up your gustatory spree. The wine selection is from around the world valued well for money. The ambiance gives a modern and relaxed atmosphere with interiors designed with red and beige accent.

For inquiries and reservations please call 7572710.

Friday Wine Nights at Tapella, Greenbelt 3

Tapas, Paella and more – this is TAPELLA by Gaudi where Spanish dining has become innovative and exciting.  Located in the cosmopolitan Greenbelt 5, TAPELLA is the restaurant where the hip generation can satisfy their demanding appetite, maintain their youthful health and enjoy time.

Top caliber Chef Alexandra G. has prepared a menu of tapas, paellas, salads, seafood, pastas and deserts in the way they are served in Spain and in servings that can fit just one or to be shared by a group.  The wine selection is from around the world valued well for money.  Many are available by the glass.  The bar list comprises the most popular cocktails and drinks.

The ambiance gives a modern and relaxed atmosphere with interiors designed with wooden chairs and tables and soothing music to complete the setting.

Every Friday, Tapella offers Wine Night from 6:00pm-9:00pm indulge in all the wines and cocktail you want for only Php600. Savor carefully selected wines from around the world or enjoy a cocktail from the wide array of drinks, canapés, tapas and more available at the bar. Relax in a cozy, modern, no-frills atmosphere with authentic Spanish music and feel like you’ve stepped onto the Iberian Peninsula.

For more information and reservations, visit us at Ground Floor, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City or call 757-2710 to 11, visit www.tapella-restaurant.com, or email inquiry@tapella-restaurant.com.

Havaianas Greenbelt 5 On Sale!

Yes, Havaianas in Greenbelt 5 are giving away 20% and 30% discounts. My kids grabbed a pair each yesterday, so why don’t you, too?

Greenbelt 5 Attempted Robbery

This photo was taken during the early days of Greenbelt 5. I think this spot is near the Rolex shop, which has yet to open that time.

The Greenbelt 5 attempted robbery yesterday was a brazen act and a real shocker. Just like the Glorietta  2 incident, my family or I could have been nearby or right at the spot where the unfortunate event took place.

According to the news, six armed men dressed in bomb-squad uniforms went to the Rolex shop and attempted to rob it. The investigation is ongoing.

Our observation is that the spot of Rolex shop is at the middle and a good walking, or even running distance, from the exits. The robbers must have really been quick to be able to leave the place and escape the authorities.

The incident shook me. The place is close to my heart because I am there almost every day of the week!

News:
1 killed, 1 hurt in mall robbery
Security lapses seen in Greenbelt 5 heist – NCRPO

Collezione C2 Opens in Greenbelt 5

Yes, Collezione C2, the now popular store that carries the My Pilipinas Series, has opened in Greenbelt 5. The store got the public’s attention with the My Pilipinas t-shirts. Now the store has a bigger clothing collection. The My Pilipinas Series now includes hoodies, shorts, dresses, knitted blouses, and collared- and non-collared shirts.

Wizheart and I had our usual Friday date earlier and went strolling Greenbelt 5 while deciding where to dine. We chanced upon Collezione C2 and checked it out. Look who I saw there, too? Yes, the bubbly and uber friendly IC Mendoza!

Getting there:
Collezione C2 is at the 2nd level of Greenbelt 5. It’s on the side that is nearer Greenbelt 1.

By the way, Collezione C2 now has two outlets in Ayala Center-Makati. The other store is in Glorietta 3.

Royce Chocolate Mallows

A very good friend from Dubai gifted me with a box of Royce Chocolate Mallows last week. I like the choco mallows because they are not too sweet. The sweet mallows are covered with dark chocolate. So the bitter and sweet taste play in your palate really well.

A combination of bitter and sweet is my favorite actually.

Royce chocolates are available at the ground level of Greenbelt 5.

Tapella Opens in Greenbelt 5

In a land where Spanish influence is seen in manners, in clothing, and in cuisine, it’s still good to discover a place where you can have that innovative Spanish flavor in every bite.

You will experience this at the newly opened Tapella Restaurant at Greenbelt 5, Makati.

When I went there, I was warmly welcomed by its amiable Executive Chef Alexandra Cacho. Muy bonita!

She gamely gave us a chitchat before the food tasting began. She told us that every year she would go home to Spain and be updated on the latest in Spanish cuisine. She would bring what she learned to the Philippines and innovate. She also added that Tapella has new dishes every six months, retaining of course the popular dishes.

Tapella interiors are cosy. The chairs are comfy and even if it’s a bit small indoors, there’s still some room to move around. The outdoor part is also perfect for al serenidad dining. The outdoor bar is perfect for dining and wining at nigthtime and enjoying the greenery of Greenbelt.

After a few minutes, the serving of different Spanish dishes began. We started with white garlic and almond soup shooters. It was my first time to taste some cold soup shooter. The taste was distinctly garlicky and you chew on bits of almonds. When you toss it up, you end up munching on slices of a grapefruit. It warms up the palate for the next dishes.

More appetizers came, whic are equally a delight to the palate.

the camembert with caramelized onions

chorizo stewed in red wine ~ yum!

cocido meat on fluted bread

garlic sauteed shrimp the modern way

el Bulli – calamari with black ink – this was topped with aioli dip

and my fave among the appetizers served was the octopus with paprika salt & virgin olive oil ~ twas my first time to taste octopus, and never thought I’d love it.

After the appetizers were the paella in different flavors. I must admit it was also the first time I tasted paella that I liked. I even texted Wizheart to tell him about it. The rice was perfectly cooked, and the flavors of salmon (the salmon paella was for the non-meat eaters), meat blended well together.

picadillo paella

creamy seafood paella

Alaska king crab paella

manchego cheese, chicken, asparagus, and shrimp paella

They have about five varieties of paella. You should check each one out!

The paella was served with the yummy steak! Burners were set up on the table, and beef strips were served. It was up to us if we wanted the meat to rare, medium rare, or well done.

Too bad, I had a meeting at 2:30pm so I didn’t stay for the desserts. But I know Tapella desserts are to die for. If their appetizers and main dishes tickled my palate, how much more the sweets.

Friday “Wine Nights” from 6 to 9, wine lovers can enjoy overflowing wine served with tapas for only Php600.

Indeed, at Tapella, there is a new way of dining. It’s fine dining on yummy innovative Spanish cuisine at popular prices.

As Tapella’s dining principle says:

“Start with a traditional base, pour an infusion of unique contrasting flavors and a spoonful of intense passion, a dash of talent and a sprig of innovation. Finish off with disconcerting textures and illusion.”

Getting there

Tapella Restaurant is at the ground level, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center Makati. For the uninitiated, the resto is nearer Greenbelt 1.  You take the Greenbelt 1 exit going to Greenbelt 2. Right at the exit doors, you turn left right away, and you won’t miss Tapella.

Call for reservations: 757-2710 OR email at inquiry@tapella-restaurant.com.

Vamos a comer! =P~