Restaurant Review: Old Manila, New Manila

I'm sure most of you have been to Old Manila, located at the Peninsula Manila. On their 35th year, they are celebrating with many things such bringing back their P35 Halo-halo and Schublig Sausages, as well as a special menu in Old Manila that will feature classic dishes...all at 1976 prices!This is for September if I'm not mistaken and I'm so excited!

But if you want more immediate gratification, go to Old Manila NOW. They have a new Head Chef who you may be familiar with, especially if you love eating at Aubergine! Welcome Chef Samuel Linder, former Sous Chef at Aubergine and now Chef de Cuisine of Old Manila. I was lucky enough to try some of the items from the new menu last week.

Alaskan King Crab Two Ways--Golden Trout Caviar, compressed Fruit Tartar, Chive Crème Fraiche, and Elderflower

One was served cold topped with fruits and it was good, but what I really liked was the hot, creamy crab cake beside it. It was so rich and so good!

Espelette-jam Glazed Lobster and Seared Arctic Sea Scallops --Lemon Beurre Blanc, Carrot Mousseline, and Green Asparagus

Local lobster tails--on the small side but flavor is not compromised. I actually really liked the carrot mousseline, even if I don't really like carrots.

Duo of Australian Lamb--Grilled Lamb Chop and Oven-roasted Lamb Loin, Potato Gratin, Zucchini & Chorizo Ragout, Eggplant Caviar, and Pink Peppercorn Jus

The Grilled lamb chop was to die for. The Oven-roasted loin was good too but the lamb chop just killed it! Paired with the eggplant caviar and chorizo-zucchini ragout--yum!

Caramelized Goat Cheese--Truffle-scented Honey, Bourbon and Vanilla Crème Fraiche, and Blueberry Compote

I am such a sucker for goat cheese. And goat cheese AND truffles? It's OVER! I could have eaten this all night. This was my favorite!

Dark Swiss Chocolate Bar--Peruvian Pink Salt, Rose Peppercorn and Orange

I'm not stranger to the sweet salty combination, so obviously I loved this! The big surprise here though was the addition of Rose peppercorn. It had a bite but was more on the fruity side. And orange is always a perfect partner for chocolate!

Each course was served with a different wine. You can ask your server to give you some suggestions if you aren't sure what to get.

I went home stuffed and slightly tipsy! Good conversation + good food = good night!

Old Manila is located inside The Peninsula Manila. For reservations, call 8872888 ext 6748.