Buenisimo by Café Ysabel

For us, special occasions demand to be celebrated with great food and fine wine just like what we had for his birthday months ago at Buenisimo by Café Ysabel. 

Last year, we had a palatable dining experience at Café Ysabel... and how can we ever forget the addictingly sweet and spicy flavor of their Zatar (Middle Eastern spice) dip which is paired onto their lavosh (Persian flatbread) bread. So, we had likely expected Buenisimo's dishes to be as equally good knowing it's under the management of Café Ysabel.

Buenisimo is a Spanish word, used to describe something as very, very good or someone exceptionally beautiful. The restaurant is owned by Gino and Giannina, son and daughter of the Gene Gonzalez a respected culinary icon and the man behind the success of Café Ysabel. 

As for their menu, it is a combination of Café Ysabel's favorites and experimental dishes inspired by Asian and European cuisines. Feel free to check their menu here. 

So, here's our experience and what we had:

Lavosh (Persian flatbread) & Zatar (Middle Eastern spice) Dip 

While waiting, we were served by the signature Café Ysabel's bread & dip. Initially, we were so glad it was offered here too! However, *sound of shattered glasses on the background* we were disappointed that their Zatar dip here was less flavorful compared to what we at had at Café Ysabel. 

Silk Road Salad 
Mixed Greens, Chinese Sausage, Dried Apricots, Smoked Salmon,
Papadoms, Tamarind Cilantro Dressing
(Php 318)

For starters, fresh and slightly moist fruits and veggies were what we had. We are salad lovers, indeed!

Glazed Spareribs
(Php 428)

This tasted truly delightful as it looks. It has that invitingly yummy scent, so tender and juicy.

Salmon Steak with Pearl Onion Merlot Glaze
& Hazelnut Butter Cream
(Php 468)

A well-executed dish, the salmon was flavorful and well-cooked wonderfully paired with a small serving of an oil-based pasta. Obviously, we are both big salmon eaters... we just can't get enough it. 

They have a decent selection of wines.
These are some on display.

Before anything else here's a Wine Etiquette 101

Basic Wine Pairing Rule: 

"Lighter meat, lighter wine (includes salads). Darker meat, darker wine."

 

So, we ordered a glass serving of white and red wine... my bad, I've forgotten to take note of their names though. Btw, their service water is infused with mint and/or a citrusy flavor.  

It was too late when I had realized everything we ordered (except the wine) were the exact dishes we had at Café Ysabel last year (except that we also had their Paella that time).  

PROS:

• The interiors are very  elegant, modern and up-beat, even their centerpieces. Definitely a superb twist from the "homey feel and oldness" of Café Ysabel.
• The chic ambiance and soothing music give you that romantic feel and comfort which makes it a great place for date nights. 
• Their staffs are well-trained and attentive. One of the waiters was actually on standby (almost 2 meters away from us) just in case we needed something,.. they only have two customers that time which can be a factor. Likewise, their guard was really helpful, he even opened up the car door for me. 
• The foods are well-executed, delectable, and  artistically presented but in a very reasonable price. Plus, they have a fine selection of beverages and wines. 

CONS:

• None that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ ★

Overall, it was a satisfying dining experience. The ambiance, the privacy we get, their distinctive dishes, and quality wines were just everything we had wanted for the special occasion. It may not have the  best dishes in town, but, they've proved that the combination of good things can make a extraordinary mark on their customers.

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Buenisimo by Café Ysabel

 #24-C Scout Tuazon corner Scout Lozano St.

Diliman, Quezon City

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Torch Bar and Restaurant

We usually came across Torch Bar and Restaurant going to Greenhills but I never really had the chance to visit it. Finally, a second branch opened at the UP Town Center,  I felt that urge to really try it that time. THANK YOU for taking me here! xoxo

So, here's our experience and what we had:

Truffle Fries
Crispy potato fries tossed in truffle oil and served with their Peppermill dressing
(Php 234.95 + 10% service charge)

For starters, we had this one out of my curiosity. But, it gave us disappointment... it has the truffle smell but the truffle flavor is non-existent plus it's very oily.   

We were so eager to try 2 of their bestsellers (Peppermill's Signature Roll & Volcano Roll), however, it was already out of stock that night. So, we had these as alternatives.

Smoked Jabañero Glazed Salmon

served with Unagi citrus sauce, mango salsa, and garlic parsley 
(Php 384.95 + 10% service charge)

A dish for healthy eaters. We're big salmon lovers and this is a thumbs up for us. 

Philly Cheese Steak 
Classic Philly cheese steak  sandwich filling on a fresh, oven-baked,
thin crust topped with mozzarella and cream cheese.
(Php 349.95 + 10% service charge)

A thin crust pizza loaded with toppings and even have my favorite cheeses in it, so, I commend this one. 

PROS:

• The place is patronized by a lot of diners and best to come with family or a group.
• The interior is simple and elegant. 
• I am not a fan of restaurants which are into fusion cuisines but I commend the food here. They are nicely presented and have fine selections. Plus, you can order alcohol and teas. 

CONS:

• None that I've observed.

THE VERDICT: ★ ★ ★ 

Overall, I like the place. I could come back here or try the Greenhills branch (for a more barkada night-out vibe) with friends. For next time, I would definitely try their Beef Salpicao Medallion,  Peppermill's Signature Roll & Volcano Roll.

P.S. Already tried this restaurant? Feel free to share your experience and recommend a dish on the comment section! Thank you! xoxo

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Torch Bar and Restaurant
Ground Flr, UP Town Center
Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City


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