Makati is a haven of old favorites and new discoveries. Nestled in the heart of the central business district of Manila, Element Boutique Hotel and Restaurant is perfectly located in Makati. Walk one way and you'll see hole-in-the-walls serving lip-smacking meals to check out, walk the other and find yourself a few bars you and your friends could hang out at.
Franco-English owned and run, the boutique hotel's fourteen rooms and intimate bar and restaurant are a harmonious marriage of architectural vision and warm welcome. Dine on contemporary French cuisine whipped up by the owner himself while enjoying the simple elegance of modern design of this charming spot. Feel as though you're on the streets of France while indulging on freshly prepared meals while sipping on some organic wine which they serve as well.
If you're new on French cuisine, start off with some appetizers like the Courgette Flan with Micro Leaves (P210) and Dilled Maya Maya Fish Terrine with Tarragon Mayonnaise (P320) which are quiche-like dishes prepared with organic/biodynamic eggs and vegetables. Almost every dish on the menu is served with a crisp bread that's perfect if you want added texture and crunch with every bite.
They also have Fresh Oysters (P390/6pcs; P720/12pcs) to tempt you, served with a homemade shallot vinegar sauce and fresh lemon you can squeeze on. Order a plate of Tuna Carpaccio (P290), thinly sliced tuna drizzled with olive oil, that's great for sharing while sharing stories and waiting for your mains.
There are three kinds of Samosas you can choose from – beef & onion (P270), salmon (P340) and our favorite, cheese & chive (P240). Also available are savory flatbreads and we particularly loved the Caramelized Onions, Anchovies, Olives & Capers (P290). Their flatbreads are made simple by the puff pastry which serves as the base but is elevated by the elements it is topped with.
For the mains, try the Choucroute de la Mer (P890) which is a beautiful plate of maya-maya fillet, prawns and mussels served with a housemade sauerkraut. Their list of organic egg pasta is a can't-miss as well. The Chorizo & Piperade (P490) is a sure killer with chunks of homemade chorizo evenly tossed in al dente pasta.
Whether staying a night or two before flying off to one of the many picture-perfect islands or in town on business, Element Boutique Hotel and Restaurant offers a haven amidst the hustle and bustle of Manila life.
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Element Boutique Hotel & Restaurant is located at Guerrero Street cor P. Burgos Brgy. Poblacion, Makati. Call (02) 805 1360 for reservations. Like them on Facebook for updates.
