IL Ponticello Cafe Ristorante

Salcedo Village, Makati

2nd Level, Unit 203, Antel 2000 Corporate Center, Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines

Operating Hours

Monday to Thursday 11:30am to 2:00pm for lunch and 6:00pm to 12:00am for dinner
Friday 11:30am to 2:00am
Saturday 6:00pm to 2:00am

Cuisine
Bar | Italian
Budget
₱500 - ₱999
Payment
Credit Card | Cash

About

Ponti was started in 1998 by three friends, Alberto Besa, Vincent Santos, and Cheryl Del Rosario, together with Chef Romeo Garchitorena. It opened for soft launch in November 1998 and formally to the public in February 1999. The initial kitchen staff, composed mostly of fresh graduates whom Chef Romy was able to mold into the chefs he wanted, are still on the staff today—one of the reasons the food has remained consistent after 10 years.

Been managing Ponti since it started. Prior to this, Besa had worked at Lemon Grass Café with former classmate, Joshua Tiu (presently of Zong) where he met Chef Romeo Garchitorena. It was actually Josh who found the spot where Il Ponticello is now located. Besa moved to Naga for a while but is now back at the helm at Ponti.

Joined Il Ponticello team formally in August 2008, taking over from older brother Vince. Worked in Singapore for three years at Procter and Gamble as Asst. Brand Manager. Is actually allergic to alcohol. Fortunately, over the past few years, his tolerance has been going up.