A taste of Spain in Manila. It's definitely more affordable than a trip to Spain, we Filipinos have always been inspired by the Spanish, may it be in our language, culture and food. Alqueria (formerly Boqueria) opens up their doors to offer amazing Spanish dishes. Opened in January 2014, Alqueria is another new and exciting concept under the SumoSam Group of Restaurants founded by Marvin Agustin, Ricky Laudico and Raymund Magdaluyo. The trio have also partnered with Charo Santos, Liz Uy, Mylene Dizon and Agot Isidro for this business venture.
“Alqueria” is an old Spanish term referring to a type of farmhouse that resembles a small castle and once served as home to many rural families in Spain. Today, Alquerias have been converted into social gathering places.
Alqueria tapas, paellas y bistecas in Megamall Fashion Hall has that Spanish feel and well designed. Right smack in the middle, you can see their open kitchen. Comfortable seating and can accommodate groups.
Was able to glance at their menu and it will really take you somewhere else with the Spanish influences on their selections. Okay, now let's get on with food! First up, TAPAS!
I've always loved chorizo, may it be Spanish or Chinese, I find something really nice in their taste and texture. This dish is Spanish chorizo sauteed in olive oil and finished with white wine, topped with manchego cheese and served with pan con tomate. A nice appetizer to start with.
Champignon al Ajillo Php 235
Another dish finished off with a dash of white wine is this Mixed mushroom seasoned with garlic, paprika sauteed in olive oil.
Juicy and just a delight in your mouth. The fresh shrimps are sauteed in olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes and paprika then finished with white wine and butter. Simple and delish! This may just be one of the best Gambas you'll ever taste. But don't just take my word for it. Try it for yourself.
This crust goodness! Alqueia's Coca is something not to be missed when visiting. The toppings has caramelized onions, olives, tomato and anchovies, the pizza bread wasn't that bad either. I ate this in between other dishes.
Huevos en marinera Php 250
I do like the spiced chips but I don't think that I am a fan of their poached egg in marinara sauce. But it is a nice appetizer or an afternoon snack to those who wants to eat light and wants something to munch on.
Paella Negra a la Alqueria Php 725 Fisherman's Paella Php 885
Their Paella Negra is rice cooked in stock with squid ink topped with clams, white river shrimps with a side of garlic aioli. Leaves a mark in your teeth but will also leave a lasting impression in your mouth. You'd come looking for this after a few days. Yes it's that good. :)
As for their Fisherman's Paella, the rice is cooked in saffron-infused stock and pomodoro topped with shrimps, mussels, squid and fish of the day.
Pata Cochinillo Php 888
Who doesn't like a good Crispy Pata?! Well, at Alqueria you get to try their version and enjoy the 21-day old suckling pig ham roasted to perfection served with their mashed potato and special house-made sauce. I think I had like 3-4 slices of this bad-boy. Skin is crispy and tasty and has the right amount of fat and meat! Yuummeeh!
Rib Eye Php 2,030
Eat it while it's hot! This 300g black angus USDA prime grade steak with a nice sauce dip on the side. Grilled perfectly, it is tender and flavorful and just one for the books!
Alqueria steaks are imported and are portioned for sharing, served with house salad, your choice of 1 side dish and sauces like chimichurri, salsa picante, crema with goat cheese, romesco, herbed yoghurt.
Now for desserts!
First one is Canonigo Php 218 A Filipino version of the French dessert "ile flottante or oeufs a la neige, baked meringue with caramel and candied bananas. Next is the Pudin Php 160 Chocolate pudding made from valor dark chocolates served a'la mode. Their desserts are pretty much good to share for 2-3 person depending on appetite for sweetness.
If you're not up for these desserts and just want a simple treat. Try their Classic Churros.
You can get this treat in 3, 5 or 10 pcs. Conveniently put in a box and also holder for their rich chocolate syrup. Their churros are dusted with granulated sugar and cinnamon. If I am not mistaken, their churros for 3 pieces is P 238 and P308 for their 5 pieces.
So if you want a cozy place to stay in the area, Alqueria is the perfect place to unwind. located at the 3rd floor of Mega Fashion Hall, Building D, SM Megamall. Please text or call +639165062659 for reservations and inquiries. Follow them on social media Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @AlqueriaPH
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Chef Chris Oronce is the Executive Chef heading Alqueria. He gained extensive experience in food and restaurant operations management working at distinguished restaurants in the US, like the MGM Grand Shibuya in Las Vegas, where he spent his last years before returning to the Philippines. His other US stint includes Koi Restaurant at Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas; working with celebrity chef Bobby Flay at Mesa Grill Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas; and Nobu in New York.
Chef Chris became a chef instructor at Enderun Colleges in Taguig before his chance meeting with the SumoSam Group of Restaurants, which led to the creation of Alqueria and its distinctive menu.
Chef Chris works closely with Alqueria’s Head Chef, Chef Roland De Gracia, and the pair has come up with dishes that showcase the different flavors of Spain guaranteed to make guests want to keep coming back for more.
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