An established fine dining institution in the heart of Manila, Café Adriatico has withstood the test of time, lasting through decades of fickle tastes. It has become what every work of art (food certainly no less an objet d’art than a painting or a poem) aspires to be: a classic.
Upon entering Café Adriatico, one is transported to a genteel, bygone era when life moved at a less frantic, more leisurely pace. Sepia photographs and period paintings were hung on the wall, the antique motif carried on to the dark-burnished furniture. Mozart and Chopin lilted in the air, brightening up the somewhat gloomy mood set by the lashing rains.
To start the meal, I had Classic Caesar Salad. Each of its elements—lettuce, tomato, croutons, bacon bits, cheese, dressing—melded wonderfully, a variety of textures tossed on one simple yet unfailing combination. Next was Spanish Callos, Café Adriatico’s pièce de résistance. The ox tripe was luscious, cooked to a glorious, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Smothered in rich tomato sauce and laden with chorizo and garbanzos, Café Adriatico’s Spanish Callos left me swooning, bite after yummy bite.
I expected that everything would be downhill from there, but on the contrary, another specialty, Steak Café Adriatico, sustained my palate’s delight. Grilled medium-rare and served with béarnaise sauce, the tenderloin steak was marvelous in its juiciness.
To cap the meal, I had Chocolate Eh! served in a dainty demitasse. Café Adriatico’s Chocolate Eh! (the exclamation point is vital) was thick and comforting, a sweet conclusion to a very pleasant meal.
Imbued with a sense of nostalgia, Café Adriatico is the perfect setting for a trip down memory lane. I sat idly by the window and watched the rain-soaked scene unfold outside.
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