No other place in the world evokes romance like France. The enchanting and amorous spots like the Eiffel Tower, Pont-Marie, Tuileries Gardens, Palace of Versailles, and the country's romantic countryside among many others make for a sweet rendezvous for lovers. And aside from these destinations, the fine French fare is made more romantic when shared with a loved one.
For those of us here in the Philippines, many places offer that dreamy French experience. Restaurants serving sumptuous French meals amidst a romantic setting abound the metro. One of these is Le Jardin Manila.
Lovingly tucked inside the W Fifth Building at The Fort, Le Jardin Manila is the perfect spot for intimate meals, since it is located away from the hectic dining districts. Apart from giving guests utmost exclusivity and privacy, the restaurant also speaks of authenticity in its interiors, which evoke sceneries of France’s countryside.
The high ceiling provides an expansive feel while the large windows illuminate the room with natural sunlight, making the garden-inspired décor further stand out. Green and white dominate the colony of colors.
Handpicked decors and tasteful elements adorn all corners of the restaurant—from the welcome foyer, to the wine room and private rooms, and even to the smoking room—marking every couple’s visit with amazement and wonder. The sights of the Fort skyline make for a spectacular scene at night.
All set meals come with freshly baked bread, amuse bouche, palate cleanser, and cheese platter while an impeccable selection of wine from select vineyards in France also wait to grace a most special toast.
This Valentine’s, the culinary hotspot has prepared a special menu. For P250+ (VAT inclusive), diners get a indulgent 4-course meal with a choice of the following starters: Duo de foie gras aux noix et canard confit, coulis de fruit de la passion et salade de bettrave (Duo of walnut crusted Foie Gras and Duck Confit with Mango-Passionfruit coulis and beetroot salad) or Duo de foie gras poêlé et de boudin noir maison avec compote de pommes (Duo of Seared Foie Gras and house-made Boudin Noir with Apple Compote).
Then savor the flavors of outstanding dishes Ravioli de langouste et sauce à la langouste et aux oursins (Ravioli Langouste with Langouste-oursin sauce) or Coquilles st jacques poêlées et sauce à la langouste et aux oursins (Seared Scallops with Langouste-oursin sauce).
Mains feature scrumptious Filet de Boeuf Rossini (beef tenderloin with foie gras and truffle sauce) or Filet de Mérou en Papillotte aux champignons (pacific grouper with cepes, button mushrooms, and truffle butter). Finish it all off with a sweet ending of either Mille-feuille au chocolat et fruits rouges (Millefeuille of chocolate mousse and berries) or Mousse au chocolat blanc et red velvet (Red velvet and white chocolate mousse cake).
Up the romantic ante with a bottle of Crémant (French sparkling wine) at P4450+ (VAT inclusive) for couples sets or a minimum of 2 pax. Diners can also opt for the set menu at P500/head which features cote de boeuf entrée for couples set or a minimum of 2 pax (limited supply only).
The Valentine’s Day menu will be offered exclusively to diners of Le Jardin Manila on February 14 and 15 (Saturday and Sunday). Le Jardin Manila is located at the Penthouse, W Fifth Building, 5th Ave. corner 32nd St., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. You may also contact Le Jardin Manila at 0917 817 6584 or email [email protected]. Visit the Le Jardin Manila website at www.lejardinbgc.com.