What would you consider a perfect meal? For starters, how about a serving of warm bread with different flavors of butter? A hearty soup and fresh greens before the main course sounds good. Now, follow that with a hefty portion of juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak. Imagine the meat to be so flavorful that there is really no need to pour on any kind of sauce (but there are three condiments, just in case). And for the consummate finale – a torched meringue dessert! I’m writing this from memory, by the way. I had a most enjoyable and delectable lunch last Thursday at the Cowrie Grill by The Manila Hotel.
Loyal patrons of the famed Cowrie Grill are now frequenting its new location at the back of the Promenade Mall along Missouri St., Greenhills. The place exudes a quiet, rich elegance much like it did when it was still inside The Grande Dame. As expected, cowrie shells adorn the well-appointed interiors. On one side, a curtain of these stringed seashells is hung on the ceiling. Stylish booths that can seat up to four people offer privacy for diners making it the perfect venue for intimate occasions.
The BQP Asks the Chef
What sets Cowrie Grill apart from other fine dining places?
“We offer a first-rate selection of premium branded steaks and fresh seafood, fine wines and signature cocktails. People have also come to expect our exceptional service highlighted by visual drama in every table side preparation,” says Executive Chef Michael So Chan.
What can loyal Cowrie Grill habitués and first-time guests expect from the four-decade-old establishment?
“We want to introduce the menu to the new generation of diners. While we have retained the dishes that the regulars have come to love like the Caesar salad, Lobster Bisque, and Beef Rib to name a few, we have also added some new flavors to the menu – like the Italian dishes and other meat items. We also now feature a Cognac bar that lists the most exquisite cognacs and brandies of the world.”
Signature Dishes
I brought my son M to lunch that day and I must say that my normally picky eater of a boy totally enjoyed all of the Chef’s recommendations. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration when I say he ate everything! He even consumed half of my steak!
There is a reason for the longevity of Cowrie Grill. Aside from the sumptuous fare, the service is unparalleled. The food is served promptly and if you want to know what the ingredients are in the dish, expect a knowledgeable answer from the servers.
After we had finished our meal, one waitperson (Art if I remember it correctly) graciously ushers us to the door and tells my son, “I hope you had a magical time, Sir.” My boy replied, “I sure did! We’re bringing Daddy back next time we visit!” He then turns to me with a big smile and says, “I’m glad you brought me to lunch today, Mom. I really enjoyed it.”
With a pocketful of glitter,
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