If ‘80s jazz music makes you reach for that glass of wine, then join the crew at Vintage at The Hub, Greenfield District. The cozy bar and restaurant is fast becoming a favorite after-work destination, with its cold beer, wine list, fun chow, and relaxing music.
“It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy food and drinks while having a nice conversation. The music is relaxing, you don’t have to shout, not like when you are in clubs,” remarked Chef JunJun de Ocampo.
As for the jazz playlist which features the hits of Patti Austin, Mike Francis, Seawind, Sergio Mendes, Manhattan Transfer, and the like, he simply said “It’s the music of our generation, and we enjoy it.”
Chef JunJun has no qualms about admitting that he has been in the local food scene for more than three decades. As a college student, he worked at the kitchen of Tamarind Grill, Tomas Morato. He became a restaurant chef after he graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New York. From there he joined several establishments like Mandarin Oriental, Chefs and Brewer, Richmonde Hotel, and the Bistro Group.
Vintage encapsulates everything the chef wants in a bar and dining establishment. “People like to go out to feel relaxed. Personally, if I want to relax, I go to a chill place with good music so I can enjoy my drink.”
Years of kitchen work and restaurant operations taught him the importance of authenticity.
“If it’s true and sincere to what the guests want and need, then it will work,” he said, citing several challenges in the past when he would push for certain restaurant concepts, mindless of the road ahead.
He runs Vintage together with good friends Nicky Camcam and Rolly Romero. Chef JunJun and Nicky together with the late Bobby Eduardo were also behind the successful Blackwood Bistro in Mckinley Hill, which later on transferred to Mandaluyong. With Blackwood’s steady set of patrons who love draft beer with ‘80s dance music, the time was ripe to open a new establishment.
Vintage caters to a different set of lounge goers, those that go for nostalgic ‘80s jazz, wine, and good food.
“It’s important to be very sensitive to the market. People tell us, they like coming here because they feel good.”
after a long day at work
Upon entry, patrons are greeted by a stylish bar with high tables. Those who wish to hang out with friends can move to the dining area on the right side. It also has an exclusive whiskey bar and a function room on the second floor for private gatherings.
The wines are carefully selected and even complement the interesting dishes on the menu.
Start with their cheese platter and assorted cold cuts and if you are in the mood for hearty treats try their Lengua Salpicao and Deviled Eggs with Gambas or Chorizo, Penne with Prosciutto, Pecorino Cheese and Truffle Mushroom CreamDinner choices are just as fun with dishes like Grilled Pork Shoulder Chops, Beef Tenderloin with Cilantro Chimichurri, Ox Tripe Callos, and many more.
Vintage Restaurant and Wine Lounge is Located at Mayflower St. in Greenfield District, Mandaluyong, Vintage opens at 4:00 p.m. daily.