What happens when a chef puts all his personal favorites in his menu? A restaurant serving comforting, well-executed dishes happens, that’s what. Newly-opened Scott’s at the 2nd level of Ascott BGC is intent on throwing all pretenses out the window and simply dishing out delicious plates. Executive Chef Johnny Rodriguez brings in his expertise and experiences from traveling the world to Ascott’s all-day dining venue. Now folks at Bonifacio Global City has a new option for hearty lunches, business meetings, and indulgent dinners.
The space used to be occupied by Alta, helmed by renowned chef Margarita Fores (2016 Asia’s Best Female Chef). While Alta’s menu is elegant and exquisite, Scott’s is more straightforward and casual. The ambience, however, is kept the same: floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the restaurant with light, offering a view of the bustle outside; minimalist set-ups give the space a sophisticated, understated vibe.
Of course, with Chef Rodriquez's Mexican blood, expect Latin American elements in the menu. A quesadilla is always a good idea, and at Scott’s, this is elevated by throwing in two different fillings: shrimp and beef short ribs. Called the Surf and Turf Quesadilla, it’s a cheesy, delicious fusion of the land and the sea. I love the salsa verde that gives the dish some zest and kick. The cheese is delicious and not overpowering—which is good as it allows you to taste the other fillings.
There are tacos, of course, and ordering a Taco Board gives you three different kinds. I tried two: one that has Cajun shrimps with mango salsa and another that has short ribs topped with guajillo chile salsa. The version here is somewhat midway between a tostada and a soft taco, and it comes in mini versions—just like how you would get it in Mexico (not the oversized ones). Eat them with your hands and let the drippings dribble down your fingers!
From the South, Chef Rodriguez takes you to the East with his selection of Asian food. I really love Indian food, and Scott’s makes a mean Buttered Chicken. The chicken has all the right flavors (creaminess, some tartness, some spice), the curry so tasty you would want to mop every last bit with the roti. I loved it with the basmati rice, and they serve it in a cute 3-layer container akin to a lunch box. I would have loved more spice though, as it seems to have been toned down for Filipino taste. But other than that, this murgh makhani is spot on. In fact, I wanted to order another one for take away (but I forgot to do so)!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As far as noodle dishes go, the laksa is probably among the ones in the top tier—and when it comes to laksa, Scott’s Prawn Laksa is in the higher ranks too. The broth is very rich, gritty, and creamy—very similar to what you can get in Singapore. The thick rice noodles are topped with plump prawns, bokchoy, bean sprouts, and tofu. Like the buttered chicken, I would’ve preferred it to be a little more fiery (don’t judge me, I love spicy food) but I must really say that flavor-wise, it takes you back to your first ever hawker experience.
Another standout dish for me was the Lechon Kawali, which I almost didn’t touch because I was so engrossed with the Indian and Mexican dishes. I was surprised at how crispy the skin is, and how tender the meat is. It also tasted clean, and by this I mean you wouldn’t feel guilty indulging in it at all. The gravy is peppered with a little spice, which punctuates every bite. The radish provides what mashed potato or rice would have, but in a lighter way. I love this dish.
I love strawberry shortcake, but only a few versions around Manila have successfully won the heart of my taste buds. The one at Scott’s has all the right elements: a very fluffy cake, whipped cream of balanced sweetness (the kind that makes you want to take another bite, and then another, and so on), and sweetness and tartness from strawberries. There’s a good ratio of cake to cream, so everything comes together really solid—it’s an addictive cake!
The Ube Mousse Cake is another interesting dessert—fans of ube will surely love this. Creamy, sweet ube mousse sits atop a firmer cake, providing two different textures. While I liked this cake, the strawberry one was such a scene stealer that I only had a bite of this. To be honest, I would’ve enjoyed this more if there weren’t any shortcakes in sight, LOL.
For days when you feel like indulging in some comforting food, trudge up the second level of the beautiful Ascott BGC and explore the offerings of Scott's. I highly recommend going with a group so you can all try a variety of dishes—and if you're looking to take home a big, family-size strawberry shortcake, make sure you phone in your orders ahead. (Yes, I am pushing you to do so before you even try it.)
~*~
Scott's
2/F Ascott BGC, 5th Avenue cor. 28th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
+632.860.9888
enquiry.manila@the-ascott.com
Budget: PhP700 up
What's your ultimate comfort food?
If you like my posts and would love regular updates on travel photos, food finds, restaurant reviews, dance articles, and drunken tales, follow Pepe Samson on Facebook!
0 comments :
Post a Comment
Let me know what you think!