Manila’s Signature Dishes 2010 : Bordeaux
Bordeaux is the wine capital of France. As mentioned here (insert link), expect to raise your glass many times when visiting the laid back city of Bordeaux. This can also be said about Bordeaux – Premium French Wine Bar at the Burgos Circle in Bonifacio Global City.
Upon entering the restaurant, we were ushered towards our table at the ground floor. Our server, Jericho, began placing two wine glasses on our table while at the same time handing us the menu.
We told him that we wanted to try their set for the Manila’s Signature Dishes to which he quickly acknowledge. While waiting for our appetizer, I watch the couple on the next table enjoy a plate of Caesar Salad. The lettuce looks so crisp and the dressing was simply mouthwatering. This prompted me to order our own Caesar Salad to share.
Jericho returned with a bottle of Casillero del Diablo and before pouring the wine into our glasses, he gave a brief description of the wine. I was beyond impressed. My brother-in-law once taught me the right way of serving wine and Jericho got it down pat. How I wish my brother-in-law was with us that evening. After pouring the wine, Jericho taught us how to drink it. First, we swirled our glasses slow and gentle we allowed the wine to rise up and slowly trickle down the glass. This showed us how strong or rather how much alcohol is in the wine. Next, we lifted the glass up to our nose and smelled the wine. Lastly, following Jericho’s instructions, we took a sip and allowed the wine to stay in our mouth. What an amazing experience! It somehow reminds me of my days as a Coffee Master where we would have regular coffee tasting similar to this.
After tasting our wine, out came our Caesar Salad which was big enough for two. I love the crunchy, fresh greens with the creamy yet light dressing. I’m glad that I decided to order this as it makes for a great start to our meal.
Our salad was followed by the Gambas ala Rochelle. I wonder who Rochelle is? Whoever she is, she must be extra special to have a delicious appetizer named after her. While the gambas was admittedly a bit too spicy for my taste, this was enjoyed by Paul who enjoyed the plump shrimps cooked in chili, garlic and olive oil. They actually have a version that is served with pasta, this we will try on our next visit.
The highlight of our dinner was the Boeuf Bourguignon. I was very excited to try this as it reminds me of my favorite book and movie – Julie and Julia. This was the dish that Julie was trying to perfect as she invited Julia Child to her home. This dish takes a lot of time to cook so patience is a must. Kudos to the Chef who served us this delicious dish! I enjoyed the tender beef on garlic aglio olio pasta. I also love the Mashed Sweet Potato that was served with it. This dish was just too perfect for words, now I want to be like Julie and learn to make my own Boeuf Bourguignon too. Otherwise, I have Bordeaux to run to whenever the craving arises.
I was ready to call it a day after enjoying the main course. However, the chef was not done yet. Out came the most creative looking Panna Cotta that I’ve ever saw. Encase in a delicate caramel shell, we carefully crack one side open to get to the creamy panna cotta with whipped cream inside. I just took a small bite of the panna cotta as I couldn’t take any whipped cream. It was silky and smooth just the way we like it.
Shall we put France in our list of countries to visit? Wit food this good, I’d gladly hop on the plane and had to the most romantic city in the world to enjoy a plate of Boeuf Bourguignon with Paul.
*photo credit: Paul Ang
Bordeaux is located at Unit F Bellagio II, Forbes Town Center, Rizal Drive corner Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City. Call them at 403-6554.
Unilever Foodsolutions (UFS), being the preferred foodservice business partners among restaurateurs, felt the need to acknowledge notable restaurants who are developing Manila as a culinary city. They have partnered with select restaurants within the metropolis in coming up with signature dishes. UFS has synergized with these restaurants, both through dish development and promotion campaign for these signature dishes, in achieving one common goal: coming up with a different culinary experiences that provide value for money and culinary memories for diners.
If you're a restaurateur (or an aspiring one) and in need of help in coming with your signature dish, call (02) 588-8855 or email at foodsolutions.philippines@unilever.com.
