Alqueria Tapas, Paellas y Bistecas Review

Bummed with no vacation plans this holiday season?

Why not take your tastebuds on an adventure across Spain at Alqueria! Few things beat great meals and so far the ones I've had at Alqueria have been awesome.

Sharing a few favorites from their menu with you as well as some secret dishes that aren't printed on it but can be special ordered. ;)

More after the jump!

Paella Valenciana (Small: Php560 / Medium: Php910 / Large: P1,480)

Simmered rice in saffron-infused stock topped with clams, mussels, shrimps amd chicken.

Alqueria is best known for their Paellas. I grew up eating this being raised by a Spanish Mamita so I've tried my fair share. Personally, I think they're one of the best in Manila and deserve a position in the Top 5.

Ensalada Mixta (Php270)

Fresh Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, olives, cucumber and tuna flakes with house vinaigrette. (noteworthy: greens are super fresh and crisp)

Paella Negra (Small: Php545 / Medium: Php825 / Large: Php1,480)

Simmered rice in stock with squid ink topped with fresh squid rings.

My favorite Paella will always be the Valenciana cause I enjoy the diversity of having a variety of meats on it. I usually get umay with the negra of most spanish restaurants but this one is delicious. It just makes you want more! more! more!

Paella Vegetariana (Small: Php395 / Medium: Php550 / Large: Php915)

Simmered rice in saffron-infused vegetable stock topped with sweet peppers, mushrooms, asparagus, artichokes and olives.

Another great thing about Alqueria? Your vegan friends don't need to miss out. This vegetarian paella is just as enjoyable as the others.

Pulpo a la Gallega (Php288)

Octopus gratin topped with mashed potatoes and manchego cheese

Gambas Al Ajillo (Php375)

Fresh white river shrimps sauteed in olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes and paprika finished with white wine and butter.

My favorite dish at Alqueria! MUST ORDER with the Valenciana for a perfect meal.

Salmon Al Horno 180g. (Php735)

Baked fish marinated in white wine, olive oil, herbs and lemon juice

I am not a big fan of salmon cause I often find it too fishy for my taste but this one is good! Cooked just right so it's still moist but well-done. Excellently flavored as well and large enough to share.

OFF THE MENU

Prime Ribs Solo (Php1,499)

For the carnivores! I didn't get to taste this because my diet doesn't allow me to have beef or pork but according to friends who've tried it, it's delicious. I could smell it and it did have a divine aroma.

DESSERT! All good.

 

Pudin (Php160)

Chocolate pudding made from valor dark chocolates served a'la mode

 

Check out the photo, I couldn't snap a pic fast enough :P It all disappeared as quickly as the plate was set down.

Churros

Served with Valor chocolate dip

3pcs (Classic: Php138/Chocolate: Php158)

5pcs (Classic: Php158/Chocolate: Php198)

10pcs (Classic: Php228/Chocolate: Php298)

 

Canonigo (Php218)

A Filipino version of the French dessert "ile flottante or oeufs a la neige, baked meringue with caramel and candied bananas.

Wash it all down with their delicious fruit shakes!

WHY IS THE FOOD AT ALQUERIA SO YUMMY?

It's the chef! The genius in the kitchen behind all these scrumptious dishes is Executive Chef Chris Oronce who: gained extensive experience in food and restaurant operations management working at distinguished restaurants in the US, like the MGM Grand Shibuya in Las Vegas, where he spent his last years before returning to the Philippines. His other US stint includes Koi Restaurant at Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas; working with celebrity chef Bobby Flay at Mesa Grill Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas; and Nobu in New York.  

VERDICT: You'll leave Alqueria with a happy tummy and wallet. Prices are fair, portions will leave you satisfied. Drop by to sample one of the best Spanish restos in the Metro today at SM Megamall's Fashion Hall.

***Alqueria is another new and exciting concept under the SumoSam Group of Restaurants founded by Marvin Agustin, Ricky Laudico and Raymund Magdaluyo. The trio have also partnered with Charo Santos, Liz Uy, Mylene Dizon and Agot Isidro for this business venture.