Tuesday, April 4, 2017

The Belle & Dragon: Not a Book Review


If you haven't been to Palanca Street Makati, then it's time you do.  I have actually been there a couple of times but I never realized there's a nice resto awaiting to be discovered.  It's identity is concealed on a building that evokes an old-world charm feel.



Above a seemingly neighborhood store, is a watering hole that serves really good food.

More than the fascinating facade, beyond the eclectic veranda, is a dining place you wouldn't realize you'll enjoy good food with.


Welcome to The Belle & Dragon.


Every nook evokes a theme of its own, every customers can get cozy at.  Whether it's for the drinks or the food, you'll definitely would want to stay for a while.


Inside is a complicated hodge-podge of old photos, books, bird cages, heavy wooden chests, armors and every manly knick-knacks you can think of.

But beyond all that is a menu that topples every watering-hole nearby.  It's east-meets-west in culinary style, innovative, inventive and really well-thought off, which includes their plating as an art.

Here are my suggested dishes:


Like what I said in my Instagram feed, their Wanton Nachos P 410) is the best  I've had.  The crunch, the cheese sauce on top, the meaty relish and the cilantro which added that Asian touch- they all make the elements of what I call a really, really good nacho, and oh, it's not your Mexican nacho ha, it's fried to crisp wanton chips which they make in their kitchen.  The wanton base for wanton noodles, yes!



Another one on top of my list is the Herb Crusted Salmon (P 560).  Know I'm giggling! Coz, yes, I do giggle over food and this one showed me o much love.  For one, I'm a huge fan of all salmon dishes, especially if it's pink Norwegian salmon.  I jut love how they were able to make an herb seasoning that fits the standard of a good salmon and have it made as it's second skin.  Crusty md really flavorful on the outside and tender and juicy inside.

The corn mash it was served with also complements the fish, with it's silky texture and sweet after-taste.  The corn salsa also added texture to the plate, making it a complete meal in itself.



A crowd-pleaser- Chicken Karaage Baos (P 270).

Comprised of crunchy, deep fried pieces of marinated chicken in a strange batter, sandwiched in between fried bao buns, with catsup and pickled carrot/onion.


Another of my most favorite dish here at The Belle is the Thai Steak Salad (P 510).  The only reason I ordered this is the curious cat in me.  Not that I would want to be killed by that certain curiousity, but by just the name of the dish itself will get you thinking.  Well, have you ever heard of Thai cuisine serving steak?

I guess, you can find Steak Thai-style in Google, but for me it was a first.

And more, first time experiences tho, a steak salad, and to amp up the excitement that was served with rice!  How crazy-inventive is that.

So many thing I love about this plate, despite being a fusion. First, the beef, tender in every bite is drenched in a fruity, tangy vinaigrette. mixed with lots of cilantro and fried basil, all topped in a cup o steamed rice.

I guess there's nothing wrong eating your salad and your main plus the rice all at the same time -perfect for on-the-go diners.


This famous Western fave was given a make-over, Shepherd's Pie (P 390).  It's lamb ragu with chopped eggplants, and poached egg, topped with garlicky potato mash and served with garden salad.


Single Dragon Burger (P 385) with Foie Gras (with additional charge).   If you want a burger with loads of crisp, fresh veggies and packed-full of flavor, then this is the way to go.  The beef patty were perfectly charred and grilled too.


Then went home all fattened up with their House Dry Aged Ribeye Steak (P 3400 for 800g).  Go all out luxurious and impress your crowd with this!  For sure they will love you more!  Best paired with beers and their house wine.  I swear!  I do solemnly swear, ton this, anytime!


This you might not find in their menu yet, Fried Pork Shank (P 650) but be sure to ask.  It's their version of Crispy Pata.  It's like a better version of it tho, and "pina-sosyal."

Desserts' a heaven here too!


Campfire Fondue (P 261).


Bread Pudding (P 345)


B and D Cheese Cake  (P 305).






THE BELLE AND DRAGON
Address: 100 Don Carlos Palanca St.,
              Legazpi Village, Makati City, Metro Manila
Contact numbers: 02-625 8828
Business Hours: 4:00 pm to 3:00 am (Monday to Sunday)
E-mail Address: info@TheBelleAndDragon.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/The-Belle-Dragon-366585200183696/


The Belle & Dragon Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

1 comment:

  1. You have no clue what good pub food is :) go to london silly pinoy - this place is awful ans massively overpriced. Sell it i know this comment wont get on becos u will delete it

    ReplyDelete

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