Any partying I did, back when I was young, I did at home. Does that suck or what? So, I did make up for a lot of lost time very quickly. For many, working hard is equated with partying hard, though I am not into partying that hard, but its not bad if I go out with friends occasionally. I did love dancing but at my age, I guess sharing the limelight and the dance floor isn't my turf anymore.
It's good that the idea of such restaurants and bar that magically transform into a club or a party venue at night was invented.
One such example is Universe Gastrolounge which replaced the now defunct Opus. Universe is housed on the location of Republiq and Opus Restaurant and Lounge.
We know how Resorts World have been a mecca for bar hoppers and clubbers. So, for the fans of Opus and Republiq, fret not for Universe is now at your service. For both diners and party-goers, Gastrolounge is your respite from the busy world, a dining haven for international cuisines and a party place at the strike of 10 pm.
At the helm of the exquisite gastronomic experience is Chef Fernando Aracama of none other than the Aracama Restaurant and Lounge at The Fort.
The stylish and classic vibe of the old Opus still remains, with the bar still at place. However, the interiors have changed, even the chairs - from the quilted cushion beige long chairs to the studded velvety black mimicked antique chairs.
I love the wall side where my fellow foodies and I were seated. The whole wall was made into a huge blackboard and the menu is written so glaringly.
Aside from an array of unique cocktails, they also serve up health shots. Healthy juices are concocted from a mix of different fresh fruits and veggies. Here I think I had orange, carrot, lemon and pineapple.
They can be a bit naughty when naming some components in the menu, meet one of our antipasto, Black Bikini! Yet, there is nothing too kinky about this deck of French toasts. Layers of bread, Jamon Serrano, cheese, black truffle jam and more toasts can be enjoyed as you wait for your mains.
The beautiful stack of garlicky log croutons dipped in Mixed Mushroom Dip is best complimented with any cocktails and white wine. Three different mushrooms are sauteed and topped with molten cheese. Ahh, good thing I'm just a tone-throw away from RWM and I could just make a quick run here jut for the dip!
Couch potatoes unite with Patatas Bravas! For me, this isn't an advisable starter though. Baby potatoes were deep fried making the skin crispy, served marinara sauce and garlic aioli (which was btw, totally addicting), making your tummy heavy and palate a bit oily. However, this i good paired with the heavy meaty mains.
I never regretted eating a lot of Chicken Cobb Salad here, it was a complete meal all in itself for me, especially with those chunky grilled chicken and fresh veggies that make up the salad, oh not to forget having avocado slices as well. The ranch dressing spiked up with blue cheese is endearing, you could really get that sharpness from the blue cheese, and that meant they don't scrimp on gourmet ingredients.