Date Night at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant

It's been more than 2 months since my partner moved to Cebu for work, and we have been coping with the long distance set-up.  We have been trying to visit each other as often as we can and fortunately for him, his works requires him to be in Manila every so often.  We originally planned for the 3rd weekend, but his work demanded he comes over last October 9 for his Monday meeting.

Photo credit to Barbara's Heritage Restaurant Facebook Page

This is his first weekend back in Manila and we want to make it special.  It was a friend's Facebook post that convinced us to try Barbara's in Intramuros.  I have heard about their dinner buffet that comes with cultural show, but its only this Saturday that we found time to actually visit.

I called the number posted on the web (+632 527 3893) to make reservation and found out that dinner service starts at 6:00PM and show starts at 7:15PM.

In spite of the traffic in Manila, we were able to arrive at Plaza San Luis Complex just before 7:00PM.  The buffet selection was a mix of Filipino and International dishes.  Don't expect a spread as huge as Vikings.  This is not the place to get get stuffed.  They offer 2 meat dishes, a fish option, vegetable, pasta, rice and soup, plus a separate station for dessert.  I think its a good deal for 699 pesos and lunch buffet is even cheaper at 549 pesos.  The crowd was a mix of locals, Balik-bayans, and tourists.

The buffet, offering a mix of International and Filipino food!

The Dessert Station

The Cultural show started as scheduled with the 3-man Rondalla, followed by a series of dances.  First, they highlighted the Spanish inspired dances, followed by the Muslim and was capped by the Fiesta theme.

The beautiful Curtural Dancers of Barbara's!

Audience we're given the opportunity to try out "Tinikling".  The dance that would challenge your coordination as you hop to the beat trying to avoid getting your feet trapped between the bamboo.

My attempt at Tinikling!

I really enjoyed the evening.  I like the Nostalgic Charm of the restaurant, the food, and Cultural show makes it worth the visit.  Plus, its a real value for money.

Chef Laudico Guevarra's Buffet

The 1920's House turned restaurant

I was inspecting a project site in Mandaluyong with my best friend along Lawson St. in Addition Hills last week, and it was him who suggested the idea of trying out Guevarra's a few corners away along Argonne St.

Tucked hidden from the main streets of San Juan and Mandaluyong is Chef Laudico Guevarras's.  It's a 1920's house that is converted into a buffet restaurant showcasing the culinary masterpieces of Chef Roland and Chef Jacqueline Laudico.

From the narrow streets, you will be guided through the entrance gate to the parking area.  We were a bit early for dinner, but I'm guessing it's more challenging during peak hours and weekends.

Inside, the halls and rooms of the house were converted in dining areas, and function rooms.  The decors are simple,  reflecting a vintage vibe with old photographs and art hanging from white panelled walls.

A huge hall on the side of the house showcases the creations of our local Masterchefs, displayed on a long buffet station.  Don't hassle yourself in making choices because you need to try everything.  My favourite would be the Lechon and the Angus Beef Kare Kare.

What's even more admirable about the restaurant is the price.  They are actually cheaper than some of the buffet restaurants in Malls.

Check our their Father's Day rate:

Please take note, that dining is done in batches, so be mindful of the time to maximise your meals.  If you arrived late, say 6 PM, you can opt to avail the early dinner rate for the remaining hour, or just wait until 7:30 PM for the full 3 hour dinner service.  The only difference with the batches is the price and the time constrains, but the food is just the same.

The Culinary Masterpieces of Chef Roland and Chef Jacquilene Laudico

One of the function room, for a more intimate gathering

It's a good place to bring your family for any occasion.  I will be coming back with friends and this time, will ensure enough space in my stomach to sample everything!

Follow them on Facebook

Chef Laudico Guevarra's

https://www.facebook.com/ChefLaudicoGuevarras

387 P. Guevarra St. cor. Argonne St., Addition Hills San Juan, 1500 Manila, Philippines705 1811 / 705 1874 / 502 5006 / 0917 311 2222Today 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm