I got invited to check out this new restaurant in Rockwell, by the name of Solstice Bistro & Boulangerie. By the looks of it, it won’t be difficult to discern that this is one of what’s seemingly lined up in the upscale list of restaurants you can see in the area.
About: Solstice by Ilustrado at 8 Rockwell
Solstice Bistro and Boulangerie is now called Solstice by Ilustrado, a merger of two great culinary brands offering modern continental and heritage Filipino-Spanish cuisine. This is coupled with a well-curated selection of wines and spirits located at the ground floor of 8 Rockwell, one of Makati’s chic urban communities.
A merger of two well-loved culinary brands.
Solstice draws inspiration from the success of One Way Restaurant, once touted as among Makati’s best-kept secrets. Ilustrado, on the other hand, brings with it its rich history and heritage, with its status as one of the well-established household dining destinations in Manila’s famed walled city.
The new management has taken this as a challenge as they reinvented the restaurant’s menu just this year adding new recipes and covering multiple cuisines.
They also complemented the refreshed menu with a selection of fine wines carefully chosen to complete the gastronomic experience.
I love their interiors. The design has a modern feel, and the cascade of a photo-history kind of brings back memories people shared via good food and company.
I highly imagine this place hosting to close family gatherings, reunions, friend get-togethers and even dates! The ambiance will surely make you feel first-class!
And oh, the food! How do I start with this?
Well, first is, this wasn’t like the normal food tasting slash food blog event I’ve been to. We were all sitting in a long table, and there were food servers who would put some amount on our plates, and in that way we could somehow tell them if the serving was too much or enough.
Because they never give small ones! I was literally overwhelmed with the idea that I can talk to the servers and ask what is in the dish, and if it was spicy, or if it’s seafood, pork, vegetable, or whatever.
I felt like Rose Dewitt-Bukater (Kate Winslet) in Titanic! Remember that scene?
So here is the mouth-watering feast we had.
Kapampangan Sisig
I love how flavorful this is, and the crunchyness made devouring it a more fun experience.
The Sisig Kapampangan which is a refreshing departure from the mayonnaise and egg laden dish. This one is cooked with their home-made liver spread gravy and topped with chopped red and green chili. Of special mention is that the sisig consists of crispy pigs ears, skin and mascara.
Stuffed Chicken Ilustrado
Their take on Stuffed Chicken is wonderful, it tasted fairly well. Although it didn’t quite leave a remarkable impact, the chicken was rich and thick and something that is ideal to order at lunch.
Serrano and Manchego Skewers with balsamic glaze
Aside from it looking fancy, I had an enjoyable time eating them. Mixing it together allows you to appreciate both distinct flavors.
Pasta Aligue with Crispy Soft shell Crab
This is an interesting dish to include in any event I suppose. It’s fresh and modern! I believe if I were to conduct an event in Solstice, this is a must-order!
Paella Ilustrado
I love how this becomes a complete meal already! Among all the dishes served that night, this is probably my favorite! The taste is exquisite, and every spice is just shouting like crazy!
I think I quite had three servings of this! No judging!
Callos Madrilena
I love this one! I had a great time savouring the spices. I would want to eat their version of Callos Madrilena with rice next time!
Norwegian Salmon Ceviche Poke
I didn’t expect to adore this one! It really tasted healthy! I believe this dish is perfect for those who are on a strict diet! It’s a seafood-vegetable and fruit combo! What more could you ask for?
Adobong Bagnet with Crab fat
Super sarap! Period!
Shroom Pizza
This is also delicious, although I wanted more salt in it. The cheese melted perfectly, but I wished the salt balanced more with the cheese. The mushrooms were soft and easy to chew as well!
Chorizo Pizza
It was delightful, because all the spices were just blended evenly and perfectly, and I never distinguished any spice that wasn’t right on its place.
I forgot what this one is called, something with Lime or Lemongrass I think? But OMG. This one is so delicious, probably something I could order in Hogsmead.
Mango Jubilee with Sampaguita Ice Cream
Have you ever tasted Sampaguita before? Now is your chance! Taste a flower like no other, and I promise, the taste will make you sing!
It’s nothing like any dessert you’ve tasted before, so when you visit Solstice by Ilustrado, this one should be part of your experience! Thank me after!
Matcha Cookies and Cream
This dessert is a shocker for me. I am not a fan of Matcha, and these cookies are making me feel that I can convert already! Plus the cream tasted like a pure soul.
OMG. I hope it didn’t sound weird to you.
The cream tasted so innocent, very pure, creamy, and it matches the Matcha Cookies like destiny!
These lovely ladies are the ones we have to thank for bringing the illustrious dishes in this beautiful restaurant!
Your favorites next door.
With the new Solstice by Ilustrado, customers no longer need to scour the metro or brave the traffic to seek out their favorite food in Manila. Be it with colleagues, family, friends, or significant others, everyone is sure to find something to enjoy in Solstice by Ilustrado.
For Reservations, please call (+632) 802 1891 or (+63 977 748 8861), from 11AM to 11PM daily. Follow @solsticebyilustrado on Instagram, and like facebook.com/SolsticebyIlustrado/ for updates.
Dine like an elite, but spend like an economical citizen! The food is amazing, and reasonably priced!
You would have to start checking them out now, and taste a piece of luxury! You would be happy you did!
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