Say hello to Lampara Neo-Filipino Bistro! Recognized as one of the greatest restaurants in the area, it’s not surprising to find Lampara jam-packed as soon as it opens.
It was quite hard for me finding the restaurant signage as I came early this morning but, if you are familiar with OTO, you just have to cross the other way. The restaurant is on the 2nd floor apartment complex at 5883 Enriquez Street. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted by the cozy enclave of iconic mismatched-styled chairs and unique-hanging lamps. While I can tell that the approach is quite modern the owner made sure that the place would feel homey which you could just eat, sit anywhere you like and relax comfortably. The place also offers an al fresco area for those who would like to smoke.
Aside from the vibe and cozy ambience Lampara stood out because of their menu which currently have five appetizers, five main courses and three desserts which are all Filipino-originated dishes.
Rice Cups (₱220)
Longanisa, Ubod and Aligue / Bean Sprouts, Peanuts and Tofu
I started off with this great appetizer. Comes in two variants, Longanisa, Ubod and Aligue / Bean Sprouts, Peanuts and Tofu. Both are perfect with Sinamak vinegar. While the tofu on the other hand is made special as it shows off delicate taste bursting with flavor, I still personal y prefer the Ubod refreshing taste for the rice cup.
Ensalada (₱180)
Frisee salad, salted egg, eggplant
Now we have the dish for health- conscious like me, this is my favorite actually as it comes with flavors of smoky roasted eggplant, frisee sitting on baba ganoush; house-made tinapa oil, lato seaweed and salted egg powder accentuating its fresh flavors. This Ensalada is definitely a must-try.
Tanigue (₱420)
Soy, citrus, onion
After the appetizers, I have now come to try one of the big platters. Tanigue may seem a bit quite expensive but considering its size, it’s worth it! The dish is complimented by sweet taste of onions, saltiness from soy and zest of citrus. The sophisticated presentation made it also stood out. It’s definitely obvious that they have use French techniques infused with Filipino food to create this delicious dish
Pork (₱310)
Porchetta, star anisse, and pork floss
Aside from the Ensalada earlier, this is also one of my favorites, that is paired with rice. When I ordered it, I was excited on how it will turn out, one bite and I almost forgot who I’am but kidding aside the crispy pork with star anise and black vinegar, topped with tasty pork floss made it a shot of divine! A stunning combination of porchetta, star anisse, and pork floss.
Yema and tsokolste (₱220)
Malagos condensed milk honey
So, who doesn’t even like yema and tsokolate? This one is a worth-it dessert. There’s a lot of flavors put into it and I really liked it. Very complex.
Signature drinks
Pana Kakana Kana (₱300)
Gin, cardamom, black pepper kicker
The lightiest and mildest among all the drinks Lampara has to offer. But in terms of flavor, it’s really good! I can see people who would love to just have a few social drink or just chill drink, could enjoy this and add on their must-try options. Always has a kicker and spice in the taste.
Gayuma ni Albano (₱350)
Asiong gin, black currant and cinnamon
One of the most-ordered cocktails. This one has a deceiving sweet taste. This might be the strongest but I can assure you, you’ll love this drink. It tastes really well that you could even finish a glass in one go.
Gasera ni Simeon (₱380)
Gin, rosemary and grape fruit
I love the burnt taste! Also one of the strongest drink but delightfully good. It has a really good alcohol complex feels like speakeasy but like 100 to 200 pesos cheaper.
Wrapping all up, Lampara might be one of the newest kid in town but –the atmosphere, food and the passion from the team who runs this place made it a success! . It is good for dates or maybe friends hanging out but not a cheap pick but a reasonably priced one. Not for those who would love to go for unlimited and big servings or binge. Servings are just the right size but of not for those who are super-duper hungry.I wish I could try more but will definitely go back again and again.
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