Every now and then, your tastebuds are treated with great tasting dishes that break away from your usual dining adventure. If there is one word that I can describe in this restaurant, then that’s the word great. The ambiance, food, drinks, and cocktails are all great! And I am just starting.
I’m talking about one of the latest restaurants in Poblacion Makati, Mijo. The Spanish themed gastro hub’s name is based on the conjoined expression “Mi + Hijo”, which means “my son.” Owner and chef Enrico Moreno thought of this name as a tribute to his grandmothers, Lola Nena, Mama Lita, and it is safe to assume that you’ll be indulged with his treasured family recipes.
My dining experience with Mijo
Upon entering the restaurant, I immediately noticed the austere and spacious interior. The aura is relaxed, cozy, and one of the highlights is the regal portraits of Chef Moreno’s two grandmas. Their large bar is also eye-catching. They also have dining tables set up on their patio for those who prefer.
The wait staff is welcoming, friendly, and they were attentive to our orders. Plus, they know what they’re serving as they give a concise description of an item when asked. The friendliest of them all is Chef Enrico, and he finds time to chat with all the guests.
But before I fill this article of how I’m still amazed by the natural vibe of this place, let me start my food review.
Food, drinks, and more
Gambas
Our lunch treats started with coasters of Bonnete Bread. This soft, buttery, and tasty rolls alone is a clear indication that extraordinary meals are coming our way. Nothing else made my tummy excited for a long time.
Beef Salpicao
After a few minutes, our order of the classics, Beef Salpicao and tapas of Gambas, was served. Mijo tweaked the recipe with modern touch without compromising tradition. The right amount of toasted garlic and aligue made the shrimps extra special, while the porcini mushroom’s strong flavor complemented the soy beef.
But we’re just getting started with appetizers; the main dish is coming our way!
When the main course was served, we don’t know where to begin. I chose carbs, and who am I to resist the two of the most indulging authentic paella I ever had in a while. The first one is Lamb Rack Paella made richer with coriander, garlic, cumin, oil, lemon juice, herbs, and salt. The Soft Shell Crab Paella is simply amazing with squid, and hints of calamansi juice with aioli.
Their meats entree are also something you should not miss. Mijo served us with the buttery and flavorful Wagyu Picanha with roasted bone marrow on thick tomato sauce, string beans, and mashed sweet potato. We also got the succulent Wagyu Pot Roast brisket, with mash potato truffle and its tasty drippings sauce.
Our senses were also delighted with Mijo’s duck meats entree. Their menu included a French cuisine inspired Duck confit marinated with the combination of hoisin and five-spice. It was served with fried rice cooked in duck’s fat and broth with duck egg as topping.
To balance everything, you can choose a pitcher of Sangria, rosé, or Rosato, or you can go with the usual glass of red wine.
For kids and all ages as well, the sweet and savory pork belly Asado paired with perfectly spiced kimchi fried rice is one of the classic meals you’ll genuinely enjoy at Mijo’s.
If you think you had enough carbs in one sitting, then wait until you try the pasta dishes of Mijo. They have the house favorite Mama Lita’s Sunday pasta, a light meal made with olives, garlic, anchovies, and sundried tomatoes. Go classic with Amatriciana in guanciale, tomatoes, and topped with parmesan cheese. Or you can go heavy with the all-time favorite Truffle Jamon Fettuccini with egg, truffle cream, parma ham, and parmesan cheese. All their pasta is are prepared in-house, and instead of the usual spaghetti noodles, they handmade the thinner variation, spaghettini.
Our meal set wouldn’t be complete without dessert. Mijo reserved something for sweet tooths like us! The house favorite is the bread pudding, and as simple as it may sound, it isn’t. What made it extra special is it’s made with Bonete bread, soaked with creamy chocolate ganache, and then sprinkled with a heap of honeycomb.
Location and operating hours
Mijo is located just on the other side of Crying Tiger Street Kitchen in 4987 P. Guanzon Street, Poblacion, Makati City.
They’re open from 6:00PM – 11:00PM during weekdays, and 12:00NN – 3:00PM, 6:00PM – 11:00PM on weekends.
Final thoughts
It’s seldom that you’ll find a place like on this side of the metro. The area is cozy, elegant, and perfect for Instagram snaps! On top of that, their menu is filled with comfort food choices that won’t drill a hole in your pocket. Dine on weekdays with friends, and have lunch with the family at Mijo Comfort Food!
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