Bait’s: Where to Catch The Finest Seafood in the Metro

 

Grilled Tuna, Salsa Criolla, Fried Yucca 

 

Chef Joseph tells us about the last minute change to tuna in this dish, which was originally going to use swordfish. According to the chef, tuna is oilier, but this alternative does not disappoint. It has the perfect texture and the flavor is further enhanced by the salsa. The fried yucca is a welcome companion.

 

Boquerones Skyflakes

 

This was actually our starter dish– simple, unassuming and straightforward, probably serving as an introduction to the concept of the dishes that night. The fish is mild, with the Skyflakes providing a delicate complement to it.

 

Octopus and Pork Belly Salad with Salsa Verde

 

I have never had octopus before this, yet my first time was a welcome experience. The octopus is juicy, flavorful while the vegetables provide a fresh, bright contrast; the pork belly, on the other hand, complements the medley of vegetables.

 

Tuna Tartare with Lemon Oil and Pickled Mustard Seeds

 

The lemon oil provides a lot of the flavor for this dish, though the radish and seeds provide a nice contrast in texture to the tuna. The seeds also add another layer of flavor to the tuna with its strong taste.

 

Torched Mackerel, Red Lentils, Crispy Pig’s Ears

 

The lentils provide a delicate balance to the fish, while the crispy pig ears contrast in texture. 

 

Squid a la Plancha with Sofrito and Chicharon

 

The squid a la plancha somewhat reminded us of a deconstructed gambas, only with squid. The texture is on point: squid is juicy but not rubbery, onions are cooked to tenderness, and the chicharon provides a much-needed crunch to what would otherwise be a generally tender dish.

 

Red Snapper Crudo in Green Tomato Water with Kutsoboshi

 

 

This is perhaps my favorite out of all the dishes we tried. The crudo has good heat and smoke, with a nice flaky touch from the kutsoboshi, complementing the milder flavor of the red snapper.  The kick elevates the novelty of this dish, though it’s definitely not for everyone, especially those who cannot stand spicy food.

 

While we helped ourselves to the dishes served in front of us, we also enjoyed their cocktails:

 

Starfish.

This cocktail is light and refreshing, with spiced lemon, orange bitters, lemon juice, melon juice and syrup. 

 Boulevard Felipe

 This drink is bolder and has a more gentlemanly vibe, with ingredients such as Johnnie Walker, Vermouth, St. Germain, Grapefruit Bitters, and Campari in it.

 

Bait’s will open soon at G/F Signa Residences, Valero corner Rufino Street, Makati City. (@BaitsManila / #BaitsManila)

 Meanwhile, you can check them out at The Red Light, located at W Young Building, Felipe St., Poblacion, Makati City (@theredlightph / #theredlight) 

 

 

Bait’s: Where to Catch The Finest Seafood in the Metro