I celebrated my birthday last April and it was extra special because my loved ones were in complete attendance. For something this momentous, I planned things a few months ahead. I wanted something fancy and filling that wouldn’t break the bank. I finally decided on FOO’D by DAVIDE OLDANI.
Located at the ground floor of Shangri-La at the Fort, the menu is very intriguing. It offers Degustation (a tasting menu of different small courses); but unlike other fine dining restaurants with the same offer, the prices are much more affordable starting at Php1,500 pesos for a 3-course dinner menu. Plus, you can actually build your own dishes. For each category, there are at least five options to choose from.
Chef Davide Oldani got 1 Michelin Star for his restaurant D’O located in Cornaredo, Italy. I believe the brand promise of FOO’D is to bring Michelin-grade quality dining experience at reasonable prices. Thus, the concept is aptly called Italian Pop Cuisine. On top of this, it is also on T.Dining’s list of 20 best restaurants for 2018 and 2019.
I will showcase two pairs of the 4-course menu I chose from my family’s orders hoping to whet your appetite and pique your interest.
We started with Amuse Bouche, which are small complimentary dishes that literally mean “mouth amuser“ in French. Simply put, these are the appetizers.
We were served Steamed Bread with Parmesan Cheese, and Truffle Potato Mousse. Both are delectable and serve their purpose of preparing us for the meal.
Cipolla Caramellata (Caramelized Onions, 24 months aged Grana Padano Gelato, Grana Padano Hot Cream). This is the chef’s signature dish found at D’O. The combination is peculiar at first because of the combination of onions and gelato, but it worked and we’re so lucky that we don’t have to travel far to taste this.
Mushroom and Egg (Confit Egg Yolk, Textures of Mushroom, Crispy Prosciutto). Creamy eggs, umami from the mushrooms, and texture from the ham – a classic combination that is a real hit!
Truffle Cacio E Pepe (Spaghetti, Lemon, Pecorino Romano, Black Pepper, Truffle Oil). I didn’t like the two Primis I tasted. This dish with simple ingredients usually shines on dining tables, so it was rather disappointing considering we were in an Italian restaurant. Also, the truffle oil was so mild, I didn’t taste it at all.
Milenese D’O (18 months aged Carnaroli, Saffron). This is actually a risotto dish made from carnaroli, which is a type of medium grained rice. Also not a fan of this dish.
Pressed Duck Two Ways ( Maple Leaf Duck Breast, Confit Duck Leg, Rhubarb, Duck Press Jus). A clear winner for me!
Halibut (Saffron Potato Veloute, Sicilian Caponata, Potato Crisps). The fish is perfectly cooked and I would recommend this light dish for someone looking for a healthier option.
Dark Chocolate Mousse (Cacao Crumble, Raspberry, Dark Chocolate Gelato). Very rich texture and the raspberry adds a special touch to this outstanding dish.
Lemon Curd (Dehydrated Meringue, Cacao Crumble, Curry Almonds, Lettuce Gelato). Something unique once again. The lettuce gelato tastes like mild green tea ice cream. The lemon curd is very tart. This is the perfect palate cleanser after a savory meal.
FOO’D by Davide Oldani is the best primer for those exploring the world of fine dining. The prices are relatively affordable and the experience of tasting the recipes of a celebrated Michelin Starred Chef, who also happens to be an Ambassador of Italian Cuisine, is truly worthwhile.
TIP: For the Most Affordable Option, dine during lunch time and get their 3-course Prix Fixe Menu. At almost half the price for only Php800 pesos, you get to enjoy the same quality dishes but only limited to two options per category.
Foo’D by Davide Oldani
Ground Floor, Shangri-La Hotel at the Fort, 30th St cor, 5th Ave, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig
09177114469
Instagram: @foobydo_ph
