Craving some Filipino comfort food? Look no further!
Nestled comfortably on the 3rd floor of Robinsons Galleria is Mesa: Filipino Moderne newly-opened and with the scents of delicious comfort food wafting out of its doors. It was so inviting that we couldn’t wait to get inside and have a taste!
The exterior is just as beautiful as the interior!
What we noticed first was the sophisticated interior. Everything was sleek and simple, a perfect backdrop for almost any occasion. It was understated but classy and with pops of Filipino influence in their woven Rattan seats and dividers. Whatever you’re celebrating, this restaurant is sure to elevate and transform your celebration into an elegant affair.
We were welcomed warmly and excitedly by the staff, asking us immediately how they could help us. The menu itself was a little daunting, but everyone was kind enough to point us in the direction of some of their bestsellers. With a spread of familiar, homey flavors sometimes fused with new ones, all the dishes seemed to invite us to try them!
Their “Crispchon” served in Malunggay crepe
At the risk of sounding corny, we want to say that we felt every dish was prepared and served with love. Not a single bite went by where we thought the flavor lacked or the seasoning left more to be desired. Every time we sank our teeth into anything, we were greeted by a gush of flavors that all worked together beautifully.
Each dish was also visually stunning. We stand firmly with our belief that everything we were served was thoughtfully put together and masterfully executed. Not only were they colorful and vibrant, catering to the visual, but they were all also creatively plated and styled. The sisig in a pouch comes to mind, delicious sisig fried in a wrapper making it a great medley of texture and flavor.
Sisig in a pouch
Their Crispchon was also something we raved about. We found the presentation interesting–a shock of green with a trio of sauces–but the texture of the malunggay crepe seemed to be the perfect bed for the suckling pig. Their Crispchon is served two ways: In the malunggay crepe or tossed in chili garlic. Both ways were delicious.
The Palabok was also a great comfort dish. The crispness of the chicharon with the thickness of the sauce interplayed well. The noodles had a satisfying snap to them, all drizzled with some sourness from the calamansi. This was a perfectly balanced dish that reminded me of the pancit we would eat in my lola‘s house, tucked into my childhood chair by the window.
Palabok
We noticed that Mesa has a penchant for serving dishes in more than one way. It just goes to show how creative they are, how there are multiple approaches to food, and how they treat every approach with the utmost respect. They cater to different tastes and flavors and show their flexibility in handling dishes that can be eaten in more than one way. And they definitely want all their patrons to feel at home and eat food that they’re both comfortable with and wowed by.
Crispy leche flan–a favorite!
Innovative, warm, and inviting, Mesa has brought us home away from home. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a birthday or just have a warm meal to end the day, this is the place for you. The menu unfolds with choices and allows you to indulge in whatever flavor you’re after for the day. Mesa’s ready to give you that unique, Filipino taste that will bring you home no matter how far away you are.
This is their 39th store and they’re looking to get to 50. We have to say that this is a welcome new addition to the roster, sitting right in the heart of one of the busiest districts in Metro Manila. A melting pot of different people will be able to encounter home here. Whether it’ll be a gathering of old high school friends, a business meeting (their function room is beautiful!) with sophisticated executives, or just a dinner with a friend, this is a prime option.
Thank you for welcoming us home, Mesa! We can’t wait to return!
Mesa: Filipino Moderne
Level 3, Veranda, Robinsons Galleria
Open daily: 10 AM – 10 PM (Mondays to Fridays); 10 AM – 10 PM (Saturdays and Sundays)
For reservations: 0926 085 9091
Facebook: @MesaPH
Instagram: @mesaphilippines
