A Perfect Place For A Solitary Diner

table setting at Galileo Enoteca

I've been to Galileo Enoteca before and this is on their flagship store located in Calbayog Street in Mandaluyong City. I like the holistic vibe of the place. Frankly, who would have thought a gem of an Italian resto can be found amidst this gritty district where one could also sight a pharmacy, a videoke bar, a talipapa market, a tricycle station and a honky tonk bar? This somewhat unusual location of the restaurant added more to its charm. Once inside, it really felt like you're dining inside a wine cellar with rows and rows of wines that lined each walls and brooding lighting to match it with. Their servers very knowledgeable in suggesting on what to order on the menu. This somewhat contributed to the outstanding dining experience that I had here. From the fish appetizer placed on top of a creamy polenta, the delightfully spicy Spaghettini Ala Arabiatta down to the very luscious Panna Cotta dessert.

One Quaint Restaurant In Marikina

cake at Cafe Lidia

Ever since I heard about Cafe Lidia in Marikina from friends and the way they described how good the dishes they've tried there---especially the pastas, I've always wondered when will it be my chance to experience it first hand. I'm not really well versed with the geography of Marikina. I even find it dubious if I could find the place without first being lost momentarily even with the aid of Google Maps. I strongly felt, however, it's about time for me to explore the hidden food treasures that abounds Marikina. So far, the only restaurants I've tried in Marikina were Tapsi Ni Vivian At Bulaluhan and Pan De Amerikana. So, when my friend Gael suggested that we meet up at Cafe Lidia along with Henry, I jumped right in without hesitation.