michael B.
Google
The ambiance of the restaurant is undeniably charming, with its warm, homely feel accentuated by white curtains and a lush garden setting. It exudes a certain elegance, though the reception could benefit from a more refined greeting to set the tone. On the other hand, the service was impeccable—attentive, professional, and thorough, elevating the overall experience.
We indulged in the Handurawan Hak-ab, a 13-course tasting menu. With a name like Sialo and a bit of research, I anticipated a celebration of local flavors. While some dishes certainly delivered on this promise, others veered in a different direction. I particularly appreciated their modern interpretation of SuTuKil and Bistek, which showcased both creativity and respect for tradition. However, not all the courses made a cohesive impact. For instance, the shrimp paired with mango and passion fruit sauce leaned heavily into dessert territory—too sweet for an entrée, leaving a strange impression.
The menu, as a whole, is a bit of a hit-or-miss experience, with the entrées standing out as the highlight, followed by the desserts, and the appetizers trailing behind in terms of excitement. The cocktails and mocktails, however, were nothing short of spectacular, complementing the meal wonderfully.
This place isn't for the faint of heart or picky eaters—its adventurous take on Filipino cuisine is certainly for those willing to step outside their comfort zones. As for whether it deserves a spot in The Michelin Guide, I would argue it does. The chef's bold approach to reimagining local dishes speaks to a level of creativity that warrants recognition, especially for those food adventurers seeking new, exciting flavors.
Is it worth the splurge? Our total bill amounted to over 12k, and while there are undoubtedly more affordable options where you can savor a meal just as enjoyable, I don’t regret the experience. Sometimes, the journey of culinary discovery is worth every peso.