Within the rustic brick walls of Lamp Quarters in Marikina is Chives Bistro, a cozy restaurant that serves scrumptious food. In my humble opinion, the must-try dish there is their version of Salpicao - a succulent medley of beef, mushrooms, and garlic.
Yes, I know that good Salpicao is practically a requirement nowadays for mid-priced restos, but the mushrooms!-the chef has added chunks of divine-yet-worldly goodness that I cannot bring justice to with mere words...
...and the salads! You know you've found a diamond among pebbles if even the salads are topnotch treats (Chives cheats with one by adding grilled pork to it, but the smoky flavor is a welcome addition to the taste of fresh and crunchy vegetables). Elevated restaurant staples - that's how I'd describe Chives' offerings in a nutshell. It's the culinary version of Lacoste's "Un peu d'air sur terre:" a little air (over) earth.
To foodies - add Chives Bistro to your bucket list. To non-foodies - you might very well turn into foodies by the time you finish your first bite. read more