During the pre-pandemic era, the Tomas Morato and Scout areas in Quezon City have the distinction of being local foodie havens.
In these relatively quiet and mostly residential areas have popped up a diverse collection of dining choices offering a wide array of cuisines.
While the pandemic and its resulting lockdowns have slowed down this once vibrant food scene, it has slowly but surely shown signs of recovery.
This is evidenced by the opening of a new and exciting dining destination in the area last December: Borro Manila.
A new trendy spot for foodies
Taking its name from the street where it is located, Borro certainly seems all set to be a popular establishment among the metro’s food fans.
Upon arriving here with my officemates for one of our much-anticipated happy lunches, I was at first daunted by the seeming lack of parking space in front of the building. I was happy to discover that the restaurant offers free valet service so parking turned out not to be a problem.
It boasts of a welcoming facade, where stairs led up to the first floor al fresco and indoor dining areas. Another set of stairs to the side led up to similar areas on the second floor.
These expansive and airy spaces are marked by well-appointed furnishings and chic yet homey decor, made all the more welcoming by an abundance of natural light streaming from floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
All of these add up to making Borro a very Instagrammable spot for foodies to capture moments and memories with their favorite comfort food.
International and Filipino comfort food
At Borro Manila, my officemates and I were happy to discover a diverse menu featuring both international and Filipino comfort food favorites.
Borro’s complimentary freshly baked bread and butter started our meal off right while its Watermelon Shake (₱140) was a refreshing treat.
Then, we warmed our tummies with a deliciously hearty helping of Polonchay Soup (₱480) made with spinach, shrimp and eggs.
We also dove into the Super Nachos (₱390), a heaping pile of crispy tortilla chips topped in meat, bell peppers, jalapenos, onion, olives and marinara sauce, then smothered in torched cheese.
The Creamy Truffle Pasta (₱580), a rich and decadent dish made with cream, white wine, garlic and truffle oil did fit the bill for something more indulgent.
The Boneless Fried Chicken (₱540), on the other hand, which was served with homemade gravy, came in servings large enough for the whole group to share.
The Lechon Kawali (₱530) consisted of deep-fried pork belly and crispy chicharon and a serving of rice.
Lastly, Borro’s Bagnet Kare-Kare (₱550) brings a taste of Ilocos with deep-fried bagnet on a bed of peanut sauce and veggies with bagoong on the side.
Reviving Tomas Morato’s Food Scene
Borro Manila proved to be a welcome addition to the Tomas Morato area, which has long been a hub for foodies in Quezon City. With its stylish yet welcoming decor, diverse menu, and prime location, the restaurant is a perfect venue for family and friends to come together over good food.
It’s surely doing its bit inhelping to revitalize the neighborhood’s food scene and attract a new generation of diners.
Borro Manila is located at No. 10 Scout Borromeo corner Scout Tobias Streets, Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City, open daily from 11am to 12 midnight. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 966 9331841.
Stay updated on its menu and offers by following Borro Manila on Facebook and Instagram.
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