Marikina City is the food capital of Metro Manila, there's no doubt about that. Even Quezon City is not up to par with the culinary treasure chest that is Marikina City.
Most might say that Marikina City is way too far, or too out-of-way, but if you are really up for a spin and on a hunt for great food, head over to the Shoe Capital and you're not going to regret it.
In the middle of a residential area of Calumpang stands Patio Vera. An old house converted into the Restaurant and Bar that it is now. It is a bit hard to find, especially if you aren't all too familiar with the streets of Marikina. But once you get there, you'll forget all the troubles you had to go through because what unfolds before you is a fabulous and grand restaurant with food that will take you back to a time when home cooking is not a rare thing.
Mr. Dennis Caballes, owner of Patio Vera, did the interior decoration and the landscaping of the restaurant himself. There was also an array of costumed shoes, that served as receipt trays, which he also designed. He mentioned that the look of the restaurant is ever-changing because he always redesigns whenever he feels like doing so.
Turning old houses into restaurants nowadays seem like a thing, maybe because it brings nostalgia to diners who miss the old days where one can look forward to home cooked meals on Sunday family lunch at Lola's house. This one, especially the house, brings me back to the 80s and to the studio/boutique of my mom's uncle who used to design gowns for celebrities back then.At the center of the lawn is a tent, where you can dine al fresco. I loved the chandelier and the ornaments that reminded me of my childhood. The huge vase gives the illusion that you are in Phuket or Bali.
A very long and old wooden boat is recycled and turned into something like a table for plants and other antiquated displays.
Mr. Dennis Caballes, owner of Patio Vera Restobar
You might ask about the food... It was superb! It really made the whole nostalgia thing come to life with the food they serve. The food will really make you think of the times you visit your Grandma on Sundays (but you just play all day with your cousins).
Visit their Facebook Page at Patio VERA (Restobar) for updates and details.
Patio Vera is located at 70 Gen. F. Santos Street, Calumpang, Marikina City.
Telephone: 239-06-15
E-mail: patiovera@yahoo.com
Open hours: 5:00PM to 12:00AM on weekdays
11:00AM to 12:00AM on weekends
