I was at the Powerplant Mall in Rockwell over the weekend to watch my first movie for 2010. Do you know that I've watched a total of 45 movies last year? That's how much of a movie buff I am. I was able to keep count because I have this Moleskin journal where I pasted all the movie tickets I bought for the entire 2009. And of course, I've a new Moleskin notebook to fill for 2010.
Since it's the weekend and most of the stores in the mall are sporting the SALE sign, the mall was a bit crowded. Because I only came there to watch a movie, my friend and I scouted for a restaurant where we can dine even with a little peace and quiet. We saw this restaurant with only 3 of its tables occupied. I know that most people will tell you not to dine in places not packed with diners because it must mean that they do not have good food. Well, this time, I took a chance. Besides, the name was nice.
That's when we found Astralis by Diamond Hotel.
The moment we saw the menu, we already know what we want to order. For our starter, we got a soup and a salad.
On the house: Breads and Butter
Arugula, Romaine and Buffalo Mozzarella Salad- Php280.00
Baked Double-broiled Mushroom Soup- Php260.00
The salad was stunning. It was simple but when the flavors of the arugula, romaine and the mozzarella came together, it was such a joy. You can never go wrong with the peppery arugula and the milky mozzarella. It was just a match made in salad heaven. As for the mushroom soup, the taste is somewhat similar to La Maison's version. Our main course arrived shortly.
Prawn and Asparagus Risotto- Php480.00
Chicken Stuffed with Gorgonzola, Mozzarella and Stilton- Php510.00
The risotto was cooked just right. The texture of the risotto was smooth and creamy. The chicken, on the other hand, might be average in size but big in flavors. The 3 cheeses complemented each other beautifully. I was too concentrated on the chicken that I completely ignored the mashed potato. Tsk tsk. To complete our dining experience, we ordered some desserts.
Chocolate Truffle with Lemon Curd- Php260.00
Fruit Platter with Sherbet- Php190.00
The bittersweet taste of the chocolate truffle was divine. Too bad the lemon curd was just placed in the middle of that truffle square. It would've been lovely if it was spread throughout. The dessert came with peanut ice cream which helped in toning down the intense chocolate flavor of the truffle. Nothing much to say on the fruit platter except that we're thankful that the fruits were indeed fresh. The lemon sherbet tasted similar to Amici's.
Overall, it was a hearty and satisfying meal. We got what we wanted- a quiet ambiance paired with good food and service.
Astralis by Diamond Hotel
Lopez Drive, Powerplant Mall
+632.7032688
