Mariel Tenorio-Biglete
+5
My husband and I loved the relaxed vibe of this place! There was jazz music and the lighting was just right. The staff was very attentive and prompt.
We ordered the sisig rice, pork belly idol, i hate keto (egg, potato and celery salad), and chicken skin.
The sisig rice tasted perfect with every spoonful! It’s full of flavor, and the crispiness of the sisig bits is such a wonderful surprise. It got a bit too oily though, as we got to the bottom of the bowl. You will also tend to get umay if you eat too much of it on its own, so make sure you order another food of a different flavor profile (that’s why we ordered i hate keto and pork belly idol).
Pork Belly Idol tasted great as well. Pork was very tender, and their sauce complements the sisig rice nicely.
Will definitely go back to this place :)
Parking tip: there’s limited side street parking in front of the resto, so if you want to avoid going around the block to look for parking, i suggest you start looking for vacant slots the moment you arrive at Remedios circle. It’s a short walk to Minokaua from there (not even 5 minutes).
Another hidden gem in the malate area. Their food is very good. Speicially the eclipse, I was hesistant at first but since I read a lot of good reviews so I have to try it for myself. So as soon as I had my first bite, all I can say is "woow!" Its really good. Im not into squid ink but this is an exception. Good job
Nice bar with good food. Chicken skin and hungarian sausage were tasty. Staffs are pleasant and attentive. A good find in Adriatico area, traffic could be challenging though.
I particularly loved the Kimchi Mussel Pot. It had the just the right amount of spice. Not the burning kind, so yoi can enjoy the imported mussels and sauce with the accompanying bread. 😍
The Eclipse though is a different story. It's super hot hot HOT! Paella made of Chili! 😛
Lunar Eclipse on the other hand is their take on Paella Negra. Perfectly executed. 👌
For Dessert they have a unique one. Grilled Ensaymada Ice Cream Melt. We all loved this one! Whoever thought that smoky charred ensaymada is a thing. 😁
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
Minokaua is a jazz/blues restobar and gallery at the heart of Adriatico, Malate. If you’re looking for a quality live music, tasty and hefty food proportions, and down-to-earth company this is the place to go. Owners are always present and hospitable; the passion project feel is real.
They’re open from 10am - 3am so if you’re looking for a comfortable work space (clean bathrooms-yay, air-conditioned, good music, and savory food) or a place to watch live music over dinner and drinks, this is your spot.
But what I love most about Minokaua is their sincere support for local artists. It’s great to be around a community that genuinely supports the local art industry.
Tips and tricks:
1. Live Music - when there is no door charge, they pass the hat: all the cash goes to the band so be generous if you enjoyed the set.
2. Cash basis - they do have plans to get the card system running, but not yet. Conveniently, there are ATM’s all over Adriatico.
3. Parking - just street park around Adriatico, it isn’t difficult compared to other night life areas around Manila, like Burgos or BGC. So if you want to evade the typical Makati traffic jam, jam out in Minokaua.
4. Food - the portions are HUGE.
Must tries:
(main) FIDEOS, minokaua rice on a paella skillet, laksa mussels; (picas) chicken skin, potato wedges, and (dessert) get the churros or if you want a monstrous dessert for a crowd, try the ensaymada with ice cream.
Their rice toppings are great if you just want an affordable and quick good-for-one meal.
Everything’s great with beer, but if you like sweet cocktails they have bottled ones called alcopops apart from the classics. Feel free to talk to the bartender to adjust the flavor or you can top-up to choose higher quality liquor (which I do because I’m picky).
Everything is quite fairly priced.
5. Co-working space/ Design Firm:
If you want to be around a bunch of creatives during the day, they have a multimedia design agency where you can get web-design, layouts, etc. done.
Their casa is su casa, so feel at home.
Cheers! 🍻
📷 (c) Vic Narciso
No trip to old Manila would be complete without a visit to at least a couple of bars in Malate. Spending time in Malate is an unmatched experience due to the breadth of the district’s drinking establishments. The Minokaua, one of the newest bars in Malate has set up shop on the famous Adriatico Street.
The only one we could find in Malate for good live music and great food. 2 toilets each for male and female was a surprise. Servers are friendly. There's also a g/f area if you just want to have a cozy dinner.
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
The Minokaua is a huge dragon-like bird born from the imaginative minds of whoever made up our Philippine folk lore. It was believed that this creature is so big that it can swallow up the sun to explain why eclipses occur.
Much like the legend, this joint swallowed up the light from my eyes as I lay like a bloated corpse, killed by the combination of cool underground jazz vibes, cheap bottled cocktails, and a smorgasbord of grub that made both my eyes and mouth water.
Much like a child furiously sculpting their first Play-Doh masterpiece, it's pretty clear that The Minokaua tries to flex their creativity by mashing together what the Malate scene looks for in a not-so-typical bistro: brews, eats, music, art and design.
I totally dig how they're trying to be a "flexible and dynamic destination space", I just hope that they don't bite off more than they can chew just as I did when they served the spread:
The unconventional use of lamb serves as a fresh take to what you might be used to when biting down into these Lamb Chicharrones (PHP 300). At first bite, it's crisp outer layer coated with garlic vinegar prepares you for its chewy lamb texture and leaves you with a tangy sensation wanting for more. It's safe to say that I may have found my new favorite pulutan.
I'm a big fan of Buffalo wings and one could say that I'm faithful to it's original recipe if not form, but The Minokaua's 6-pc Buffalo Chicken Pops (PHP 350) take on this bar food favorite is nothing short of scrumptious. Holding it by the bone, I stared intently as if I'm examining my prey and shoved the entire pop in my mouth. The chorizo garlic aioli complements its Buffalo style flavor as it easily slid off the bone. Savoring the entire pop, each time I bit down made me wish that it could have been crispier and less soft and chewy.
Believe it or not, The Minokaua serves all of the three iconic Philippine sausages in one platter: Hamonado, Vigan and Lucban Longganisa (PHP 450). Each with its unique and familiar taste, this particular item is faithful to its original recipes. Albeit, I found myself puzzled that it was served with potato wedges and sauerkraut as if the dish was trying to emulate a Czech sausage platter. Maybe it's just me but my instinct was looking for rice to pair up with these sausages.
At first glance, I was stunned by delight at the sight of this unique dish. Unlike most common cold salads, the Wilted Taiwan Pechay is served in such a way that it would leave you thinking "what delicious concoction did I just carelessly shove into my mouth?". It's hard not to fall in love with this dish as it's playful elements take you to an exotic jungle of flavor.
The Salted Egg Fried Chicken (PHP 550) has been around for a while now, but for some reason the trend seems to be back and in full swing as everyone attempts their own take at the timeless recipe. Before you know it, the masses will continually beat this to the ground until it's not cool anymore. Nevertheless, I still gave this dish a try and was awe-inspired by its rich flavor only to be somewhat disappointed with it's lack of crunch as I would have expected from fried chicken. To justify, the thick layer of salted egg may have dampened its spirits instead of complimenting it's expected texture leading it to a detour of what could have been an iconic dish.
According to legend, the Minokaua swallowed up the sun and caused a solar eclipse. This dish in particular attempts to recreate the image by throwing rice, squid and fish into the pitch black squid ink. When I first laid my hungry eyes on this massive platter, two things came to mind: 1) "how on God's green earth am I going to finish this all by myself', and 2) "this looks like something that'll leave me with kidney stones by the end of tonight". Regardless of any precautions, I found myself tenacious and stuffed my face uncontrollably. As to my surprise, the amount of sodium was well balanced and worked well with it's distinctive elements. The Eclipse (PHP 880) plunged my taste buds into an umami abyss.
Had a hard day at work? Want to get drunk fast? Well, look no further! These traidors will get you punch-drunk in a jiffy (if you attempt to finish these all by yourself). These ready-made rock-n-roll inspired original bottled cocktails helped me wash down all the savory comfort munchies Chef Mike Tayag had generously offered, of whom I am eternally grateful for. Quench your thirst to:
Yellow and Trouble (Tequila), Agent Orange (Vodka), Deep Blue (Rum), Pink Floyd (Gin), and Burnt Umber (Brandy)
When in Malate, make sure you stumble upon this joint. Just listen for the chilling siren call of jazz vibes and look for a wooden door that encloses a treat for the senses.
Yours Truly,
Myke Easy
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
The Minokaua is a newly opened bar and restaurant
which recently opened last May and they've been getting known for their band menu so most of their customers come in late because of the band sessions.
The genre usually being played is more of the blues, jazz and indie rock/ rock. They wanted to gear away from the mainstream pop as much as possible but they don't close their doors for mainstream artists to perform either.
They heavily curate the bands and musicians that they allow to perform here because they wanna stand out amongst other music bars. Most of the artist that play here are notable and known to be the best in their craft in the industry.
They have weekly music sesh which you can check on Facebook.
The usual set up of a music bar is music first, food second and the main goal of Minokaua is to create a balance between the food and music. They are really focusing on creating better food for customers to encourage them to come earlier because the food is something worth visiting as well.
The restaurant is a 3 story bldg. the third floor being a loft which you can reserve for private gatherings. It is pretty spacious and can be easily located along Malate. The vibe is very chill and ideal for friendly reunions while jamming to the music.
OPERATIONS
✔️ 10am to 5pm - Coworking Space
✔️ 9pm Onwards - Concert
🍽️ FOOD
✔️ Food is Filipino International inspired
✔️ Serving is usually good for 3 to 4 people
✔️ Head Chef is Chef Douglas who also became part of Draft Itallianis and Draft
✔️ BEST SELLER: Chicken SKIN! Must try!
We've tried the ff:
🎺 Wilted Taiwan Pechay + Garlic, Grilled Tomato, Fried Egg
I love this. I don't usually eat Pechay and I can't believe it could be a Salad but this is so flavorful. It is light and one unique salad! Pechay FOR THE WIN!
The Minokaua Rice
🍚 Eclipse (Squid, Fish and Squid Ink) good for 4 pax
I went back for this 4x lol. Nasarapan much? We were also served another Minokaua Rice but it was pretty spicy so I just ate this one. The squid ink taste was so noticeable mixed with rice, it resembles Paella a lot. Must try!
🍚 SOLAR ECLIPSE / Anghang rice (Maanghang talaga!)
Eng Anghang nemen. 😷 It was bearable on my first few bite pero di kinaya ng powers ko yung anghang. Others loved it though i'm just not meant to eat spicy food!
🎺 Laksa Style Mussel Pot
The mussels were gigantic. Ang laki besh hindi tinipid. It is expensive priced at 850 pero sulit na siya for me. They are imported btw! I was surprised that it went well with Laksa. One of my faves that was served during the night! The garlic bread is the perfect side dish, dip it all the way you want!
🎺 Chicken Lollipops
Your typical Chicken Lollipop with Extra Spice. A lot of the food they served were spicy so I just tried some of them. Spicy lovers will like this! Pinagbawisan ako sa anghang but this is a good pulutan while listening to good music plus drinking sesh.
🎺 Pork Riblets
🎺 Grilled Ensaymada Ice Cream Melt
THE BEST FREAKIN ENSAYMADA I HAVE EVER TRIED!!!
We were served CHEESE FLAVOR for the Ice Cream but you can also have it in Ube or Vanilla. This is a home made Ice Cream and the taste is premium I can't believe it. I love the toasted effect on the bread which made it a little crunchy and the smokey taste from the burnt cheese gave it an extra uhmf!!! Ya know what I mean 😅
We were also served cocktails drinks during the nights which accompanied us with our chismisan. I am happy to have spent time with foodie friends. Minsan lang yung ganito kahaba. Thank you Minokaua!
FOOD + MUSIC + ART + DESIGN = MINOKAUA
Flatlay by: Ej Bunag
Thanks Midz Sy for the invite!!!
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
I didnt know there's a new hive in Malate! It's like 10mins away from my place. 😍 It opened last May and sure it's gonna be a hot trend because of its interesting concept. Their aim is really to promote local craft mixed with different genre, arts and variety of cuisine and drinks!
Just a brief overview about the resto:
"According to Bagobo lore, MINOKAUA is a giant bird that lives beyond the skies. It devours the moon with its strong beak and claws of steel--explaining the lunar eclipse. To frighten the bird away, the Bagobos make a lot of noise." Interesting right?
Beforehand, i checked their site and saw the photos but believe me, it's even better in person! 😍 I super love the interior, the cozy vibe, the spiral stairs, the couches, the loft, can I just say everything? 😂 I really love cozy vibe, makes me feel at home. ❤️
So we stayed downstairs, it took maybe few minutes and they already served the fooood!
•From their "Not really salads" menu - Wilted taiwan pechay, garlic, grilled tomato, fried egg (P240) - I like the combination of all these, it's not the usual boring salad. You'll love it!
•Minokaua rice - serves 3-4 pax (880+)
✔️The Minokaua Eclipse- comes with squid, fish and squid ink! This is really good! They were able to give balance to squid ink as tasty as it is!
✔️The Minokaua sisig rice - I died!! Since i am a fan of spicy food, when I say spicy, I can eat 🌶 literally! i super enjoyed this one! I ate a loooot 😂 to think that I dont eat rice that much! If you have a low spicy tolerance, you wont enjoy it because the kick is quite strong! 😂🔥
•Kimchi style mussels (P850+) - this is also one of my faves! These are imported mussels, you can see how big the mussels are! It comes with a toasted bread. It's perfect again because I love kimchi! I didnt know kimchi will match the mussels 😍🤤 I think this was my special day to eat everything I want. Lol 🤣
•"Under our skin" menu - we had Pork chicharrones + onion vinegar (P250) this is just ok for me since I cannot bite that much due to braces adjustment, didnt really enjoy munching it. I think this can be improved if they'll add more spices.
•Chicken lollipops - very tasty and spicy again!! 🤤 I'm a happy kid! Again, if you're not a fan of spicy food, you can just remove the sauce 😄
•Grilled ensaymada ice cream melt (P320) for dessert!! OMG!! This isssss sooo sinful! You have a choice of cheese, vanilla and ube ice cream. The ice cream was made by the chef himself 😍
They also serve bottled cocktail drinks! They have their own concoctions chilled and served in a stylish bottle. (Instagrammable) 😂
The owner even mentioned that their planning to recreate a "co-working space" downstairs and paint the walls with different arts. I cannot wait to see that!
They have live bands from 9:00pm onwards.
The last time we went there, it was The Legendary Noli Aurillo. He's just so damn good! Ang lakas makagwapo when he plays even when he's aged already!
This was my reaction --> 😧😮😲😱😍😍
The owner was so accommodating and really took time to introduce the resto to us. This is the first resto-bar I really enjoyed in Manila! It's like a one-stop chill place and everything you want is there! Good thing it's just near my place, I can always hangout whenever I want to ❤️❤️
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