When you hear or see the word FEZ, what comes into your mind? A fez is a type of hat which is known to be a Turkish national headdress. It is described as a flat-topped conical red hat with a black tassel on top worn by men in some Muslim countries. Moreover, fez is also associated to the third largest city in Morocco. However, in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, it is an unusual concept that represents a wide range of Mediterranean, Arabic and Northern African cuisine. I have never tried a Moroccan cuisine before that is why I was very eager to sample some of their food items a few nights ago.
I wonder why six years ago when I was still employed in a food company in Bonifacio High Street, I never had the opportunity to notice this restobar nor try their offerings. I ponder on the reason behind the mischance until I realize that it is not as flashy and noticeable as it is today, and that they regularly offer above the traditional pulutan and inuman concept which is not my thing before. Fez Restobar is among the few establishments that claim to witness the development of the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) seven years ago. Hence, this place is one of the pioneers on the hip and upscale place we now call Bonifacio High Street.
Fez Restobar has a limited space which I would like to describe as a very intimate yet cozy place. It has 40-square meter space inside which seats about 20 people but has al fresco seating which could cater more guests. Before only drinking clientele could go here but nowadays the management started to reinvent themselves and is now offering hearty lunch and dinner items. By the end of the year, hopefully they would be able to come up with breakfast items to cater office workers, as per the Marketing head.
Soon their walls will be more lively as they are plan to refine them in order to create a Moroccan feel. Expect that some parts of the restobar are well-lit while others are not, normal ambiance for a casual dining set-up. I was satisfied with me and my friend's chosen table where there is enough light for our food shots.
Fez Iced Tea PhP60
It is always nice to quench one's thirst with something refreshing. So thumbs up for this beverage. A good mix for a house-blend iced tea.
Pita Platter PhP175
As per chef Lapid, their pita breads are freshly-made so diners are assured with good quality starters. This platter is served with four different kinds of home-made dips. Form left to right, the first ramekin is hummus, baba ganoush, garlic yogurt and tomato sauce. My instant favorite were baba ganoush because of its fine vegetarian taste that complements pita bread, its main ingredients like roasted eggplants, tahini and garlic are just awesome. Garlic yogurt on the other hand has the right amount of kick to stimulate my taste buds.
Kindly take note that the following dishes are not their actual size, instead they are served to us for taste test purposes.
Harira Soup PhP95/cup PhP60/bowl and Roasted Pumpkin Soup PhP80/cup PhP140/bowl
Harira Soup is made with bits and pieces of savory meat which are slowly simmered for hours and mixed with garbanzos, freshly peeled tomatoes and aromatic spices served with vermicelli noodles and toasted pita bread. I love its smell and texture although a bit salty for me. Pita was just good enough for its taste. On the other hand, Roasted Pumpkin Soup has rich taste and texture and I can sense that a cup is enough to satisfy you. It is lightly spiced with Ras El Hanout, a classic spice mixture with more or less 30 assorted ingredients which is a top secret. Also served with toasted pita bread.
Merguez Sausage PhP235/six pieces and Beef Wanton Cups PhP220/six pieces
Home-made Merguez Sausage was sauteed in anato oil (responsible for its reddish color) and caramelized onion (responsible for its light sweet taste). I like its smoky, a little spicy and salty taste that produce more hungry juices in me. Tender and so flavorful. Beef Wanton Cups, on the other hand, is made with fried crisp wanton cups topped with spiced ground beef, salsa and lots of melted cheese. Such an ideal way to tease one's appetite. I was secretly craving for more of these cheesy and savory cups.
Cous-cous Salad PhP140
A platter is fun to share already. I would like to take note that cous-cous is locally purchased from a high-end marketplace and then they steam it themselves. It is then mixed with cucumber pieces, red onion, tomato and coriander leaves and then tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Plus served with very fresh romaine lettuce and feta cheese. Spoonfuls of this starter is filling already. The coarse texture of cous-cous makes it a little more interesting and adventurous to eat. It tasted so lightly in such a way that it is semi-bland for my palate.
Moroccan Chicken Kebab PhP320
You have the option to choose between beef, chicken or combo. Served with cous-cous and grilled vegetables. Spices used for this dish is over 30 types and Fez chef and production staff grind it themselves, the reason why it is bold in flavor. If you want to spice up your lunch or dinner, try to order this one and see it for yourself. One thing is for sure, this kebab is two thumbs up for me.
Ribeye Steak PhP950
Whenever I eat this kind of steak, for sure it is of premium quality. This may be grilled according to your own will. Doneness of meat like medium rare is absolutely fine with me as this degree is the most flavorful for me. I am sure you have noticed the watery and bloody thing on my plate. That explains the my desired level of cooking- juicy and tasty. Served with sauteed marble potatoes which I instantly get addicted to and asparagus.
Fried Cheese Cake PhP310
A typical order consists of three pieces of fried cheesecake plus a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. At first sight, the fried cheesecake balls look like deep fried meatballs but once you take a bite you feel like being transported to a different dimension. Crusty and crispy on the outside yet oozing with warm, sweet creamy filling. Dusted with chocolate powder and drizzled with chocolate sauce for a more appealing look. Oh, this dessert is highly recommended by me. YuuuuuMmMMm up to the last crumb of bite :)
Fez Restobar price range is quite affordable. Although they never claim to be a purist, at least it still catered to the Pinoy palate where it could be better appreciated by many. You might want to consider this place the next time you hang out with friends, be it with a good set of shooters, cocktails and beers or a simple yet absolute lunch or dinner date. Something worth spending your time with. A semi-Moroccan cuisine saying hello to you. It is about tine to be diverse and unique. Try it!
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26th St Fort Bonifacio, Taguig
(02) 901-1840
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