Tapas and craft beer under one roof—something we painfully lack here in Manila. When there is a shortage of something this good that could potentially change the food scene here in the Metro, the universe always conspires to bring this issue to someone’s attention—someone who will hopefully do something about it. Intrepid, craft-beer-loving entrepreneur Kevin Khoe of Casa Marcos and a passionate beer brewer from Baguio, Chris Ordas of Baguio Craft Brewery, crossed paths and decided to share their love and passion with Manila’s restaurant scene to bring us a traditional cervezeria-style joint which craft beer lovers and gastro-enthusiasts will certainly enjoy.
Casa Marcos has been around for a while, “a while” meaning since 1945. They’ve been serving authentic Spanish food since their doors opened after the last Great War ended and had been authentic and consistent. Today, they’re on to something new by bringing in Baguio Craft Brewery under their roof and as for said brewery, it has always been one of the trendiest spots you can find yourself in when you are up in the Cordillera region. And if you haven’t heard, they’ve also been spear heading the beer drinking and tasting scene here in the Philippines by brewing a variety of quality craft beers with passion and pride. Locals and tourists alike say that a stop at their brewery is a must whenever you’re up in Baguio.
The first in the lineup, something really light and familiar: American pale ale with a slight hop aroma and with tiny hints of malt and caramel. Then the Callos, a Casa Marcos staple, ox tripe, garbanzos, and some chorizo melded together in a rich tomato stew. Despite the simplicity, it’s a pairing that is an adventure by itself.
Lengua salpicao, a unique specialty of the house, cooked and seasoned perfectly. No pretensions and topped with ingredients every Filipino is familiar with. Pair with Pugaw and its noticeable hop aroma along with its pine and citrus taste.
Almejas, we remember the owner saying that it’s one of the dishes they’re most proud of. It’s basically clams topped with cheese and garlic then baked and served to you straight from the oven. Match it with Baguio Brewery’s Hop Attack, a brew that leans a little towards the sweet side but also carries a strong aroma compared to its counterparts.
Gambas, a true Spanish classic. Staying true to the theme of Casa Marcos staples, we have been given not one or two but actually four ways that they serve Gambas. We had the classic aligue and the chorizo variants, all of which ride perfectly alongside Baguio Brewery’s Kabunyan, which is a wheat beer brew. Its grainy, bready flavor with a sour, almost vinegar-y aftertaste pairs well with the aforementioned Gambas.
One of the most popular pica-pica dishes at Casa Marcos makes an appearance at this sampling with the pan-fried Chorizo Bilbao along with the Chorizo Croquettas and Manchego. If you’re hanging out with buddies, you’ll probably see yourself chewing over these things rather than talking. Chris said that this is best enjoyed with the Brewery’s Philandering Pauper, which has very notable fruity cereal notes with a nutty chocolate flavor.
Between great food and crafted beer, we have a good feeling that this will be a one-stop-shop for thirsty beer lovers and hungry diners alike. Casa Marcos is located at 2F Il Terrazzo, Tomas Morato corner, Scout. Madrinan, QC.
Just some dude who's willing to try anything, go anywhere and do whatever solely for the heck of it. Actively runs Stupor Studio, a DIY, non-profit Youtube channel dedicated to local underground hardcore punk shows.