It's always fun to dine out and catch up with friends. But sometimes it's difficult to find the perfect spot. Besides the food and location (always consider Metro Manila traffic), the restaurant should have the right atmosphere and concept to carry on a conversation.
You know, a place where you can eat and talk without others giving you the death stare. Let's admit it! We've experienced that even been in those shoes. But you know how work can take so much of your time. So if you don't see your friends often, there's so much to talk about. Since I am the foodie in our group, I am in charge of searching and booking a table whenever we meet up. Good thing there's a place like BOA Kitchen + Socials!
Did I lose you there?
Don't worry! There is no actual snake but there is definitely a plus sign and the word "socials" in it. Let me explain.
Their concept is divided into two: BOA Kitchen and BOA Socials. When they open at 9AM, you get to experience Australian brunch cuisine. It's a simple and straightforward menu perfect for the day. Come 6PM, BOA Socials is ready to take over. The restaurant's light, music AND menu changes. From Australian cuisine, you now get to enjoy a lovely Asian cuisine for dinner.
And when the clock strikes 9, get ready for the final reveal. The lights go dim, the music turns upbeat, and the boa shows up taking over the night! Again, there is no actual snake. There is; however, a cool purple drink that changes colour.
So why Boa, you ask?
Well, have you read "The Little Prince"? BOA took inspiration from this book. In it, author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry presents a drawing and asks the reader what they see. It's a hat at first glance but if you open your mind, you'll see a boa constrictor eating an elephant.
That's BOA Kitchen + Social. They give you a different experience without changing location. Want a glimpse? Here's a short video. Also, I hope you support my channel by subscribing, liking, and sharing. 🙂
Let's go back to the food. Below are the dishes I was able to try along with my foodie/blogger friends from WeLoveToEatPH and SaanSaPH. As always, I will share with you my favourites after.
Tinapa Cream Cheese Toast
Full English Breakfast
Steak and Eggs
Sisig Croquettes
Wonton Nachos
Chori Burger
Chicken Pad Thai
Pasta Vongole
Char Kwaey Teow
Crispy Pork Sambal
Now for my top picks!
The first one my list is the Alfredo Pesto Pasta (PHP 285). This is available during lunch but I can eat pesto and pasta anytime. Obviously, I have a soft spot for pesto and pasta but I'll be honest. This beautiful bow-tie pasta with pesto and Alfredo sauce served with ricotta and sun-dried tomato is simple but really good.
Take note, the next picks are under the dinner menu.
Let's start with the Salmon Tartare (PHP 378). Imagine a salmon dish served with pork rind, furikake, wasabi mayo, urchin roe and Oriental dressing. They're overflowing with flavours, right?
Next is the Pulpo (PHP 345). I'm actually quite surprised by this because when I saw the plate I got scared a little. Don't get me wrong. It's pretty but my imagination is just off the charts. Despite that, I still tried it and it quickly became a top pick. Grilled octopus topped with smoked potato puree with chorizo crumbs and paprika-thyme oil, who on earth wouldn't like the taste of that?
Finally, my top one goes to the Thai Fried Chicken (PHP 345). If you think it's just fried chicken, you're wrong. This Thai crispy fried chicken served on top of curried mashed potato with grilled corn kernels and pickled vegetables served with sweet chilli sauce is a whole new level. This chicken is juicier and flavourful than any fried chicken you've tasted.
Oh, there's a special mention. The Beef Rendang with Coconut Lime Rice (Php425) is very delicious, too. I took a few small bites BUT it was too spicy for me. After that spicy noodle incident ( No, I did not participate in that stupid challenge. It was a mistake), I couldn't take spicy food anymore. So if you love Beef Rendang, this one is a must-try.
The question now is, are you ready for a change? You can witness and experience that by visiting BOA Kitchen + Socials at the Mezzanine Floor of 45 ABDC Building, Scout Rallos Corner Scout Tuazon, Laging Handa, Quezon City.
Happy eating!
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5