Marikina isn't just known for being the shoe capital of the Philippines, it is also an area home to hidden culinary gems like this Italian restaurant. Established in Naga City, Camarines Sur with the help of Chef Doy Sto. Domingo, this quaint restaurant in Naga is now in Marikina bringing authentic Italian eats that everyone in the Metro will surely love whether you're looking for a place to get your merienda fix or have a quiet dinner out without breaking the bank.
Grissini translates to thin, crisp breadsticks in English so it wouldn't be a complete experience without good bread. Munch on the free ciabatta and breadsticks they serve while you wait for your order and dip them into the balsamic vinegar and olive oil combo. If you prefer something flavorful and healthy for starters, try the Broccoli con Parmigiano Fritto (P228), sautéed crisp broccoli with anchovies, chili flakes topped with parmesan tuile.
Slurp on their thick Crema de Funghi (P165) – fresh button and shiitake mushroom with herbed croutons – while still hot or if you opt for something that's refreshing, the Insalata di Pollo (P195) is a must-try; it has mixed greens, chunks of grilled herbed chicken fillet and tomato salsa drizzled with pesto that's great for sharing. Fun fact: you'll notice an herb wall outside the restaurant where they handpick the herbs they need for the dishes. In addition, most vegetables are delivered from their farm in Naga so everything's fresh and healthy!
Known for their extremely thin crust pizza, a slice or more of the Patate e Pancetta (P240/10"; P340/14") won't be greeted with judgment! It has bacon, onions, cream and mozzarella topped with homemade potato chips for an added crunch in every bite. If you want something light and fresh, order the Al Prosciutto (P235/10"; P345/14") with thin slices of parma ham, tomatoes, arugula, mozzarella. Of their best-sellers is the Quattro Formaggio (P240/10'; P340/14") which I always love ordering is topped with four kinds of cheese – Gorgonzola, Parmesan, Mozzarella and Cream Cheese.
Being an Italian restaurant, it would be amiss if they didn't have risotto – a rice dish cooked in a broth to a creamy consistency. They currently have three on the menu: a simple Risotto con Funghi, the best-seller Risotto Nero and the new addition Risotto di Mare (P245) which is a seafood risotto with soft-shell clams, plump shrimp and squid. Almost everything on the menu is great for sharing like this succulent Pollo al Forno (P240), a serving of half chicken baked in herbs and spices drizzled with rosemary red wine sauce.
Definitely one of their must-tries is the Lasagna al Ragu (P245) which is coincidentally a best-seller; a deep-dish of baked lasagna pasta layered with béchamel and meat sauce topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. If you want to steer away from the sweet pasta sauce we're all familiar of, try the Pasta Verde (P200) which is part of their Pasta Fresca (Fresh Pasta) lineup that's made fresh every day. It has al dente capellini verde pasta tossed in arrabbiata sauce and dusted with just the right amount of parmesan cheese. Douse any of their pasta with their housemade chili oil and thank us later. Down everything with their perfect quench-thirster, the Italian Soda (P90) which comes in different flavors – Blueberry, Green Apple, Kiwi, Strawberry, Raspberry and Rose.
Part of their Business Lunch that's available from Mondays to Fridays (11am to 2pm) is the Herbed Pork Steak (P199) which includes a side of Insalata Mista, soup of the day, rice pilaf and a glass of house blend iced tea. A complete meal to enjoy for those people who are always on the go!
What's notable at this Italian restaurant is all their desserts are made in-house by Chef Alessa Lo, one of the owners and the resident pastry chef. You'll find all her mouthwatering creations at the Pasticceria area.
One of their best-sellers is the Chocolate Caramel Cake (P130), a moist chocolate sponge with caramel custard in each layer covered with rich chocolate ganache. If you want something different, order a slice of Malted Milk Cake (P130) and pair it with a cup of coffee to balance the flavors. A personal favorite is the Ube Cake (P130), an old recipe from her mom which she innovated, would be the perfect meal-ender to a full meal at the restaurant with just the right amount of sweetness to it.
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Grissini Ristorante is located at Lot 3 Block 4 Mayor Gil Fernando Ave, Sto. Nino, Marikina, 1300 Metro Manila. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram for more updates.
