As a colony of Spain for more than three centuries, it is nearly impossible for Filipinos not to have developed similarities to their former captors. As seen in the language, religious beliefs and traditions, the strong influence of the Spaniards to the Filipino culture cannot be denied. One of the things that have been greatly influenced by the Spaniards is the Filipinos’ taste buds. Spanish cuisine has always brought a taste of familiarity in every bite. With its popularity among Filipinos, different Spanish restaurants are scattered around the metro to satisfy every Juan’s craving for all things Spanish.
Among the countless Spanish cuisine restaurants is Terry’s Selection. Owned by Chef Juan Carlos de Terry, Terry’s Selection is a deli/restaurant serving Spanish food with an exquisite selection of wines. Aside from a vast assortment of hams, sausages and cheese, the gourmet store also carries specialty culinary items and food products. It currently has four branches – one in McKinley Hill, Salcedo Village, the Podium, and Pasong Tamo.
As for this review, the Pasong Tamo branch is the one to be scrutinized. Dubbed as “Segundo Piso”, it is said to be the best branch compared to the other four, and one would instantly understand why. Upon entering the restaurant, one would be met with a very ambient mood that instantly relaxes and puts anyone in a calm disposition. The place is also very intimate and cozy, while exuding so much sophistication. Everything from the table-setting to the silverware looks fancy. All-in-all, the restaurant has a very elegant look and feel to it, yet it is not intimidating. The ambiance is praise-worthy, but not as much as the food deserves. Dishes at Terry’s are prepared with quality ingredients and the utmost care. Meals are not served in an elaborate presentation; rather they are presented in a simple and straightforward manner that gives one the freedom to enjoy their meal without feeling guilty for messing up such beautifully-presented food. Despite its humble presentation, every bite is guaranteed to give satisfaction to one’s mouth and belly.
One must start their dining experience with the Gambas al Ajillo for the appetizer. The classic, sizzling, spicy and garlicky Spanish favorite was cooked in Arteoliva olive oil and served with bread. The dish is so succulent, one would have to use the bread to mop up all of the oil after finishing all the shrimp.For the main course, the lengua a la sevillana, which is ox tongue cooked in a subtle dry sherry wine sauce with mushrooms and Manzanilla olives from Andalusia, is a crowd-favorite. The meat is very tender, moist and flavorful – one would instantly forget that he is actually eating an animal’s tongue.
It’s the rich man’s rice!
To maximize the delicious factor of the lengua, one must eat it with the Super Paella Parellada, which is said to be the most appreciated entrée in the menu. An original recipe from Barcelona, the paella was a combination of squid, shrimp, chicken, pork loin, green peas and mushrooms, topped with roasted bell peppers and chorizo Salamanca. The different ingredients offer a variety of flavors that do not compete with each other, but rather, complement each other perfectly.
As for dessert, one must try the Tocino de Cielo, which can instantly be mistaken for a flan. While a flan is made with whole eggs, and milk or cream (usually both), tocino de cielo is made only with egg yolks, sugar and water. The combination of these simple ingredients leads to an extremely light and tender custard that is fantastically smooth. It is a tad too sweet, but someone with an overwhelming sweet tooth will not be disappointed.
Apart from the good food, the service is also commendable. The crew and waiters are very attentive and make sure the guests have everything they need to enjoy their meal. They often recommend the best things to try in the menu and address every single inquiry, like what the difference is between a tocino de cielo and a flan. Their dedication and attention to each guest is very personal, making the diners more at ease and enjoy their dining experience better.
Overall, Terry’s is a really good place that everyone should try. Everything from the ambiance, service, and most especially, the food will give anyone a highly satisfying dining experience. It is the perfect place to acknowledge one’s Spanish roots, by indulging on its delicious food.
Photo Sources: thegustation.wordpress.com, jinlovestoeat.com, openrice.com
