In the bustling heart of Mandaluyong, an exciting culinary beacon has emerged, inviting diners to leave the Metro Manila maze behind and set sail for the sunny, flavorful shores of the Spanish Mediterranean. Sala Martinez, nestled in the vibrant Streetscape of Shangri-La Plaza, is more than just a Spanish restaurant; it is a spirited, authentic, and elevated experience of Valencian cuisine, brought to life by the hands of its passionate chef-patron, Luis Martinez.
From Siargao to Shangri-La: An Elevated Spanish Experience
While the name “Sala” might initially bring to mind the esteemed fine-dining institution of Chef Colin Mackay in Makati, Sala Martinez is a distinct and newer venture. It’s the latest addition to Chef Martinez’s growing culinary portfolio—which includes Terraza Martinez in BGC and Alma in Siargao—marking a transition from the rustic, laid-back charm of the island to a more refined, yet still inherently joyous, dining concept.
The atmosphere itself is a transportive blend of artful design, conceived by Chef Martinez’s childhood friend, designer Marta Sanchez. The dining room is a refreshing escape, blending ocean hues of blues and whites with warm touches of terracotta. It creates an ambiance that is both sophisticated and wonderfully relaxed, echoing the sun-drenched ease of the Spanish coast.
The Heart of Valencia on a Plate
One fine weekend with the family, this writer gets to experience Sala Martinez. At the core of Sala Martinez is an unapologetic dedication to the distinct and deeply personal flavors of Valencia, Chef Martinez’s hometown. The menu is a carefully curated journey through elevated Spanish-Mediterranean fare, where traditional techniques meet invigorating, fresh flavors.
Our experience can be compared to an actual visit in Valencia. Choosing what to eat is already something exciting. We get to order Croqueta de Jamon Iberico for starters, Lhara who happens to be a soup lover, tried Crema de Patata Trufada y huevo 63 C, which is Sala Martinez’s Truffle Potato Cream, made up of wild mushrooms. egg 63C and shoestring potatoes Arroz Meloso de Mariscos (Stew Seafood and Crab Rice) for our entree, and we capped our sweet tooth with Chocolate Coulant (Chocolate Souffle, mixed with berries, matcha powder, streusel with salted cream. And for our drinks. we chose it’s House Tea featuring Peach flavor.
If you are trying Sala Martinez, highly recommended items include the Almejas Marinera (steamed clams and tomato). For meat lovers, the classic Asturian dish Cachopo—breaded veal stuffed with jamon Iberico and Manchego cheese—is a rich and savory treat. Seafood aficionados should seek out the pan-fried Bacalao Confitado, which is flown in fresh from Spain, or the heavenly charcoal-grilled turbot.
Sala Martinez has quickly cemented its status as one of Mandaluyong’s hottest new dining spots, not just for the quality of its ingredients—like high-grade Iberico pork and fresh, imported seafood—but for its commitment to consistency and a soulful dining experience.
A TASTE OF VALENCIA. One of Sala Martinez best sellers as sampled by this writer, who is a dead ringer of Ian Veneracion.
It’s the kind of place perfect for a leisurely weekend lunch or an intimate dinner. Whether you are craving the perfectly crisp edges of a Valencian paella, a refreshing glass of sangria, or an elevated take on beloved Spanish classics, Sala Martinez offers a memorable, flavorful journey. It’s a compelling destination that proves Spanish dining in Manila is anything but landlocked, inviting every guest to bask in the welcoming, convivial, and utterly delicious spirit of the Mediterranean coast.
Sala Martinez is located on the G/F, Main Wing Streetscape, Shangri-La Plaza, Shaw Blvd cor EDSA, Mandaluyong City.
