COCONUTS HOT SPOT—With food scene in Tomas Morato over expanding, restaurants have spilled over to nearby Sgt Esguerra Avenue near ABS-CBN’s headquarters, On the corners of Sct Bayoran and Sgt Esguerra, fore example, is Barley Gastropub, which is slowly becoming a second home to food and drink lovers from all over the city. Despite the proliferation of many so-called “gastropubs,” Barley sets itself apart by offering inspired comfort food and unique craft brew beverages.
THE LOOK
It’s hard to miss Barley’s huge sign, the only thing on that street corner that brightly lit. Inside, it’s something elese. The lights are dim, a curved dining area seats about 40, and the walls hold up memorabilia and flat-screen displays that play sports and music channels. The bar section displays alcoholic drinks that range from single malt whiskey and tequila to vodka and craft beers. Outside, Barley reserves a few parking slots to double as their as their smoking and dining area. To the right is an outdoor grill section which I believe is where the food magic happens.
THE GRUB
Barley has a dedicated steel-drum smoker that cooks all the grilled dishes on the menu. From specialty BBQ ribs to isaw, tenga and pork barbecue, all are carefully cooked, leaving a delightful smoke-infused flavor.
For appetizers, I recommend the Rockin’ Oysters (PHP425), which is topped with cream spinach, bacon and mozzarella. It goes well with the drinks. But for the purists, fresh oysters are also good.
For main entrée, the BBQ Ribs (PHP625) are satisfyingly good and is best eaten using your fingers. A whole slab of ribs was served with grilled corn, potatoes and in-house barbecue sauce. I wish we got a bigger full slab though.
Interestingly, one of the dishes we saw in the menu but didn’t get to try was the Beer in Butt Chicken. Its beer-can chicken that is given a more creative name. It’s a dish where the marinated chicken sits on an open beer can while it is grilled, giving it a wonderful beer flavor.
Another thing that makes Barley unique compared to other gastropubs is that it serves craft brews. One of these is Bog’s Brew from Negros. They have beer and porter versions of this and is a good choice for those looking for something new and refreshing.
Barley also serves Fat Pauly’s brews from Bukidnon, and though I am not a fan because of the slightly “flowery”/ “herby” taste, found its unique taste mind-opening.
To spice up things even more, Barley also has daily specials like Buffalo Tuesday (PHP295/pound of wings) and Nacho Wednesday (PHP295/bottomless nachos). Occasionally, Barley also hosts live music acts.
Great food, drinks and entertainment. What more can you ask for?
NOTES
Cost: Approximately PHP350-500/ head for food and drinks
Cleanliness: Good, although the toilet can use some tidying on peak hours.
Service: Extensive drink list can lead to confusion on availability.
Sound level: Just right to loud, depending if there’s an event.
Lighting: Dark, it’s actually brighter outside under the moon.
Barley Gastropub, 41 Sgt Esguerra cor Sct Bayoran Sts, Bgy Tomas Morato, QC; www.facebook.com/BarleyGastropub, +63 2 37609578. Daily 5pm-3am.
Photo via Barley Gastropub’s Facebook Page.
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Coconuts Manila dined anonymously and paid for this meal.
