COCONUTS HOT SPOT—Taking a page off David Brooks’ critically-acclaimed book Bobos in Paradise, Bobo’s Pizzeria is the latest shop in Quezon City to offer freshly baked, brick-oven pizza. While “bobo” might have a different meaning in local language, in Brooks’ book it means ‘bohemian burgis’ and this is what this place is about: an attractive blend of high and low tastes.
THE LOOK
I was actually on the way to a nearby bookstore, when Bobo’s bright orange and yellow signage caught my eye. Seen from street level, the place exudes a fun and casual energy that just makes you want to go in.
There is a short bar counter inside, while the rest of the tables and chairs are in the al fresco area. A tree sits right in front of the pizzeria which for me adds charm, specially for those sitting outside.
Bobo’s Pizzeria also features a semi-open kitchen that allows you to see their two brick ovens and stacks of fine-quality ingredients. A brick accent wall on the right adds a rustic touch to the cozy space.
I can definitely say that this place is one of the better looking and enjoyable spots among the many restaurants that line the street.
THE GRUB
Bobo’s 10-inch brick oven pizza comes in the following flavors: Bobo’s Pizza (spinach, mushroom and bacon, PHP225), All-meat (Italian sausage, ham and pepperoni; PHP205), Quattro Formaggi (mozzarella, blue, white and parmesan cheese; PHP195), Quattro Stagioni (ham, mushroom, artichokes; PHP195), Margherita (tomato and basil; PHP175), Napoletana (anchovies, olives and capers; PHP175), Pesto (blue cheese and oregano; PHP165), Pepperoni (PHP175) and Hawaiian (PHP175).
On my first visit, I tried the house special, Bobo’s Pizza (PHP225), and found it good. It was freshly baked and the crust was crisp. Compared to Gino’s brick-oven pizza, BOBO’s crust is a little thicker. There were six slices and I ate four of them. As with most brick oven pizzas, toppings are sparse. For me, it would have been better had the spinach been served fresh on-top, rather than baked with the cheese. Incidentally, they are also offering a pizza promo that prices three pizzas for only PHP585.
For pasta, they serve BOBO’s Pasta (like an-all meat version; PHP155), Pasta Al Nero Di Seppia (with squid ink; PHP155), Aglio Olio Tuna Pasta (with Spicy Tuna; PHP145), Puttanesca (PHP145), Carbonara (PHP145), Bolognese (PHP135) and Pesto (PHP125).
We have tried the Aglio Olio Tuna Pasta and enjoyed it. The tuna and anchovy taste was a good complement to the meaty pizza and it also had the right amount of heat. As I chewed on the pasta, the garlic and fresh basil leaves provided timely flavor zaps that kept things interesting.
Bobo’s is owned by a young man, Mr Kuan who I happened to meet on my first visit. He was checking on guests to see how they like the food.
Good food plus good service. Now that’s a recipe for success.
NOTES
Cost: PHP200-PHP250 per head for food and drinks
Cleanliness: Very clean since the place is new. Roadside location makes it prone to dust.
Service: Pay upon order at the counter. Make sure to raise your hand so staff can easily see you.
Sound level: They play light pop and mainstream music.
Lighting: Natural light during the day, bright yellow lights at night.
Bobo’s Pizzeria, 84 Maginhawa St (cor Magiting), Bgy Teacher’s Village East, QC; www.facebook.com/BobosPizzeriaPH, +63 2 3740098. Daily 11am-11pm.
Photos via Bobo’s Pizzeria’s FB page.
Coconuts Manila dined anonymously and paid for this meal.
