#menudejeuner

Mirèio was one of the best well-kept secrets during the start of the year with its private and classy ambiance that is well suited for those social get-togethers and power lunch meetings. I guess the secret is already out because the Makati community has fully embraced this gorgeous location. It’s not just the Titos and Titas of Manila dining here but also the Señors and Señoras as well. Mirèio’s Menu Déjeuner might also have something to do with it because it lets diners easily tailor-make a two or three-course set from a chosen selection. 

For only P988+, the two-course option gives guests a choice of appetizer plus entrée or a main course plus dessert, paired with coffee or tea. But it’s definitely better to get the three-course set which comes with an appetizer, main course, and dessert plus coffee or tea for only P1,100+. That’s a great deal considering that an entrée here generally costs more than P1,000 per order.

Lunch starts with their complimentary bread basket containing an assortment of freshly baked bread.

Drinks are not yet included in the lunch sets, but you can order from their extensive beverage menu which lists fresh juices, smoothies, sodas, tea, and cocktails like my favorite Rosé Spritz (P395), a refreshing glass of Rosé wine, grapefruit wedges, basil leaves and tonic.

This month’s Menu Déjeuner comes with four choices for Appetizers. One of the popular items is the Cherry Tomato Compote Tart which comes with sautéed clams and snails plus a dash of rocket salad. 

I chose the Tuna Carpaccio with its fresh tuna that comes with green peas salad and a sprinkle of fleur de sel. This is a healthy and delicious way to start my three-course lunch set.

There are other a la carte items on the menu for those who might want something else. The Fresh and Smoked Salmon Tartare (P520) with Granny Smith apple and Dijon mustard cream is always a requested appetizer that can be shared on the table.

You could also go for the more Classic Beef Tartare (P420) which is probably the best version of beef tartare I have encountered. Master chef Nicolas Cegretin, who was born in Provence, is the true embodiment of the restaurant’s focus on Provençal and French Mediterranean cuisine.

Another must-order appetizer is the Pan-Seared Foie Gras (P650) with caramelized turnips. This big piece of delectable foie gras just melts in my mouth with every indulgent bite. 

There are also four choices of Main Courses for the Menu Déjeuner. Guests who prefer to have seafood should go for the Sauteed Baby Squid with creamy polenta and chorizo condiment. This light but flavorful main course is best for those who want a lighter but still satisfying lunch.

There is also the Beef Tongue in mushroom sauce and rice pilaf, a colorful plate with combinations of meat, starch and vegetables. 

But those who know me will not be surprised that my choice of main course would be none other that the Sirloin Steak. I was surprised to find out that this was part of the Menu Déjeuner this month because during my previous visit here, this was only offered on their a la carte menu. The steak comes with a serving of french fries and Béarnaise sauce.

The 300-gram Sirloin steak is quite a steal, because it typically costs around P1,500 to get this from the menu. But when you order from their Menu Déjeuner, you will be getting it at a much cheaper price, accompanied by an appetizer and a dessert! No wonder guests keep coming back for this.

There is one other main course on their a la carte menu that I am quite fond of. The Duck Breast (P1500) with pan-seared foie gras and corn texture is also a drool-worthy experience with its tender cuts of duck meat and another big chunk of succulent foie gras on top. It’s so easy to get me to smile, just offer me steak and foie gras and I will be very happy.

For desserts, the Menu Déjeuner lets you choose from two options. You can get their Tart of the Day which gives you a slice of tart cake with a scoop of ice cream.

Or choose to have the Catalane Cream with seasonal fresh berries. This crème brulée is blow-torched to create a caramelized top and then served with a huge strawberry. There’s no better way to end my fabulous lunch at Mirèio, unless it’s with their 70% Guanaja Chocolate Mousse which I could not resist ordering for myself, again. Mirèio is definitely one of the best places to bring friends and business acquaintances. If you haven’t dined here yet, then this month’s Menu Déjeuner should be the best opportunity to do so.

Mirèio at Raffles Makati

9/F Raffles Makati, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati City

795-0707

www.raffles.com/makati