Cantinetta
November 22nd, 2007 by Jaclyn Lutanco-ChuaPosted in Food and Drink |
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Pasong Tamo Extension in Makati is home to big companies like Bristol-Myers Squibb, Levi’s, and a host of car dealerships. In short, it’s not a restaurant row like Jupiter (also in Makati) or Wilson (in San Juan); despite this, the street is home to what I think is one of the best Italian restaurants in town—Cantinetta.
Right off, I will tell you guys that dining in this place is not cheap—prices range from P270 to P630 for appetizers, P310 to P420 for pizzas, and P320 to P590 for pastas. But believe me when I say the price is well worth it—all the dishes are cooked fresh, so they come out steaming hot and smelling oh-so yummy. Plus, I’m no culinary expert, but there’s something about the way the food tastes that tell me only the best ingredients are used.
My friends and I shared three pastas—the Gamberetti alla Regis (shrimps and zucchini in creamy mascarpone, P430), Contadina (Italian sausage with mushrooms and tomato sauce, P440) and my favorite, Pesto Mare (fresh seafood tossed in pesto sauce, P470). Each serving is good for two people, although I was tempted to finish a plate all by myself.
Gamberetti alla Regis, P430
Contadina, P440
Pesto Mare, P470
For the pizzas, we tried their bestselling Quattro Formaggi (mozzarella, parmesan, gorgonzola and ricotta cheese, P410) and Romagna (tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, anchovies, olives, and capers, 350). The toppings are chewy and the crusts are crunchy—just the way I like my pizzas to be.
Quattro Formaggi, P410
Romagna, P350
Cantinetta also serves steaks and stews for their main course, and I hear that their desserts are positively melt-in-your-mouth. Their ambience dark and cozy, perfect for long chats with friends or when on a date. My only complaint—their waiters were not so alert, and it always took awhile to get one’s attention.
Would I go back? Yes—but only if (1) someone was treating and (2) it’s a special occasion, like a parent’s birthday. It’s also a place I would be proud to take foreigners to—even Italians—and know that I wouldn’t get embarrassed.
I know they also have a branch in Rockwell, but I haven’t been there yet and would assume that it’s more crowded. If it’s a relaxed atmosphere is what you want, then the Pasong Tamo Extension branch would be a better bet.
Cantinetta is located at G/F Karrivin Plaza, Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati (for inquiries, contact them at 892-9873 or 884-2212) and at Block 9 Hidalgo Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City (403-0145).
November 22nd, 2007 at 6:30 am
yes they do have a branch in rockwell,i havent been to the pasong tamo branch yet.but the one in rockwell is cozy especially during weekends….great food!
November 22nd, 2007 at 11:48 am
Excellent food here. Well worth the price due to the quality and serving size. I would also recommend the Tartufo pasta (with truffle cream and Parma ham) and the lobster pasta. I prefer the Pasong Tamo branch though, as they have a very generous and varied antipasti platter that Rockwell doesn’t have.
November 22nd, 2007 at 12:28 pm
mouth watering
November 22nd, 2007 at 1:23 pm
place was nice, food was ok but the waiters definitely need re-training. they’re not alert enough, and don’t seem to know how to properly serve. granted, there was a noisy party beside our table but we were still patrons. also, perhaps they should rethink their layout- tables are placed closed to each other and people bumped into ours all the time. kainis di ba?
November 22nd, 2007 at 5:38 pm
You should also try their ravioli, there are lots of different fillings to choose from. It’s absolutely divine!
November 22nd, 2007 at 7:00 pm
where exactly in rockwell?
November 22nd, 2007 at 9:13 pm
where in pasong tamo??
November 23rd, 2007 at 12:16 am
My dad’s office is along Pasong Tamo ext. and we often eat there ’cause my dad loves the food so much. :))
November 23rd, 2007 at 12:41 pm
Food is heavenly, one of the best that I’ve ever tasted.
November 23rd, 2007 at 2:10 pm
same comment as laicamarie’s… but for me the food was just so-so… it’s okay don’t get me wrong but nothing to really rave about… although I only tried the Rockwell branch (the one near Starbucks)
November 24th, 2007 at 12:44 am
the pizzas look divine! the place seems kinda pricey tho…
November 25th, 2007 at 9:31 am
Dined there with my husband. Nothing great (I’ve tasted better….and cheaper). The place is a product of hype.
November 25th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
I’ve only eaten in the Pasong Tamo branch. Love their food!
November 27th, 2007 at 2:10 am
their panna cotta was really good, refered by my boyfriend’s boss. yummy!
November 27th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
over rated. food is definitely expensive but not really worth it. pizza is ok, pastas are mostly too watery or overdone. the pannacotta was more gelatin than creamy. havent been to the pasong tamo branch but wont even make the effort having gone 3x na to the rockwell branch. first time was my choice, the other times, because it was convenient for our meetings and because my officemate was curious.
November 29th, 2007 at 11:11 pm
I prefer the pizzas of Abbondanza. Mura pa!
December 16th, 2007 at 11:25 pm
i love the ravioli al funghi here, sarap…
February 2nd, 2008 at 5:12 am
who’s the owner???
February 28th, 2008 at 8:53 am
i agree with monique, about pizzas at abbondanza being better and loads cheaper. and i will go one step further and invite all who view this thread to try eating there. its at ground level, crescent condo, san miguel ave., pasig. small entrance along san miguel ave., and main entrance at back of building on amethyst road. i dont know the owners, but i have gotten to know the food pretty well because it has become a weekly habit. pizzas and all dishes are all made fresh, serving are generous, and nothing is pricey. pasta costs from P155-P185, pizzas for P285, except for the abbondanza pizza which is almost a meter long for only P830. i am campaigning for people to patronize them because i want them to do well. their food is worth the trip.
May 19th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
yes its too expensive here..poor service pa.
May 20th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
yes guys its a bit pricey but their food is really great. the pasta and pizza are excellent. one of the best!BUT the WAITERS really need retraining.
May 30th, 2008 at 8:35 am
decided to try this place after reading the thread. i agree with monique and cissy. the food is kinda pricey, and although not bad, its not outstanding either. and like cissy, ABBONDANZA pa rin ako. prices are lower, food is great, and the waiters are attentive even if few. and wonder of wonders, hindi crowded!!!
May 30th, 2008 at 11:07 am
hi! where can I find the ABBONDANZA RESTO? Such good raves… would like to try it
July 1st, 2008 at 7:09 pm
ABBONDANZA PIZZERIA RISTORANTE is located at the g/f of crescent condominium, san miguel ave., ortigas ctr., pasig city. also has an entrance at back of the building along amethyst street. coming from makati, take edsa, turn right at shaw, left at san miguel ave., after passing richmonde hotel, look to your right na. front of the building is union bank, with small “tree lined” entry just before it. pag nakarating ka ng rufos, lagpas ka na.
hope you enjoy the food like i always do.