A mix of Mediterranean flavors in Azzurro’s latest grill offerings

Discerning diners have patronized the Mediterranean-inspired Azzurro Bistro at the Glorietta since it opened three years ago. With a blend of flavors that take their cue from Spanish, Italian, French, Greek and even Indian cuisine, people have always returned to savor what Azzurro has to offer, even when other restaurants have come and gone. Conceptualized and managed by restaurateur Sheila Romero, this comfy and intimate bistro has drawn gourmets who want good food and service. Its ambience is conducive to any occasion, whether entertaining business clients for lunch or having a romantic dinner date.

This month, Azzurro’s chef patron Philip Golding offers diners the hottest additions to the restaurant’s off-the-grill menu: Caramelized red onion spanakopitas, which are filled parcels of phyllo pastry and red onions served with spicy hummus, priced at P165; marinated pork with honey mustard sauce, served with smoked bacon, mushrooms and pomelo salad, P220; Moroccan beef and peppers, served with delicious lemon couscous and wholesome arugula leaf salad, P385; skewered thyme-infused salmon with grilled zucchini, with fresh lime, tomatoes and chive butter sauce with lemongrass rice, P385; skewered chicken with balsamic and pesto sauces, served with caramelized garlic rice, broccoli, hollandaise sauce and green leaf salad, P245; and New Zealand lamb chunks, Spanish olives and paprika, served with potato and garlic dressing, Horiatiki salad and steamed minted couscous, P320.

Azzuro Glorietta currently has a drink-all-you-can wine promotion, featuring excellent vintages from Europe, South America and Australia. Priced at P285 for regular wines and P385 for premium wines, diners get more than their money’s worth when they sample the fine wines of the world.

For the past three years, Azzurro has striven to maintain the quality of food it offers to its customers, and meet their needs, as well. The challenge of consistently serving good food, without sacrificing quality or quantity, and delivering value-for-money service is only part of what this restaurant is all about.

Although it does not aim for too high a market, the people behind it are encouraged when customers show an appreciation for fine cuisine.

"Too many restaurants come and go, and the level of purity and clarity changes," comments Romero, the woman behind the bistro. "But this restaurant is still here. Azzurro’s cooking is above the rest, presenting a possibility, a lifestyle."

Azzurro at the SM Megastrip is considered the more casual restaurant, a laid-back younger outlet for those who love to party. Its spacious seating capacity is ideal for those who are looking for a place to unwind with colleagues after office hours on a weekday in Ortigas or have family gatherings on the weekends.

Its worry-free valet parking service offers customers convenience as they enjoy their meal.

Want a taste of the Mediterranean in your own home or office? The restaurant caters large parties or intimate gatherings with varying budgets. Azzurro Bistro Inc. welcomes inquiries on catering and reservations.

Azzurro is located at the ground floor, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City, with tel. nos. 729-5800 and 892-9694. Azzurro/Spargo is at the SM Megastrip, SM Megamall B, Mandaluyong City, with tel. no. 687-3281.