When we think about Burgos Street's surrounds (one of the red light districts here), it's hard to imagine something different than the "nightclubs/bars/adult entertainment" vibe. But sometimes cities are just not obvious, and I love that. If you make a right on Burgos and cross Badajos St., you'll get onto Polaris Street, a much calmer street. There you'll find a traditional Spanish restaurant called La Tienda, which is quite famous here in Manila.
I've been there once with some Brazilian friends who came to visit us. I confess what I liked the most about the place was the 3 musicians who plays traditional Spanish songs. Before living in Manila, I've spent some time in Mexico and the trio just reminded me of the mariachis! So funny! I loved to have dinner listening to some old boleros like "Besame Mucho" and "Dos Gardenias". I have an antique soul, ok, I know that! :P
Let's talk about the food. My personal experience wasn't that good, because the dish I had (Bacalao a la Viscaina) was a little bit greasy for my taste. However, my friends ordered the Paella Negra and they liked it. We paired our dishes with a great Spanish red wine and we all left La Tienda with a black tongue (thanks to the squid ink!). Well, we were all to much "borrachos" to care about. read more