Wednesday, January 03, 2007 Bahay kubo grillin' By Jigs Arquiza
THINK of it as a taste of the province in the middle of the concrete jungle. Drive along United Nations Avenue on the way to the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and you’ll discover Antoine’s Grill, a small complex of bamboo and nipa structures set along the lines of the traditional bahay kubo.
Actually an entertainment oasis set in the midst of the industrial metropolis that is Mandaue, Antoine’s Grill offers its customers a unique environment in which to enjoy a simple meal or spend a great night of partying. Not only does the compound boast a two-level dining hall capable of seating at least a hundred people, it also has several quaint bahay kubos for customers requiring a more cozy and intimate setting. Each bahay kubo can comfortably seat from six to eight people, though customers are advised to come early if they want to occupy any of the six huts available. A nice touch at Antoine’s Grill is a waterfall made from a gigantic native kawa giving the establishment an even more provincial feel.
Though the over-all atmosphere is a folksy barrio in the province, the entertainment is anything but. Flanking the main dining hall is a generously sized, paved courtyard serving as a dance floor-cum-additional dining area, with a bandstand at one end. Weekends comprise of dance bands alternating with piped-in music, giving patrons a rollicking good time. “Bata” Reyes wannabes will definitely have a great time too at Antoine’s, what with the trio of billiard tables available for the use of the customers.
Food at Antoine’s Grill is traditional Pinoy fare with a little Chinese and Continental cuisine thrown in, all served in generous portions. Without the slap-dash attitude of lesser establishments whose main goal is to cater to as many customers in as little time as possible, the food is presented by the courteous and efficient staff in an attractive manner.
Diners can start off their meals with any of Antoine’s appetizers, though the sizzling sisig and baked mussels come highly recommended. A variety of viands is available, with the humba and beef with onions some of the customers’ favorites. Chop suey, fish fillet in sweet and sour sauce, and tenderloin tips are also among the best sellers. The occasional curachas, a kind of crab found in the southern part of the Philippines, should also be tried by diners lucky enough to visit Antoine’s when this particular dish is available.
Of course, a grill would not be a grill if it did not serve grilled food. Antoine’s serves the usual gamut of grilled specialties, from barbecues to ribs to grilled seafood. Noteworthy among their selection are Antoine’s pork barbecues and the grilled tuna belly.
Mandaue has long needed an entertainment mecca of its own, and with Antoine’s Grill, Mandauehanons need not go all the way to the big city for good food and a good time. On the other hand, those living in Cebu City will find a whole new reason to come on down to Mandaue. Regardless of where you live, though, you’ll surely agree with the sign found in front of Antoine’s Grill. It’s definitely one heck of a tambayan.
