In a society which prides itself in rushing everything from daily work deadlines to questionable relationships, it is a luxury to slow down. Most would know: Quality meal times often bear the brunt of busy lifestyles.
In response, making that decision to dine in a fine restaurant is like kicking a wedge under a door to keep it from closing. Behind that door? A place we only keep to ourselves; a storage for our sanity, memories of simpler times; a remembrance of heartfelt conversations.
Whether dining alone or with loved ones, a meal at Bell + Amadeus evokes memories of these good times.
Owned and managed by long-time food entrepreneurs Chime Bell Osabel and Chef Angelo Amadeus Go (Diet in a Box), Bell + Amadeus offers Cebuanos its take on modern continental cuisine. Enter its doors and find yourself in a dimly lit space with furniture that’s well-crafted, durable and, more importantly, comfortable. You could choose to occupy one of its booths or tables. Attentive servers are on stand-by, ready to take your orders and other requests.
Kick off your culinary adventure with a handful of its best-selling starters:
If you opt for lighter bites, its Tuna Tartare with Squid Ink Tapioca Cracker — raw, sushi-grade tuna, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices and served on a crispy squid ink tapioca cracker. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding a touch of acidity that complements the rich flavors of the tuna. If you’re in the mood for something savory, try the Portobello & Crab Croquettes served with Manchego and Sriracha mayo.
A totally delicious pasta dish is its Mixed Seafood in Truffle Cream Sauce, Squid Ink Pasta. The seafood is cooked to perfection, served with a delectable truffle cream sauce, topping the black pasta made with squid ink infusing it with more flavor.
If there’s a call for refreshing salads, its Cured Smoked Salmon with Egg & with Mixed Greens is a great choice. The salad is tossed in a light and tangy elderflower vinaigrette, adding a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky salmon.
For the mains, there are several to choose from. The Instagrammable Wagyu Cubes with Japanese Fried Rice & Nori Butter not only looks good but is also a sure-fire palate pleaser especially among the younger diners. Don’t forget to finish each cube with a dollop of nori butter, adding a savory umami flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the beef.
For the sweet tooth, there’s the Back Ribs, Corn Puree, Raspberry Gel, Green Peas Puree and Barbecue Sauce. For the serious carnivore, get its choice of Steak (Porterhouse, Rib Eye, Tenderloin) with Burnt Compound Butter, Mashed Garlic Potato and Beef Jus.
Skipping pork and beef? The Chicken Confit with Guanciale Cranberry Marmalade, Whisky Demi Glaze Polenta, and Pine Nuts is a hearty dish with a smoky flavor. Its creamy Vermouth Truffle Risotto with Pan Seared Salmon is also a filling dish.
To end the meal, try its playful Ylang-ylang Creme Brulee, Ube Moss, Jackfruit Gel and Black Sesame Ice Cream or the more classic Chocolate Lava, Pesto Ice Cream and Poached Pears in Red Wine Sauce.
Treat yourself to lunch or dinner at Bell + Amadeus, a culinary retreat that showcases flavor and finesse. It is located at 88th Avenue on Gov. M. Cuenco Ave., Cebu City. It is open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Reservations are highly encouraged.