The Toyo Difference! (A Review)

People often ask me which unique Filipino restaurants in Manila I bet would get a Michelin Star by 2020, and Toyo Eatery would always be at the top of my list.

Toyo by Chef Jordy Navarra is an avant-garde Filipino restaurant concept rooted in the values of sustainability and Filipino pride. I had one of my favorite dinners during the holiday season right here.

Here’s what to expect from the Toyo experience…

TOYO EATERY
The Alley at Karrivin Plaza, 2316 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City, Philippines
Operating Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays dinner only 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Reservations: +63 917 720-8630
Email: may@toyoeatery.com
Facebook: Toyo Eatery
Instagram: @toyoeatery

After close to two years in operation, Toyo continues to be fully packed with two seatings every night. Reservation is a must.

Etag Sour (₱400). Etag-infused Bourbon, Angostura Bitters, Egg Whites, Lemon, Sugar.

I’ve never enjoyed cocktails, especially ones with egg whites, but this Sagada meat-infused bourbon will change your mind with every sip.

They bake their own bread fresh everyday. It’s so good that they have spun-off the concept to Panaderya Toyo.

The meringue amuse-bouche is a signature, usually with a savory flavor like tomato with ginataang langka. It melts in your mouth and surprises your palate.

The best place to sit is at the communal chef’s table with a view of the live action in the kitchen.

TOYO MENU: Tasting Menu | Set Menu, A la Carte | Drinks (inclusive of 12% vat + 10% service charge).

You can choose the 11-course Tasting Menu (₱2,900/person), but the entire table should participate. We decided to go with the 3-course Set Menu (₱1,000/person) + a la carte orders.

Set Menu Course #1: Octopus with Chayote Tops & Radish (add ₱150)

The octopus was tender, still juicy, and had a nice char flavor with vegetable highlights.

Garden Vegetables (₱480, a la carte)

The Bahay Kubo garden vegetables is Chef Jordy’s signature dish that made him famous. It comes with an a capella song upon request.

Celler del Roure Setze Gallets 2014 (₱1,900/bottle). Garnacha, Tintoterra, Merlot.

The wine list is nicely curated. Go for a balanced red wine that goes well with the food.

Set Menu Course #2: Wagyu Lengua & Mushrooms (add ₱750)

I’ve never tasted lengua this good, made from flavorful wagyu beef tongue. You’ll want to slice it into small pieces to savor every bite.

…with Dried Tuna Roe Rice

I don’t eat rice anymore but how can you resist this?

Set Menu Course #3: Sweets

The desserts are small but packed with the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your happy ending expectations.

They have vegan 3-course menu options as well, with a dessert course like this beautiful mango flower.

Make sure to enjoy Toyo with awesome friends. Thanks, Jen, Phoebe, Yan, and Sonia for making our Toyo dinner memorable!

More than the innovative food with sustainable ingredients and the furniture proudly made in the Philippines, it’s the excellent service that makes the difference at Toyo Eatery.

The service crew really knows their food and can take awesome photos. They refill your water immediately and are proactive in anticipating your other needs.

Congrats to Chef Jordy for building your culinary team well. Here’s wishing a Michelin Star for Toyo!