• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Momma 'N Manila

Growing through parenting

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
  • Nourish
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Cheers
    • Guest Recipes
  • Advocate
    • Autism
    • Best Buddies
    • Down Syndrome
    • Special Needs
  • Gather
    • Crafternoons
    • Entertaining at Home
    • Events
    • Mothers Who Brunch
    • DIY
  • Review
    • 4 KIDS
    • Dining
    • Travel
    • Home & Hearth
    • Health & Beauty
    • Giveaways
    • Fashion
  • Nurture
    • Education
    • Parenting
    • Relationships
    • Yoga
  • MWB

Dining Review

Pastor’s Gastro Pub

I love that we have foodie friends with the same taste. 

Jay and Nino were friends LONG before they met the loves of their lives.

In fact Jay and Nino spent many of their childhood memories on the weekends watching their fathers race. There is a long history that is there between the boys, so much so that when Claire and I met, we naturally clicked, and I am thankful for that!

When Jay was going to school in New York, (he graduated from THE Culinary Institute of America) we were able to get together a couple of times so he could hang out off campus, meet our kids (I think we only had two back then) and blow off steam from the rigorous scheduling of school and later in his schooling, the internships.  

TRUTH: I was so intimidated the first time Jay came to our house! I knew he was a CHEF! How could I try and serve anything without there being a tremendous amount of (self imposed) pressure for Nino’s childhood friend? I was so nervous that I knew I had to serve something so regular…so completely comfort…that I knew I couldn’t mess it up. If I remember correctly, I think I served Chicken and Pork Adobo. Nino and I used to play with the flavors of that dish…we would use different kinds of vinegar and even sometimes roast the garlic or caramelize the onions before stewing the savory pieces of chicken and pork, just to try and make the dish more interesting. I can’t remember if Jay liked it or not?!?

Well…flash forward. Jay and Claire have a little boy Rocco (my inaanak) that we love and wanna squeeze each time we see him, and together with their families they have opened up their first (of many, if I can be so bold as to predict the future) restaurant (s) that has the feel of an earthy, warm, yet modern Gastro Pub.

The exterior to the Pastors is simple and unassuming.

The exterior to the Pastors is simple and unassuming.

Pastor’s is located on Macapagal Avenue. It’s a hidden gem near The Senate Building, so if you are willing to take a ride out  from Alabang (like we are) it is surely worth the trip.  I see touches of Jay ALL OVER this restaurant. I can appreciate all the details, the efficiency, and the creativity that went into creating an atmosphere that is perfect if you would like to have a Sunday lunch with the family, AND at the same time also doubles as a great place to hang out with other couples, enjoy a beer or some mixed drinks and tapas that we usually love to pick on while we are sipping and chatting away…

Nino and Jay...still buddies after all these years. There is something to be said for a friendship that goes that far back. AND there is something to be said BRICK OVEN PIZZA!!!

Nino and Jay…still buddies after all these years. There is something to be said for a friendship that goes that far back. AND there is something to be said BRICK OVEN PIZZA!!! Jay explained that the bricks used are from ENLGAND!

We were so happy when Jay and Claire invited us for a full tour of their new baby. We made sure to squeeze it in between our responsibilities at home and Gia’s UAAP game which wasn’t too far away from MOA.

We started with Croquettas de Bacalao

We started with Croquettas de Bacalao, which were just the right version of creamy and crispy. I loved the fruity brewed tea served in a Ball jar…as in…I wanted to take the Ball jar and Iced tea with me!! It was so yummy, I had two full glasses! I know they brew the tea every day, and they throw in dried oranges which give it the light and fresh citrusy flavor.

Prawn Bisque

Prawn Bisque was savory and creamy, served with a toasted baguette.

If you were the type to just eat light, soup, salad and the croquettas are the perfect combo. Healthy. Filling. And a variety of flavors that all compliment one another. Caesars Salad with grilled chicken. One of my favorites.

If you were the type to just eat light, soup, salad and the croquettas are the perfect combo. Healthy. Filling. And a variety of flavors that all compliment one another. Caesars Salad with grilled chicken and Guanciale. One of my favorites.

LED Screens and a fully stocked bar can easily turn into a place that I know Nino can enjoy with the boys. Even more so, if they decided to take the wives along...we can sit at a table and enjoy our paella.

LED Screens and a fully stocked bar can easily turn into a place that I know Nino can enjoy with the boys. Even more so, if they decided to take the wives along…we can sit at a table and enjoy our paella.

I loved that Jay took left over pieces of the restaurant’s construction and incorporated them into the bar and the walls. It’s refreshing to know that Jay was concerned with repurposing these otherwise tossed aside remnants. Even the light fixture near the stage (where 2-3 piece bands, or comedians can perform) was cleverly repurposed mixing blades!

The newest thing in restaurant and home design is actually not new at all. Making the decision to be eco friendly using repurposed materials is now the "new" old thing to do!

The newest thing in restaurant and home design is actually not new at all. Making the decision to be eco friendly by using repurposed materials is now the “new” old thing to do!

Next came the paella. The trick to making this dish so fluffy is the rice. Jay shared that there are only two types of rice you can use in making this kind of dish. And yes-he only uses them because they are the best.

Next came the paella. The trick to making this dish so fluffy is the rice. Jay shared that there are only two types of rice you can use in making this kind of dish. And yes-he only uses them because they are the best. I enjoy my Paella Negra with a little Aioli. 

Chiparones Ajo, sauteed garlic baby squid with capsicum in olive oil.

Chiparones Ajo, sauteed garlic baby squid with capsicum in olive oil.

Truth: Of our awesome foursome…I’m the pickiest eater. This means when we are out on a date, Nino tends to poke fun at my pickiness. Jay and Claire like to explore different restaurants and dishes…just like Nino, good thing they like me so much or I might be left behind for my pickiness.

Why do I share that with you? Because for me to eat squid it usually has to be breaded and fried. In talking to Jay about this, he explained that if squid is cooked properly it most definitely should NOT be chewy. (I have shared before how much I have issues with texture-remember?) Well, this dish was so delicious. I made the effort to try at least one piece because I did not want to be “that friend” (You know that friend I’m talking about?) the kind of friend who didn’t eat what her Chef friend put out so lovingly from his new restaurant’s kitchen (with his own hands) and said “I don’t like it” even before I tasted it? 

So I tasted it…I loved it, and yes, I had more than the one piece I said I would have to be polite.

Rabo del Toro: Brasied Ox Tail, marble potatoes,  carrots and beans

Rabo del Toro: Brasied Ox Tail, marble potatoes, carrots and beans

This dish was the star of the show.

“Rabo del Toro is the kind of dish that empires are built on.” -Nino Aventajado

The meat on the oxtail was so tender that it could be cut with a fork. It fell off the bone, and was deliciously rich. This was the kind of dish that’s so rich and rewarding that it leaves a blend of deep flavors that can only be achieved by braising this dish for twelve hours. I think the next time I order this, I will also order a side of bread to sop up all that goodness after I enjoy the dish in its entirety.

Hand tossed pizza was just the right combination of crispy and chewy. Perfect for kids and kids at heart!

Hand tossed pizza was just the right combination of crispy and chewy. This is Rocco’s favorite 🙂

How better to finish this meal which was so super filling then with Churros and Chocolate? After I had my Mochachino I was ready to go watch Gias volleyball game.

How better to finish this meal which was so super filling then with Churros and Chocolate? After I had my Mochachino I was ready to go watch Gia’s volleyball game.

But not until after I got some sugar (say it with me…SHOO-Gahh)  from this boy…

I may have wanted to finish my meal with something sweet and chocolatey...but this boy and his hugs are even sweeter than that. Love you Big Boy!

I may have wanted to finish my meal with something sweet and chocolatey…but this boy and his hugs are even sweeter than that. Love you Big Boy!

Thank you Jay and Claire Not just for touring us around your wonderful new restaurant and filling our bellies but for being such wonderful friends.

Thank you Jay and Claire Not just for touring us around your wonderful new restaurant and filling our bellies but for being such wonderful friends.

Pasto’rs Gastro Pub’s main dining room can sit 50 people. They have a private area overlooking the kitchen complete with an LCD screen that can seat up to 25 people comfortably. Dishes are affordable and done right.  The passion and purpose that these two have put into their restaurant is clear as day, which we all know translates into good food. I can’t wait to go back this weekend! Even Gia is super excited to visit.

Pastor’s Gastro Pub

Unit D 1&2 Hobbies of Asia Complex

#08 Macapagal Blvd. Pasay City

1300 Manila, Philippines

For reservations call 02-831-0073

Tuesday-Saturday 11:30 am to 3:00 am  

Sunday 11:30-10:00pm

Monday CLOSED

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related


« Il Ponticello
Lunchbox Ideas »

Comments

  1. Patty | MrsC says

    August 15, 2014 at 1:09 pm

    Please take me there, Mish. Please, please, please? I have been craving for churros and chocolate for about 2.5 years now. I kid you not.

    • michelle says

      August 15, 2014 at 1:19 pm

      LEZZZ go! Alabang Bus leaves soon!!! We can make it one of our date nights with ABC 🙂

  2. Sugar and Spice says

    August 15, 2014 at 4:00 pm

    Yayyyy!! I second!! churros here we come!! <3

    • Michelle says

      August 15, 2014 at 4:20 pm

      Yay! Jane!!! Lezzz go!!!

  3. Claire Saycon says

    August 15, 2014 at 9:07 pm

    It was great to have you and Nino at Pastor’s Michelle!!!

    • michelle says

      August 16, 2014 at 10:36 am

      Thanks Kumars 🙂
      Love all of you guys and looking forward to bringing friends and family to try all of the yummy dishes!!

  4. Angela McKeown Cooper says

    August 15, 2014 at 9:27 pm

    Michelle, what a great review! You have written the perfect blend of personal and professional opinion. I wish them great success. It makes me want to fly over for dinner!

    • michelle says

      August 16, 2014 at 10:35 am

      Thanks so much Ms. McKeown! (I feel like I need to still call you that?)
      Thanks for stopping by the blog, and if you ever DID decide to come over…I would love to host you and Mr. C 🙂 I could show you lots of wonderful places to eat and lay by the beach. The Philippines has the most beautiful beaches…IN THE WORLD.

  5. Joei says

    August 17, 2014 at 12:57 am

    Thanks for telling us about this earlier 🙂 I can’t believe I missed this and it’s so near my office (and my former office)! Timmy and I will try to visit one of these days!

    • michelle says

      August 17, 2014 at 8:36 am

      I’m sure you will love it. Jay has put so much thought into the restaurant…from the way the back of the house flows and the kitchen, to having a room dedicated to smokers that is ventilated and air con. Some of the recipes come from their family kitchen too! Let us know when you are gonna go 🙂 Maybe we can meet there!

Hello and Welcome!


Hi! Here is where I share my thoughts on yoga, cooking, crafting, raising a special child, exploring, eating, playing, and living in Manila.
READ MORE

You can also say hi or email me at mish@mommanmanila.com

Twitter

Tweets by @mishaventajado

Pinterest

Recent Posts

  • Our Dental Experience at Affinity Dental, One Bonifacio High Street
  • Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • A Grapeful Summer with Taste Australia
  • Suite Treat Mommy Weekend at Marco Polo Manila

Archives

Categories

Recent Comments

  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • Angelie G. Y. Melsbo on LUMOS RAY Projector Review

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @mommanmanila

mommanmanila

It’s December 1st! Is there anything more delic It’s December 1st!

Is there anything more delicious than the smell of Christmas and the new found freedom as we anticipate celebrating the holidays with our families again?

@festivalmall has hosted a series of musical shows since November 5th that include Ace Banzuelo and Silent Sanctuary. Check out Michael Pangilinan on December 10th, too!

With Santa visiting, Christmas parties, arts and crafts and lots of promos, you can even enter for a chance to win a Toyota Fortuner!

Best of all-I love it when the places we know give purpose to their celebrations. Thank you #FestivalMall for partnering with @dsapi1  this holiday season. 

Thank you for sharing all the different ways we can celebrate the holidays with you!

#tistheseason #seasonofgiving #downsyndromeawareness #aintnothingdownaboutit #upsyndrome
I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Th I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Through this learning exercise with @usapeecphl, I have learned a bit more about these little birds that have bigger breast parts, and thank you Chef @ivoryyat for showing me how easy it is to prepare Greek Lemon Roasted Cornish Hens with Roasted Potatoes.
 
Clean and fresh flavors are perfect for these smaller birds that are rich in protein with zero carbs. Try the recipe in the comments section. I’m sure you’d enjoy it as much as I did!
 
Interested in U.S. Cornish Hens? You can buy them in stores near you. #CornishHen #USCornishHen #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ad
@gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @pura @gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @puratosph products that they sent over the other day. Ready to use Bavarian Cream made these Cream Puffs easier than ever. I think we have to figure out how to temper our couverture better…

#workinprogress #wasdelicious #giabaked #puratosph #gavinosph #anyonecanbake
@mommymundo always has a way of bringing together @mommymundo always has a way of bringing together just what we need, no matter the time of year. Loving these photos of my first boy that were snapped @expomom.

Anyone else thinking about #HolidayPhotos? I am not one of those moms that has it all together before Christmas. It’s usually a mad dash for us at the end of the year, but if it’s anything that the past few years has taught me, it’s that the little things are what makes the Christmas special.

Many of us haven’t been together with the extended family or even our immediate family in so long. That means it’s the perfect time to document.

@nextbymetrophoto will be hosting one last Christmas Marathon family photo shoot before the end of year. Check them out or shoot them a message. They have some cute set-ups.
****GIVEAWAY ALERT*** 10 things I LOVE about @sed ****GIVEAWAY ALERT***

10 things I LOVE about @sedahotels listed here and on FB!

1. Each property has a Signature Dish. If you can’t make it to Bacolod, you can still enjoy Chicken Inasal in any of their properties.

2. Clean Design. So easy to work and play in a space that is light, modern, and clean in design. 

3. Beautiful views. Every chance I got, I would sit outside at @straightupatseda. 

4. Spacious Rooms and Residence Stays. Staying in the Three Bedroom Premier was perfect for our family. 

5. Attentive Service. Everyone was pleasant and accommodating.

6. Centrally Located. If you are thinking of fun things to do in Makati and want a home base, Seda Residences Makati is near a few of the museums, parks, and malls.

7. Work with ease. Internet service is uninterrupted. Meeting rooms are available and easy to book.

8. Relax and Play. From mid-day tubbies with Gelli to, taking advantage of the pool, or the children’s room, the little girl had more than enough things to keep her busy!

9. #FamilyTime. Spending an extended amount of time outside our own space led to laughter, fun conversations, and opportunities to try new things. We were comfortable and rested in the space we were in, which meant more opportunities for us to connect.

10. Homegrown with a Purpose. A Filipino brand that understands the importance of both work and travel, each property is important to the city & province location. Environmentally aware by adopting Mayumi, a Philippine Bald Eagle. 🦅

Want to win your own staycation at #SedaResidencesMakati?

Up for grabs is one night in a ONE BEDROOM DELUXE for two persons with breakfast!

Here’s how to enter to win:
1) Follow @sedahotels 
2) Follow @mommanmanila & @kitchen143 
3) Tag a friend (or more) who love(s) staycations too!
4) Comment why you should win this staycation treat!

Plus points for people who share this post in stories and the winner will be announced on December 6th.
Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work. Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work.

@kitchen143 is something I really do love. Sharing a little bit of my kitchen with viewers and followers brings me joy. Even better when I get to work with chefs whom I can learn from and friends who like to spend time in the kitchen too!

#Thanksgiving
Thankful for the gift of music. Wish I caught mor Thankful for the gift of music.

Wish I caught more mini moments from We Will Rock You.

Such a great musical!

@sedahotels 
#sedaresidencesmakati 
#sedaat10
Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. @gelliaventajado j Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. 

@gelliaventajado joined our family and led me to @bestbuddies. 

Thankful for all the ambassadors who were able to spend time with us. And for @smlpeeps  and @asurionphcareers for helping make magic happen on Saturday afternoon for #Friendsgiving.

#Thanksgiving #bestbuddiesph
Thankful for women who share their faith with me. Thankful for women who share their faith with me. 

#Thanksgiving
Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at this time of year? Whole turkeys require serious commitment to cook. #IYKYK But because U.S. Poultry is now available here in the Philippines, that also means preparing turkey is a tad bit easier.
 
Frozen U.S. turkey products are available and ready to cook for people who want to dabble with flavors for this bigger bird but aren't sure how.
 
Thank you to Chef @ivoryyat for putting together a medley of my favorite fall flavors. This combination of apples, sweet potatoes, and maple syrup perfectly compliment  the roasted turkey leg and remind me of flavors and scenes from back in New York. 
 
@usapeecphl l has the highest standards that follow USDA requirements which are certified safe before shipping to the Philippines. Get them in stores near you. 

#ad #Turkey #USTurkey #Thanksgiving #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ServeTurkey #EatTurkey
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2023 · Blog Design by Fancy Girl Design Studio

Copyright © 2023 · Divine Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

 

Loading Comments...