Erwins City of Dreams Manila

Two months ago, I had learned of a second casino-resort opening in Paranaque. It was to be named City of Dreams.  Immediately I imagined the development would include a new casino complex, new food havens and taverns! A quick fiddly doodly with my keyboard and voila! I found there was to be a gastrobar to be tagged as Erwins City of Dreams Manila.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Exterior
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Exterior

It seems that Erwin’s Gastrobar had been a foodie darling in Singapore.  Now this modern casual restaurant was set to woo Manila.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Bus
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Bus

This was something I needed to investigate further.  I scheduled a “go-check” from SM Mall of Asia and secured seats in the casino’s shuttle bus.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Casino1
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Casino1

Manila is becoming a hub of world-class casino-resorts. City of Dreams is home to three hotels – Nobu, Crown and Hyatt.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Casino2
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Casino2

On the second floor was where we found Erwin’s Gastrobar. Still in its soft opening, I was surprised to see a number of tables occupied.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Poster
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Poster

We skimmed through the comic-illustrated menu. It was printed with pleasantly readable fonts. Modern-casual vibe emanated at this point.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Sign
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Sign
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Menu
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Menu with Bhing

We got so hungry from the Saturday traffic we instinctively picked what seemed to be fast but hearty looking dishes on the vibrant menu.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Beer
Stella Artois

The waitstaff suggested a cold light beer – Stella Artois. Also with Julie’s reco, who am I to hesitate? Just one bottle for Bhing and I to share.  It was light and floral, just as we liked it.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Ambience
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Ambience
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Beer2
Paulaner

If you’re into draft beer, you could order from an assortment. I spotted a glistening tall glass of Paulaner in another table. You could also sit next to the bar and have your cocktail concocted while you wait.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Draft
Draft Beer
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Bar1
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Bar1

Just before we consumed the beer, we sighted the fish fingers. It came with house salad and biggie fries. I loved the house salad – simple, clean tasting, drizzled with just the right amount of olive oil and herb dressing. Similarly, the fish fingers were crisp on the outside. Each piece had soft, moist and fresh fish inside that was not heavily spiced. Same with the fries. All good.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Fish Fingers
Fish Fingers

From an all good rating, I upgrade to a GREAT score with this Pork Burrito. Pepper braised shoulder, brown rice, guacamole and sour cream. Imagine all the flavours of the stuffing coming together into your mouth. This was the dinner winner!

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Burrito
Pork Burrito
Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Pulled Pork
Pork Burrito – pepper braised shoulder

We recently turned to a daily diet that contains fresh greens for breakfast or dinner and so I chose the Haloumi Salad with rocket, broccoli, beans and eggplant. Now this is where I have a split decision – yay for the cheese, nay for the greens. The bitterness was overwhelming. Anything I put in my mouth, save for the haloumi, had a bitter taste I was not able to tolerate. Or maybe it was just me.

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Haloumi Salad
Haloumi Salad

When the desserts paraded in, I knew there was a good chance I would be lenient on the bitter salad. As if like magic, the Apple Crumble was a saving grace. Thanks to the waitstaff who suggested the sweet treat. Caramelised apples, the heavenly vanilla custard, topped with their hokey-pokey ice cream garnished with cinnamon…mmmm! We loved it!

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Apple Crumble
Apple Crumble

Looking more photogenic than the Apple Crumble is the Banana Caramel Waffle. We had let the ice cream melt over the neatly lined slices of banana and waffle. Then we started to dig in. I particularly liked how the waffles were made – freshly baked and chewy. The toasted almonds provided the necessary crunch in every spoonful. Though we liked this dessert, too, the Apple Crumble is worth craving for again and again…

Erwins City of Dreams Manila-Banana Caramel Waffle
Banana Caramel Waffle

I only tried to play at another casino complex once. I stopped when I lost P500 (AU $43) in the slots, lol. Just for fun! But for good food coupled with a cosy, relaxed vibe, I will definitely be back at Erwins City of Dreams Manila.

Erwin's Gastrobar Logo
Erwin’s Gastrobar Logo

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Erwin’s Gastrobar

City of Dreams, Manila

Asean Avenue corner Roxas Boulevard, Entertainment City,Parañaque 1701, Manila, Philippines

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