First Bite: Martin Place Social

I've been a night owl ever since I graduated college. As much as I would love to wake up early to enjoy breakfast, I'd rather sleep in. Thank goodness though for brunch to kick start my day at a cheery note. And when a glass of mimosa is the first thing that greets you, then chances are, you are at the perfect brunch place. 

Hello, Martin Place Social. 

Located at the quiet and rather private The Plaza at Arya, Martin Place Social serves as an excellent venue for titas like me.

Its full length windows beautifully brings in natural light while its chic yet masculine interiors attract men and women to embrace the idea of brunch. 

While waiting for other guests to arrive, I indulged in a refreshing glass of Mimosa.

I also got to know a bit more about Martin Place Social while chatting with E, the marketing manager of the place. She shared that Martin Place Social's name was actually inspired from a real place in Australia. And consistent with the name's origin, this establishment offers modern Australian cuisine. 

For this visit, we sampled some of its brunch dishes--D'Best Pavlova Pancakes (PHP450), Avo Smash (PHP480), Frenchie, Truffle Mushroom Brioche, and Macy's Cheesecake (PHP280). 

Each dish was picturesque with its spectacular plating. And I'm glad that each one was not  made to be just Instagram worthy. 

I first sampled Truffle Mushroom Brioche. I felt my eyes turned into hearts and my soul do cartwheels. Oozing with delightful truffle flavor and aroma, one bite of this charmed every fiber in me. Its earthy taste which was wonderfully complemented by cheese and brioche was nothing short of stellar. Every truffle lover should try this. 

Millennials will definitely find Avo Smash an appealing dish especially with avocado being a popular choice among youngsters. And as expected, it was great too. I love the contrast of textures from the smooth avocado and feta, silky poached egg, fresh and snappy cherry tomatoes and rather chewy sourdough toast. It was also a lovely blend of delicate flavors making it a great dish with coffee.

Frenchie reminded me of apple pie for some reason with its spiced with cinnamon apple slices on top and crunchy texture. Topped with cereal flakes, this dish is something crunch lovers would enjoy. 

D'Best Pavlova was the prettiest pancake I've ever seen. The stack's stuffed with chantilly cream (sweetened vanilla-flavored whipped cream) and topped with with mango passion fruit coulis, meringue and exotic fruits. Though it may look overly sweet with its bright colors, I didn't find it cloying. Though the pancake could have been a bit fluffier, it was a nice meal to have to start the day.

To cap our meal, we had some Macy's Cheesecake. Named after Chef Macy, this cheesecake is topped with strawberry and raspberry coulis sitting on chocolate soil and chantilly cream on the side. I loved the tart in this cake and it was apt to end our meal. Have each forkful with some chantilly cream if you prefer it to be sweeter. 

In case you want to start happy hour early, do try Martin Place Social's amaretto sour.

Overall, it was a pleasant dining experience. I love how proactive the servers were and would refill your glass with water without having to ask for it. Since our visit was buffet style, one of the servers even offered to refill my glass with iced tea. Everyone was very friendly too making my visit extra memorable. I would definitely drop by again for more Truffle Mushroom Brioche. I do hope it's available as I didn't see it in the menu. 

P.S. Martin Place Social is also open for private events. It could comfortably fit 100 guests. But if you prefer something more intimate, you could reserve either the first or second floor which are both good for 30 pax. 

P.P.S. If you want to learn how to whip dishes like the ones Martin Place Social offers, they also run the culinary school Ausphin  International Institute which has placed several of its graduates in reputable restaurants.

Martin Place Social is located at The Plaza, Arya Residences, McKinkey Parkway, 8th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. For inquiries or reservation, contact them at +63 2 245 8492 or email them at hello@martinplacesocial.com.ph.