Quarantine Favorite: Motorino

I have a great fondness for Italian cuisine. Its practice of using the freshest ingredients never fails to give the most memorable dining experiences. And the best thing is that you don't even have to spend thousands to get it. Traveling to Italy made me realize that whether it's a Michelin-starred restaurant or a ready-made dish at the supermarket, everything was downright superb! I'm so glad that such quality is brought to Manila by Motorino.

Hello, Motorino.

Motorino has been around for years. It was one of the restaurants R and I had our early dates. I recall loving its gelato! This time around, I enjoyed a delicious feast composed of pizza, pasta, salad, and dessert. 

I have an insatiable appetite for Caesar Salad (PHP345), and I haven't had much of it for several months due to pregnancy. I quickly wolfed down half of the bowl in no time. (I'm sorry for the photo. I was rushing to get my hands on the salad that I didn't put in the thick, creamy, and tangy Caesar salad dressing and topping it with shaved Parmesan cheese. (Both came with this bowl of greens.)

I requested for half-and-half for my pizza so that I get to enjoy two flavors in one sitting. I got Margherita Burrata (PHP655+) and Truffle Honey & 4 Cheese (PHP610+). 

Indulging in burrata was an absolute treat. I had to avoid it for nine months as expecting moms are not allowed to eat soft cheeses. The burrata Motorino topped its flavorful Margherita was delightful. It added a creamy taste to it that complemented the tangy flavor of tomato sauce. The basil leaves a refreshing taste on the palate.

I loved the harmonious blend of flavors among the truffle, honey, and cheeses in this pizza. It was a great take on "sweet yet savory". I just wish that it had a stronger truffle flavor and aroma. But this is just me, the truffle monster talking.

Speaking of truffle monster, I went with Crema al Tartufo Nero (PHP435) for pasta. And I had no regrets getting this! Its flavor is light on the taste buds, but it is one dish you won't get tired of. Just like the truffle pizza, I found this dish to have a light truffle taste and aroma. But it serves as an excellent choice to pair with bold-flavored dishes.

We ended our meal with Motorino's Tiramisu (PHP345). It was one of the best I've had to date; and it made me miss coffee! Soft and delicate, the layers of mascarpone cheese, cocoa, and coffee-soaked ladyfingers were spot on! One serving is big and great for sharing. However, a portion of my cake melted during transit. It was still good though!

Grab your Motorino favorites online by logging in at www.motorinophilippines.com.