Back-to-Back Celebration, Classic Casa Armas

It was my celebration and at the same time Achie?s. Happy Birthday to us! So we decided to celebrate at one of our family?s favorite, Casa Armas. It?s been awhile since we last ate here, normally there?s a reason when we do. This time, it was because of me and Ach. Since I was entering the next quarter of my life, I wanted it to be different. This time, it was me and Ach who treated our parentals.

I had to reserve in advanced because Dad?s favorites had to be pre-ordered 4-5 hours before. He chose Cochinillo over the Asado de Pollo (Roast Chicken swimming in Olive Oil). Not really surprised since Lechon, whatever variety, has been his favorite ever since!

We started with the House Bread and Butter, together with assorted Tapas. Their Gambas al Ajillo (Php365) has been Mom?s favorite. She always eats the garlic bits with bread and butter.

Achie and I also wanted to try the Croquetas de Pollo (Php35/piece), creamy chicken croquettes which everyone loved. A simple yet addicting treat.

Dad loves their Callos (PHp250). This was really good, the oxtail and tripe were very tender and gelatinous. I love how it just melted in my mouth while bursting with flavors. Boo loved this too.

My favorite Tapas that night was the Tapa (Php250). Simple salty-sweet taste, and went very well with their bread.

Then our paellas came, everyone loved the Paella Negra (Php625/half). This was very moist and bursted in squid in flavor. They were generous with the meat and seafood too.

I on the other hand enjoyed the classic Paella Valenciana (Php865). Boo?s style was to mix together both so you get the creamy and saltwater taste of the Negra, at the same time a flavorful saffron touch from the Valenciana.

The main event of dinner was the Cochinillo (Php2,155/half). The skin was light and crisp, meat was tender. What?s so special about this dish is that because of its softness, you can use a plate to chop it up even with the bones intact. And so our waiter did this in front of us. Boo was amazed by this sight! Actually, El Commedor used to serve good Cohinillo too back in the 80?s (or even a longer time ago, I wouldn?t know already). Sadly, they already closed down.

Dinner was great! Everyone went home with a happy stomach. Of course, we still needed our meal ender. Dessert to follow in the next post! :)

Casa Armas Tapas Bar y Restaurante

Contact: +63 2 6873663

1/L  The Podium, 18 ADB Ave.

Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City