Three years after it opened, the local casual French restaurant Metronome is officially open for lunch service, with a menu that offers what a lunch crowd might look for, at least according to the people behind the establishment. But essentially, especially for its fans, this bistro lunch menu is a new way to experience Metronome.
“Guests who choose to come to lunch with us are very different from our guests who join us for dinner,” says Miko Calo, head chef. “Our lunch guests are looking for a dining experience that is more casual, quick, and less complicated.”
Inspired by Calo’s early life as chef—which was spent interning at LA TABLE de Joël Robuchon—the Metronome Bistro Lunch is a three-course menu of classic French comfort food—but accomplished in the restaurant’s exacting standards. “When I lived in France, I could step into any restaurant and get a delicious meal of well-executed dishes,” says Calo. “You always knew that you would leave your table blissfully satisfied.”
While every dish on the menu sounds thoughtfully made, there are those that should not be missed. One of these is the Metronome Burger, a delectable indulgence made with 100% USDA Prime Beef patty, pan-seared foie gras, caramelized onions and Emmental cheese stacked between a warm, house-made brioche bun. We also recommend the Mussels Mariniere Linguine, which is Bouchot mussels cooked in onions and white wine.
For something more traditional, you might consider the Duck Confit—but that’s a little on the sweet side. Instead, perhaps give the Poulet A LaChasseur or Hunter’s Chicken a chance. It is a French classic of chicken quarters braised in white wine and cognac with mushrooms, bacon, and tarragon and served with a heavenly velvet-like potato purée. “Hunter’s Chicken was the first poultry dish I ever learned to make, “ shares Calo. “Making this dish made me realize how using good wine and the best cognac can makes this dish. Good ingredients make all the difference.”
Metronome regulars know dessert in the restaurant should not be skipped. At first glance, the Dark Chocolate Mousse looks like a very simple dish. Once spooned and savored, however, rich layers of chocolate, coffee and cream reveal themselves, enveloping one’s palate with gentle waves of subtle sweetness.
Metronome is located at the G/F The Grand Midori Makati Bolanos Street, Legaspi Village Makati City. For reservations, contact 63.917.147.3776 or call their landline: 63.2.8618.4337. Metronome is open Tuesday to Saturday—11:00 to 3PM, and 5:00 to 11PM.