Classy look inside and out, with a relaxed interior design, yellow-lighted space, curved ceiling, chocolate tiles on their bar, mannequin dressed with Ferrero Rochers wrappers, and choices of chocolates for gifts (or just “pasalubong”) – that is Maitre Chocolatier Boutique and Café. The place is small with about 5 tables good for 5 groups. One thing that can be easily noticed is the background music though they only played it moderately/subdued. They played pop/dance (something like that) genre and I personally think it is not suitable in that kind of place because the ambience is relaxing. But it is definitely a good place where you would want to have a chat with a friend or special someone over some chocolates. I came there a week ago, together with my boyfriend (Allan).
Since it’s already past dinner time, we started our food trip with the entrée – Chicken in Mushroom White Chocolate and Cheese Sauce. As described, this dish is served with soft and tender chicken pouched in Villar Chocolat Blanc with melted cheese, mushroom, and spices served with steamed rice. I love this dish because of the dominant taste of chicken over cheese but sadly, I didn’t even tasted the white chocolate on it.
Having savored the main course makes me want to try more of what they offer. We ordered snacks next and my eye was locked on the menu when I saw Frey White Chocolate Crepe on it. After minutes of waiting, I was really caught with its taste. The crepe over white chocolate and fruits (mango, strawberry, and apple) are just right. It is not too sweet – just perfect! J
Done with entrée and snacks, it’s time for the much awaited—dessert! We choose one of the Chef’s Delight – The Sweet Revenge – Lindt Molten Lava Cake. The long wait is over – sweet revenge is served. It’s my first time to taste a spicy chocolate. It’s absolutely a sweet revenge because you will taste first the sweetness and after that a little bit of its spiciness. It’s just a small cake but believe me, you would want to share it with someone (the sweetness can make you feel fed-up). The vanilla ice cream is its perfect combination. It gives balance to the oozing sweet and vengefully spicy chocolate lava.
Day would not be complete without trying any of their drinks. Ice Blended Nutella Chocolate Drink for me and Irish Midnight cocktail for Allan. My chocolate drink was too sweet or maybe it’s just because of the previous orders I made. But that’s just fine; it’s still worth it that I tried it. I also tasted the cocktail ordered. The liquor stands out the most although the liquor level stated on the menu is only 1. You wouldn’t taste the chocolate. It’s as if you’re drinking pure Bailey’s and Vodka. We had a hard time finishing it off because we’re already full.
Overall, I was satisfied with all the servings since it’s the first time I have tried that kind of twist in food as well as on drinks. Oh! I forgot to mention about the service. Hmm, it’s just okay. They respond when you ask them about their menu. But they are not so attentive with the customers especially during taking an order. Maybe because it’s already late night or they have just their own stuffs to do.
Chocolates can really make someone smile and I did. J Maitre Chocolatier really live up to their tagline – “Only the best chocolate haven for all chocoholics”.
Maitre Chocolatier Boutique and Café
Location: Unit 2A, 28 Jupiter St., corner Astra St. Bel-Air, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Budget: Entrées (P180-P250), Snacks (P100-P200), Desserts (P180-P300+), Drinks (P150-P160), and Cocktails (P120-P180) – NOTE: Prices indicated are just ranges during the date of visit.
