Hyphy's by Chef Bruce Lim

Weeks ago, when I received an invite from Robinsons Galleria and Mr. Ivan Henares for a food tour in Robinsons The Veranda, I was so excited I almost forgot that I have prior commitment to attend to. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, much to my dismay, I wasn’t able to attend the event. What a bummer. Good thing that the favorable proximity of Robinson’s Galleria to my place allows me to drop by to try new restaurants at The Veranda. First stop, Hyphy’s.

My friend Glenn and I were again, on our way to a food event when we decided to drop by at Hyphy’s first instead of just grabbing our usual coffees before heading to the event. Yes, an afternoon snack at Hyphy’s before attending a food event, we are hardcore that way. I guess you cannot blame us because just the sight of this gorgeously decorated restaurant by well-known Chef Bruce Lim is enough for one to just grab a sit and bury oneself on its menu and feast on the food.

Raised in San Francisco but rooted in the Philippines, Chef Bruce Lim is kind enough to share his San Francisco culinary knowledge and incorporate it to the usual Filipino comfort food to give it a delectable kick which we can all enjoy. I appreciate that he took time to visit us at our table to introduce himself and welcome us.

Hyphy’s exudes sophisticated aura so, imagine how surprised I was when I saw that the prices on their menu was very affordable. Although they could have added more choices of food, the line up in the menu were enough to pique one’s searching palate. We decided to stay away from heavy meal because of the dinner we have to attend to but little did we know that the food we ordered for snack comes in huge servings. Huge servings, affordable price, lovely isn’t it?

Baked Macaroni (150php)

Baked Macaroni has always been one of ultimate comfort food. I love how Hyphy’s serve it in such a way that it pleases Filipino palate with its slightly sweet and savory taste. The pasta was cooked perfectly while the generous amount of melted cheese on top was both pleasing to the eye and to the palate. For the price of 150php, a serving is enough for sharing.

Malunggay Pesto (150php)

This dish really impressed me. Malunggay and basil leaves tossed in pasta and topped with perfectly grilled chicken sprinkled with parmesan cheese. The generous serving of grilled chicken on top really makes it more enticing and appetite busting. This is a kind of dish that will definitely satiate ones hunger for a good meal. Just like Baked Macaroni, a serving is good for sharing.

Garlic Fries (120php)

Thick cut fries tossed in garlic and parsley. I am not a french fries person but when I tried Hyphy’s version of it, I am instantly a convert.

Hyphy’s House Iced Tea and Dayap Iced Tea (80php each)

One of those kick-ass drinks that wouldn’t taste bland even if the ice on it already melts. Both drinks were very refreshing but their Dayap Iced Tea was the one that impressed me most. The taste of dayap is very prominent but not overwhelming, perfect drink this hot summer days in replacement to the usual soda.

With all the familiar restaurants in Robinsons Galleria, Hyphy’s is definitely a welcome change. An addition to every good restaurant in that place, Hyphy’s instantly becomes one of my favorite. During our visit, the staff was very friendly and accommodating. They visit us on our table and introduce themselves just to check if we need something or if we are enjoying our meal. Little kind gestures like that are too hard not to notice. I always believe that nice ambiance and good food just make up 70% of a good dining experience and the rest relies on how the food attendants treat you. Hyphy’s just scored a hundred percent in my book.