Lampara: A Filipino Culinary Haven

Lampara, derived from the Spanish word for lamp, illuminates our evening with its vibrant atmosphere and innovative Filipino cuisine. Tucked away in a cozy corner, we ascended a narrow staircase to find ourselves greeted by a cheerful neon sign. Inside, the restaurant welcomed us with warmth, offering a snug setting adorned with a quaint bar. Their menu showcases a diverse array of Filipino dishes, some with a modern twist, enticing us to try a variety of flavours. As starters, we relished the Pulpo. It was a perfectly grilled octopus infused with aromatic herbs. Alongside, we indulged in the interesting Dinuckdakan. It is a fried egg crowned with succulent duck breast, oyster, and mayo—a culinary delight. The combination of flavours is exquisite, unlike any we have tasted before! Moving on to the mains, we opted for the Pork, adorned with sweet sauce and pork floss. While the exterior boasted a delightful crispiness, we found the pork to be slightly on the drier side. Overall, it is still enjoyable. Lampara captivated us with its inviting ambiance, lively atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and impressive drink selection, leaving us eager to return for another memorable dining experience. Renowned for their cocktails, we were thrilled to try the Asiong. This fruity concoction with gin, reminiscent of Yakult, delighted our taste buds with its perfect balance of sweetness and sourness. The Tinutong is a whisky-based delight blended in barley. The flavour is enhanced by the toasted rice added to the drink. This harmonious blend of ingredients left us thoroughly impressed. Address: 5883 Enriquez, Makati, 1210 Metro Manila, Philippines Price: $$ Starters from 220 pesos (SGD$5.30) Mains from 420 pesos (SGD$12), Cocktails from 380 pesos (SGD$9)