Mantaro - Quezon City

I visited Mantaro due to a recommendation of a good friend and ordered the ceviche de pascado (p320) and the 1/4 pollo con arroz (p185). Stupid me didn't even know the ceviche was raw which is a dreadful thing for me (I really can't eat raw). It really isn't cheap so I closed my eyes and took a bite and to my surprise, it tasted great! Tangy and flavorful and didn't taste slimy at all. The pollo com arroz (roasted chicken with rice) however was too salty for me. I loved all their sauce especially the chimichurri but the skin of the chicken just tasted too salty. The red iced tea with chia seeds was a bit sweet but mix it with some more water and you're good to go. Owner is so friendly, she told us so many stories about her life and you can really tell how kind she is. Definitely coming back but most probably going to avoid the chicken.

The former chef of Don Andres operates Mantaro on Scout Tobias. It is a small kitchen-type space with outdoor tables. Big groups come here and the word of mouth is good for a reason.   We ordered a ceviche de pescado, a smashing introduction to Peruvian style ceviche. It was zingier and spicier than we normally do it. The fish stayed fresh and firm, and didn't overcook. Then we had Arroz con Mariscos (seafood rice), rich with turmeric and cumin, while waiting for the Lengua Guisada (stewed lengua) to arrive. Both were tasty as well. This is a small resto, but the chef managed to handle a group of maybe 16 people outside; the speed of our order was affected, but it didn't matter to us because the food was good and made us willing to wait. It is pricey for the location and the way it looks, but they don't scrimp on ingredients.

Great Food! Authentic! Owner is the chef. If you like Don Pedro, you'll love Mantaro! Chimichurri is the best! The place is small but cozy.

I reluctantly gave Mantaro a 3.0 not because of its food (which is really good) but because of its inadequate airconditioning. They really need to add more airconditioning since its a small restaurant, and the kitchen is in the same room as the diners. Until the very personable owners do this, I recommend eating in their outdoor area.

The roast chicken was really good. Unique flavors this side of town. Assuming it was the owner himself doing the cooking hence the authentic feel to the dishes.