Francesco’s Kitchen: A Hidden Italian Trove in San Juan
CHEESY BURRATA PIZZA
San Juan has always been associated with homegrown Asian classics such as Gloria Maris, Kimpura and Alex III; however, the city isn't really top – of – mind when it comes to Italian cuisine.
Francesco’s Kitchen seeks to fill this gap as it offers trusty classic Italian cuisine in its homey abode, silently tucked along the residential side of San Juan.
CAPPESANTE E PORTOBELLO, PANCETTA CROCCANTE, VINAIGRETTE AL TARTUFO (P580)
Its menu prices are steeper than mall – favorite Cibo; but it’s justified by its selection of quality ingredients which comprise each dish. For our appetizer, we opted for a medley of roasted scallops, portobello mushrooms, and crispy strips of pancetta; all drizzled in truffle vinaigrette. The assortment of ingredients was excellent; unfortunately the scallops were a tad bit overcooked.
ZUPPA DI PESCE CON CROSTONE ALL AGLIO (P460)
The Zuppa Di Pesce Con Crostone All Aglio is a welcome addition to the meal; especially in this cooler pre-Chinese New Year weather. This hearty bowl features generous pieces of fresh seafood and comes in a serving perfect for sharing. Flavorful and light, it definitely helps build up one's meal.
OSSOBUCO IN GREMOLADA CON FETTUCINE ALFREDO (P1180)
The Ossobuco featured tender melt-in-your-mouth veal shank stewed in a deliciously spiced tomato sauce. However, I felt that this dish was overpriced given that you can enjoy a bigger serving of this dish, with the same quality for way less (such as in La Spezia MNL). It was a delicious main dish; but it's definitely not worth its price tag.
BRANZINO (P980)
The Branzino was a definite highlight of our meal. Despite coming in such a tiny serving; each bite of its delicate poached seabass, served on a bed of extremely flavorful stewed grains, was a magical experience.
CHEESY BURRATA PIZZA
A off-menu must-try item would be its Cheesy Burrata Pizza. Initially served as a pizza topped with a huge sphere of freshly made burrata; the friendly server will slowly mash the burrata and spread it around the pizza. To be honest, the concept doesn’t taste as unique as it sounds. It’s basically just a more convenient way of stuffing yourself with burrata (compared to having to spread burrata on a slice of bread yourself). However, the excellent quality of the burrata they serve is enough justification to get this dish.
NUTELLAMORE (P480)
If you’re looking for an indulgent finish to your meal, opt to share the Nutellamore. Don’t be fooled by its cupcake-sized serving, as this molten lava cake filled with Nutella and topped with mascarpone gelato is extremely rich and heavy. It makes for a sweet ending though!
Francesco’s Kitchen
863 A Mabini St., Addition Hills, San Juan
Date of Visit: October 27, 2018 with Lily Chua, Jared Chua and Jem Chua
