A Sudden Craving for Bacalao...

The coming of Lent and the rising summer heat conspires for a sudden craving of bacalao. And that can be a problem at ten in the morning...

The sudden craving leads to a short drive to Capitol Commons, with the parking lot all to myself as Black Olive Cerveceria preps to open for the day's service. These mid-morning cravings, and the summer heat, can be a deadly combination.

As the very first customer for the day, the staff at Black Olive Cerveceria hand me their menu as I blurt out the word "Bacalao." But wait, the Peri-Peri Chicken sounds good too. And with a smile, my server heads back to the kitchen to relay my order. A complimentary serving of crisp, freshly baked bread and their very own dip with olive oil and spices starts your meal at Black Olive.

Black Olive's Signature Grilled Peri-Peri Chicken (P 550) is then served first, with a thick, sweet and mildly spicy sauce and a side of rice. the perfectly grilled and smoky flavors combine with the rich spices and seasonings for bold flavors.

Tender, juicy and flavorful, the rich marinade and spices come through with a punch, and my mid-morning craving seems to have settled down until...

Black Olive's Roast Bacalao Fillet (P 445), with mojo picon and mashed sweet potato. Tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth, with just a subtle briny layer of flavor. Childhood memories suddenly flash back as I slice a tender piece of salted cod and swirl it on the thick sauce. The side of sweet mashed potatoes complete the dish. Perfect. Just in case you have sudden craving for Bacalao, you know where to go...

For more on Black Olive Cerveceria's Mediterranean-inspired dishes, check out my previous post here at  http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2013/12/mediterranean-flavors-lunch-at-black.html and for more on Black Olive Cerveceria's premium Belgian and German beers on tap and their signature "small plates" or tapas, check out my earlier post here at http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-cold-beer-and-small-plates-at-black.html.

Black Olive Cerveceria is located at Unit R3A & B, Camino Verde Avenue, Capitol Commons, Meralco Avenue corner Shaw Boulevard, Brgy. Oranbo, Pasig City or call 633-2071 for inquiries and 0917-507-3512 for reservations. 

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