Old World Traditions Endure at Long Bar in Raffles Makati

Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Ernest Hemingway were said to be regulars at the historic watering hole of Singapore's iconic Raffles Hotel, and who knows, probably penned some of their greatest works inspired by the soothing handcrafted libations at Long Bar. There's history, a whole lot of it, and tradition that still resonates at one of the best bars in Asia. In Manila, you'll find it at Long Bar in Raffles Makati...

The long and impressive wooden bar draws your eyes as the crackling sound of discarded peanut shells on the elegantly tiled floor announce your arrival at Raffles Makati's Long Bar. In just a few steps, you are transported back in time to the colonial heyday of British Malaya, as a refreshing tipple from the home of the famous Singapore Sling sets the mood in true Long Bar style. Welcome to Long Bar...

Inside Long Bar, the predominant color palette of warm earth tones and dark wood exude an old world elegance cooled by the intricately woven paddle fans on the ceiling reminiscent of colonial days past. The Long Bar in Raffles Makati recreates the same look, feel and vibe of the famous bar in Singapore down to the little intricate details, discarded peanut shells included. I've had my own share of countless memorable stories at Long Bar, with each visit presenting infinite possibilities. 

At the bar, the in-house master mixologist prepares a round of libations for the first of many as you settle in at one of the tables. Better yet, pick a high chair by the bar and take it all in for the complete Long Bar experience. 

The scorching heat of summer makes the classic Negroni (P 500) with gin, Campari and sweet Vermouth the perfect tipple at Long Bar to cool you down with each refreshing sip. Anthony Bourdain once described the gin-based cocktail as "the perfect mixed drink" with its contrasting yet seamless blend of sour, sweet and bitter hints followed by a vibrant orange finish. An afternoon with nothing definite planned, that's the game plan for today at Long Bar. 

The origins of the cocktail can be traced back to 1919 when Count Camilo Negroni asked his bartender friend at Caffé Casoni to "strengthen his Americano" referring to his cocktail and not the coffee. The bartender obliged his request by replacing the usual soda water with gin. And ever since and countless rounds later, the Negroni endures as one of the timeless cocktails popular the world over. 

"The Negroni is just. It sets you up for dinner, in a way. It makes you hungry, sands the edges off the afternoon," added the late great storyteller Anthony Bourdain. And right on cue as Long Bar served some of its tasty offerings...

Have a slice of the Pizza Pepperoni (P 1,300) topped with savory pepperoni, salami, tomatoes and creamy Mozzarella on a thin and crisp rustic crust to pair with another round of Negronis. Fresh off the ovens, the fragrant aroma teases your appetite...

...as one bite drapes the palate with a delectable richness. Each tasty bite is perfectly complemented by the bold and palate-cleansing notes of the Negroni, and I'm pretty sure the Count from Florence would agree and even raise a toast. Long Bar also offers the classic Pizza Margherita (P 980) with tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil if this is more your craving. 

Who can say no to sisig? The local pork delicacy has long been a popular bar staple and Long Bar's version, The North's Pork Sisig (P 690) is spot on with its play on textural contrasts and savory flavors. Topped with crunchy chicharon for that added layer of texture and rich notes, The North's Pork Sisig at Long Bar justifiably calls for and even demands another round of Negronis. 

Topped with a poached egg, gently poke the yolk for that indulgent layer of flavor. One bite followed by a sip, it just doesn't get better than this. It's moments like this that keep Long Bar top-of-mind when you want a well-deserved break from the hectic pace. 

One for the road? It has to be the Banana del Norte (P 620) from the impressive Exploration of Regions Cocktail Collection at Long Bar. Inspired by the rich and diverse tapestry of local flavors, the Exploration of Regions Cocktail Collection infuses the distinctive produce from the country's many regions for an array of cocktails exclusive to Long Bar (see more on the creative cocktail series on my previous post, Embark on a Journey with a Soothing Tipple as Raffles Makati's Long Bar Unveils the Exploration of Regions Cocktail Collection from late last year). 

The exquisite blend of Glenmorangie X Whisky, Ardberg Wee Beastie Whisky, Giffard Banana du Bresil Liqueur and Flor de Cana Spresso Liqueur combine for a deep, bold yet elegantly smooth finish followed by a hint of fruity sweetness. The duo of premium whiskies brings a flavorful depth to the cocktail with its subtle smoky notes for that perfect balance. And it's this moment when inspiration is at hand. Probably the same flash of elusive inspiration sought by Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Ernest Hemingway as they sat by the bar. Okay, maybe not. But it feels like it. 

Find your inspiration with the handcrafted libations of Long Bar and immerse yourself in its captivating old world charm and enduring traditions. One more round? Yes, please....

Long Bar is located at the Lobby Level of Raffles Makati, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati City, Metro Manila. For more information and reservations, please call +632 7795 1840 or email dining.makati@raffles.com

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