Up High At Aire32 Bar And Events Venue At The Top Of The Westin Manila

Located high above the Ortigas skyline is the busy and ever changing commercial and business district's newest dive. Now on its soft opening phase, head up the 32nd floor for a sneak peek...

Nearing its final stage of completion, Aire32 at the top of The Westin Manila will soon take flight as one of the metro's premier bar destinations with its sweeping views of the sunset and the Ortigas cityscape. More than just another al fresco space high above the city, Aire32 brings its own distinct vibe and character to the evolving bar scene this side of the metro. 

The elegant open space weaves diverse elements inspired by the Westin brand's philosophy anchored on biophillia, that innate need to reconnect with well-being, nature and the natural world through its warm muted color palette, natural materials, patterns and contemporary design details. The result is a stunning space high above the hectic urban scene, your own sanctuary high up at Aire32. 

"Pronounced as ai-re, which means air, this space is designed for social experiences rooted in conscious connection and balance," shares General Manager Alexander Dietzsch. "Every drink is a toast to life, a celebration of family and friends, complemented by relaxing views and comfort food."

The intricate yet thoughtful integration of various design elements come together seamlessly as a key component in the overall character of Aire32 quietly stirs up behind the bar unveiling yet another facet to the unique experience built on sustainability and innovation. 

"Our carefully curated drink collection includes low-alcohol cocktails for conscious consumption. Other unique offerings include well-balanced mocktails that are both relaxing and uplifting," adds Mr. Dietzsch. "Our selection includes spirits without artificial additives, sourced from small producers who prioritize quality over large-scale production. We believe that utilizing surplus ingredients, local produce and flavors and artisanal drinks is a starting point for creativity, imagination and community collaboration. Our cocktails are crafted with intention, bringing out the flavorful harmony when the brightness and character of local ingredients meet the body of a good quality spirit." 

And as the sun takes its final bow on the distant horizon, the libations are served on cue...

The nostalgic tiki bar culture becomes a colorful element in the multi-layered tapestry of the Aire32 experience. The Tropical Tiki with Planteray Dark Rum, Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao, jackfruit purée, fresh pineapple juice and pandan syrup transports you to a distant island hideaway with its vibrant fruity notes followed by the bold sweetness and flavorful depth of rum. 

The Elixir Mestizo with vodka, langka basil cordial, calamansi, banana liqueur and egg white garnished with sweet and crisp turon is another playfully inventive cocktail rendition at Aire32 teasing first the eyes before the palate. The creative play on cocktails is something you can expect at Aire32, consistent with its free-spirited and unrestrained creative vibe. 

Looking for an alcohol-free alternative? No problem. Let Aire32 tease your palate with the Nightfall Zest, a refreshingly tart concoction with tomato water, lemongrass syrup and lemon juice. The bold yet soothing sharpness of the tomato water and lemon juice are elegantly smoothened by the lemongrass syrup for another surprising and even unexpected libation at Aire32. The inclusion of cocktails with low alcohol content and mocktails reflects the "mindful drinking" philosophy of Aire32. 

My go-to cocktail? Through the years, I always go for a trusted and reliable pick...

When it comes to cocktails, just call me old-fashioned. And there's just nothing quite like an Old Fashioned in the breezy al fresco space 32 floors above the cityscape. While I appreciate playful cocktail interpretations for a refreshing change of pace, classics like the Old Fashioned remain high on my list not only because it's familiar but it's also my own gauge of the bar's respect for tradition. And Aire32 nails it with their take on the proper Old Fashioned. 

After a few rounds of cocktails, the second layer in the Aire32 experience is revealed with exquisite tapas from the kitchen... 

...starting with the Tartar De Ternera, Ikura Y Yema Trufada. The intricate nibble with beef tartar, ikura or salmon roe and truffle egg yolk tartaletas brings its delectable play on textural contrasts and savory richness in one bite. The deep beefy notes are enhanced by the equally rich flavors of the truffle egg yolk with the ikura completing the perfect finishing touch with its bold and vibrant briny bursts of flavor. Just like the hotel's Spanish restaurant, Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez, the cuisine at Aire32 features traditional Spanish flavors reinterpreted with a contemporary flair. And yes, Chele Gonzalez himself oversees the kitchen at Aire32 (for more on The Westin Manila's Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez, see my post A Taste Of Northern Spain High Up Over Ortigas At Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez In The Westin Manila from early last year). 

Some of the small plates and tapas at Aire32 are off-the-menu specialties from Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez, and this adds to even more tasty options like the classic Pulpo A La Parilla Con Patatas Aliñadas with tender grilled octopus, pickled potatoes, paprika and onions to pair with your libations. The fresh briny sweetness of the succulent octopus with just a hint of smoky notes from the grill are perfectly complemented by pickled potatoes and onions for that contrasting yet balanced finish.

The Patatas Bravas is a rustic rendition of another Spanish staple at Aire32 with crispy fried marble potatoes topped with Spanish tomato and draped in a thick spicy sauce with aioli. The sharp burst of tartness from the tomatoes are enhanced by the spicy sauce and smoothened by the creamy aioli for a lavish play on flavors. These tasty bites builds on the flavorful base laid by Chef Chele Gonzalez anchored on solid Spanish culinary tradition. 

The Jamon Iberico Bomb is perhaps the most creative expression from Aire32's menu with its intricate execution of delicately crisp panipuri topped with savory Jamon Iberico. Aptly named, each bite brings a vibrant splash of flavors to the palate capped by the savory sharpness of the Spanish ham and the crisp finish of the panipuri with its creamy filling. 

Best enjoyed in one bite, the distinct flavors from each of the components linger long on the palate paring well with the wide selection of cocktails at Aire32. It's these creative renditions yet anchored on tradition that makes the small plates and tapas at Aire32 the perfect complement to complete your refreshing tipple 32 floors above the busy Ortigas cityscape. 

Aire32 continues its medley of fresh flavors with even more tasty nibbles like the Pintxo De Ensalada Y Gambas with succulent Tiger Prawn and silky smooth and creamy potato salad on crisp toast. 

Garnished with fresh microgreens, the flavors are clean yet complex with its layers of flavors and textures. The richly seasoned potato salad hits the palate with its bold finish as the delicate briny sweetness of the Tiger Prawn creeps up to complete the flavors. 

Another round of cocktails brings yet another surprise from the kitchen of Aire32...

...with the Tosta De Sobrasada Con Miel Y Nueces, a savory nibble with chorizo spread on crisp sourdough toast with Parmesan, walnuts and honey. Sweet, savory and nutty hints combine in a flavorful blend followed by subtle salty notes from the Parmesan for another masterful execution at Aire32. 

The Rabas or deep-fried fresh squid with lemon mayonnaise brings familiar notes to the table with its play on textural contrasts and pure, clean uncluttered flavors. Simple and uncomplicated, it's another great match with cocktails at Aire32. 

The variety of flavors from the inventive cocktail selection to the small plates and tapas weaves layers of richness to your dining experience at Aire32. And there's more. The Gambas Al Ajillo with plump sautéed prawns in olive oil, garlic and chili is almost mandatory in an evening of cocktails. And Aire32's rendition is spot on...

The freshness of the prawns is announced by an audible snap with each bite followed by the elegant nutty finish of olive oil and garlic with just a subtle whisper of heat from the chilies. The freshness of ingredients and exquisite execution transforms and elevates familiar dishes, just as you'd expect from any kitchen overseen by Chef Chele. 

Libations and tasty bites are just one part of the Aire32 experience. As you sit back and enjoy another round of cocktails and tapas, the space itself slowly captivates you with its sleek yet comforting warmth transforming your end of the day tipple into a memorable experience with panoramic views of the city below. And it's the perfect spot for a casual gathering or event with various seating options ranging from bar stools at the bar counter to lounge chairs and dining tables to suit any requirement. Aire32 also offers an elegant glass-enclosed private dining room that can accommodate 20 guests. The entire space can host up to 75 guests for exclusive bookings and private events. Think of Aire32 as your personal and customizable stage for your next event. And you just can't beat the views...

Sweet endings come in a tempting variety of options at Aire32, like the Toffee, Cacao, Avellana Y Cafe. The lavish creation is a stacked dessert piled high with chunks of chocolate banana bread topped with caramel mousse and caramelized hazelnuts... 

...while the indulgent Sobao Pasiego with Cantabria's delicacy cake, cheese ice cream and berries coulis presents another equally decadent option. Aire32 is currently on its soft opening phase, operating from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am daily. Curious? Book your table by simply calling the number listed below or via email at cantabria.manila@westin.com for your spot at what may be the hottest new bar destination up high at The Westin Manila in Ortigas. 

Aire32 Bar and Events Venue is located at the top floor, Level 32, of The Westin Manila, San Miguel Avenue corner Lourdes Drive, Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City. You can visit their FB Page and IG Feed at https://www.facebook.com/westinmanilahotel/ and https://www.instagram.com/westinmanilahotel/ for updates or call +63 928 550 8109 for reservations. 

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