Monday, March 3, 2014

A Taste of Spain at Galli Village Cafe

If you, one day, find yourself at Maginhawa Street craving for paella, you'll be glad to know that such a place exists, and it's called Galli Village Cafe!
Galli Village Cafe



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Credits to Mike for the photos above

Galli Village Cafe takes its inspiration from images of small village cafes scattered in many European, Asian and American countries, hence the cozy and rustic feel. Whether you're on a date or just hanging with friends, it's a great place to unwind, relax, and of course, eat good food. 
Galli Village CafeGalli Village Cafe
We got to meet Chef Linda Aznar who personally prepared our food for us. It took a while for the food to be served, but that's because Galli makes sure to serve only fresh food. It takes so much time and effort to create paella from scratch every single time a customer orders it, but that's a promise they intend to keep. 
Galli Village Cafe
And let me tell you, the wait is worth it. We got to try some of their specialties, namely the Paella Valenciana, Angus Beef Tapa, Beef salpicao, and Tuna Salpicao. It was through Chef's Linda's experiences working for restaurants like Alba's, Illustrado, and Dulcinea that helped her create the dishes that make people come back for more.
Galli Village Cafe Galli Village Cafe
For example, this paella - just by looking at it, you already know that a lot of patience and heart went into making it. When we got to talk to Chef Linda, she told us that it actually takes them 40 minutes to prepare this wonderful dish! So if you're planning to eat here, best to call and order the paella in advance so you won't have to wait super long ;)
Galli Village CafeGalli Village Cafe
Galli Village Cafe actually makes the chorizo you see in their paella. Galing, diba? Plus the toppings go so well together, especially with the lemon zest that helps brings out the flavor more.

If you want to try their rice meals, go for the Angus Beef Tapa! It's served with eggs, rice (duh) and side vegetables. 
Galli Village Cafe
Finally, the salpicao! I asked everyone for their favorite - Martin, Max, and I went with the tuna (right), while Mike picked the beef (left). They're all delicious, that's for sure, but if you want to find your favorite, visit Galli and try them out for yourself. ;)
Galli Village CafeGalli Village Cafe
(Hmm, I just noticed they all have names that start with M. /random)
Galli Village Cafe
Thank you to Ms. Christine Arriola and Chef Linda Aznar of Galli Village Cafe for our wonderful meal!
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Please visit them in Makati/QC and like them on Facebook!
* YMCA Hotel, 7 Sacred Heart St., San Antonio Village, Makati
* #154 Maginhawa St. Sikatuna Village, QC