Patty Cakes

Opening with a bang, Chef Nitoy’s Grille & Restaurant immediately captivated a lot of patrons with its good food and swift service in a relaxing courtyard setting. Many times did we enjoy the sizzling sisig, marlin and tuna while the kids favored the grilled chicken/liempo meals. Its ‘kansi’ was the tummy-warming order of choice before partaking of its signature ‘pancit canton’. The crispy ‘lumpia’ paired so well with the sub-zero beer. In short, it had all the makings of a preferred dining destination. But that was then. Fast forward to the recent and our two visits ended up being disappointments. Changes were made, but not with the desired result. Its once-open courtyard is now paved over – thus losing a natural aspect of the place. Moreover, a steel-trussed roof over it has caused a dampening effect on an otherwise bright portion. Just can’t help but feel that I’m in a basketball covered court. Additionally, the food quality has taken a dive while service has also followed the same route. Surprisingly, the ‘CR’s’ are still clean and functioning. Sayang naman. After all, it is in one of the better spots on the city’s famous food avenue and has solid fundamentals. Maybe professional make-over and management reform are needed to restore the luster of this once-rising star.