(CLOSED) Vanderlust in Mandaluyong: European Comfort Cuisine with a Story in Every Bite
When in Metro Manila, you’ll find that so many of its cities are thriving with sumptuous and delicious eats. One of which is Mandaluyong City where there is so much more than meets the eye.
Aside from its high-rise buildings and booming business district, it is also a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment because of the numerous malls located in the area including The Podium at Ortigas Center. The upscale mall is now becoming a venue where you can sample a wide variety of cuisines and specialties.
Vanderlust, a restaurant serving European comfort food, is definitely a notable name on the list.
Vanderlust comes from the word “wanderlust” which is fitting as the idea of the restaurant began when its owners Valerie and Anthony Tan went on a trip to Europe. The couple wanted to share the delicious flavors they have sampled with their fellow Filipinos thus, the idea for the restaurant began.
The idea became a reality in 2016 when the restaurant opened its first branch in Tomas Morato, Quezon City—delivering European comfort cuisine to the endearing crowd. The restaurant (and its delicious flavors) was later brought to Ortigas in 2018.
Fun fact: Not only is the restaurant name a play on the German pronunciation of “wanderlust” but its first two letters also represent the initials of its owners, Valerie and Anthony.
Start your gastronomic journey with the Greek Salad (Php 195/solo; Php 395/sharing). This delicious ensemble of greens will surely set the palate for the meal to come.
Greek Salad (Php 195/solo; Php 395/sharing)
Next, you might want to try the Arancini Al Margherita (Php 185). These are Italian risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella and served with Margherita sauce. It’s guaranteed to be love at first bite!
Arancini Al Margherita (Php 185)
For your mains, consider trying the Tuscan Chicken Spinach Pasta (Php 378). Served with herb chicken, guests will love the blend of flavors that the sundried tomato cream and the spinach create when eaten together.
Tuscan Chicken Spinach Pasta (Php 378)
You also wouldn’t want to miss the creamy and savory flavor of the Osso Buco Milanese (Php 668). Served on a bed of creamy risotto are beef short ribs that are braised in white wine, broth, and aromatics. It’s a blend of flavors that you will certainly want to have another bite of.
You may also opt to add roasted bone marrow to make your meal extra flavorful!
Osso Buco Milanese (Php 668)
For dessert, the Puto Bumbong Pancake (Php 298) is reminiscent of the traditional puto bumbong but this a cross between a baked pancake and a buttery souffle which adds another layer of flavor. Don’t forget to spread the custard on top!
Puto Bumbong pancake (Php 298)
Vanderlust also has a variety of hot and cold drinks, among them is the Dark Chocolate Mocha (Php 188) that’s served hot. You will definitely love the chocolate flavor of this one as it blends in seamlessly with the taste of the coffee.
Dark Chocolate Mocha (Php 188)
Sample flavors from Europe and create a story of your own without having to leave the country at The Podium, Mandaluyong City.
How to get here
- Vanderlust is located on the Fifth Level of The Podium.
- By car: Take EDSA to Ortigas. Make a right at Guadix Drive then follow ADB Avenue. The Podium is on the right side of the road.
- By commute: Take the MRT to Ortigas Station. Walk to The Podium through SM Megamall.
Written by Feliz Bueno
