Bueno Tapas & Wine opened its first location at The Grove by Rockwell in Pasig in 2017 and gained popularity among patrons who enjoy Spanish food and excellent wine. In December 2023, the restaurant opened a second location in Bonifacio Global City. Garlic & Peppermill Food Company, the driving force behind Bueno, also runs Tartufo Ristorante, which presently has three outlets in Metro Manila.
Inspired by the rich gastronomic traditions of Spain’s Basque region, Bueno Tapas & Wine offers a vibrant dining experience with its food and beverage pairings. Trained in San Sebastian, Spain, Executive Chef Kennedy Alfonso created a cuisine emphasizing authentic Spanish flavors. “Ninety percent of our components are straight from Spain,” Chef Kennedy says. “This guarantees that even with fresh local produce, our dishes remain true to their beginnings.“
Bueno Tapas & Wine is the brainchild of Chef Kennedy and Melvin Uy, who are co-managing partners of Garlic & Peppermill Food Company, as both gentlemen love Spanish cuisine. The restaurant started off as a casual concept, but their love for food and wine drove them to “create a place that honors Spanish culinary traditions,” Chef Kennedy added.
Bueno Tapas and Wine’s must-try dishes include:
- Arroz Meloso de Rabo de Toro: A risotto-like paella made with oxtail, offering a modern twist on classic Spanish flavors.
- Estofado de Res: Eight-hour braised beef, tender and rich.
- Paella Iberico: A paella made with the prized black-hoofed Iberico pig.
- Gambas Al Ajillo: Fresh shrimp sautéed in garlic, olive oil, and chili for a bold Mediterranean flavor.
- Biscoff Tarta de Queso: A smooth cheesecake with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture
Chef Kennedy emphasizes the need of keeping Spanish authenticity while also adjusting to Filipino preferences. “We preserve the heart of every dish and gently alter the flavors to fit the local palette,” he says.
The classy and friendly atmosphere of the restaurant is ideal for meetings, intimate gatherings, and romantic dates. “Our rebranding centers on a more polished environment with a lively vibe,” Chef Kennedy notes. “It’s about generating a whole experience, which our visitors really value.“
Bueno Tapas and Wine’s branches are located at One Maridien BGC, in Bonifacio Global City, and at the Retail Row, The Grove by Rockwell, Pasig City.