Mrs. Saldo’s opens its doors in Makati to end 2023 with a delicious bang

Silang’s pride brings its most sought-after dishes to The Balmori Suites this December

It’s finally happening, you guys! Mrs. Saldo’s is opening its exclusive pop-up at The Balmori Suites starting today (December 1, 2023).

If like me, you’re carless and hate public transportation, you probably thought experiencing one of Silang’s breakout restaurants is a long shot. But finally, Chef Rhea Rizzo (the visionary behind Mrs. Saldo’s) is bringing her culinary prowess to Makati.

"While 30% comprises Mrs. Saldo’s classics, the remaining 70% embodies a fusion of new dishes derived from recent collaborations over the past year," she shared with The Garlic Press.

Thai Fish Curry: Hamachi Jaw, Sticky Rice, Peanut Sauce | Photo courtesy of Chef Rhea Rizzo

Expect a delightful blend of French-Californian and Asian influences, a testament to Mrs. Saldo’s core concept since its inception. My first experience of Chef Rhea’s food was her collaboration dinner with Chef Bettina Arguelles of Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. I can still vividly remember her dried tuna dish (inspired by her yaya), which was my absolutely favorite from a night of incredibly delicious food.

The inspiration behind this pop-up theme is deeply rooted in the restaurant's continuous evolution. Chef Rizzo said, "Our food, maintaining the inspiration, has been evolving nonstop for great and not so great reasons. That’s always been our M.O. - A continuous pursuit of self-discovery and growth."

Hamachi Crudo: Sauternes Beurre Blanc, Yuzu Curd, Wakame Oil | Photo courtesy of Chef Rhea Rizzo

According to her, the pop-up mirrors life's journey, embodying the spirit of pushing oneself toward constant improvement — just like how this partnership with Rockwell came to fruition.

"Rockwell approached me to be the guest chef this December several months back,” she recalled. “Initially, I respectfully declined because in my head at that time couldn’t really think of a way how to split the workforce. We are still very much a small team.”

“I remember them [Rockwell] saying to me, ‘before you say no, we’d love for you to see the space and to think about it’. And so they showed me the space. Balmori is beautiful. Gave me goosebumps when I first walked in and Great Gatsby feels. I made the decision that day to close the Silang restaurant [temporarily], so we can focus all of our efforts on Balmori.”

Banana Cheese Turon: Patis Caramel, Chai Tea Ice Cream | Photo courtesy of Chef Rhea Rizzo

And Metro Manila foodies will make sure Chef Rhea’s decision would be totally worth it. As Mrs. Saldo’s embarks on this culinary adventure at The Balmori Suites, diners can anticipate not just a meal but a journey through flavors, showcasing the essence of continuous exploration and refinement that defines the Mrs. Saldo’s culinary philosophy.

"I think life is really a journey to always pushing ourselves better, and I hope that it will be reflected in this pop-up at this point in our journey."

Mrs. Saldo’s Pop-Up at The Balmori Suites is open from Tuesday to Sunday until December 31, 2023. For reservations, contact 0917 100 2983.

Photos courtesy of Chef Rhea Rizzo