Potts Point CafΓ© opened a new branch in SM Mall of Asia (Entertainment Mall, bayside) last month, following its first one in Eastwood. We were fortunate to have availed of its opening promotion, which was 20% discount on food.
What fueled our excitement most was theΒ Australian Grass-fed All Beef Burger that appeared impressively humongous on digital posters on social media. The layers of ingredients were particularly tempting and so we visited with highly anticipative spirits. Now the question is: Did the burger live up to our expectation?
Review of Potts Point CafΓ© (SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City)
Ambiance: β β β β β
Potts Point CafΓ© in MOA is a cozy space that you might miss if you’re not on the lookout. (Tip: It’s located beside Sarsa facing SM By the Bay.) This Australian organic cafΓ© sports more of a casual dining ambiance, with bright and modern interior that welcomes a homely feel, allowing family crowds and groups of friends gather and share their passion for food comfortably. The minimalist color theme will definitely draw the younger crowd, and pictures of food on the wall can whet your appetite.
Service: β β β β β
Service was nice and friendly. We stayed in the cafe for about five hours and we were not bothered at all. The courteous staff took our orders quickly and treated us decently. Wait time was acceptable and the food came out hot and ready. π
Food: β β β ββ
Fancy names and long descriptions of food complete Potts Point’s menu, but of course we were sure to get the Australian Grass-fed All Beef Burger (PhP 395) plus a couple more dishes and drinks to share. Made with with Australian cheddar, pickled beets, olive oil aioli, and house-made brioche bun, the burger was no doubt delicious. However, at one glance, my first reaction upon seeing the burger was like “Uhm…is that it?” We were just concerned about the size. It was too small compared to how we imagined it.Β π
In any case, whoever created the recipe for this burger deserved to be regarded with utmost respect. π We requested the beef patty to be medium well, and the result was a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy.
The baked sweet potato wedges were a simple side that went well along with the main. It packed a good combination of soft and crunchy textures together with a balance of sweet and salty flavors. Yum!
Next, we had the Squid Ink Spaghetti (PhP 285, Solo) with cherry tomatoes, Parmesan shaves, and arugula topped with fried calamari. The pasta was cooked perfectly to al dente, but what really set this interesting-looking dish apart was the flavorful squid ink, which imparted a dose of sea salt freshness. Caution though, as the black ink can easily turn yours lips black. Wipe it down with soft tissue paper or pretend you’re wearing a vampy dark lipstick! π I liked how the fried calamari gave a nice elastic texture without tasting too rubbery.
More carbs? The Vietnamese-style Organic Slow Roast Pork Belly with Nuoc Cham (dipping sauce) and Pineapple Fried Rice (PhP 375, Solo) can make a classic entry to the dining table. But I’m sad to report that the flavor lacked depth. While its aroma was alluring, the sauce alone failed to enhance the taste. The slow roast pork belly was a good offering but nothing spectacular to wow.
When we were done eating, we continued our conversation over drinks. Similar to my reaction to the burger, I also felt “cheated” when the Hot Macchiato (PhP 110) was served. It’s too small, maybe only 1/3 of the size of a regular cup of drinks in fast food chains. The taste of espresso was evidently there, but I would prefer one that’s sweeter with more milk than foam. (This macchiato was strong and bitter for me. )
On the flip side, Potts Point’s Iced Latte (PhP 130) was good and refreshing. Not too sickly sweet, this drink had the right level of creaminess to please.
Made with the combination of green tea, peppermint, English breakfast, lemon and ginger, the La Maison Du The – French Handcrafted Tea (PhP 90) was also nice with a subtle kick of ginger to fend off chills and refresh the taste buds.
Price for Value: β β β ββ
Potts Point CafΓ© in SM Mall of Asia is recommended to those who want to feel like indulging in guilt-free organic food. For a restaurant which takes pride in serving the freshest, sustainable-sourced ingredients, the tastes of food were quite average. Portions were not as well enough to justify the cost, for the most part in our experience. In all fairness, this is a good place to hang out with friends or order grab-and-go options any day.
About Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco
Health and technology freak. Food and lifestyle blogger with a large appetite for food and travel.
oh my the burger looks amazing but a bit tiny for my preference…. The prices are also a little high compared to quantity of food they offer…. hmmm I guess it is worth a try but I guess I will wait for a few weeks to see if they improve on these. ^_^
Hehe I don’t think they will improve on the size since it’s the same as the one being served at their first branch in Eastwood, Libis, QC. Anyway, the taste was good and it’s worth a try. π
This is my second time in a very short time to hear of squid in spaghetti. It’s funny how you don’t hear about something at all, then you do multiple times. π Everything looks great!
I have been wanting to try squid ink pasta for a very long time and finally got a chance to at Potts Points. I invited my girl friends here and we had a good time (even when prices are quite high). π
What a great restaurant! I love the quality of that beef, and the burgers look amazing. I seriously think I’m going to have to have to take a trip to your country just to try the restaurants.
Yup, do let me know in case you are planning. π
The squid ink spaghetti looks very appetizing! That and the Vietnamese-style Organic Slow Roast Pork Belly with Nuoc Cham (dipping sauce) and Pineapple Fried Rice would be my first choices!
There are more interesting choices in the menu. We were overwhelmed at first and found it hard to decide which to choose. In the end, we picked out those signature dishes that Potts Points is most known for. π
That’s looks so delish. You just give me an idea what to make for dinner. The place is so inviting.
What did you make for dinner? I’m curious how cooks at home can replicate the recipe of the Squid Ink Pasta and make the same thick and creamy consistency yet light in taste and not overly rich. π I’d like to be pleasantly surprised.
This food looks really delicious! It is amazing how wonderful a really good hamburger can be!
Yes, even though I had to complain about the size, the taste was satisfactory. I was stuffed at the end of our meal. π
That burger looks so amazing I had to wipe away the drool! Do they deliver?! π
Oh gosh, I’m not sure. π
That first burger sounds amazing! I love the sound of the onion and the cheese! My daughter and I would love this place and I know she would want to try the tea!
Oh your daughter must be a tea lover. π I preferred their coffee over the tea. The taste of ginger was just too much for me. It felt like drinking “salabat,” which we drink when we have sore throat.
I think this may be one of the the favorite places you have posted about so far. That burger looks awesome!
Going to Potts Point is convenient for me since it’s only minutes away from my office. If they lower down the prices, surely I will consider this as one of my top spots. π No doubt that burger looked insanely good.
That picture makes the burgers look incredible. I’d love to have one even if they are on the smaller side.
Make no mistake about it. That burger is just small like a mini slider in actual haha. Don’t let the picture fool you. π
That burger looks delicious! I love when burgers get creative and add more than just cheese.
Ah yes, any burger with different unique ingredients that you have never imagined would taste good when put together is highly recommended for you to try! This one is a good example. π
That burger looks delicious! Mouthwatering as I speak WOW!
Haha I bet you can finish it in less than 10 minutes if you have a good appetite. π
Since I’ve had it before, I would say the squid ink pasta would be my fave! I’m not a meat eater but I have to say that those hamburgers look amazing!
The burger was creatively presented, and the fries alongside were great as well: crispy and hot. π
Several of my husband’s friends from the Army have spent a lot of time in the Philippines and love it there. Seeing your reviews and travels makes me realize why. Beautiful country and delicious food.
Hi Racquel! You have to include the Philippines in your travel bucket list. π There are so many places and things that you will truly enjoy!
The burger looks humongous! But I doubt if I can finish that all by myself!
You will–if you have a a monstrous appetite. π I think it is still better to share that burger and other dishes with a friend so you won’t get tired of the taste and have the advantage of trying out more food from Potts Point Cafe.
Wow this looks and sounds great. The food looks absolutely incredible. Great review!
Thanks, Jeanine! π These food won’t change your life, but they sure are tasty! If you don’t which to order, perhaps it’s best to stick to the burger.
That burger looks so delicious. All the food looks so good. I would love to try the food here.
Potts Point as a casual dining restaurant can get expensive, but i think that day I hit the mark for lunch. π
That burger looks incredible! I’ve never had egg on my burger, but I do like steak and eggs so that might be something I could go for.
The egg is considered an add-on and you have to pay extra amount if you want it to be added as a layer in the burger. It’s good to try! π
Looks like a very cosy place and the food looks good too, wonderful review
The place is very simple and straightforward. It’s a must-visit. π
Wow! That burger is super huge and looks delicious! I love the organic aspect of this cafe.
I may not be able to draw the difference in taste between organic food and conventional food, but just knowing that Potts Point serves organic ingredients makes me much more at ease with the food quality.
The burger sounds great, except I don’t like egg on my burgers, and haven’t had beets before!! I’m sorry about the size of it! I’ve had squid (calamari) before, but never squid ink pasta. Sounds like something I’ve got to try!
You should definitely try the squid ink pasta, however do take note that it stains both on the lips and on the teeth. Check your reflection in the mirror from time to time. I don’t suggest ordering that when you’re in a business meeting or in an intimate date.
The La Maison Du The β French Handcrafted Tea is definitely my cup of tea. I also love how they use organic ingredients. π
There are a few local places that grow organic plants, so it is expected for restaurants to have high prices when they use such, considering the tough economy.
Everything about this place looks so inviting! I love good food presentation and they definitely excelled in that.
This is a great place to visit if you are a fan of fresh products and delicious food, but expect much from the size of the burger.
I quite love burger and their burger looks appetizing, it’s also wonderful that they’re organic! But i agree that the burger size seems to be a lot smaller than one would expect from seeing their advertizing, i would be disappointed too!
I don’t blame the advertising as it made a good job in convincing us to order and I believe that other people also felt the same. In fairness, they did not specify the size of the burger, so it’s just a matter of how we perceived it. π It’s good stuff and I’m not against anyone who would like to give it a try. π
The burger in the pictures is not the same as the one on the plate, but it sounds like it was just as yummy! I am a stickler for the coffee as well, so I understand your disappointment about the macchiato. Overall, it seemed to be a good experience!
Maybe I just fancy sweeter drinks as I love the macchiato from Starbucks with the delicious blend of cinnamon and a bit of vanilla. π
As someone who owns a restaurant AND was the one to create the menu, lemme tell youβ¦ IT IS HARD! It’s nice when we get great reviews and so I’m sure this cafe appreciates it! The burger does sound good, if not a but overwhelming but DAMN I DO LOVE SWEET POTATO FRIES! Thanks for the review, feel free to come to Costa Rica any time and review us! haha : )
Yeah, I was tad surprised to taste sweet potato fries instead of the usual potato fries. It’s a good change my taste buds gladly welcomed. Thanks for your comment and invitation, Krysta! I’m sure you put lots of effort and study in making your menu. π I’ll tell you next time if ever we plan to fly to Costa Rica.
OMG that burger looks good. That Green tea looks sooo refreshing! wish I has some now!
The burger can go well together with the tea (for digesting the meat right after). π Potts Point is an unpretentious spot that makes you feel at home. Go check it out!
That burger looks amazing! I love eateries with healthy, tasty and unique food and drink options.
Those descriptions fit right up in my alley, too. π
Wow looks really nice restaurant, I think we might hang out with my family one day.
Yup, this is great for a casual, homestyle meal with your family. π
Oh man. All of this looks amazing. That coffee is delightful. I love the whole farm to table style concept of that burger. Sounds wonderful.
I just wished I ordered another drink instead of the macchiato. I was neither happy with the bitterness nor the size.
That grilled tomato with pesto sounds like an awesome topping! I would definitely LOVE that burger!
Yup, the toppings were great. π
Everything looks amazing! I really wish we had places like this in Louisiana.
Potts Point is a good place to grab a quick bite. I’m sure there are lots of similar restaurants in your neighborhood as well. π
Everything sounds like it would taste so delicious, but especially that burger and Iced Latte. I love places with healthy food options like this.
Oh yeah, those two will make a good meal for you. π
This looks like an interesting place to check out indeed. I don’t know if I could try everything but the drinks all look totally amazing. The burgers look totally delicious minus somethings for me of course. Thanks for sharing
You’re welcome, Rebecca! We were so glad we’ve stumbled across this place right when it just opened. We got the advantage of the discount and also smaller crowd.
Squid ink spaghetti! That is something that I haven’t tried yet but would really like to try. I do wonder if there’s a restaurant here that serves that. I will do some researching. π
I’m sure there are restaurants that serve the squid ink spaghetti just the same. However, versions will vary from one spot to another. π Keep looking!
Mmm, that looks amazing! What an awesome place to visit. Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome, Sarah! Visit it one day and enjoy the food with your family. π