For dinner on the day we watched Maleficent, Louie chose to go for a Greek treat, and Cyma Greek Taverna was the only restaurant that came to mind when in Robinsons Place, Manila. Everyone I know who has eaten at any Cyma branch commented that Cyma’s food taste great however prices are steep. I thought there’s a difference between “expensive” and “value for money” food. Catch my drift? We’re not the biggest fans of Greek food, but we’re interested to check whether or not Cyma’s offerings are worth the price to pay.
“At CYMA, it’s about bringing people together for a flourishing experience that starts with great food then goes beyond by nurturing the soul and the spirit.”
Review of Cyma Greek Taverna (Robinsons Place, Manila)
Ambiance: ★★★★☆
Cyma Greek Taverna is one of the those places that have a high-class and cozy appeal. The interior design screams elegance and sophistication, while the environment was pretty quiet and reserved. The white walls gave a nice contrast to the brown and beige tables and chairs which also matched the color of the floor tiles. Lights were yellow and I thought they contribute to the warm contemporary look and romantic vibe of the room. Behind us was the rich-textured wall with framed mirrors to reflect light and space.
Service: ★★★★★
There were only a few customers during our visit so I don’t know if customer service would be as efficient in other days. At least in our case, they were fast and helpful in letting us know immediately that what we ordered was out of stock (they’re changing menus). Clad in white uniforms, the waiters shout “OPA!” out loud whenever they serve a flaming cheese plate.
I thought it was unnecessary as it’s distracting to people who are having a good conversation while eating. But others may find the act unique in this Greek restaurant and they’d order that plate only to be presented with the unveiling of the dish plus the loud cheer.
Food: ★★★☆☆
The Spanakopita (PhP 350) makes for a great snack or appetizer. The spinach in the pie was so tender and generously filled. Adding dimensions were the leeks and fresh herbs on top of the oil-slicked feta which were made with honest expressions of butter that brought sweetness to balance the tang. I found the crust most impressive; it was flaky but easy to cut through and not too greasy. Inhale it in five or so bites, and probably you’d wish to get another. Very nice to munch on! 🙂
If your impulse is to order a gyro when visiting a Greek restaurant, Louie would recommend the Chicken Gyro – Cyma’s Best! (PhP 180). He repeatedly said how wonderful this chicken gyro tasted. There must be really something special with this dish. Made with tomatoes, red onions, tzatziki and wrapped in pita, the gyro sandwich was composed of ingredients that quite build on each other the way they should. I just thought that the chicken slices were a little dry and the taste was not intense as expected. Anyway, the sauce compensated for the miss in flavor as it was pleasantly creamy. I prefer to add an overwhelming dose of basil for overall improvement.
Similar to the chicken gyro, the skewered chicken in the Chicken Souvlaki (PhP 240) was a bit dry, under-seasoned and not juicy for my liking. Simply, the white meat here rendered almost flavorless, as anonymous as a protein can be. The texture, on the other hand, was just okay. With fresh vegetables, parsley salad and the yogurt garlic sauce, the combination was hearty but it’s not be something that would see my fork again.
Price for Value: ★★★☆☆
My verdict is that Cyma Greek Taverna in Robinsons Place, Manila has great atmosphere and well-trained staff members. A good consideration is that serving is sizable and definitely for sharing. Other than that, I say I’d have to agree with my friends who have had a meal at Cyma: there’s nothing much to rave about. Generally, taste of food we ordered was average and it’s undeniable that prices are on the high side with not so much value.
Then again, we may not have ordered what supposedly are the best of the house. I’m willing to could come back for another try. Meanwhile, you can suggest what to order next time. Comments are welcome. 🙂
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