The Frazzled Cook: Now frazzling in Tomas Morato

Being a foodie, you can bet that most restaurants wouldn't fly under my radar. However, I still can't deny that although I know about these joints, I still can't or have not visited most of them, for various reasons. One of which was a quaint restaurant that used to stand in an unfamiliar area in Mandaluyong City.

But as if lady luck was on my side, this particular restaurant, named The Frazzled Cook, has recently relocated along Scout Gandia in Tomas Morato. Finally! This place that I only used to see in blogs or TV features is now within my reach. (＾ω＾ʃƪ) #TeamQC

Just like how I've seen The Frazzled Cook on the features I've read about it, the actual place exudes a homey quirkiness with its mismatched tables and chairs and cute bric-a-brac. Truly, 'tis a bistro that doesn't have a shortage of cozy, eclectic charms.

The Food

But of course, while the interior is important, a foodie should let the food speak for itself.

✓ Sizzling Squid (P495)
Marinated squid with cured mangoes and drizzled vinaigrette

Though I'm not a big fan of squid dishes, I definitely found myself nomming more pieces than usual with how tender and succulent every bite was. Coated with a sweet and smokey sauce, this was perfect with rice!

Paella Negra (P375 small; P635 big)
Squid inked-rice topped with squid, shrimp, sausage and bell peppers

Speaking of rice, we also had the restaurant's signature paella that's already a meal on its own. Whether you eat the squid ink rice with its toppings, or add in other viands, every mouthful is a treat!

Tenderloin and Sausage Pizza (P380)
Herb-crusted thin pizza with beef tenderloin salpicao, onions and kesong puti

If you're not a fan of rice, or just want something perfect for a snack, The Frazzled Cook also offers pizzas like this variant we had. Meaty, cheesy and pretty filling -- definitely the pizza flavor for meat lovers (just leave out the bell peppers).

Pizza Caprese (P295)
Herb-crusted thin pizza dough with freshly grilled tomatoes and kesong puti

As for those who love more minimalistic pizzas, like myself, there's also this variant which successfully satiated the tomato lover in me. Just ask for some hot sauce, and this is perfection in every bite.

✓ Truffle Pasta (P295)
Mixed pasta with sautéed Portobello mushroom and home-made white truffle sauce

I've always loved pasta dishes, and this definitely surprised me! Most truffle pasta dishes from other bistros would have me going "meh!" However, it wasn't the case with The Frazzled Cook's version. Not only did they used a combination of al dente-cooked fusilli and penne for fun textures, the amount of aromatic truffle oil in the rich cream sauce was also just right. If you love white sauce pasta, then I highly recommend you to try this! v(*’-^*)-☆

Grilled Barbecue Shortribs (P465)
Slowly cooked goodness off the grill

Ah! Slow-cooked... How can anyone not love the tender and succulent goodness from slow-cooked meats? Served with creamy mashed potatoes on the side, this is a meat lovers dish you shouldn't miss, especially if you're into sweet and smoky hickory sauce-coated beef.

Wagyu Salpicao (P595)
Mouth-watering beef cubes sauteed with sliced garlic and mushrooms

For those who love their salpicao, The Frazzled Cook also has its own version, making use of Wagyu beef. Savory and garlicky, this dish goes perfectly with rice. However, although I loved the flavor, I have some qualms with the tender yet spongy texture of the beef.

Pancake ala Mode (P195)

For a sweet ending, we tried the bistro's pancake with vanilla ice cream. But although I appreciate the light and moist texture of the pancake itself, I think it was drowned by the maple syrup a bit too much. Maybe you can ask if they can serve the syrup on the side instead?

THE VERDICT

Though I say this with a bias, I still think The Frazzled Cook fits nicely in Tomas Morato. Serving various fares from sizzling plates, pasta and pizza, to grilled meats, this is a good restaurant that carries different comfort food items for everyone. And although I could not recommend every single dish we tried, I can say with full conviction, that my favorites will surely be a hit with your family and friends too! v(*’-^*)ｂ

Taste 3.5/5
Ambiance - 4/5
Service - 4/5
Price - 4/5
Overall Value - 4/5

The Frazzled Cook, Tomas Morato
78 Scout Gandia St. cor. Tomas Morato,
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
(02) 374-6879
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