With commercial spaces at astronomically high prices, many a chef are venturing into private dining, opening up their homes to diners most often on reservation and with a previously agreed menu. I got a chance to attend a private dinner at Damaso Residencia. Theme for the night was Thanksgiving, with a whole roasted turkey holding the center stage.
Wedgewood blue walls amidst the French and Italian inspired decor serves as the venue of this cozy intimate dinner.
Our dinner began in the anteroom while waiting for all the guest to arrive, with a serving of corn muffins and adobong balat ng manok chicharon (crispy chicken adobo skin). As you may have guessed, the corn muffins faced a uphill battle commanding our attention. One bite of the chicharon and you’ll be hooked.
Tubig ni Maria, water flavored with cucumber, ginger and lemons was served to clear our palate of that oh so evil chicharon.
Split Pea Soup with Bacon started it all off. Chunky and hearty.
Baked Fish with lemon, wine, onions, garlic and tomatoes. A zesty and flavorful dish.
Roasted Turkey with Chorizo Stuffing, the highlight of the dinner based on the chef’s heirloom family recipe. Served with cranberry jelly and gravy made from the turkey drippings.
I found the turkey a bit light in color and not the deep golden brown color I was expecting.
The waitstaff started carving the turkey with the white breast meat first. I prefer white meat and was expecting them to be a bit dry, same as the turkey’s I’ve had before but one bite and I was dead wrong. The breast was soft and juicy, perfect with the gravy or cranberry. I soon heard everyone exclaiming their surprise on how the white meat tasted. I’ll have to say this is so far the best turkey I’ve ever had despite my not really liking the chorizo stuffing.
For carbs, we had a choice of Mashed Potatoes or Brown Rice Pilaf.
Beef Stew with Mushrooms in Red Wine. The beef was tender and readily absorbed the red wine sauce. I only got a piece to taste since I was fixated on the roasted turkey.
Dessert or more like desserts ended our wonderful Thanksgiving themed dinner. Chocolate Ganache with truffle balls and candied orange, Almond cake, Cherry Cheesecake and Bread Pudding with Nutella and Dates (top L-R, clockwise).
Pumpkin Pie. I loved Damaso Residensia’s version of the Thanksgiving favorite. Soft and warm with a sprinkling of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Damaso Residencia can accommodate 10 to 25 people for a relaxing and hassle free dinner for P1,250 to P2,500 depending on one’s desired menu. Prior reservation is required since the menu will be customized for you and they only accept one group per night dependent on the chef’s availability. Ample parking spaces available in the premises.
Damaso Residencia Private Dining
917-848-0620 or 502-0106
[email protected]
Please tell them you are a friend of Tales From The Tummy during reservations.
Like this post? Subscribe to Tales From The Tummy by Email
Leave a Reply