Brasas: Carne Asada, Puerco Asado, and more!

Brasas Latin American Street Food

Latin American cuisine is becoming more and more popular in our country. The charcoal-grilled chicken, pork or beef, the distinct flavor and spices are being welcomed by our Filipino taste buds that more restaurants are emerging. But it was in Brasas where I've tried Latin American street food.

The first branch I visited was in Evia. I remember having a great experience, sumptuous and huge serving food. And so when I saw Brasas at The Podium, I thought of reliving the experience by dining in. However, it was much different in this branch. The restaurant is smaller, dim-lit, and you have to order at the counter. Didn't get to feel much of the ambiance as the only available space is outside where we stayed.

Food experience was also different. Here's why...

Nachos con Carne (195Php)

Nachos, beef chili, salsa de queso, pico de gallo

Nacho con Carne

For the price, I expect more from this Nacho con Carne. Toppings, especially the "carne" part, are lacking that I had to confirm with the server if this is what we ordered. The nacho chips had a nice texture and the cheese tasted good. The potential is there if only there were a lot more toppings.

Nacho con Carne

Carne Asada (260Php - pequeno)

Charcoal-grilled beef sirloin, Spanish rice, South American slaw

Carne Asada

The disappointment with the nachos was somehow compensated by this Carne Asada. The amount of meat was enough for the serving. More than that, the beef strips are tender, smoky, and flavorful that there's no need for me to use the sauce.


Carne Asada	Puerco Asado

Puerco Asado (250Php - pequeno)

Slow-roasted pork belly, crunchy skin, rice & beans, tajadas, slaw

Puerco Asado

Puerco Asado, the bigger version of it which I shared with a friend, was the one I had the first time I visited Brasas in Evia. It tasted great that I ordered it again, this time the smaller/personal size. Its signature tenderness was still there that knife is not needed at all. Juicy and good though not as flavorful as the Carne Asada. It has a separated, made extra crunchy pork skin for a crackly satisfaction. But I remember it being served with rice & beans which I love, instead of this Spanish rice.

I'd like to think that those little disappointments I had with the nachos and rice were isolated cases. Probably, we dined in late that some of the ingredients, sides, or rice are no longer available. I'd still say they're a bit pricey and ordering the regular-sized meals would be a better option. The food, the flavors are great that I'd still give this a chance and try their other branches and food offerings.

Brasas Latin American Street Food
5F The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City
+632 570 5559