My sister and her family visited us here in Manila last month. Malling and simple lunch outs became so special when spent with your family. We decided to have lunch in Serendra since we were also planning of playing Lazer Tag Game in Market Market.
We originally wanted to eat in Conti’s. But dining in at Conti’s means waiting for available table. We were 3rd on the list, and we were already starving – so we thought of checking out the restaurant next to Conti’s – Zao Vietnamese Bistro. We just scanned the menu displayed outside, and we all agreed to go Vietnamese that afternoon.
How to get to Zao Vietnamese Bistro?
It is located at Unit 1C16 Serendra, Fort Bonifacio Global City. It is beside Conti’s, near Starbucks. To get to Serendra, you may refer here.
Ambiance
The restaurant has plain red cushions and creme walls. What do I know about interior design, but it reminds me of zen-type design. There aren’t much fuss and I love the comfy chairs.
Each table has wine bottle which serves as a centerpiece. The tables are already set up with plates, flat wear and disposable chopsticks.
What to Order?
Whenever we eat at new restaurants, we always ask how big is the serving for each dish. We were advised that each meal is good for two persons. We decided on:
Deep Fried Catfish at Php 195
This is really good (and you have to believe me!) because I seldom eat fish and catfish. It is crisp but still tasty and moist.
Zao Fried Rice at Php195 which was not enough for a group of 5 (well, actually there were only 4 adults and 2 kids – but since my 14 year-old nephew eats like a real man, I am counting him as one adult!). We ordered 4 more Jasmine Rice at Php55 each serving.
It is already a dish on itself!
Total Bill
I was charged Php2,170.63 in my card. We got a senior discount for my mom (Php100 something worth of discount). The total bill includes Service Charge. I can say it is super cheap for a group of 5 – and to think we even had take-home bag when we left.
Service
Something that this restaurant needs to improve on. I can understand that the restaurant was busy that afternoon and it took a while for all the orders to be served. We waited more than 15 minutes for the first dish to be served. What is lacking though is the personalized service. The staff is not very attentive to the needs of the guests/customers. Unlike most of the restaurants where waiters/servers are very attentive in refilling the glasses of water/iced tea, I have to call the staff’s attention to get served. What’s frustrating is that when I asked for a refill of water, the server only refilled my glass and just left, without even offering water to the other diners on the table.
I am hopeful the service can be improved. The staff just needs training, and I am glad they are not rude.
Crowd
Most of the diners are families, businessmen, and office people (on lunch break?).
Dress Code
Come as you are! I came in shorts and I was treated fairly.
Accessibility
If The Fort is accessible to you, you can decide if Zao Vietnamese Bistro is accessible (a wink!).
Payment Options
Zao accepts card (Visa and Mastercard) and cash.
Price
Minimum of Php250 per person.
The Washroom
I don’t think this place has washroom (?), but there is a common washroom in Serendra beside Conti’s walkway.
Lowlights
The service. Just the service. It is not bad at all. Acceptable.
The Verdict
Love the food although I cannot compare it to real Vietnamese food since I haven’t been to Vietnam (grins). Big servings and worth the price. My mom and I are dreaming of it right now. We need to go back!
Have you tried the Zao Vietanamese Bistro? Share your favorite dishes!
Zao Vietnamese Bistro
Unit 1C16 Serendra, Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines
(02) 856-2819
2nd Level Eastwood Mall Veranda, Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City
(02)470-7587
