Bolero Restaurant: A Mexican Influence In The Heart Of The Philippines

Bolero Restaurant: A Mexican Influence In The Heart Of The Philippines

The soft latin music, the smell of chicken and baked cheese, the light blue and yellow interior colours...it’s all too much to simply ignore. The large bright yellow and red sign that read Happy Hour 2 pm - 7 pm is also too enticing. Located in the heart of White Beach, Boracay Island in the Philippines, Bolero restaurant exudes an inviting, casual atmosphere.
The staff being very friendly and warm-hearted, makes you feel right at home. The bar--fully stocked with every conceivable type of liquor--sits at the center of the restaurant, adorned with a bowl of fresh lemons and pineapples.

One side of the bar faces the interior of the restaurant area, while the other gazes outside onto a row of wooden bar stools as well as the walkway and beach area. Facing South China sea, Bolero welcomes the natural breeze coming in off the water. A row of swings sit in front of the exterior bar stools, adding to the playful design of the restaurant. Sitting atop the polished bamboo tables, table cloths depict bright yellow and blue circle patterns. The menu as well as the green, blue, and yellow walls give the restaurant its cheerful, fun-loving authentic Mexican ambience. The ceiling is lined with bamboo sticks that led my eyes to a string of fake red peppers hanging over the bar area. Historical portraits of Mexican figures adorn the interior, firmly establishing the cultural inspiration.

Mexican dishes on the menu include quesadillas and burritos, but Western favourites are also on offer, such as pancakes, pastas, and sandwiches, with items under 400 Php ($8.25 US). Main courses generally range between 300 - 380 Php. Try the Three Taco Platter for 350 Php, with its zesty seasonings and guacamole on the side that's to die for. The frozen margaritas are the drinks to remember here, as they are made with fresh fruit rimmed with salt and guaranteed to pucker your lips. Naturally you can't forget the shots of gold Tequila and the famous local Tanquay rum to see you off.

Sidebar:
Bolero restaurant is located in between boat station 3 and the tourist center.
The common route to get to Boracay, take a flight from Manila. There are a few airlines you can take. Most common, take Cebu Pacific or Philippines Airlines to either Kalibo or Caticlan airport. Flight is about an hour and costs on average 3000 Php (around 100 dollars US). From Kalibo airport, you take a 2 hour drive to Caticlan Jetty Port where you will then take a 20 min motorized outrigger boat ride to Boracay. From Caticlan airport, it is a 5 min drive to Caticlan Jetty Port and a 20 min boat ride.