Barbara's @ Intramuros

Dining at Barbara's is a buffet experience unlike any other.

Well okay... their buffet had limited choices and I can't say that I liked all the dishes, but the place is lovely and the ambiance is romantic. Before spotting Barbara's you could already feel the "antique" vibe of Intramuros having brick roads and Spanish-themed buildings.

There's my blurry mom. We had a date. Fun. ♥

Going inside, we see dark, heavy, and elegant wood furniture all around. We were greeted with very, very, very (I had to say it 3 times to refer to the superlative) friendly, accommodating staff.

Inside Barbara's was festive and cheerful since they had a cultural dance show that showcases the talent of Barbara's staff in so many ways. Some were playing local instruments (like the rondallas and bandurrias) while others danced a lot of variations but of course I remember Tinikling and Pandanggo sa Ilaw.

The cultural show lasted for around 2 hours, then after that waiters would get people from the audience to dance the Tinikling with them. It was fun watching oblivious but "game-na-game" diners learning how to dance. Like I said, the waiters were very friendly. "Smiling waiters" would be an understatement. They were--- errr, bungingis. But in a good way. They're actually contagious. That's why we were all so happy. HAHA.

After audience interaction, the dancers sit on the floor where you can get your pictures taken with them. Still bungisngis after the tiring show.

And so that is why I loved this experience-- More on the service and presentation because if I'd only look at the food, a lot of buffet restaurants would surely defeat them. For P545/ person, they only had rice, pancit bihon, roasted chicken, lumpiang shanghai, fish fillet, beef pares, chicken adobo, vegetable salad, and some desserts. My favorites are the beef pares and fish fillet. Really tasty! Anyway, I also had hot cranberry  tea for P60. Refreshing!

So there. My mom and I stayed a bit longer than usual. Bonding. Yay! We were talking of coming back. And yes we will! Surely with foreigners next time! :))) Bet they will enjoy learning about the Filipino culture thru Barbara's music and dance. :)

FACT: Barbara's is owned by Ms. Barbara G. de los Santos the sister of Dick Gordon and the mother of JC de los Reyes (both presidential candidates last 2010 elections) :)