Where to Find the Best Beef Wellington in the Philippines

Beef wellington is a classic English dish not commonly found on menus in the Philippines However, this tender filet mignon wrapped in mushroom duxelle, prosciutto, and puff pastry can sometimes be found at higher-end restaurants in Metro Manila

For those seeking out this decadent dish made from the finest cut of beef. here is a guide to tracking down the best beef wellington offerings across the Philippines

Understanding Beef Wellington

Before discovering where to indulge, let’s quickly cover what exactly beef wellington is:

• Beef wellington features tender fillet mignon or beef tenderloin, the most prized cut of beef

• The filet is coated with mushroom duxelle, which is a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and herbs sautéed in butter.

• Prosciutto or parma ham is wrapped around the duxelle-coated filet, adding a layer of silky saltiness.

• The beef is then enclosed in puff pastry and baked until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.

• When sliced, the layers of puff pastry, prosciutto, duxelle, and red beef filet are revealed.

• Considered a traditional British dish often served at upscale restaurants or for special occasions.

Best Places for Beef Wellington in Metro Manila

While availability is limited, here are some top restaurants in Metro Manila known for excellent renditions of beef wellington:

Sala Restaurant (Makati)

• Upscale restaurant focusing on Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine located in Makati.

• Their signature individual beef wellington is made with US prime ribeye and savory duxelle wrapped in flaky pastry.

• Served with foie gras sauce and truffle mashed potatoes for a luxury fine dining experience.

M Dining (Makati, Pasig)

• Sophisticated restaurant with locations in Alabang and The Podium specializing in premium steaks and seafood.

• Their beef wellington features Angus tenderloin baked in golden brown puff pastry served with bordelaise sauce.

• Available in regular or large 8oz portions – call ahead to pre-order this limited item.

Cowboys Grill (Quezon City)

• Known for delicious steaks, this Western grill restaurant offers beef wellington made with US beef tenderloin.

• Served sliced to showcase the beautiful layers and topped with a red wine sauce.

• Get this seasonal special while you can – it’s not always on the menu.

Imperial Palace (Makati, Alabang)

• Chinese fine dining restaurant with various locations around Metro Manila and bespoke menus.

• Call ahead to see if their signature baked rice with beef wellington is available – it’s a customer favorite.

• Also inquire about whole beef wellington special orders for special occasions if interested.

Other Places Serving Beef Wellington

While fine dining restaurants are your best bet for beef wellington, keep an eye out at other establishments as well:

• International hotel restaurants – Check Raffles Makati, Okada Manila, Shangri-La Hotels. Beef wellington is sometimes served seasonally or for holiday meals.

• Classic taverns – British-style pubs like Handlebar and The Pig & Palm occasionally have beef wellington specials.

• Specialty meat shops – Gourmet butcher shops like Chesa Meat Store or Prime Steaks may sell prepared wagyu beef wellington.

• Upscale cafes – Some higher-end cafes like Wildflour Cafe + Bakery have been known to serve mini beef wellington appetizers.

• Clubs/lounges – Private business and social clubs occasionally have beef wellington as a meal option depending on the chef.

Tips for Finding Beef Wellington

Tracking down beef wellington in the Philippines can take a bit of persistence and luck. Here are some tips:

• Call restaurants ahead to ask if it’s currently on the menu or can be specially prepared. Lists online may not always be up to date.

• Make friends with chefs at nice restaurants and put in special request – they may be willing to whip up an off-menu beef wellington just for you.

• Search food delivery apps like GrabFood and FoodPanda. On rare occasions, beef wellington is offered as a delivery item.

• Time your visit around major holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day when specialty dishes like beef wellington are more likely to be served.

• Stay updated by following restaurants and chef social media. Limited-time beef wellington specials are often announced online.

• At high-end restaurants, always ask about daily specials or chef’s selections that may not be listed on the main menu.

Recreating Beef Wellington at Home

If you have access to quality ingredients, recreating beef wellington in your own kitchen is also an option. Here are some tips:

• Source the best beef tenderloin you can, ideally USDA Prime grade for tenderness and flavor.

• Make your own duxelle from fresh button mushrooms and shallots sauteed in butter and herbs.

• Wrap prosciutto tightly around coated beef or use bacon or pancetta.

• Opt for frozen puff pastry over homemade for easier shaping and flakier results. Thaw properly before use.

• Brush egg wash over assembled wellington before baking for sheen and color.

• Follow precise time and temperature instructions available online to cook beef properly.

• Let rest before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Serve with bordelaise or madeira wine sauce.

While finding beef wellington locally takes some persistence, the luxurious layers of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and flaky pastry make the search worthwhile. With proper preparation and the best ingredients, an excellent rendition can also be achieved in your own kitchen. Where have you found memorable beef wellington in the Philippines? Let us know in the comments!