Dining favorite ELM’s Kapihan & Bar has opened the doors of ELM’s Grill and Bar, its latest branch, in Poblacion, Makati last October 10.
The move follows the company’s rebranding from ELM’s Kapihan Group to ELM’s Restobar Group last month. ELM’s Kapihan & Bar is known for its homey atmosphere, where one can dine and instantly be reminded of the cooking unique to one’s mother or lola served on a Sunday, complete with the comfort it brings; and the same can be said about ELM’s Grill and Bar, which adds just the right amount of ease for that sit-back-and-chill vibe.
Originally a hang-out place for Elmer Ngo and his son Lawrence, together with partners and friends Lito Gagni, Malou Yambao, and Tanya Cruz, ELM’s Kapihan & Bar opened its first branch in Kapitolyo, Pasig on December 15, 2015.
“We wanted to have a bar that has a relaxed vibe and cozy atmosphere where we can meet new friends,” shares Yambao.
“We never expected that it would be patronized by a lot of people. Most of us partners, especially Elmer, love to drink coffee and unwind with whiskey or gin. That’s why we are always there,” shares Malou who, together with Elmer, have been trusted by all the partners to make decisions for the company.
From there it grew to welcome more diners in two more branches namely ELM’s Kapihan & Winery in Commonwealth (2017) and ELM’s Kapihan & Beer in Novaliches (2018). “We didn’t expect that we would be opening our fourth branch already this month,” adds Malou.
To make sure they only serve the best to their customers, ELM’s Kapihan Restobar Group sourcees the choicest ingredients locally which are then prepared at a commissary of its own to maintain consistency in taste and presentation. Located in San Fernando, Pampanga, the commissary is managed by co-owner and culinary director Tanya Cruz.
“All our food are meticulously prepared and a lot of love is put into it. Much like how one would cook a meal for their family and friends,” says Chef Tanya.
Attesting to this are ELM’s regulars who frequent the restaurant as though it were a second home.
Carlene Benin of Okada Manila describes food at ELM’s as great. “It gives you the classic Filipino dishes but the taste is extraordinary. The recipes added to the local cuisines are unique making it more outstanding. The staff is really reliable and attentive. The service was superb.
“I always love to go and drop by at ELM’s branches whenever I had the chance to go to the north end of the metropolis. Aside from its cozy ambience, the variety of food served at ELM’s are well thought of and wakes up one’s palate and craving for a good night of good food and booze. Without a doubt, the people behind Elm’s knows exactly what the word unwinding really means,” says Roger Garcia, Publisher and CEO of Metro News Central.
