Breaking news: Barcino in Boracay! New resto Chiringuito brings Spanish fare and flair to the island
MANILA, Philippines – Aside from its stellar sunset views and beachfront resorts, Boracay has always been known for its bustling foodie scene, a mix of institutional favorites and new names slowly being added to the mix.
As the tropical paradise expands, Metro Manila favorites have been making their way to the island, with one of the latest being Barcino, the well-known Spanish spot for tapas and free-flowing sangria. However, Barcino has taken on a different name and a younger, beach-centric branding with the new Chiringuito by Barcino, located at The Shoppes at Station B in Station 1, which is a newly-opened shopping complex by the main road.
Chiringuito, which just opened in February, serves traditional Spanish breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 7 am to 11 pm on weekdays and until 12 midnight on weekends. It’s got a cooler vibe than its predecessor, with a laid-back yet festive ambiance fit for the island nightlife. It’s targeted towards the happy-hour loving beach crowd, and couples looking for a nightcap over tapas, sangria, and live music.
The circular restaurant is casual yet upscale, with a cozy first floor and a second floor that boasts a beautifully lit bar at the center beside an IG-worthy wall of wines and spirits.
It’s very bright in the morning, with a nice view of the grassy golf course across, some trees, and the main road. No beachfront or sunset views here, though – what you’re getting instead is some silence and privacy away from the hustle and bustle of the main beach.
Adios to your diet
Chiringuito’s more streamlined menu brings a fresher take to Barcino, carrying fewer offerings than home but keeping a handful of the mainstays, some with a slight twist. Prices are just as or slightly more expensive here, mainly because of shipping fees, but the serving sizes remain adequate for two. Spanish restaurants aren’t exactly the most wallet-friendly, but if you’re splurging anyway, just prepare a budget of at least P2,000 for two.
Celebrating Labor Day weekend at Chiringuito, we rung in the night’s festivities with two of their signature handcrafted cocktails. We tried the Verde Fresca (P370), a refreshing mojito dupe of lemon juice, cucumber, mint, and gin. If you love the fresh taste of cucumber, this drink is all about it. My favorite was the El Consuelo (P340), reminiscent of a creamy and sweet piña colada made with Luisita rum, pineapple and orange juices, and smooth coconut cream
