Good times, heavenly flavors at Mario's Restaurant

I always have this impression that Mario's Restaurant on Timog Avenue in Quezon City is the in-place for celebrities.

In the 80s, I would read in the newspapers or magazines almost every day that some showbiz personalities would hold their press conferences there. Some stars would just make late-night reservations for their family or friends and enjoy the good food.

These days, it's not just movie stars who patronize Mario's. Even politicians have become frequent visitors to this resto not only to talk about current events but to savor the awkward mix of Filipino and Spanish dishes.

With good food and sophisticated dining area, I am not surprised if it's always full-house at Mario's. It's better if you will make reservations first if you plan to visit the restaurant. Politicians, lawyers and business partners frequent the place on weekdays. On weekends, it's still a family affair.

Named after the husband of Nenuca Benitez, Mario's in Quezon City is one of two existing restaurants in the country. The other one is in Baguio City where it  has survived calamities. On Aug. 27, Mario's hosted the Sunday Buffet Lunch for some of the country's food bloggers.

As you enter the restaurant, you are welcomed by an elegant and romantic setting. A man on the piano plays soothing pop hits. For those who do not book a table, there's a cozy area where they can wait to be called.

The menu offers a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes which Mario's has been known for - paellas, tapas, oyster, suckling pig, steaks and salads. They are made fresh and the chefs take care in selecting the best ingredients. Not to mention, the waiters are also attentive. Our gracious hosts -- Anton Benitez, Eliza Benitez, Tess Laurente and Lani Raagas -- are always around to exchange some nice words with the guests.

In a recent interview for a magazine, Nenuca explained why the restaurant is still popular these days. “It’s all in the details.  When I visit a branch, I stay in the kitchen to check if the dish is being cooked right. I walk around the dining area to make sure the tables are properly set and the customers are happy.

“The service has to be perfect.  Take care of your staff well, and they’ll take care of your customers well. Many of our employees have been with us for more than 20 years. They’ve been loyal to us, and this has translated to so many loyal customers. We are now serving a new generation of customers.

"On many occasions, a diner would approach me and say he’s been dining at Mario’s ever since he was a child, when his parents took them here. Now he’s taking his own family to Mario’s.  When this happens, it always makes us feel so proud and happy!" said Nenuca.

It was in 1980s when Mario's opened in Quezon City. Now surrounded with new eateries and bars, Nenuca also said that her restaurant is staying put in this prime area despite the increase in rental fees.

I had a pleasant dining experience at Mario's with the delectable dishes served on the buffet table, aside of course from making new friends and meeting old faces. Still a must-try dining place for foodies who love exquisite flavors. Indeed, you can never go wrong with Mario's Restaurant. - ROBERT REQUINTINA