Noor is the newest Mediterranean restaurant in BGC that offers a taste of Tel Aviv. They aim to introduce a unique and modern twist to the typical Mediterranean restaurant focusing on Euro-Israeli flavors. In Arabic, Noor simply means ‘light‘ which was somewhat derived from the name of Chef Or. Or to me, simply having a light disposition in life. At least that’s what I felt when I dined couple of weeks ago.
This place has a relaxing atmosphere and definitely stays homey. This is how they promise to have a dining experience, light and comfy. It is very evident that their location is close to business district yet also within the premise of some condominium so all people from different walks of life can be seen dining.
and then the owner and Cher Or arrived looking a moderately cool. He then introduced himself and the way he create each best selling dishes.
Cauliflower (Php350) – deep fried, Caesar Aioli, Parsley
I’ve never had a cauliflower this good. This was crispy on the outside but once you have your first bite, it was soft all throughout. The capers gave it a bit sourly taste making it more addicting. This truly is divine.
Moroccan Shrimps (Php470) – Tzatziki, Charred Eggplant
I love anything Shrimps and whatever you do with it. This was fresh and perfectly cooked. It definitely mixed so well with the Tzatsiki sauce. The Charred Eggplant gave it a soft texture, too.
Lamb Baklava. (Php460) – Sesame dressing, Raspberry sauce
There are Tahini, butter, and honey into the sauce as well. I am used of eating Baklava sweet, but who would’ve thought that the savory taste of Lamb would be a perfect pair to the Raspberry sauce and anything sweet that was in it. Savory-sweet kind of Baklava is a surefire win for me.
Chicken Thigh (Php620) – Paprika Chicken Marinade, Syrian Rice
This is one of their best seller and their take on infusing their dishes to the Filipino palate. Of course, when there are chicken and rice, we’re gladly taking it. This chicken was marinated in Harrisa Aioli, a kind of Morrocan Chili paste, some peppers. It’s all about the layers of taste. As per Chef Or, he wanted to have lots of taste in his dishes. As for the result, the chicken was so tender, moist and flavorsome to the last bite.
Knafe (Php390) – shredded Phyllo pastry, white cheese, butter, ice cream
The best Knafe I’ve tasted so far. Everything in this plate was decadent. One of the things I’d be ordering when I get back!
We also tried some of their best selling cocktails as well. Looking at the menu, I got curious with the names of each. So I asked, and according to Tair, Chef Or’s wife, their daughter’s name is Indie, short for Independent and they decided to name their cocktails to some of their favorite Indie Bands.
Regina Spektor – Vodka, Campari, Cointreau, Egg White, Orange
This might looked like a simple drink but the alcohol really kicked in after I finished it.
Cuban Beehive – Rum, Honey, Lime Juice, Angostura
This cocktail was a bit sweet and I think has less alcohol. You can have couple of this, I think?
They sometimes give away complimentary shots to their customers, too. Isn’t that super fun? 🙂
It was truly a great night as we were able to have a taste of Tel-Aviv. Chef Or sure knows how to create dishes that we, Filipinos can embrace. I loved all the dishes we tried. I’m pretty sure you will too.
Chef Or had to leave us to savor the dishes he prepared and he left us with one important lesson. He said “guys, do not eat food that has colors you don’t recognize.” – and I can’t help but laugh.