Borough for a slice of the Big Apple

I doubt that there is anyone without a fascination for New York City. From the well-seasoned traveler to the curious first timer, NYC has a unique charm that definitely captivates.

For me the draw goes beyond the fabulous shopping and myriad cultural events. It’s the city’s indescribable vibe that appeals to me — it is candid yet cosmopolitan and full of warmth despite its cool exterior. I trace this bag of traits to the different characters that inhabit the city. It’s the people — transient or otherwise — that makes New York feel so dynamic.

The interiors are a mix of raw touches and refined accents giving it the feel of a Brooklyn loft.

I chanced upon a similar vibe at Borough, a newly opened restaurant at the Podium, which takes inspiration from the Big Apple. Upon entering, you’ll see their signage resembling “subway Helvetica” that immediately transports one to the streets of New York.

Its interiors recreate the look of a hip Brooklyn loft — with floors and walls rendered in unfinished cement and plank-like wood, while fixtures are a juxtaposition of minimalist steel lamps and prim floral print covered chairs.

A standout is the long, communal table at the center of the restaurant, where at the time of my visit, a group of friends were laughing while sipping cocktails. The whole scene and the surroundings reminded me of the lobby of Ace Hotel in the NoMad district of New York. The Ace lobby is like an oversized living room where all the creatives congregate, and that’s what Borough seems to emulate.

The food selection is not intimidating, nor does it aspire to be. According to Chef Raphiel “Cuit” Kaufman, a native New Yorker who now runs the Borough kitchen, their focus is to serve the best comfort food.

Indeed, with a menu that offers chocolate chicken wings and gingerbread pancakes, one can expect familiar flavors done in a new way.

Being based on the city that never sleeps, Borough is open 24/7. The owners emphasize that the reason is so that the Ortigas neighborhood can have a welcome spot for breakfast, lunch, happy hour, dinner and midnight snacks. With such a vibrant ambience that truly channels NYC, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Borough become the default hangout for real, relaxed dining.

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Borough is located at the ground floor, Unit 107A, The Podium Mall, 12 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong. For reservations, call: 570-8906.