PoNaNa, located on Libis, Quezon City, opened at an appropriate time. Despite its unapt location — it looks more like a bar to be found in Makati or Malate — people don’t seem to mind the travel for the good hang out.
From the distracting and countless establishments on Libis, entering Po Na Na is a test of the imagination. It’s like stepping into a cultural time warp. The first Moroccan-inspired bar-resto, designers Jennifer de Dios and Kristine Neri of IN.D.IGO Corp.opts for a modern Mediterranean look with hints of African elements.Blue in varying shades is the distinct color of the interior, while touches of gold in antique and bronze inject a modern minimalist feel.
Most of the furniture and accent pieces are also created and made by the design team such as the fabric lanterns, upholstered seats and pillows, frames and other lighting fixtures. Broken wine bottle glasses pieces are used as accents along the stairway for additional effect. The focal point of the room is the bar. Acrylic lighting simulates a sunset background giving it calming effect and mystery.
The menu is also impressive. Eminent chef Henry Caloy is Po Na Na’s food consultant. Leaning towards Mediterranean, expect the food to be rich and flavorful. A "must-taste" is the Shawarma Tekamaki rolls with salsa and sour cream — chicken, onions, and bell peppers sauteed in herbs and spices rolled in flat bread and cut, tekamaki style. For the dauntless palettes, try the Ostrich Tartare, a funky version of the classic raw beef, steak tartar. And desert? Baklava! Aside from that pastry chef Pixie Sevilla composes a handful of luxurious and indulgent sweets.
Creating new dishes is not the only thing Po Na Na is suggesting in Libis. Unintentionally, Po Na Na has started a trend in the dressing habits of the locals. Shifting to a dance club after dinner, Po Na Na employs a strict dress code. Managing director Hans Montenegro and co-partner Butch Pena express that crowd control simply invites more responsible people, who, dress appropriately, spend a minimum amount, can control their alcohol, and still have a good time. Indeed, Po Na Na has become an alternative venue to the Makati crowd. With reasonable pricing, quality of taste, and chill-out ambiance, Po Na Na is a must-visit place.
More chill out places soon…