Marketplace by Rustan’s

The Rustan’s Supermarket on the lower level of the Power Plant Mall has taken on a new character after it was transformed into the Marketplace by Rustan’s.

Merriam Webster defines “marketplace” as an “interpreter of supply and demand.” Donnie Tantoco labels their progressive operation of supermarket chains as a “journey.” Combining the two visions, the consumer is assured of good quality service matched with an array of merchandize of international standards.

The Rustan’s Supermarket on the lower level of the Power Plant Mall has taken on a new character after it was transformed into the Marketplace by Rustan’s. Always with the evolving needs of the consumer in mind, the group has elevated the store to an upscale shopping center as it partnered with Hong Kong’s Dairy Farm. We remember Dairy Farm decades ago when we used to visit Hong Kong frequently. We would always visit it for their selection of ice cream. Through the years, Dairy Farm expanded and is now a major player in the consumer industry with stores in Singapore, Taiwan and its base Hong Kong.            

The Rockwell Marketplace carries an impressive array of products sourced from international suppliers. Immediately upon entering, the shopper is greeted by an imposing display of hams, including the subtly flavorful Iberico, sold at P2,000 a kilo. But really, a 100-gm purchase would be enough to satiate any craving. Move on and find the huge parmegiana cheese, plus our faves, the manchego curado and the emmental.

Then there is a cooked food section where roasts, Angus beef, baked salmon, among others, are served by an efficient staff. The carving station will offer beef roasts and even roast turkey during weekends and special occasions. There is a dessert display next to it. Continue on and go to the fruits, where sweet seedless grapes are at P199 a kilo. There are Salads in Bottles, good for a serving. Then the potatoes – spuds, they call them – where customers are encouraged to make their own baked spuds – the Snooty, the Standard and the Spicy. Potatoes have never been like this – try them. They’ve got Japanese sashimi and sushi and of course, there is a wide selection of meat and fowl. Make your choice: lamb chops, ribeye or pork for sinigang.

The place also caters to the emerging lunch crowd in the area. They have a counter where sandwiches, pasta and salads are available, ranging in price from P140 for a serving of lasagna to P175 for mediterranean and cobb. And for those who are just “being broken into wine,” a selection is also offered.

Among its new attractions is the Eric Kayser Artisan Boulangerie from Paris, whose forebears established bread making in 1996. It has 120 stores around the world and we look forward to its opening here in December. They are known for their croissants.          

If there is anything pleasurable in shopping for food, it is found here at Marketplace by Rustan’s. It has a feel of unhurried moments, when one can linger and not be bothered by a milling crowd. This is sophisticated shopping.

As Christmas nears, those wanting to serve a new kind of lechon may contact Pepita’s Kitchen for the lechon with tweaks. Dedet, the lechon lady, has added two more fillings to her oven-roasted pigs. They are the than long with garlic, noodles and crab meat, and the glazed ham with dip. Price ranges from P7,500 to P9,000 a lechon de leche. Contact [email protected].

Have a happy Sunday!

E-mail me at [email protected].