Brasas: Latin American Street Food

This place looks real cool without having to try really hard. Reminded me instantly of the places in New York I used to visit. When I saw it in photos, I knew I had to try it. Dragged my entire family, hoping that the food would take me back to NY, even just for a bit. I used to get Latin American food a lot (Cuban, Peruvian, Brazil, Argentinian, etc) when I lived in the States. Oh. Such good food… 🙂 I miss it. But I digress.

Ok so, Brasas. Here we go:

Exterior:

Interior Shots – Don’t ask me why but there’s something very “Che Guevarra” about this place.  Maybe the graffiti, the color palette? I don’t know. It’s small so plan ahead if you intend to come as a group. There’s seating outside, inside’s limited.

Menu – They keep it simple which I give them kudos for. I wanted to try everything!

Arepas (P120) -In New York, arepas are a street fair staple. It’s hard to explain what these are, it’s like a tortilla made out of corn flour except the texture is more breadlike. They’re served across multiple Latin countries so it’s definitely open to interpretation. These Brasas Arepas were pretty good! The beef was tasty and the chipotle sauce gave it great flavor.

Regular Grilled Beef Wrap (P220) – “like a burrito without the rice” is how this was described to me by the cashier. I was sold. I’ve always thought burritos are overrated and a rip off. They seem large but they’re predominantly rice with few quality toppings (meat). So what Brasas is offering – none of the fillers, all of the good stuff impressed me. The taste of this wrap impressed me even more. It’s delicious. The beef is seasoned beautifully and really tender. The wrap is good, mildly toasted on the outside, chewy on the inside, firm enough to hold its contents.

Chicken Rice Platter (P180) – Can’t go wrong with this one. We expected something plain (which chicken dishes tend to be) but got something totally different and very yummy. The grilled chicken is far from boring. We all attacked this dish with gusto. The dish is good for about two people.

Beef Rice Platter (P220) – My brother and his girlfriend shared this one. Just as good as the Chicken. Good for the beef lovers out there. They use lean beef so you really get quality.

The Damage – Around P700+ for all the food we ordered. It was a filling meal. It’s very affordable!

The Verdict – GO. GO to Brasas! The food is delicious, ingredients are fresh, the portions are generous, the prices are attractive. There’s not much more you can ask for. I’ll be going back soon to try their other dishes. Judging by how this meal went, I have high hopes for next time around. I’m really glad my family and I went. Not only did we have a great dinner, it also brought up fond memories of my meals in NY. I’m thankful cuz with Brasas here I can make new memories.

Brasas Latin American Street Food

5th floor, Podium Mall, Ortigas

https://www.facebook.com/brasasphilippines