Margarita Forés’ Lusso Serves the Same Indulgent European Cuisine in New Podium Location
When Lusso first opened in Greenbelt in 2009, the focus was on elegant and indulgent European cuisine. The brainchild of acclaimed chef Margarita Forés, the restaurant and champagne bar drew inspiration from nightspots she visited from her many travels across the continent. Its elegant but laidback interiors and expansive menu reflected Chef Gaita’s refined tastes and deep knowledge and love for Old World cuisine.
The upstairs dining area at Lusso at the Podium Mall
Fast forward 26 years and Forés has not wavered in her dedication to bringing a slice of Europe to discerning Manila diners. Lusso opened a second branch in Rockwell, Makati in 2023 and, just in time to ring in the new year, a third branch at SM’s upscale The Podium Mall.
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Margarita Forés’ Lusso at Podium Mall
Located in a corner space at the ground floor just off the mall’s Julia Vargas entrance, the newest branch exudes much of the same ambiance and charm of its predecessors: warm lighting, earth and gold tones, exquisite finishes. From the busy main floor, there is a staircase leading up to a quieter, more intimate mezzanine dining area. Friendly and extremely attentive waitstaff usher guests to their seats and press the leather-bound menu into their hands.
Deviled Egg Trio
Luxe Truffle Fries and Barquillos
Lusso regulars can expect pretty much the same offerings at this new branch, including established favorites like Luxe Truffle Fries, Mac & Cheese, and the decadent Demi-Pound Burger made with US Beef and foie gras.
For starters, there’s also Deviled Eggs prepared three ways: sprinkled with Espelette pepper, caviar, and bacon. Ask if the burrata cheese is available as it’s a can’t-miss: the fresh burrata cheese with plump red tomatoes and olive oil and salt on the side will transport diners to summer evenings in Tuscany or Provence.
Lusso Demi Pound Burger
Lamb Shank Ossobuco
Those with a hankering for soup can choose between a hearty mushroom soup or a lobster bisque that tastes of the freshest bounties from the sea.
There’s a selection of pastas as only Chef Gaita can prepare them, but diners can also opt for the Risotto with Crema di Scampi, which combines the classic Italian rice dish with Bulacan river prawns. Meat lovers will, of course be satiated by the steak offerings as well as a Kurubota pork dish—Cotolleta alal Lacrima parmigiano Cream. The premium cut of pork is breaded and fried and coated in a parmigiano cream sauce and topped with prosciutto di Parma.
Truffle Panna Cotta
White Chocolate Tiramisu
End the meal with a selection of desserts, including Lusso’s on the classic Tiramisu; the Trio Tart made with hazelnut, walnut and pecan served with gelato; or a simple scoop of their gelato.
Lusso might be one of those restaurants that you visit for extra special celebrations, like anniversaries or work promotions, but it can also be a place for indulgent treats, where you can be sure to enjoy and be satisfied with whatever catches your fancy on the menu.
