Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill: A Mixed Bag in Manila

By Russell Yap
Feb 14, 2025
Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill: A Mixed Bag in Manila

Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill: A Disappointing Experience at Newport World Resorts

I recently checked out Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, and to be honest, it fell way short of my expectations. Coming from a background of enjoying top-notch Western cuisine—especially after my memorable trip to London—I was ready for a meal that would match the famed Ramsay name. Unfortunately, what I experienced was a mix of overhyped promises and a disappointing reality.

High Expectations, Low Delivery

Walking into the restaurant, the upscale decor and sleek design initially set a high bar. However, as soon as the meal started, it became clear that the quality and execution just weren’t up to par. The ambiance is undeniably chic, but that’s where the positives pretty much end. For someone who loves Western food, the flavors here didn’t align with what I enjoy; instead of the refined and balanced taste I’m used to, I found the dishes lacking in finesse.

What Didn’t Work

  • Quality vs. Price: One of the most glaring issues was the imbalance between quality and cost. With a price tag that’s supposed to reflect premium ingredients and service, the food was a letdown. The salmon was overwhelmingly salty, and the mac and cheese was bland—both dishes that failed to justify their high prices. It felt like the restaurant was banking on its famous name rather than delivering true culinary excellence.

  • Steak Letdown: I was particularly looking forward to a quality steak experience reminiscent of what I had in London. However, the steak selection was underwhelming. The absence of USDA steaks was a significant miss, and the cuts offered did not meet the standards I expected from a restaurant bearing the Ramsay name.

The One Bright Spot?

Despite the overall letdown, there was one minor redeeming factor: the sticky toffee pudding. It seems to be a consistent hit among diners, and while it was decent, it wasn’t enough to lift the rest of the meal. In an establishment where every dish should ideally shine, relying on a single dessert to wow you just doesn’t cut it.

Not for the Filipino Palate

Another point worth mentioning is that this restaurant doesn’t cater to the Filipino palate. I’ve always been a fan of Western cuisine, and my trip to London only deepened that preference. Here, the flavors felt forced and not at all in tune with what I’m used to. It’s almost as if the menu was trying too hard to be upscale and international without nailing the execution, leaving a noticeable disconnect for those who appreciate the subtleties of fine Western dining.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a visit to Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, approach with caution. For me, the experience was more disappointing than delightful. The high prices, long wait times, and inconsistent quality just weren’t worth it—especially when compared to the refined dining experiences I’ve had in London. The restaurant clearly banks on the prestige of its name, but without the flavor and finesse to back it up, it simply doesn’t deliver.

Overall, while a few diners might find moments to enjoy here, my personal experience left me feeling that the restaurant is overhyped and underwhelming. It might be best to explore other options if you’re after genuine quality and value for money.

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Russell Yap
@russyap