Griller Thriller

'Cue Modern Barbecue

The traditional BBQ activities of standing around sipping beer while your eyes water with smoke and various men produce raw or cremated offerings is a million miles away from this protein-packed little Manila thriller that’s riding the worldwide meat mania with aplomb and a few well-judged local tweaks.

With its natty palette of warm woods, relaxed, friendly atmosphere and just enough quirk not to cloy (cow hides on the ceiling, ahem), ‘Cue scores with the flexibility and breadth of its menu, from steaks to ribs, burgers, chicken and squid, all served with a Fili twist, and sizzling with homemade sides from slaw to sweet potato fries or buttered corn rice.

The signature Bone Marrow and Steak Tacos come planked with the steak ready cubed and piled high on the half bone, with a well-acidulated sweet and spicy salsa, and rich roasted corn salsa. The half-pound slab of house-cured bacon arrives slow-baked and then char-grilled before being rendered into thick slices, while the house chilli boasts the addition of monggo (mung beans).

For the bib brigade, slow-baked baby-back ribs arrive either dry-rubbed with spices or with a rich, dense wet glaze, and gourmet burger aficionados will make straight for the 6 oz patty slathered with mozzarella, smoked provolone, arugala and chorizo. Join the Cue.