Joel Manchia, chef de cuisine of Finestra.
PHOTOS FROM SOLAIRE RESORT NORTH
Finestra at Solaire Resort North is making Italian dining more approachable this year, refreshing its menu to welcome more guests to comfortably enjoy Italian food without the pressure often associated with fine dining.
Situated on the topmost floor of the resort, Finestra offers skyline views of Quezon City. While the setting and Italian focus have led some guests to see it as formal or reserved for special occasions, the restaurant is now working to change that perception.
“We want more people to come in, relax and enjoy quality Italian food. It’s not about being intimidating. It’s about sharing good food, the way we do back home,” said Chef de Cuisine Joel Manchia.
The redesigned menu keeps familiar Italian classics at its core, but refines them for everyday dining. Guests can order comforting staples such as lasagna layered with USDA beef ragout and béchamel, mushroom soup for lighter fare, or a hearty Australian Wagyu Carrara M9 rib eye. New additions include artisanal orecchiette with king prawns and broccoli, and aubergine parmigiana finished with confit garlic and semi-dried tomatoes.
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Artisanal orecchiette with king prawns and broccoli.
Spaghetti pomodoro, three kinds of tomato textures.
Roman risotto suppli, slow-braised wagyu beef.
My Nonna Hanni brown sugar tart, coffee gelato.
The Il Bianco offers a smooth drink made from Malfy Gin Rosa, Bianco Vermouth, Luxardo Maraschino, and Hibiscus Bitter Blend Gomme.
Australian Wagyu Carrara M9 rib eye.
Manchia said many of the dishes are inspired by traditional street food and personal favorites he missed while working far from Italy.
“These are things you crave when you’re away from home for a long time. Some recipes are hard to find here and not very common in Italian restaurants, but we focused on refining the classics and really putting quality first,” he said.
Unlike its sister Finestra at Solaire Resort in Parañaque, which leans more toward individual and intimate dining, the Quezon City branch emphasizes sharing.
Portions and menu choices are designed for groups, making it suitable for families, friends and celebrations.
The bar menu has also been expanded, offering light bites and platters that pair easily with cocktails. New drinks such as the Spritz al Cacao sit alongside classics like the Il Bianco and Garibaldi al Pompelmo. The calmer atmosphere sets it apart from louder bars in the area, appealing to guests who prefer conversation over live music.
Management said the refreshed concept is also meant to highlight value for money.
“It’s not just about the view or the vibe. We want guests to feel that whatever they order here is worth it,” Manchia said.
With its relaxed approach, shareable dishes and panoramic views, Finestra can be a go-to spot for the upcoming Valentine’s Day, as well as for everyday lunches, dinners and casual evenings out. The restaurant is part of Solaire Resort North’s 14 dining outlets, offering a more welcoming take on Italian dining in the heart of Quezon City.
Dining and Cooking