I told my team I would start rating powder rooms at restaurants. They found it amusing, but the truth is—when I’m dining out, I don’t only look forward to the food but the whole experience itself.
A dirty ill-maintained restroom can dampen the whole dining experience. I know I will get a lot of violent reactions, but good “world-class’ restaurants in Manila are a dime a dozen. Sadly, they are also mostly costly.
I say this hoping for better and more variety. I still get shocked when I get handed the bill. I feel we get New York rates, without the experience.
To say most restaurants here don’t offer “a vibe’ is being kind. What more the powder room?
I was pleasantly surprised when I entered the one in Kashmir BGC. It was not only spacious but it was also lively with different colors per wall. Yes, it was clean and as it should be—but I immediately felt there was intention even when they were just designing the place.
On one wall they framed two Sari’s, which made me feel like I was in some rich auntie’s home. Along with certain expected amenities and products, I noticed they had rolls of toilet paper in a corner. They had some robes hung on the door, probably for quirky and playful design. I stayed longer looking and taking photos of how they put things together. Made me even think—no wonder they have such good food, they care.