What used to be the favorite post badminton hang-out of five friends, then called Border Grill and later turned into Inihaw Republic, is now considered one of the city’s hottest chillax bars, resto, art gallery, and music haven all rolled into one.
Badminton buddies Monica Barretto, Geth Savellano, Allan Madrilejos, Eric Enriquez, and JP Balboa are now the proud owners of the place which they call “Route 196” after its address, 196 Katipunan Extension. “We were just five close friends who like to drink in this place and then we ended up buying it,” said Monica Barretto, one of the co-owners. “We always hung out in this place back when it was called Border Grill, almost three times a week. We’d always come here after until the owner decided to move to the US and sell the place. That time we even joked about buying it, but then, someone else bought it and it became Inihaw Republic. We still went there at least three times a week after badminton and when the owner of Inihaw Republic decided to sell it, we decided to get it.”
The place started with only a few bands playing until such time when performers from all sorts of genres started pouring in. With this rev up to fame, more hands showed interest, creating a diverse lineup of musical acts and productions for each day of the week. On Mondays, Route 196 offers Jumpstart to their patrons. This is where newbie bands get to audition and play for a night. If they get to impress the crowd and the owners, then they are hired as regular performers.
Another is the Terno night, held once a month, where DJs mix old songs. Other acts include the acoustic duo Cacoy and Janoy, who plays on Fridays twice a month and who, because of their stint in Route 196, became famous. With all these music-making acts, it is refreshing to know that Route 196 doesn’t solely cater to music but it also serves as a house for the arts. One notable piece of art is the Lomo Wall, where pictures from Lomo Manila are plastered neatly all over a stretch in the bar. They also hold exhibits for various artists both famous and amateurs alike.
What’s cookin’?
So what about the food? Unlike any other bars that highlight their booze while leaving the real food underdeveloped, Route 196′s is of gourmet excellence. Co-owner and chef Geth Savellano’s culinary expertise entices guests and patrons to feast on delectable dishes, such as Noypi Pizza, tinapa and kesong puti on thin crust; Devilled chicken; and Fish and chips. So for those looking to “chillax”with great food, soulful music, and a visual art treat, then take the road to Route 196 where fun never takes the backseat.
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Tags: art gallery, badminton, border grill, inihaw republic, lomo manila, music haven, musical acts, route 196