IF you’re looking for a place that mimics the chic atmosphere of New York, where you can throw back a drink like Carrie Bradshaw and enjoy tap cocktails galore, then Out of Office might just end your search.
In this BGC cocktail bar, time seems to stand still despite the business of the outside world; whether you’re coming in after work or just for a quick break during lunch, you can enjoy the soothing atmosphere, ambient lighting, and chill vibe of this place from noon ‘til early morning.
The culinary landscape of Bonifacio Global City (BGC) just got better, with the opening of “Out Of Office” (O:OO), a sophisticated cocktail bar with a unique blend of New York City energy and Southeast Asian influences.
O:OO promises to be the ultimate destination for those seeking respite from the demands of the daily grind.
Courtesy: Instagram/Out of Office
A brainchild of the MIRO group headed by Milka Romero, Benj Ramos, and Lester Fuentes – Out Of Office is the future of the cocktail culture in Manila.
It’s also run by her good friend, fashion designer Chynna Mamawal and owner of Chynna Mamawal Atelier.
She has dressed the likes of Pia Wurtzbach, Belle Mariano, and Andrea Brillantes, and is now looking forward to her latest venture as part of O:OO’s team.
Though this may be one of her first ventures into the Food and Beverage industry, Mamawal is a passionate individual who’s quickly learning the ins and outs of the trade. And of course, a big plus: she loves drinks!
The two want it to be an exciting bar with a speakeasy feel that people in the metro can visit after work, whether they just want to mellow out with friends, meet new people, or truly let loose.
“The vibe is cozy, welcoming, [and] with very quality cocktails,” Mamawal noted.
“[And] our food is amazing – you should try it.”
Strategically located along the High Street South area, O:OO is sure to attract both enthusiasts and working professionals.
Courtesy: Instagram/Out of Office
With its mouth-watering Southeast Asian culinary gems such as Nasi Lemak and Hainanese Chicken, the ambiance gives a nostalgic vibe for a New York Diner, with O:OO setting the stage for an unmatched dining experience.
They also have various offerings as well including standout items like the O:OO Cheeseburger, Hotdogs, and have a try at the Thai Disco Fries.
Aside from giving off NY vibes, O:OO also seeks to set itself apart with its cocktail offerings.
Courtesy: Instagram/Out of Office
Mamawal and Romero both said that the cocktail bar specializes more on an international scene, wherein they want to give things not usually offered in Manila.
Now what makes O:OO different? It is a New York-inspired restaurant.
Courtesy: Instagram/Out of Office
New York is fast-paced and frantic, where time seems to stand still whenever one enters a bar.
This is what a cocktail bar should be about: good conversations and fresh faces.
Jerik Santos, one of the partners of OOO, said he feels that there is a lot of potential in the country’s nightlife scene, which is why it was only fitting to create concepts like OOO, which aims to be one of the best bars not only in Asia but in the entire industry.
“That’s why we thought of this concept: to build something very world-class and up to standards in terms of building quality drinks and quality food, quality service, to all Filipinos,” he said.
Lots of love
Since its opening, OOO has been a hit with the public. Those who come here simply can’t get enough.
Actor Richard Juan, for example, loves the authenticity of the bar’s Pad Thai – big praise coming from someone who’s often in Thailand himself. .
He feels that it would be best to come to the bar when you’re fresh out of the office; it’s a great place to just grab a drink, chill, and then head home.
“Any time of the week would be perfect – I heard there are DJs during the weekend, [too,]” he added.
Actress Janeena Chan, on the other hand, loves the place for the vibe it gives off, one that’s perfect for both friends and family; though it’s relaxed, there’s also a certain mood that pairs perfectly with its drinks.
She also appreciates the fact that it never skimps on the bar chow. There’s always enough, and there’s also a variety of different cuisines to choose from.
DJ Abdullah Hussain and actor Shido Roxas both feel that OOO is a great place for people from all backgrounds and cultures to develop a sense of camaraderie with one another, where the music’s just loud enough to keep the vibes going, but still allows people to hear what their friends are saying.
Come hang out after work
Out of Office is open from 12 pm to 1 am from Sunday until Wednesday and until 3 am from Thursday to Saturday. It’s located at High Street South Corporate Plaza of BGC, Taguig.
Some of its must-tries are the cheeseburgers, hotdogs, Thai Disco Fries, Hainanese Chicken, and of course, its drinks all wittily named after jokes you hear at the office.
And if you’re getting off work a little early, Mamawal reassures customers that they have lunch ready for them, as well.
The E.O.M., the Paid Leave, and the ever-so-secret Confidential are all things you should look out for.
