Holy Cow Chop House

When I went to Trinoma last week, I had two goals: to get the item I need and to eat at a restaurant unique to the mall.

I got there too early (around 10 AM) and I noticed on my ascent that most of the restaurants were still closed. Most of the establishments had branches elsewhere so I skipped those and just looked at the menu of the unique ones.

When I got to the fourth level, I was already thirsty and hot having walked the plaza which despite the plants and water around it was no match to the summer heat. It was almost 11 then and the restaurants were starting to open shop. I decided to limit my lunch choices to the two unique Trinoma choices in the fourth level: Ruby Tuesday and Holy Cow Chop House. Both were relatively high-end but the former was more expensive so I decided on Holy Cow.


As you may have guessed, the restaurant's specialty are its steaks and cows are the centerpiece of the decoration.

I ordered the Surf and Turf Kebabs (PHP 399), U.S. beef and tiger prawns in olive oil marinade, yogurt-cucumber dip and garlic rice, from the Meats part of the menu. It was not exactly one of their bestsellers. That honor belongs to the steaks but sadly, my wallet refused to go that way. The dish came with two sticks of beef and 1 stick with 3 tiger prawns on a bed of garlic rice and served with buttered corn and carrots, grilled aubergine and dip. My initial impression with the first stick of beef was that it was tough, making it difficult to cut by knife or to chew. I had to ask for a steak knife. Even then, it was not easy. The prawns were alright. The second stick of beef was less tough, even tender. Maybe the first stick was just overcooked. I couldn't help but think while dining if I made the right decision of sampling a new restaurant and ignoring the tried-and-tested ones.

My mind told me to just order water but the weather and my lack of self control prevailed so I asked for Iced Tea (PHP 85). This was single-serve and not refillable but came in a very tall glass. It was served really cold and had just the right sweetness. It was very refreshing. Water was served complimentary.

Ambiance wise, the restaurant looks good but can sit only a few people. The bar at the center occupies a lot of space. Sadly, however, they do not have a restroom on site. The nearest one was a good distance away. I think restrooms are a must for all restaurants, a service they should provide to all guests. More so for this restaurant which is not exactly low-end. Heck, even Jollibee has them.

On my way down, I saw that other restaurants have opened. On my next Trinoma visit, I'd still like to sample a new restaurant. After all, I might have better luck next time. Holy Cow is okay but I'm not exactly looking forward to another visit in the near future. I'd like to try others next time.

holy cow chop house, trinoma, surf and turf beef kebabs