There’s a specific kind of magic to the Antonio’s Group of Restaurants, and for most of us, it’s usually tied to a weekend drive up to Tagaytay. But what if that familiar, comforting warmth could be found just a mall trip away?
Enter Azela by Balay Dako, the newest gem that recently opened its doors at SM North The Block.
Named after Chef Tony Boy Escalante’s grandmother, Azela is more than just a restaurant—it’s an homage to heritage and home cooking. From the moment you step inside, the design whispers nostalgia: warm wood accents, intricate solhiya-patterned ceilings, and the gentle charm of Filipino architectural elements. It’s a space designed to make you feel like you’ve been invited into a grand, welcoming dining room.
But, of course, the true test is the food. Whether you’re craving the iconic Bulalo na Baka or their labor-of-love Kare-Kare Klasik (where the peanuts and rice are ground in-house, not from a jar!), Azela brings the soul of Balay Dako to the metro.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Antonio’s family of brands or simply looking for authentic, soul-satisfying Filipino cuisine, Azela is set to become your new favorite neighborhood haunt.
