A culinary oasis for corporate warriors: Where weekday dining feels like a weekend reward
The Aurora Restaurant, located inside the Pacific Star Building in the intersection of Sen. Gil Puyat and Makati Avenue, transforms the corporate dining experience into something extraordinary. From its opening in February 2023, it has been captivating guests with a menu rooted in Asian tradition but elevated by contemporary techniques. Designed with corporate professionals in mind, this restaurant offers dishes that bring the joy and indulgence of the weekend to any day of the week.
The menu at Aurora is a masterclass in simplicity and sophistication. While the offerings may seem modest at first glance, each dish is carefully crafted to surprise and delight the senses. Take the Crab Cakes for instance—crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, these appetizers set the stage for a culinary experience that’s anything but ordinary.
One standout is the Laksa Mussels, where succulent black mussels are immersed in a rich coconut broth, infused with aromatic Southeast Asian spices. Paired with sourdough toast, this dish feels like a transportive experience, blending street-market flavors with the elegance of fine dining.
For a lighter yet equally satisfying meal, the Salmon Donburi is a must-try. Served over corn multigrain rice and accompanied by mentaiko, ikura, and pickled ginger, it’s a dish that achieves the perfect balance of textures and flavors. And if heartier fare is what you are after, the Lamb Rendang, slow-cooked in savory spices until tender, will quickly become a favorite. Pair it with the fragrant Nasi Ulam, and you’ve discovered a combination that’s as comforting as it is celebratory.
Even the side dishes stand out on their own, with rice preparations like Buttered Rice and Nasi Ulam that elevate the concept of accompaniments to new heights. Each item on the menu seems thoughtfully prepared, appearing simple but bursting with vibrant, unforgettable flavors.
Aurora’s beverage offerings are just as impressive as its food. From refreshing welcome drinks to intricately prepared teas and sparkling beverages, the drinks complement the food beautifully without overpowering the palate. Whether you’re sipping a tropical fruit blend or indulging in an iced tea with unexpected herbal notes, the drinks are crafted to enhance the dining experience from start to finish.
The desserts at Aurora are a fitting conclusion to an already exceptional meal. Their PB and J cheesecake—a peanut butter base topped with mixed berries and vibrant jelly—offers a playful twist on a nostalgic favorite, reminding diners that even desserts can be an opportunity for culinary innovation.
Aurora’s ambience strikes the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. With polished marble floors, plush seating, and touches of wood and brass, the restaurant feels both welcoming and refined. The lighting, soft and warm, highlights the rich textures of the food and décor, while the carefully selected music adds to the overall sense of relaxation. Whether you’re having an intimate dinner or conducting a business lunch, Aurora’s atmosphere invites you to unwind and savor your meal without distraction.
The secret to Aurora’s success lies not only in its menu but also in the passionate team behind the scenes. From the front-of-house staff to the kitchen team, everyone is committed to providing an exceptional dining experience. This September, Aurora welcomed two new chefs— executive chef Mark Sanchez and sous chef Dani Lim—whose culinary expertise is already elevating the restaurant’s offerings to new heights.
These chefs bring a dynamic energy to the kitchen, infusing the menu with artistry and a modern twist on traditional Asian dishes. Each bite is an exploration of flavor, designed to make you feel fully satisfied, yet always eager to return for more.
Aurora’s story is one of passion, family, and legacy. Owner Atty. Nilo Divina, a distinguished lawyer, founding and managing partner at Divina Law, created this restaurant as a tribute to his mother’s home-cooked meals. Inspired by the warmth and love he felt growing up around the family table, Atty. Divina has sought to recreate that sense of comfort and togetherness in his restaurant. Every dish pays homage to the meals that fueled his rise to success, making Aurora not just a dining establishment but a heartfelt tribute to family tradition.
In a bustling city filled with dining options, Aurora stands out as a place where every meal feels like a celebration. For corporate executives, it offers an escape from the routine — an opportunity to indulge in extraordinary food that feels like a reward for a job well done. For others, it’s a reminder that dining out should be about more than just satisfying hunger; it should be a chance to experience something special.
Whether you’re stopping by for a business lunch or treating yourself to an unforgettable dinner, Aurora promises to deliver an experience that will keep you coming back. Each dish is a journey, each visit a celebration, and every bite a tribute to the joy of good food and great company.
Once you’ve dined at Aurora, you’ll wonder how you ever got through a weekday without it.
