MAKATI CITY — A new dining destination is bringing a bold interpretation of Spanish cuisine to Rockwell Center as Brasa Martinez, the latest concept by Spanish chef Luis Martinez, opens at Joya Lofts and Towers in Makati. Taking its name from the Spanish word for “hot coals,” the restaurant takes an unconventional approach to cooking: every hot dish on the menu is prepared entirely over charcoal, with no gas or traditional burners used in the kitchen. Located on the ground floor of the former Rambla space, Brasa Martinez has been transformed by architect Noel Bernardo into a warm, two-level restaurant with a cozy cabin-inspired design. The intimate setting is complemented by a dedicated wine room featuring a carefully selected international collection. For Martinez, Brasa represents his most personal culinary venture yet, allowing him to explore a style that challenges his usual approach to cooking.
Where Fire Takes Center Stage
The restaurant's defining feature is its commitment to charcoal cooking. Martinez, who originally trained as a veterinarian before pursuing his culinary career in Siargao, believes cooking over live fire allows ingredients to retain and develop their natural flavors. That philosophy is reflected throughout the menu, which avoids overly complicated preparations and instead lets the ingredients shine. Guests can try specialties such as Octopus Gilda, squid filled with caramelized onion and served with shrimp veloute, Clams Arroz Caldo prepared with lapu-lapu broth and a herby green sauce, and Iberico Pork Presa paired with truffle mashed potatoes. Dessert continues the restaurant's distinctive approach with the Chocolate Crémeux, combining dark chocolate shards, toasted hazelnuts, sea salt, extra virgin olive oil, and burnt meringue. Rather than offering familiar Spanish staples, Brasa Martinez deliberately takes a different route. Diners will not find the usual croquetas and traditional tapas here; instead, the menu revolves around the depth and character created by fire and smoke.
A Cabin-Inspired Space Built Around Wine and Fire
Brasa Martinez complements its charcoal-focused menu with a relaxed yet sophisticated interior. The restaurant features mid-century furnishings, rustic touches, and playful details, including a wicker bull and a taxidermied bull's head displayed on the second floor. Wine is also central to the restaurant's identity, with its expansive wine room housing selections from different parts of the world. The combination of charcoal cooking, carefully curated wines, and an intimate atmosphere creates a dining experience that moves beyond conventional Spanish cuisine. Brasa Martinez joins Martinez's growing portfolio of restaurants in Manila. His first concept under Nikkei Group, Terraza Martinez, earned a Michelin Selected distinction, while Sala Martinez and La Taperia Martinez have also attracted attention among Manila diners.
A New Take on Spanish Dining in Rockwell
Brasa Martinez is located at the Ground Floor of Joya Lofts and Towers along Joya Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City. With its unconventional charcoal-only kitchen, wine-driven concept, and intimate setting, the restaurant offers diners a new way to experience Spanish-inspired cuisine through the flavors of fire, smoke, and carefully selected ingredients.
