To celebrate O’s birthday last October, we both had the idea of a chill and stress-free day. A quick day-trip not too far from Manila seemed to be our best option. As planned, we started the day together in his office, where he worked for a few hours. Then, we drove our way to Sta. Rosa Laguna for our late lunch at Socrates’ Secret. 

It was a sunny Thursday afternoon in Laguna Central Greenfield and it looked like nobody didn’t want to go out that time. As the only customers, O must have felt I reserved Socrates’ Secret for our private celebration. Haha! Japanese cuisine tops our list but mediterranean cuisine has a soft spot in our bellies. So I knew O would approve the restaurant I chose for his birthday lunch. 

Socrates’ Secret is a mediterranean/greek restaurant, one of the few restaurants in the new Laguna Central Greenfield development. Like any other woman, you’d fancy the homey interiors and would most probably take snapshots of adorable items in the room. Speaking of snapshots, lately I was into Snapchat (@thefoodscout) to capture my ‘always hungry’ life. Really late but I’m getting used to Snapchat. Anyway. I’m about to show you the dishes we ate and you’ll see more of the ambiance later as you scroll down. 

Alex of Socrates’ Secret was too sweet to prepare the menu ahead for O’s birthday feast. It’s safe to say she chose the best, dishes Socrates’ Secret is proud of. Mini Dip Sampler with Whole Wheat Pita Bread kickstarted our ‘almost merienda‘ lunch. Mini bowls of Baba Ganoush (smoky eggplant, which I dig the most), Hummus (creamy chickpeas and sesame, a popular mediterranean dip) and Tapenade (olives and herbs). I’m not 100% sure you could request for more pita bread if you run out. All I’m sure of is that it’s difficult to move on to the next plate with these dips still hanging in front of you. 

Worked our way to the intriguing Vegetarian Delight Sampler after finishing the basket of Wheat Pita Bread. One by one, we took a piece of Tomato Patties (Php 190) (savory blend of finely chopped tomatoes, onions, parsley and mint tossed in flour and pan-fried), Eggplant Roll-ups (Php250), Potato Feta Cakes, Falafel (Php 250) (garbanzo patties), and Stuffed Leaf Rolls (Php 150), all served with homemade Tsatziki. Whisk cucumber, garlic and yogurt, you end up with Tsatziki dip. I didn’t even remember it was a vegetarian platter, especially after finishing a round slice of falafel. If we were to order only one, it’s no doubt we’re going for the falafel. 

Be sure not to confuse yourself with this Moussaka Pasta Bake. Could be mistaken as Italian lasagna because of its strong resemblance. This Greek version is layers of eggplant, potato, minced meat topped with béchamel sauce and cheese. The gentleness of flavors will get your attention and let you fall for Moussaka Pasta Bake. 

I overate and almost forgot the Souvlaki/Kebabs were coming. Taking one stick each, O and I shared these Mediterranean beef and chicken BBQ, popularly known as kebab. We immersed happily in our own kebab worlds without talking to each other. Haha! Moving next, we had the Grilled Australian Lamb, which brought slight disappointment. We weren’t so happy with the burnt edges and its tough texture. Thankfully, the flavor is saved in most parts. We still had a good time consuming the lamb and tried to leave an empty plate.

If you grew up hankering to visit Harry Potter in Hogwarts and too curious how Butter Beer tastes like, Socrates’ Secret got that covered for you. Different versions available: coffee-based, non-alcoholic for the kids, alcoholic for the millenials and dark beer for dad. Obsession with Butter Beer might sparkle after your turn to take a sip.

Topped with vanilla ice cream, this Baked Apple with Granola Filling woke up our sleepy eyes after getting filled up by all the mediterranean flavors Alex prepared. I suggest, let the scoop of vanilla ice cream melt a bit, and mix together with the slice of baked apple for a more balanced flavor that won’t overly kill you with sweetness from the apple. 

Recalling my greek mythology class, Socrates acknowledges that Athena’s (my favorite Greek goddess) owl is the symbol of wisdom. If you observe and look closely at the details in Socrates’ Secret, you’ll conclude its theme circulates around owls. Wall designs, decors, accessories sold and more owl-related items scatter around the calm and home-like ambiance of Socrates’ Secret.

Everyone in the family will find Socrates’ Secret right for you. Mom or your sister might want to purchase and take home these Flavored Sea Salt.

…Or buy charming bracelets hanging beside.

For the book worms in the family, Socrates’ Secret doesn’t mind you borrowing their books while you’re inside their vicinity. 

The little corner of books and toys encourages you to bring your toddlers with you when you dine in. Take off their shoes and let them play.

 I have no idea how crowded Greenfield is on weekends but if you ask me where to take your date in the area, Socrates’ Secret is honestly a recommendable place. 

What do you think of Socrates’ Secret?

Share with me your thoughts! 🙂

Cheers,

Location: G/F Laguna Central Greenfield, Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Philippines

Operating Hours: 11:30AM-9:30PM

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socrates.secret/

Contact: (+63 49) 827-1005  

Budget: PHP400++

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