31 March 2009, Singapore - It’s about time! Despite thousands of Filipino expatriates living and working in Singapore, this island state does not actually have a truly “pinoy” mid-class restaurant for the Filipinos to hang out in.

With the launch of Bonifacio, the Filipinos working and living here may now savour their favourite pinoy food in a sleek and cozy setting, just like the mid-class restaurants back in the Philippines: a place where Filipinos will be able to kick back their shoes and think of home and be proud to bring their non-Filipino friends to, to introduce authentic Filipino cuisine to them.

Bonifacio has also added a touch of modernity to their offerings, so as to give even Filipinos a new experience. Named after the Father of the Philippine Revolution, Bonifacio epitomises this revolutionary spirit in the way their dishes are created and served. While indulging in Filipino favourites such as Crispy Pata (deep fried pork knuckles) and Lamb Kaldereta (Stewed Lamb Shank), patrons will get to sample a dash of modernity in the presentation of these traditional dishes, specially created and designed by our very young, talented and creative team, who are very passionate and proud of their Filipino cuisine.

Other than serving great-looking food and mouth-watering dishes, Bonifacio’s décor and service will also be distinctly Filipino. To make it a star-striking experience at the Bonifacio for everyone, the walls of Bonifacio are also adorned with Filipino celebrities on a “Bonifacio Wall of Fame”, with photos of super stars like Bong Revilla, Jerico Rosales, Derek Ramsey, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Pops Fernandez, Vhong Navarro, taken with the Bonifacio management.

Bonifacio is born of the brotherhood between 3 Singaporeans and 1 Filipino - local sporting celebrity, Picasso Tan, Filipino Wushu Champion, Lester Pimentel, Singapore Entrepreneur of the Year 2006 awardee, Kelvin Yoo, and Mediacorp Stunt Director, Ace Wang - formed of the love for the Filipino culture and cuisine and nurtured while travelling extensively to the Philippines.

“We want Bonifacio to be known as the restaurant for the Filipino expatriate to meet friends and family while they are away from home, for them to network and keep in touch while they build a new life in Singapore,” says Lester Pimentel. “Food is an integral part of every culture and forms the core of our sense of self. We hope that by recreating a place as close to the Philippines as possible, Filipinos working here will have a home away from home.”

“There are so many Filipinos working amongst us, but not many in Singapore have taken the time to know them and their culture. With Bonifacio, Singaporeans will get a chance to sample the food and culture of our closely-linked Asian neighbour and we hope that that this will give them a greater appreciation and understanding of our Filipino friends working amongst us,” adds Picasso Tan.

“Good food at good prices will always be good business and we hope that by coupling this with a unique menu and attentive service (Filipinos are known for their high service standards!), we’ll be able to win the stomachs and hearts of our patrons and in time to come Bonifacio will be a lively hangout location for all,” says Kelvin Yoo.

“When it comes to Filipino food, there is always a dual flavor. At the same time, there's bitter and then there's salty, and then there's also maybe a sweet and sour. But always, there's a combination of two flavors going on in the same dish. To-date we are proud to say that we are the ONE restaurant that filipinos are proud to bring their non-filipino friends, colleagues and clients to show off their rich and tasty cuisine. Don't give us a miss!”

Bonifacio is located at 35 Kreta Ayer Road in Chinatown (opposite Kreta Ayer Community Club). Opening hours are from 11am - 3pm and 6pm - 10.00pm (last order), Tuesdays to Sundays. Customers may call 6222 6676 or email cuisine@bonifaciogroup.com for reservations and catering/event enquiries.

Bonifacio has sinced hosted many superstars, the Ambassador, Ms Minda Cruz, her team and her guests, and even Vice President of the Philippines, Mr Jejomar Binay dined with his lovely wife on his last official trip to Singapore. Nicknamed "Boni", it has also hosted many artists sponsored events, filipino and non-filipino corporate functions, weddings, birthdays and baby showers. Personalized Menu can be specially created for Corporate Launches, Social Events, etc. Capacity at Bonifacio is approximately 50 pax for sit down Lunch/Dinner; 40 pax for Buffet style dining and 80 pax for Cocktails (free standing).

Come to Boni...we promise, it's worth the trip!