Casablanca Restaurant | A Belated Birthday Bash for Atty. Ariel Maglalang

A Belated Birthday Bash: Celebrating Atty. Ariel Maglalang at Casablanca Restaurant, Bacolod City

Some celebrations are worth the wait. Such was the case when our close-knit group gathered for a belated birthday dinner in honor of our dear friend, Atty. Ariel Maglalang. Though his actual birthday was celebrated a week earlier in Manila, we couldn’t let the occasion pass without our Bacolod-style get-together. Our venue of choice? The ever-charming Casablanca Restaurant in Bata, Bacolod City, has quickly become our go-to for memorable gatherings.

The Venue: Casablanca Restaurant, Inviting Ambiance

Nestled away from the city center’s hustle and bustle, Casablanca offers a peaceful retreat perfect for intimate celebrations. The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting, with just the right touch of elegance for special occasions. When we arrived at nearly 6 PM, we found ourselves the first patrons of the evening. The quiet, softly lit space was ideal for catching up and taking photos—something we always enjoy when the mood and lighting are just right.

A few more groups filtered in as the evening wore on, but the atmosphere remained cozy and relaxed. Casablanca’s layout allows for privacy and a sense of community, making it a favorite for those who prefer their gatherings a little more laid-back.

The Gathering at Casablanca Restaurant: Friends, Laughter, and Good Vibes

The first to arrive were yours truly, Engiemar Tupas, Lei Lani Dusaban, and the celebrant, Atty. Ariel Maglalang. We fondly call the celebrant by his nickname, Aying. Nothing is sweeter to the ears than hearing our nicknames, a small but meaningful reminder of our closeness. Jojo Bayona joined us soon after, fresh from his graduate school classes at La Salle. As the food arrived, Judge Mavil Sia and her husband, La Carlota City Councilor Akoy Sia, completed the initial group. We decided to start dinner while everything was still warm, and before long, Judge Aireen Bonghanoy and Kobe rounded out our party.

What followed was a night filled with laughter, stories, and jokes that only old friends can truly appreciate. The conversation flowed as easily as the food, and the celebratory mood was infectious.

The Food: Classic Comforts and Honest Impressions | Casablanca Restaurant

Casablanca’s menu is a delightful mix of Filipino-Chinese favorites and continental classics. We ordered shrimp balls, pancit molo, ox tongue in white sauce, fried chicken, Yang Chow fried rice, pomelo salad, and beef salpicao—a spread that promised something for every palate.

Highlights:

• Shrimp Balls: Crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful inside—a crowd-pleaser that disappeared quickly.

• Pancit Molo: Comforting and decadent, the broth was savory, and the dumplings were generously filled.

• Ox Tongue in White Sauce: Tender and creamy, this dish stood out for those who love classic continental fare.

• Fried Chicken: Golden and crunchy, a nostalgic favorite paired perfectly with the Yang Chow fried rice.

• Beef Salpicao: Well-seasoned and tender, with just the right amount of garlic.

• Pomelo Salad: Here’s where our honest critique comes in. Despite our request to tone down the sweetness—a recurring issue from past visits—the salad’s dressing was still on the dessert-like side. While they reduced the sauce, the flavor was still overpoweringly sweet. It’s a minor blemish on an otherwise excellent meal, but we hope Casablanca will address it in the future.

Dessert and Coffee: After dinner, we brought out not one, but two birthday cakes for Atty. Ariel. The candles were blown, wishes were made, and slices were enjoyed alongside freshly brewed coffee, ending the meal on a sweet, satisfying note.

The Service: Friendly and Attentive | Casablanca Restaurant

One of Casablanca’s strengths is its staff. The servers were courteous, attentive, and always ready with a smile throughout the evening. They ensured our requests were addressed promptly and checked in regularly to see if we needed anything else. Their warm hospitality added to the overall positive experience and made us feel at home.

Final Thoughts: A Night to Cherish

Celebrating Atty. Ariel Maglalang’s birthday at Casablanca was more than just a dinner—it was a testament to friendship, laughter, and the joy of being together. The venue’s ambiance, the delicious food (with just a little room for improvement), and the genuinely friendly staff made for a truly memorable evening.

Atty. Ariel, or Aying as we affectionately call him, is the kind of person who brings out the best in those around him—kind-hearted, generous, and always ready with a smile. Though belated, it was only fitting that his special day was celebrated with warmth and joy.

Here’s to more gatherings at Casablanca, shared meals, and nights filled with laughter and good company. Happy birthday once again, Atty. Ariel! May your year ahead be as wonderful as the friends who surround you.

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