My usual stop when I find myself in the Cubao area is the Bellini’s Resto at Cubao Expo – great, authentic Italian food (even has some waiters who can speak perfect Italian) with a very warm and accommodating owner, Mr. Roberto Bellini.
Imagine my surprise when I passed by Cubao Expo last night and found the place booming with new establishments - mostly for the arts.. Cubao Expo seems to be thriving on making itself known as a haven for budding artists - whether on canvas or film.
For the Lovers of Art:
WHITE BOX - art gallery, mostly oil and canvas
BLACK SOUP - art gallery as well; mostly digital photography
SPUTNIK - hard to find comics and toys..
My personal favorite, MOGWAI. Owned by Erik Matti and Lyle Sacris, Mogwai is a cafe / bar / film club; offering FREE film showing (until December only) of independent, non-mainstream cinema from different countries (not just manila). The place has a really interesting look and ambience. If you get to watch a film there (which I hope you will), the movie room is really great! It's exactly what i want my future entertainment room at home to look like (wishful thinking) - cushions strewn over the floor (no shoes please!), laid back atmosphere while watching a good film. Rob and I watched CQ, an official selection to the Cannes Festival 2001 by Roman Coppola (not bad). The movie room may also be rented for functions - fun! :)
Starting 2008, Mogwai screenings will be open to members only - this is the only way that MTRCB can allow them to show films without having the films screened and maybe even cut. New, local filmmakers may then have their movies shown without the hassle of accreditation and such.
Membership is P1500 for a year, with consummable monthly dues ranging from P200 - P500 (translated to free films). For other info and film schedules, visit mogwaifilm.multiply.com.
Other Establishments:
Hope you guys will find the time to visit CUBAO EXPO soon! :)
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