JUNIPER by Chef Josh Boutwood is a fine-casual dining concept inspired by the refreshing simplicity and versatility of the gin and tonic. The restaurant offers a modern, ingredient-driven experience featuring meticulously crafted small and large plates paired with inventive gin-based cocktails. With its blend of refined technique, bold flavors, and cultural nuance, JUNIPER transforms simplicity into something truly exceptional.
We’ve always loved Josh Boutwood’s restaurants, so we came in with high expectations—and here’s what we think:
Juniper by josh boutwood
Shangrila plaza. GF streetscape, Mandaluyong
@junipermnl
https://www.joshboutwood.net/restaurants/juniper
AMBIANCE
Streetscape is the upscale street-side dining area on the ground floor of Shangri-La Plaza Mall, showcasing new concepts from beloved restaurant groups. Among them, Juniper stands out as a unique casual fine dining restaurant—ideal for milestone celebrations or an intimate dinner.
Reserve the Chef’s Table, guarded by Chef Josh’s “Astronauts,” for a fun family dining setup.
Gin lovers can enjoy the Chef’s signature G&Ts at the bar counter area.
I love this cozy corner with the restaurant’s name on the wall.
The menu is simple—small plates and mains that are approachable in both concept and price.
SMALL PLATES
Fresh burrata, tomato granita & balsamic vinegar 785
You won’t find any boring salads at Juniper—this one is refreshingly bold and piques the palate.
Charred romaine, anchovy, pecorino romano 295
Layer the flavors on the charred vegetable—add a bit of cheese and anchovy with each bite.
Tapioca & cheddar fritters, spiced tomato sauce and pecorino romano 365
A playful twist on mac & cheese, made with sago and cheddar—an intriguing way to start.
Sourdough, whipped butter, parsley 395
We love Chef Josh’s sourdough —light, flavorful, and always a delight, especially with butter.
Wild mushrooms, gruyere, white wine 795
This is my favorite—I could easily finish a whole plate! It’s an addictive yet healthy indulgence. The wild mushrooms bring a deep, earthy umami—no truffle, just white wine and Gruyère.
MAINS
We had a meeting with our Shangri-La friends, but the food was such a delicious distraction.
Pork chop, mustard, M1 (1pc or 2 pc) 725/ 1,420
The pork chop was sous-vide to perfect tenderness with a pink center—but what made it truly remarkable was the elegant blend of “M1” sauce and pork jus. Rache loved this.
Agnolotti, ricotta & parsley 675
I’m easy to please with an elongated ravioli—pillowy soft and bathed in a rich, cheesy sauce.
Angus Reserve Ribeye 500g 4,950
The steak was perfectly cooked—medium well, lightly salted, juicy, and flavorful. Masarap!
Oven roasted chicken, gremolata, chickpea 895
This chicken dish was probably the only one that felt a bit bland, served on a bed of hummus?
FINAL THOUGHTS
We’d been looking forward to this lunch meeting as a chance to finally try Juniper—and it didn’t disappoint. For your celebrations, we highly recommend the Wild Mushrooms with Gruyère and white wine, the Agnolotti with ricotta and parsley, the Pork Chop with mustard and M1 sauce, and the steak.
The warm lighting, elegant accents, and tasteful furniture create such an intimate atmosphere, you forget you’re even in a mall. Dine here for something special yet simple—not your usual, boring menu, but one that feels refined without being intimidating. Relaxed, elevated, and undeniably sosy. Congrats Chef Josh!
Oh, and we haven’t even tried the gin & tonic—the inspiration behind the name Juniper. We’re definitely coming back for cocktails, dinner, and the Eton Mess for dessert.
Juniper by josh boutwood
Shangrila plaza. GF streetscape, Mandaluyong
@junipermnl
https://www.joshboutwood.net/restaurants/juniper
Live an Awesome Life with Christ,
Founder & Digital Creator, Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: This article was written entirely by a human—reflecting my own biases, opinions, and insights—with grammar and clarity checked using AI assistance.
P.S. So great to finally meet, Janice and partner together for the event.
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