For those residing outside the vicinity of Metro Manila, it may be challenging to find specialty restaurants when sudden cravings for fine dining, such as steaks, strikes. But, for the residents of Sta. Maria, Bulacan, including Bulakenos living nearby, high-quality steak is easily accessible thanks to Steak and Arrows restaurant.
Steak and Arrows, owned by college sweethearts and soon-to-be husband and wife, Benedict Cervania and Tina Umlas, is a manifestation of the couple’s passion for meat and their shared sport, archery. Located at Norzagaray-Santa Maria Road, Dulong Bayan, Barangay Poblacion, this restaurant is conveniently reachable, even for Metro residents wishing to visit, thanks to its proximity to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).
“Before COVID-19 pandemic, our sport is archery, we used to travel from Bulacan to Magalang, Pampanga to play because it was the only range that has open area for this sport,” Tina tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle in an interview during the NLEX Lakbay Norte event. Lakbay Norte is NLEX’s initiative to promote destination places in the Northern region made accessible by the expressway. “Since it was a remote area, we needed to travel one hour to get to the nearest food hub. Then drive back again to continue our session.”
This experience gave them the idea to combine both: open a space archery range where people can play and provide delicious food for the players. In 2020, they decided to open the restaurant, but then the pandemic happened. However, it didn’t stop the couple from pursuing their passion. While the space was closed, they catered to delivery orders. Then, as restrictions slowly eased, people began to visit more frequently.
With its unique concept and mouth-watering food offerings, it is not surprising that Steak and Arrows is garnering attention of families and couples requesting reservations, especially on weekends and special occasions.
“We love steak houses, and we don't mind splurging on food. Having tried some of the best steaks, we know what's good and the satisfaction it can bring to diners,” Tina says in Filipino. “That's when we realized that if we were to open a steakhouse, we should offer high-quality meats to our customers. We began importing meat, and more recently, we started offering A5 Wagyu beef from Japan.”
The restaurant's best-sellers include their signature Brazilian Ribeye Steak XL, Chateaubriand, and Kagoshima A5 Wagyu Striploin (available only upon reservation). For those not interested in steak, some of the must-try dishes are their Truffle Mushroom Pasta with Italian Guanciale, Steak Silog, and Family-style Back Ribs.
While waiting for their food, customers, even those who aren't into archery, can learn and try it free of charge. Every staff member at this restaurant can shoot an arrow that hits the target.
Steak and Arrows is located at Norzagaray - Santa Maria Road, Dulong Bayan, Barangay Poblacion 3022 Santa Maria, Bulacan. It’s open from Monday to Sunday, from 12 noon to 9 p.m. For more information, call mobile no. 09565811587.