Tagaytay Food Festival 2025 Day 1: Celebrating The Food That Binds with Tradition and Creativity

How far would you go for the food you love? Three memorable days in Tagaytay proved that no distance is far enough to deter you from the food you love, not even the constant rains and fog could dampen your craving. More than nourishment, the food that sustains us also binds us together shaping and defining our culture and identity. In a celebration of creativity and community, the Tagaytay Food Festival 2025 edition reminds us once more how food reconnects us with the land, produce and local culture from the simplest staple to intricate expressions. 

From July 18 to 20, the famed southern region showcased its full tapestry of colorful flavors from traditional local and international cuisine to modern contemporary executions in a lavish display of regional pride. Chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, producers and brands eagerly responded to the call to represent the very best of Tagaytay as the premier dining destination down south of Manila in a unified and collaborative celebration. The first in a series of five posts, here's a look back at the Tagaytay Food Festival 2025 retracing the memorable events from Day 1...

Prost! Raise A Toast to the New Home of Brotzeit at The Podium

For over 12 years, Brotzeit in its original location was home. Months before, its relocation had been announced leaving a bittersweet feeling with so many memories. But that much anticipated moment has finally arrived. I'm home and back again once more in Brotzeit at its new location in The Podium...

Bigger, better and more elegant, Brotzeit pulls all the stops for its triumphant return to the Ortigas commercial and business district with its new home at The Podium. Round up the gang, the good times are back. It's time to raise a toast, shall we? 

The Latest Buzz on the Sweetest News: Sue Bee Pure Honey Celebrates Grand Relaunch With A Refreshed Modern Look

An evening of pure nostalgic and rustic Americana becomes the setting for the celebrated relaunch of an all-American classic. Held a day after the Fourth of  July, the beloved brand sweetens the traditional Independence Day festivities with its all-natural goodness. Here's the latest sweet buzz from Sue Bee Pure Honey...

Sue Bee Pure Honey takes its enduring legacy of uncompromising quality and tradition of excellence in step with the times with a refreshed brand new logo and packaging designed for a new generation of consumers and honey lovers. The bold and stylish transformation reflects a modern and contemporary look for today's dynamic lifestyle as well as strengthen its visual presence in the often crowded and cluttered supermarket shelves. Loyal customers know there's just nothing like pure and real all-natural honey, and soon a new generation will enjoy nature's sweet harvest with Sue Bee Pure Honey in a new chapter of an inspiring American success story that began a little more than a century ago. Global Strategic Partners Distribution, Inc. (GSPDI) leads the brand's renewed drive in the local market, a role it proudly embraced twenty-four years ago. And you can expect to hear more from Sue Bee Pure Honey to sweeten your day...

Tindeli Filipino Deli & Cafe by Chef Tatung, A Neighborhood Deli You Can Call Home

Is there anything Chef Tatung can't do? Staying put and standing still isn't one of them. With a roster of successful dining concepts tucked under his belt including Pandan Asian Cafe, Lore Manila and Azadore, master chef and culinary virtuoso Chef Tatung is back with yet another innovative and bold reinterpretation of Filipino flavors...

"Laban lang." No obstacle that can't be hurdled, challenge accepted and full speed ahead. Noted author, TV personality, culinary personality and chef, internet sensation and successful restaurateur Myke "Tatung" Sarthou is back with his latest dining concept showcasing his creative and novel take on classic Filipino flavors at Tindeli Filipino Deli & Cafe at the new Gateway 2 Mall in Araneta City. Come on in for a soothing cup of local coffee or better yet, indulge in some tasty nibbles or savor a hearty meal from the kitchen before taking some pasalubong back home. At Tindeli Filipino Deli & Cafe, feel right at home...

Gateway 2 in Araneta City Sizzles with the Opening of Wolfgang's Steakhouse Grill

Araneta City is fast becoming the top shopping and dining destination this side north of the metro, transforming the area's emerging and diverse dining scene. Lighting the way are the grills at Wolfgang's Steakhouse Grill, and they're all fired up... 

Wolfgang's Steakhouse Grills fires up Araneta City at the new Gateway 2 bringing its fresh off-the-grill selections with a vibrant Latin flair as well as its signature New York style steaks. For steak lovers up north, the culinary landscape is looking good. Step inside Wolfgang's Steakhouse Grill at Gateway 2 and savor your feast straight and hot from the grill...

Ribs. Oysters. Bourbon. At Rob's in Newport World Resorts

Ribs. Oysters. Bourbon. That's three of my favorite things. And that's the newest concept from Chef Robby Goco and restaurateur Raymund Magdaluyo at Newport World Resorts.

A sleek bar prominently situated at the very front of the newest establishment in Newport Mall is the first thing you'll notice, and then the novel concept hits you. This is more than just a restaurant. This is Rob's, or simply ribs, oysters and bourbon and so much more. Restaurateur Raymund Magdaluyo, the man behind some of Manila's top restaurants like Wolfgang's Steakhouse and Red Crab along with Chef Robby Goco of Cyma Greek Taverna and Souv by Cyma among others collaborate for what could be the metro's newest and coolest dive. Ready for some ribs, oysters and bourbon? Come on in at Rob's and read on...

The Bistro Group Food Crawl at Robinsons Magnolia Part 6: Steaks, Ribs and Good Vibes at Texas Roadhouse

Hand-cut steaks. Fall-off-the-bone ribs. Made-from-scratch sides. Fresh-baked bread. Ice-cold beer. And the Legendary Margaritas. Plus Unlimited in-shell peanuts and those fresh from the oven Yeast Rolls. That's the perfect recipe for a day filled with good vibes. Sounds like a plan? Then, head on over to Texas Roadhouse...

Texas Roadhouse brings its brand of hearty Texan style fare of steaks, ribs, burgers and more with all the sides and cocktails to Robinsons Magnolia along with its good vibes. The sixth stop at The Bistro Group Food Crawl at Robinsons Magnolia, Texas Roadhouse caps the afternoon with a sumptuous feast featuring their all-time bestsellers of Combo Appetizer, Ribeye Steak and award-winning Baby Back Ribs. Good times. Hungry? 

Kenny Rogers Roasters Unveils Biggest 3D Interactive Billboard in the Country For Your Larger-Than-Life Cravings

The classic Kenny Rogers Roasters' Roasted Chicken. The tender, juicy and fall-off-the-bone Baby Back Ribs on Brick Oven. The Signature Corn Muffins. And a tempting variety of side dishes. Each one showcased in vibrant living color to satisfy your larger-than-life cravings in hyper-realistic high resolution...

Kenny Rogers Roasters kicks off the new year with its innovative and impressive 3D Interactive Billboard located along EDSA Mandaluyong for a stunning visual experience. The groundbreaking signage may be the first and largest 3D Interactive billboard in the country, and coming from Kenny Rogers Roasters it really is no surprise. Kenny Rogers Roasters leads the way in culinary innovations with its deliciously healthy menu, and now you can experience it in full color along the metro's famed highway. Its a digital feast for the senses in 3-D. Hungry? Then, read on...

A Fiery Start to a Carnivore's Dream at One World Butchers Resto and Deli in Poblacion

Mouthwatering and savory premium steaks, pork and artisan sausages like Thüringen Bratwurst, Bockwurst, Kielbasa, Cabanossi, Nurnberger and even Sisig Sausages fresh off the fiery grills, certified meatheads now have a home at One World Butchers in Makati's vibrant Poblacion neighborhood... 

The smokers and grills are all fired up for a true carnivore's dream at One World Butchers in Poblacion with a wide and tempting selection of asador-grilled meats, house-made gourmet sausages and more. A restaurant and deli, One World Butchers is a carnivore's sanctuary for certified meat lovers adding its own unique vibe to the countless dining options in Poblacion. And they're pretty serious about meat. Come hungry at the famed neighborhood's newest dining destination...

#BeercationAtBrotzeit: Raise a Toast Up High Down South at the Newest Location of Brotzeit in Alabang West Parade

 Good times are happening down south. Time to raise up a toast...

Now with three locations in the metro including Edsa Shangri-La and BGC, the newest branch of Brotzeit in Alabang West Parade bring good times and barrels of fun down south. And just in time too as Brotzeit celebrates its longest Oktoberfest run yet all the way until the end of the month (for more on Oktoberfest at Brotzeit, see my previous post, The Whole Nine Yards: Brotzeit Philippines Celebrates Nine Long Years in the Country with the Longest Oktoberfest Season from last month). Now that's reason enough to raise a toast at Brotzeit up high all the way down south in Alabang West Parade...

One More Round with the All-Time Bestsellers and Buy One Take One Cocktails at Chili's

The all-time classics at Chili's continue to shine, with its specialty ribs, fajitas, steaks and margaritas (and yes, Buy One Take One on cocktails) leading the way for well over forty-seven years worldwide and almost twenty-six years in the Philippines. Now that calls for another round, don't you think?

Since it opened in Dallas back in 1975, Chili's has grown to over 1600 restaurants around the world showcasing its comforting American and Southwestern cuisine inspired by its Texas roots and Fresh Mex style. And since 1996 with the opening of its first branch in Manila, local diners have always returned to savor the all-time bestsellers that made Chili's a familiar go-to place with good vibes all around. Let's take a look back at some of the specialty dishes that's endeared the timeless brand close to the hearts of generations of local foodies...

Hot News: Enjoy a Mexican Fiesta on a Plate with the New Chipotle Spicy Roasts and Ribs by Kenny Rogers Roasters

Starting the year with flavorful bang, continuous innovation keeps Kenny Rogers Roasters at the top of its game inspired by the flavors from down south of the border... 

Hot and spicy with a deep, rich and soothing heat, your favorite roasts and ribs are transformed with the lavish flavors of a Mexican fiesta on a plate. After the successful launch of their indulgent Truffle Roast (see more on my earlier post at Your Favorite Roast with a Luxurious Spin, Meet the New Truffle Roast by Kenny Rogers Roasters...), Kenny Rogers Roasters is back with another tempting hot and fiery new offering. This time, Kenny Rogers Roasters takes you down south of the border with their the savory Chipotle Spicy Roasts and Ribs. Ready for a festive feast with a spicy kick? Then, read on...

ECQ Eats: Comforting Cuisine Delivered by Mando's Wing Shack

Wings, ribs, quesadillas and chimichanga, that's a winning play list of comforting dishes for a satisfying meal at home, don't you think? 

Mando's Wing Shack shares its flavorful take on simple, uncomplicated cuisine drawing inspiration on classic comfort food, Tex-Mex, Mexican and Southwestern notes for a sumptuous feast delivered to your doorstep. Still deciding what to serve at home this weekend? Settle the matter in an instant and hit up Mando's Wing Shack for a fuss-free delivery and value...

Raise a Toast with Sumptuous Ribs Three Ways for Father's Day at Brotzeit

The Honey Bavarian, Cheese & Marinara and The Mediterranean. Brotzeit brings bold, new flavors to grilled pork ribs with three savory options just for Father's Day. And here's a sneak peek...

Brotzeit Philippines' Culinary Director, Ivan Maminta, set out to create unique and savory grilled pork ribs for a memorable Father's Day celebration. One bite is all you need to know that Chef Ivan succeeded with his trifecta of fall-of-the-bone pork ribs for dads on their special day. 

#DeliciousonDemand: Pick-Up or Delivery, Enjoy Hearty Family Feast Meals and Decadent Cakes by Plana's Pantry at Home

Slowly but surely, the transition from Enhanced Community Quarantine to Modified Community Quarantine in the metro is an encouraging development. A surge in new cases is expected as tests are ramped up, a reminder that the threat is still very much here. Staying home is still the safest way to flatten the curve. And when cravings for a sumptuous family feast lingers, relax. Plana's Pantry now offers both delivery and pick-up...

Hickory BBQ Ribs, Lengua and comforting pasta dishes along with decadent cakes, special celebrations at home during the quarantine are made even more special and convenient by Plana's Pantry with its delivery and pick-up options. That's #DeliciousonDemand. Read on for a tasty peek at sumptuous family style cuisine by Plana's Pantry...

Embark on a Flavorful Journey of Global Culinary Creations by Chef Carlo Miguel at The Food Hall in SM Aura Premier

From comforting pasta dishes to buttermilk battered fried chicken and mouthwatering burgers, Chef Carlo Miguel unveils his Global Culinary Creations at The Food Hall in SM Aura Premier...

Chef Carlo Miguel takes your palate around the world with his new dishes, Global Culinary Creations, high up in Skypark Dining at SM Aura Premier. Over the past several months, The Food Hall served as Chef Carlo Miguel's test kitchen. Drawing inspiration from various cuisines from around the globe, the results are as flavorful and diverse as one can expect from the lavish offerings at The Food Hall. Hungry? Read on for a tasty peek at Global Culinary Creations by Chef Carlo Miguel at The Food Hall...  

Start the Season of Feasting and Say Hola! to the New Holaday Boards and the New Lechon Cubano from Gringo...

It's that time of the year once again when endless rounds of feasting with family and friends bring on the holiday vibe. The guys at Gringo have been busy preparing their new dishes just for the holidays...

Gringo welcomes Holiday 2019 with a new dish and sumptuous food boards to get you in the holiday groove. Gringo kicks-off this year's season of feasting with the new Lechon Cubano and lavish Holaday Boards filled with all your favorite signature bestsellers. Say Hola! to good food and good times...at Gringo.

Sundown Barbecue Up High at The Roof Pop-Up Bar Events Space of Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila

There are times when you just want to escape the metro's busy nightlife scene, wishing you had a special place you can enjoy with a few friends without the usual crowds. At Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila, there is one such place 43 floors above the city...

The Roof Pop-Up Bar Events Space is the newest concept from Joy Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila Managed by Accor Hotels, soon to be on everyone's list of favorite spots for cocktails with a sunset. Ideal for exclusive corporate or social events, the spacious outdoor deck is perfect for al fresco dining and cocktails capped by a majestic sunset. And the outdoor grill offers a tasty repertoire of barbecued meats to complete the experience. Read on for a peek at one of the metro's secret spots...

Flavors of Boracay: Completing The Boracay Experience with Sumptuous Cuisine at White House Beach Resort

Boracay finally reopens, and a sumptuous feast awaits at White House Beach Resort...

Boracay's iconic White House Beach Resort welcomes summer with a mouthwatering array of fresh and bold flavors to complement the vibrant turquoise waters, pristine white sands and brilliant blue skies in one of the world's most beautiful beaches. It's finally open and summer's here, bring some sunscreen and come hungry...

Every Day To The Max with Max's New Adobo Ribs and Beef Salpicao

Celebrating every day to the max has been a tradition at Max's Restaurant, and it gets even better with the introduction of a new Filipino inspired dish with a twist...

Max's Restaurant draws inspiration from familiar local flavors as it transforms a slab of tender and juicy pork ribs into the new Adobo Ribs, guaranteed to be another family favorite from "the house that fried chicken built" (for more on Max's Restaurant, see my earlier post from three years back, After 71 Years And Counting, Still Sarap to the Bones at Max's Restaurant). And just like their iconic fried chicken, the new Adobo Ribs is, well, sarap to the bones...