Learn. Shop. And Indulge. At The Kakanin Kain! A Rice Cake Festival From North To South By Chef Reggie Aspiras of The Philippine Heritage Kitchen And CCA Manila

Food has always been a continuing story of local culture enriched with memories that have become part of tradition. Any deep dive into the complex multi-layered and colorful weave of Philippine culinary heritage has to include the enduring and popular kakanin or native rice cakes with its deep connection to both history and geography. And there are as many unique variations of the ubiquitous rice cake as there are islands and regions in the archipelago. From suman to puto, biko, kalamay and tamales to kutsinta, sapin-sapin to bibingka, rediscover the comforting flavors that continue to shape and define our identity on the global table. It's time to learn, shop and indulge at Kakanin Kain! A Rice Cake Festival From North To South...

The Philippine Heritage Kitchen led by Chef Reggie Aspiras and CCA Manila presents yet another page from the rich and diverse book of our evolving culinary heritage focusing on the rice cake culture with Kakanin Kain! A Rice Cake Festival From North To South at The Glasshouse of New World Makati Hotel. The continuing series reflects a shared advocacy by Chef Reggie Aspiras and CCA Manila in preserving local culinary heritage, as many traditions and even ingredients are slowly fading due to modernization. For one memorable day, time stops in celebration of the local rice cake from high up north to down south with sweet renditions of the Filipino staple made with generations old practices and traditions into indulgent expressions of our identity. Read on, and celebrate the rich and abundant harvest of the land transformed in an impressive variety of kakanin...

Firing Up The Famed Japanese A5 Ohmi Wagyu Beef At The Yakiniku Dining Room of Tsukiji

The finest ingredients flown in from Japan and nothing less, that's what diners have come to expect from Tsukiji. For over 37 years, Tsukiji remains at the top of its game when it comes to exquisite Japanese cuisine in the metro recognized as the first local restaurant to directly buy, import and serve fresh seafood sourced directly from Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Market three times a week. And now you can enjoy the famed A5 Ohmi Wagyu Beef from Japan's Shiga Prefecture. Ready to fire up the tabletop grill?

The key to Tsukiji's success is an open secret. The uncompromising commitment to quality and authenticity with the finest ingredients flown in from Japan has long been the core philosophy defining Tsukiji since 1989. Named after Tokyo's world famous market, quality and freshness remains at the heart of the family-run restaurant's identity with thrice-weekly deliveries flown in straight from Japan for its extensive menu offerings. With two dining areas, a Sushi Bar and Yakiniku Dining Room plus private rooms for intimate gatherings and an al fresco option, the enduring Japanese dining destination takes you on a culinary journey with its masterful array of culinary expressions by Chef Takashi Harima. And Tsukiji is ready to tease your palate once more with its impressive A5 Ohmi Wagyu Beef menu for Sukiyaki, Shabu-Shabu or Yakiniku at the tabletop grill. Fire up the tabletop grill as Japan's oldest and revered Wagyu brand takes the stage at one of the metro's pioneering and enduring Japanese restaurants. 

A SPAM-Tacular Collab: Time To Sizzle, Pork And MMM At The SPAM Take-Over In Public Eatery of Robinsons Magnolia

"Spiced Ham" or "shoulder of pork and ham" and "special army meat," the story behind the iconic brand has many theories debated and argued for over 89 years. But one fact remains clear, everyone knows and recognizes its name long associated with hearty meals. It's time to sizzle, pork and mmm...

...as the beloved SPAM brand takes over Public Eatery in Robinsons Magnolia. Starting August 1, 2026, the renowned brand takes centerstage at the upscale and curated food hall north of the metro with a tempting array of savory renditions from eight participating food stalls with seventeen SPAM inspired dishes for a limited time run. From noodles to tacos and more, enjoy SPAM in fresh and innovative ways in a novel and unique collaboration at Public Eatery. 

A Foraged Feast: Philippine Heritage Kitchen And CCA Manila Presents A Forest Table Of Sagada At The Glasshouse Of New World Makati Hotel

"Mushroom foraging is an art of active perception that deserves to be studied with patience, taught with rigor, and passed onto future generations with contagious enthusiasm." 

The forests of Sagada high up north is a virtual pantry of natural nourishment that's been part of the tradition and cultural identity of indigenous communities for centuries. From mushrooms to fruits, vegetables and herbs, the bountiful harvests of Sagada not only sustains life, it's a page from countless stories passed down for generations. Roope Oskari Kaaronen, a post doctoral researcher at Finland's prestigious University of Helsinki acknowledges the importance of preserving tradition and keeping the fragile link with the past intact. At A Forest Table of Sagada, these traditions are proudly showcased by a new generation of culinary trailblazers in a memorable afternoon at The Glasshouse...

There's no better way to fully understand and appreciate one's culture than experiencing its many flavors on the table. The flavors of Sagada offers an insightful peek at tradition and a real connection and respect for the land. The Philippine Heritage Kitchen led by acclaimed Chef Reggie Aspiras and CCA Manila brings to light another regional flavorful weave from the colorful tapestry of Filipino cuisine with A Forest Table At Sagada at The Glasshouse of New World Makati Hotel. Read on for a tasty and insightful peek at Sagada's foraged flavors...

Sakagura x Mida Food Specialists x Philippine Wine Merchants Presents A Taste Of Japan: Takumi Grand Omakase Seafood And Sake Pairing

Golden Eye Snapper, Japanese Barracuda, White Trevally, and Japanese Flounder. Its isn't often one can enjoy the freshest, even uncommon seafood flown in straight from Japan. And when you get to pair it with some of Japan's finest sake, the dining experience becomes an elevated and memorable taste of Japan's rich culinary traditions. Fresh and premium Japanese seafood from Mida Food Specialists, exquisite sake by Philippine Wine Merchants and masterful execution by the chefs of Sakagura, indulge in A Taste of Japan: Takumi Grand Omakase Sake and Seafood Pairing...

Indulgent bites and soothing sips. Sakagura becomes the stage once more for an epic feast highlighting Japan's freshest premium and even rare and seasonal seafood paired with exceptional sake with A Taste of Japan: Takumi Grand Omakase Seafood And Sake Pairing. Available for a limited time, Sakagura in collaboration with Mida Food Specialists and Philippine Wine Merchants offers local diners a taste of the prized seasonal catch of Golden Eye Snapper, Japanese Barracuda, Striped Jack or White Trevally and Marbled Sole or Flounder imported by Mida Food Specialists paired with the finest sake from Philippine Wine Merchants. A rare ocean catch, this is one pairing that should be on your list. 

The Crossroads Of Southeast Asian Flavors Leads You To Makan Makan Singapore Hawker at Century City Mall

I first met H.K. Tan thirteen years ago at one of his earlier restaurant ventures showcasing the comforting cuisine of his Singaporean roots. After a long and successful run, he's back in the restaurant game. Step inside Makan Makan Singapore Hawker at Century City Mall..

Drawing on childhood memories, H.K. Tan recreates the flavors of his youth with his newest restaurant Makan Makan Singapore Hawker at Century City Mall with classic dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice paired with soothing Teh Tarik for a familiar and nostalgic dining experience. Long known as a culinary hub for global cuisine, Singapore has been the stage for the best Southeast Asian cuisine from Malaysian, Indonesian, Vietnamese and Chinese staples. At Makan Makan Singapore Hawker, you'll find specialties like Laksa, Beef Rendang, Bahn Mi and even Old Town Coffee as H.K. Tan returns to the local restaurant scene...

Once Upon A Time In Malabon: The Philippine Heritage Kitchen And CCA Manila Unveil The Flavors Of Malabon At The Glass House Of New World Makati Hotel

In a continuing series showcasing local regional flavors, the Philippine Heritage Kitchen led by Chef Reggie Aspiras and CCA Manila takes you north of the metro to experience the flavors of Malabon. Known for its famous Pancit Malabon, lechon, crispy pata, okoy, tinapa and wide variety of native kakanin or glutinous rice cakes, the Philippine Heritage Kitchen and CCA Manila reveal yet another layer in the colorful tapestry of Filipino cuisine with Once Upon A Time in Malabon...

The Glass House at New World Makati Hotel becomes the elegant setting for yet another culinary spectacle of traditional local flavors as the Philippine Heritage Kitchen and CCA Manila presents Once Upon A Time in Malabon. Following the success of previous editions in its continuing series, Once Upon A Time in Malabon brings to life the enduring stories and flavors of the city with a lavish buffet feast at The Glass House (see more from the previous editions by the Philippine Heritage Kitchen and CCA Manila on my previous posts The Filipino Story On A Plate: Acclaimed Chef Reggie Aspiras And CCA Manila Brings Traditional Local Flavors To BGC At The Launch Of The Philippine Heritage Kitchen from April this year featuring the flavors of Ilocos and From Salad To Sizzling, Retracing The Origins Of Pampanga's Sisig And Its Place In The Filipino Culinary Experience At The Sisig Festival By The Philippine Heritage Kitchen And CCA Manila from early this month highlighting Pampanga's iconic pork dish). Take your seat and prepare to embark on another culinary journey led by Chef Reggie Aspiras of Philippine Heritage Kitchen and CCA Manila up north of the metro at New World Makati Hotel... 

The Flavors Of Home, Remembered: Chef Myke "Tatung" Sarthou Takes You Home At Tatung's Gateway 2 Mall In Araneta City

They say food is memory, transporting you back to a different time and place. For many, food becomes a taste of home for a memorable reunion of comfortingly familiar flavors. At Tatung's in Gateway 2 Mall, Chef Myke "Tatung" Sarthou invites you to a flavorful homecoming with the flavors you've always loved...

Home, remembered. In his most personal restaurant concept yet, Chef Myke "Tatung" Sarthou recreates the nostalgic flavors of home at Tatung's in Gateway 2 Mall. Food trends come and go in the constantly changing and evolving local dining scene, yet there are flavors that continue to warm the palate with its pure honesty and sincerity. Take your seat and rediscover the flavors home at Tatung's...

In San Juan, Francesco's Is Still The Spot For Sumptuous Italian Flavors

The culinary scene in the quiet San Juan neighborhood is quietly emerging as one of the most popular dining destinations in the metro. One of the key drivers of this resurgence is Francesco's by consultant Chef Kalel Chan and owner Kelvin Yu. If you still haven't dined at this little spot of Italy in San Juan, now's the time with Mother's Day just around the corner...

Since my first visit two years ago, Francesco's full transition under consultant Chef Kalel Chan brings a renewed focus to Italian culinary tradition and innovation in a seamless weave with its impressive repertoire of classic Italian offerings. Step inside Francesco's and experience a taste of Italy in San Juan...

Seal The Deal With The Ebisu Business Lunch At Sakagura

Sakagura at One Bonifacio High Street Mall takes your lunch dining experience up a notch with excellent value and flavor. It's time to fire up the Konro Grill for the Ebisu Business Lunch at Sakagura...

A sake bar and izakaya, Sakagura by The Nikkei Group transforms the usual lunch game with its elegant Ebisu Business Lunch sets. Available every Monday to Thursday from 12:00 nn to 5:00 pm for dine-in, the Ebisu Business Lunch is a solid set with a tasty starter, sumptuous main course, gohan, an indulgent dessert and refreshing beverage in one all-inclusive bundle. With three options to choose from, Sakagura elevates the lunch game with the Grilled Madai Set (P 980) featuring the prized Japanese Red Sea bream, the Tori Katsu Set (P 680) with tori katsu curry and the Kaisendon (P 850) with salmon trout and maguro on sushi rice. Where's lunch? Where else but Sakagura for the Ebisu Business Lunch...

Go Big With A Healthy And Sweet Blue Boost: Discover And Enjoy Boundless Blue Possibilities With USA Blueberries

As a snack or dessert, blueberries are always at the top of any list. And why not. All-natural blueberries are often considered as one of nature's superfoods scoring big on health, flavor and ease. But it's time to go beyond snacks and dessert and explore the full flavor potential of blueberries in your home or professional kitchen. Are you ready for a flavorful and boundless blue boost?  Discover and explore savory possibilities with USA Blueberries...

Blueberries go big as it expands its reach, presence and availability in the country through the establishment of relevant linkages and strengthening its network base with key stakeholders. This means you can now enjoy that blue boost in your professional or home kitchen with easier access to USA Blueberries. To cap the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service 2026 Agribusiness Trade Mission to the Philippines, the US Highbush Blueberry Council hosted a Meet and Eat dinner at The Split with a curated menu by Chef Kalel Chan showcasing the infinite culinary possibilities with USA Blueberries. Read on for a peek of the boundless blue boost of indulgent sweetness, rich flavor, vibrant color and value to your menus or family meals...

Familiar And New Flavors At Azuthai

Eighteen years and counting capped by an impressive recognition by the Thailand Ministry of Commerce as the first local restaurant awarded with the coveted #ThaiSELECT seal of authenticity year after year, Azuthai's place in the local culinary scene remains an enduring testament to a continuing story with many more yet to come...

Since 2008, Azuthai has been one of the metro's go-to destinations for authentic Thai cuisine. And it still is. The secret formula? Keeping it simple and staying true to Thai culinary tradition executed with the highest standards. Consistently. It may sound almost too simple but after all is said and done, the best way to understand why Azuthai stays well ahead of the game for the past eighteen years is to let the dishes do all the talking. Let's eat...

A Culinary Mixtape of Familiar All-Time Classics And An Exciting New Spring Menu Tops The Charts At Oriental Palace

When it comes to Chinese food, everyone has their go-to list of top picks like your favorite playlist of cool tunes. Then there are times when you just want to change things up with a mashup of classics along with a mix of new dishes just to keep things interesting. And that's exactly what it's like each time you dine at Oriental Palace in Quezon City. It's hit after hit with both familiar renditions and new flavors from the Spring Menu for your growing playlist of flavorful tracks.

Since 1978, the family-run establishment has been serving traditional Cantonese cuisine and specialty seafood dishes that keeps generations of loyal diners returning again and again. Like pulling out your fave playlist to set the mood, Oriental Palace always hits the right notes just like your feel good collection of tunes. And the new Spring Menu presents some great additions to your curated compilation of tasty tracks. Come on in and enjoy the feast...

Forty-Four Years And Counting, Bangus Restaurant Continues To Satisfy Your Cravings For Comforting Local Flavors

Food trends in the age of social media come and go, but honest and real flavors endure. Since 1982, Bangus Restaurant has been the go-to spot for comforting family and homestyle Filipino cuisine anchored on its wide array of creative renditions with the local bangus or milkfish. As the local culinary scene continues to evolve, one always comes home to Bangus Restaurant... 

Do you remember your first time at Bangus Restaurant? Dining at Bangus Restaurant is like a homecoming, and it's been that way for over 44 years. And the secret? The enduring longevity is driven by real flavors with freshly sourced produce and ingredients transformed into dishes you keep coming back to again and again. With new dishes alongside its all-time bestsellers, it's time to revisit and come home to Bangus Restaurant...

Enduring Authenticity: Azuthai Restaurant Unveils An Exciting New Specials Menu by Chef Leo Chaladdee

For more than eighteen years, no other local Thai restaurant has achieved the acclaimed spot as the consistent go-to Thai dining destination as Azuthai Restaurant. The very first establishment recognized by the Thailand Ministry of Commerce with the coveted ThaiSelect seal of authenticity in 2017, Azuthai Restaurant starts the year with yet another milestone in its storied history with its timeless and popular bestsellers and exciting new dishes by Chef Leo Chaladdee...

The vibrant tapestry of diverse and authentic Thai flavors are celebrated with each dish at Azuthai Restaurant as a colorful new chapter in a continuing story that began back in 2008 opens the new year. Chef J. Gamboa and Malu G. Lindo continues the family's culinary tradition with a savory new repertoire of Thai dishes by Chef Leo Chaladdee inspired by both heritage and creativity for a fresh take on Thai cuisine. Take your seat and prepare for a flavorful Thai culinary journey at the heart of the Makati CBD...

That Cool Chinatown Vibe with Sumptuous Dim Sum, Noods, Rice Toppings And An Inventive Secret Menu By The Binondo Boys

Any mere mention of Chinatown and the sights, sounds and flavors of the historic cultural and economic hub shuffles through your mental databank triggering fond nostalgic memories from childhood. No other ethnic enclave has had a lasting impact on the way we enjoy popular staples like dim sum, noods and rice toppings. With Binondo regarded as the world's oldest Chinatown established way back in 1594, it's no surprise that the bold and vibrant flavors of the iconic destination continues to comfort and warm our palates. No matter what the latest culinary trends are, Chinatown never fails to bring us back down to good, simple yet hearty cuisine. And Chef Mikel Zaguirre and Food Records Inc. honors both culinary tradition and creativity with his own inspired take at Binondo Boys...

Located in between a liquefied petroleum gas and a glass and aluminum shop, Binondo Boys is what you'd expect from a "hole-in-a-wall" 24/7 streetside destination down to its casual no-frills and cozy character and unpretentious personality. But when the newest dining concept in the QC 'hood includes Chef Mikel Ζaguirre leading the culinary team, you just can't pass it up. The same driven genius behind Kampai (see more on my post, Kampai! Chef Mikel Ζaguirre Redefines Japanese Bar Food At Kampai In Makati's Poblacion from four years ago), Locavore (more on my posts Let's Do Lunch...Locavore Style. from 2016 and A Weekend Brunch At Locavore also from nine years ago) and Mabuhay Cafe, Chef Mikel Ζaguirre shares his inventive and innovative culinary spin on classic Binondo-style Chinese cuisine at Binondo Boys. Plus an exciting Secret Menu you won't find in any Chinatown in the world...

Secret Recipe Unlocks More Tasty Secrets...

It seems the kitchen never runs out of tasty secrets. And that's a good thing. Step inside Secret Kitchen and discover more flavorful secrets unveiled, one dish at a time... 

That intricate and distinctive weave of Asian and Western flavors at Secret Recipe combine for a sumptuous dining experience from the Malaysian based concept making it a go-to spot for comforting cuisine. From The Bistro Group's impressive repertoire of international and local restaurant brands, Secret Recipe offers familiar flavors inspired by Malaysia's diverse culinary heritage along with excellent value, just what you need in the mad holiday rush at the malls (for more on Secret Recipe, see my post The Secret's Out. The Bistro Group Unveils Secret Recipe At One Ayala... from the launch early last year). It's time reveal even more tasty secrets. At Secret Recipe...

#Ilustrado36Years: Ilustrado Restaurant Celebrates Thirty-Six Years Of Flavorful Stories With The Exquisite Wine Pairing And Degustation Menu

Inside the historic walled city of Intramuros, the stories and flavors from the past continue to be celebrated, honored and remembered in a timeless memorial to our heritage and culture. And for three and a half decades, the flavors of Ilustrado Restaurant has been part of our own story weaving its traditional and comforting notes of timeless classics. Step inside Ilustrado Restaurant and savor the flavors you've always loved... 

In celebration of its milestone 36th anniversary, Ilustrado Restaurant reinterprets its signature Filipino-Spanish specialties in a lavish seven-course Degustation Menu with the option of a curated wine pairing experience for a memorable and nostalgic step back in time in the famed walled city. Though offered only until the end of November, the new menus represent another chapter in its journey with more Degustation Menus in the pipeline. The enduring dining establishment's colorful stories are retold with each course, offering diners a glimpse of the many exciting chapters ahead in a continuing journey of nostalgic flavors. Head on over to your table and celebrate a feast of inspired flavors at Ilustrado Restaurant...

Time stops the minute you enter the historic walled city of Intramuros. A witness to the country's many pivotal moments, Intramuros also is at the heart of a culinary renaissance anchored on tradition with a refreshed and contemporary perspective. These are indeed exciting times as the culinary landscape continues to evolve inside the walls of Intramuros, where creativity and modern expressions are enhanced by tradition, heritage and legacy. 

One of the many epicenters in this vibrant culinary revival can be found along the cobblestoned street of General Luna at Ilustrado Restaurant. Since 1989, the revered institution has taken the lead in championing traditional and local cuisine while infusing subtle modern expressions in pace with the times. It's this delicate balance that defines Ilustrado Restaurant's cuisine reflecting both timeless and comfortingly familiar notes in a fresh new way (for more on Ilustrado Restaurant, see my post Timeless And Enduring Flavors At Ilustrado Restaurant In Intramuros from two years ago). 

Inside Ilustrado Restaurant, your journey back in time is completed by the warmth of wood and stone as the perfect setting for a sumptuous meal in Intramuros. An open Hispanic-inspired garden courtyard leads you to the elegant interior dining space thick and rich with old world charm. The space becomes one of many intertwined layers that make dining in the walled city a memorable experience. 

A light and crisp finish drapes the palate with the lingering hints of grapefruit, peach and honeydew to begin your Degustation Menu experience at Ilustrado Restaurant. And yes, let's have another pour of the Pounamu Special Selection Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand please. 

The first course for the Degustation Menu at Ilustrado Restaurant, the Empanada, Kinilaw and Baked Oyster teases and delights the palate with a medley of contrasting textures and rich notes with a trio of savory bites...

...led by the fresh and bold notes of Kinilaw with Bacalao a la Vizcaina in a delicate pastry shell with vinaigrette crema, caper crisps, Spanish mackerel, succulent scallop and shrimps, lime, cane vinegar, leche de tigre, bintong kamote, grilled corn and cilantro. The intricate bite-sized creation delivers a flavorful burst with each component complementing the other in a lavish play on fresh and clean flavors. 

The Empanada warms the palate with its hearty and savory notes taking you back to countless childhood summers. Ilustrado Restaurant doesn't reinvent the beloved local staple. And rightly so. There's just no need to overcomplicate the empanada, and Ilustrado Restaurant nails it. 

The Baked Oyster, a gratinated succulent oyster draped in Miso Champagne Sabayon brings an opulent burst of briny sweetness smoothened by the cheesy crust for even more vibrant yet balanced flavors. 

For the second course, Illustrado Restaurant served its rustic Kalabasa Lentil Soup in a "palayok" baguette with creamy squash purée, yellow lentils and XO shreds enriched with silky smooth coconut milk. 

Each soothing sip leads to another with the subtle nutty sweetness and creamy richness combining for a flavor-loaded spoonful of indulgence. And the "palayok" baguette? It's the perfect vessel for the soup course, absorbing all the flavors. Try dipping the "palayok" lid on the soup and enjoy the rest of the baguette once you finish the Kalabasa Lentil Soup for a flavorful surprise. 

A glass of Wakefield Taylors Family Wines Jaraman Chardonnay announces the pairing for the third course of Prawn Laing Udon, a beautifully plated dish with butter-poached baby prawn, taro leaves, red and green chilies and coconut milk. 

With a deeper golden hue and pronounced rounded notes, the Wakefield Taylors Family Wines Jaraman Chardonnay from Australia prepares the palate for the savory richness of the Prawn Laing Udon for another masterful pairing with each sip highlighted by creamy vanilla and bright apple notes. Ilustrado Restaurant creatively reimagines the local taro leaf dish with soft and mildly chewy udon noodles for another inspired dish from the Degustation Menu. The familiar creamy, nutty, savory and spicy heat of the regional dish are complemented by the fresh butter-poached baby prawn with the udon noodles completing the elegant rendition. 

A glass of New Zealand's Pounamu Pinot Noir sets the flavorful tone for the next course with its bold hints of summer fruits, honey, coffee and cloves with just a whisper of soft pepper spices...

...for the fourth course of Bagnet Kare-Kare with thrice-cooked pork belly, roasted peanuts, toasted and ground rice, achiote and bagoong alamang. The plate becomes a colorful canvas...

...for the rich savory notes of another classic dish from Ilustrado Restaurant's repertoire of all-time bestsellers. The thrice-cooked pork belly with its delicately light and crisp texture may be the star of the plate but the equally stellar supporting cast of kare-kare sauce and fermented shrimp paste completes the colorful palette of flavors in another masterfully executed dish. Elegantly elevated, the Bagnet Kare-Kare by Ilustrado Restaurant is just one of many reasons why the dining destination remains relevant as it keeps in step with the times. 

For the fifth course, Ilustrado Restaurant refreshes one of its menu mainstays with the Kambing Kaldereta. Served in a crisp phylo shell, the fork-tender goat meat stew just melts in your mouth releasing clean savory notes. If one didn't know, the clean flavors of the Kambing Kaldereta is almost like beef without any gamey hints. The dish is served with soft and moist Mountain Rice drizzled with kaldereta oil cooked with red bell peppers. The bold flavors of the dish are matched with the Australian  Wakefield Taylors Family Wines Jaraman Shiraz with its full-bodied notes and bright hints of cherries and plums. Enjoy a bite of the stew with a spoonful of rice followed by a sip. Just perfect. 

In between courses, a refreshing Calamansi & Tanglad Granita was served to cleanse the palate for the next course...

...the Wagyu A4 with tarragon garlic butter and gratinated bone marrow with fresh parsley, crisp panko and Edam with its mild nutty, creamy notes and just a hint of saltiness to temper the richness of the beef and bone marrow. The Wagyu A4 course is paired with the Chilean duo Court Rollan "Filius" Blend De Blends and the Court Rollan "Pater" Cabernet Sauvignon with their own nuanced notes coming into play.

The legendary buttery and melt-in-your-mouth finish of the Wagyu A4 is a treat in itself made even richer by the tarragon garlic butter. Perfectly grilled to medium rare with its juicy pink center, the Wagyu A4 course caps the savory feast at Ilustrado Restaurant with its pure, clean and uncluttered beefy flavors. The gratinated bone marrow adds that final indulgent and savory finishing touch washed down perfectly by another sip of the refined Court Rollan "Pater" Cabernet Sauvignon with its bold hints of deep wood, spices and black fruit

Six courses in and the Degustation Menu recreates and captures the spirit of Ilustrado Restaurant's culinary journey anchored on traditional Filipino Spanish flavors. But save room for dessert. The indulgent trifecta of Salted Egg Brazo, Tocino del Cielo and Chocolate Bar ends the Degustation Menu on a sweet and high note. Each delicately crafted dessert delivers unrestrained pure indulgence in three variations, from the delectable creamy notes of the light pillow soft Salted Egg Brazo to the sinfully rich Tocino del Cielo and the deep flavors of the soft Chocolate Bar. 

The dessert trio is paired with the Spanish Eminencia Pedro Ximenez Jerez Sherry for an apt and fitting sweet ending to the Degustation Menu at Ilustrado Restaurant. But it gets better...

Renowned for its intense sweetness with distinctive hints of caramel, raisin and dates, the Eminencia Pedro Ximenez Jerez Sherry is best enjoyed with a light soothing sip...

...or poured on homemade Mantecado Ice Cream for added depth and complexity in flavor. But why stop there? Order up a freshly brewed Americano and drizzle a few teaspoons for even more indulgent notes. From starters to mains and dessert, the Degustation Menu at Ilustrado Restaurant is a lavish representation of imaginative storytelling behind the beloved dining destination inside the historic walled city of Intramuros. It's a story that retraces a thirty-six year journey in seven courses. And soon, you can expect even more as Ilustrado Restaurant introduces more tasting menus in the future for even more flavorful chapters in its storied journey. As food trends come and go, timeless classics endure. Like Ilustrado Restaurant in Intramuros...

Ilustrado Restaurant is located at 744 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila. You can also visit their FB Page at https://www.facebook.com/ilustradorestaurant/ and IG Feed at https://www.instagram.com/ilustradorestaurant/ or call 0939 920 6822 for more information and inquiries.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube, check out these social media accounts for regular updates on good eats. Better yet, click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.

#HiltonSinagtala: Savor The Festive Flavors Of The Season at Kusina Sea Kitchens in Hilton Manila

The indulgent flavors of the season take the spotlight at Kusina Sea Kitchens in Hilton Manila with a lavish array of global cuisine spread out in several stations in one elegant space. Get into the festive season's vibe with the flavors that drape the palate with a lingering comforting warmth in the much anticipated and most joyous season...

Hilton Manila unveils its tempting selection of dining options in the season of endless feasts, and the extensive offerings at Kusina Sea Kitchens becomes the stage for memorable gatherings with family and friends. Step inside Kusina Sea Kitchens for the Festive Season Buffet and discover the traditional flavors of the holidays...

Menya Kokoro Unveils Three New Savory Offerings With The A5 Wagyu Mazesoba, A5 Wagyu Don And Iekei Ramen

Staying ahead of the game means continuous innovation. And Menya Kokoro has been doing exactly that since it arrived in Manila back in 2019 with its constant roll-out of creative culinary expressions. Known for their distinctive and award-winning mazesoba or "brothless ramen", Menya Kokoro continues to flex its creative culinary muscle with new seasonal offerings. One new ramen and two sumptuous bowls with mazesoba noods and another with rice topped with premium Wagyu A5 beef from Kagoshima. Ready for a tasty peek?

Menya Kokoro unveils three new seasonal offerings available only for a limited time led by the Wagyu Mazesoba, Wagyu Don and Iekei Ramen available in all branches starting this November. A savory trio of rich and indulgent notes await diners at Menya Kokoro reflecting the brand's commitment to continuous innovation. Now let's grab a bowl...