Category: Food & Drink

Next Limited King Ramen Unveiled – Celebrating 10 Years of Ramen Nagi in the Philippines

In celebration of Ramen Nagi Philippines’ 10th anniversary, the first Limited King Ramen was a remarkable collaboration between Ramen Nagi and Ramen No. 11. This exclusive ramen, available from September 29 to 30 at the One Bonifacio High Street branch and later from October 6 to November 10 nationwide, featured a fusion of culinary artistry from both establishments.

This limited-edition ramen combined homemade noodles with ingredients such as cabbage, bean sprouts, quail eggs, garlic, and Buta, resulting in a harmonious interplay of flavors and textures. The soup was meticulously crafted with simmered bones, pork, and aromatic vegetables, offering a mild yet flavorful broth that left you savoring each sip. Chef Masa-san of Ramen No. 11 brought his award-winning skills to create a tender and rich braised pork (buta).

Now, let’s move on to the exciting introduction of the second Limited Kings Ramen as part of Ramen Nagi’s 10th-anniversary celebration.

Meet ANTCICADA and Chef Yuta-san

ANTCICADA, a Tokyo-based award-winning fine dining establishment in Nihonbashi, is anything but conventional. Led by visionary Chef Yuta, who boasts over two decades of entomophagy experience, the restaurant is at the forefront of innovative gastronomy. Yuta’s intimate coexistence with thousands of insects has transformed him into a passionate advocate for integrating these fascinating creatures into our culinary repertoire, fostering innovation, conducting workshops, and more.

With a background that includes a stint at the prestigious Michelin Star restaurant “Yotsuya Uemura,” Yuta brings a unique blend of innovation, flavor, and tradition to the culinary landscape. His signature creation, the “Cricket Ramen,” shatters traditional boundaries by introducing crickets as a central ingredient. This distinct approach has earned ANTCICADA acclaim in the Japanese culinary scene, lauded for their pioneering work in seamlessly integrating crickets into their creations.

The Cricket Ramen Experience

The concept of entomophagy, or the consumption of insects, has been steadily gaining traction worldwide. It’s a notion rooted in sustainability, as insects pose fewer environmental concerns compared to heavily farmed meat sources. In fact, many countries across the globe have already embraced insects as a regular part of their diets, recognizing the myriad benefits they offer.

Now, when you savor the Cricket Ramen, you’re not just indulging in a culinary masterpiece, but you’re also seeing insect cuisine through a new and sustainable lens. This refined ramen boasts a remarkable balance of flavors, offering a golden blend of saltiness and sweetness. It features a generous slab of chashu pork, perfectly grilled menma (fermented bamboo shoots), and, in keeping with its name, every component is infused with the essence of crickets.

From the dashi broth to the soy sauce base and even the noodles, which bear tiny specks of powdered Futahoshi crickets, every aspect of this dish embraces the unique essence of insects. This one-of-a-kind ramen features two domestic cricket species, with up to 160 crickets used per bowl. The robust, savory flavor of the Futahoshi cricket is beautifully complemented by the refinement of European cricket species. While the crispy and nutty fried cricket topping may initially challenge some diners, its unique texture and flavor are certain to surprise and delight those who dare to try it. ANTCICADA’s Cricket Ramen stands as a bold redefinition of culinary boundaries, inviting you to explore the remarkable potential of insect-based cuisine within the confines of a beautifully crafted dish.

The Cricket Ramen will shine during a special two-day kitchen takeover event on October 20-21 at Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City, with a maximum of 150 bowls served per day. This limited culinary showcase is made even more exceptional as Ramen Nagi proudly presents Chef Yuta as a distinguished guest chef at the kitchen takeover, personally crafting his visionary dish for discerning patrons.

But wait, there’s still more!

Ramen Nagi X Ramen No. 11’s outstanding Limited King Ramen is quickly earning its place as a fan favorite, and we’ve just introduced you to the upcoming launch of the unique cricket ramen. However, our gastronomic journey is far from complete. With one more Limited King Ramen set to be unveiled in the coming days, the excitement continues to build. Then, on Ramen Nagi’s 10th anniversary on December 13, another extraordinary Limited King Ramen will take center stage, making the celebration truly special.

A Toast to Ramen Nagi Philippines’ 10th Anniversary

10 years in any industry is a big achievement. For Ramen Nagi Philippines, reaching this milestone required staying true to its history as an innovator—shaking up the palate with unique flavors and cultural fusions—while being grounded by what it wants to offer: comfort, value, and flavorful memories.

Erickson Farillas, the visionary behind Ramen Nagi Philippines, puts it this way, “In the last 10 years, the iconic red Ramen Nagi bowl saw many unique ramen experiences, but always the same last scenario: an empty bowl and smiling faces. I believe we got here because we understand that ramen is not just food; it’s an experience, a work of art. It must celebrate tradition and also push boundaries. Do this, then you will go far.”

Celebrating a decade of culinary excellence, Ramen Nagi’s journey has just begun, and we are fortunate to be part of this delicious ride.

Follow @ramennagimanila on Instagram and Ramen Nagi PH Facebook for more updates.

October 17, 2023
New promo alert! Get free Krispy Kreme doughnuts using your BPI Debit Card

The Ber months cannot get any sweeter, so doughnut miss this deal with your BPI Debit Card!

If you’re a BPI Debit cardholder, you can get 3 FREE Original Glazed doughnuts from Krispy Kreme when you spend at least Php 3,000 in any in-store merchants, anywhere from October 1 to November 30, 2023! This promo is open to BPI Debit Mastercard, BPI Debit Cirrus, and BPI Debit Cirrus Gold cardholders.

To avail, simply present a BPI Debit Card transaction slip dated October 1 to November 30, 2023. Remember, online transactions are excluded, and cardholders may avail of the promo only once per redemption day, and per store.

Ready with your receipt? Redeem your free box of three (3) Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts at participating Krispy Kreme stores on the following dates: October 12, 19, and 26; and November 16, 23, and 30.

To learn more, visit www.bpi.com.ph. You can also follow @BPI on Facebook and @officialbpi on Instagram for more news and updates.

October 13, 2023
Totoo ang chismis! #DeliciouslyDifferentChicken na ang Chowking Chinese-Style Fried Chicken!

Chowking, the #1 Chinese QSR brand in the Philippines, brings a deliciously different spin to its beloved Chinese-Style Fried Chicken!

More and more people are discovering the unique flavors of Chowking’s Chinese-Style Fried Chicken. Chowking sneakily held a mystery pop-up event at Capital Commons, Pasig from October 6 to 7. At the pop-up, regular customers and passersby were given a chance to do a taste test of unbranded fried chicken to get their real and unbiased reactions. Not knowing where it came from at first, they later discovered the delicious surprise that it was from Chowking.

Their experiences speak for themselves – from the resounding crunch that comes from the first bite to how the taste perfectly lingers at the last bite. The general consensus? Flavorful at nanunuot ang sarap hanggang sa buto, proving that its burst of authentic Chinese flavors and spices truly makes Chowking’s chicken deliciously different.

Dine in at a Chowking branch near you to discover the #DeliciouslyDifferentChickenfor yourself! You can also enjoy at home via Take-Out, Drive-Thru, and delivery through chowkingdelivery.com or the Chowking App.

Never miss out and share your experiences online when you find out what makes Chowking’s Chinese Style Fried Chicken different.

Follow us on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok

October 13, 2023
A Feast of Horrors Takes Over Shangri-La The Fort, Manila
It’s time to put on your witch’s and wizard’s hats and flock to Shangri-La The Fort, Manila for a Halloween experience on Sunday, October 29 at High Street Café. With tricks, treats, and cauldrons full of eats — here’s a little something you and your family can look forward to this month.

With nine spook-tacular themed buffet stations cooked á la minute, this is an experience you, and your little friends will truly enjoy. Make your way through the High Street Café halls and savour dishes straight from our chef’s cauldron. From pasta, satisfying your charcuterie agenda, sampling our sushi selection, and of course digging into our mains which vary from Prime Rib to Salmon en Croute, there’s bound to be something for the whole family to enjoy.

And when you thought Halloween could not get more exciting, when you dine at High Street Café, your little one can get a special Halloween Card which allows you to purchase an Adventure Zone guest pass for only Php 800. See terms and conditions below.

A Spooky Playdate with Boni the Bull in Adventure Zone
1. The Halloween card entitles the bearer to avail of an Adventure Zone guest pass for a single child for PHP 800. Guests who will dine with children for lunch in High Street Café on October 29, 2023 are entitled to avail of the Halloween Card.
2. The Halloween Card can be used to avail of an Adventure Zone guest pass for one time only and is valid any day from October 29 until November 5, 2023, subject to availability. No extensions will be granted.
3. The Halloween Card cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts, Adventure Zone parties and events, privileges, or other gift certificates.
4. The Halloween Card and the High Street Café official receipt must be presented at the Adventure Zone reception desk to purchase an Adventure Zone guest pass. Use of the Halloween Card must be mentioned when availing of the Adventure Zone guest pass and for reserving a play period slot. Advanced reservation of a play period slot is recommended.
5. The Halloween Card is not for sale and is not exchangeable for cash in part or in whole. A damaged or altered Halloween Card will not be accepted and is not replaceable in case of loss.
6. The holder of the Halloween Card shall abide by the House Rules of Adventure Zone and follow at all times the advice and instructions of the Adventure Zone staff. Those who do not observe the Adventure Zone rules may be required to leave the premises or be refused admission.
7. Children and adults are required to come in the prescribed dress code (cotton long sleeves, trousers, and socks for children; socks for adults.)
8. Children must be accompanied by one (1) adult guardian within the activity area. No additional guardian will be allowed.
9. The Halloween Card must be surrendered upon availing of the Adventure Zone guest pass.
October 13, 2023
M Bakery Revels in Sweet Indulgence with NY Cheesecakes and Classic American Pies

M Bakery, renowned for classic American confections, is pulling back the curtains to showcase their irresistible cheesecakes and traditional pies. Sure, you’ve probably savored their banana pudding and cupcakes, but there’s more sweetness waiting! From the heart of New York to international destinations like Dubai and Bangalore, aficionados are reveling in their delightful cheesecake and pie varieties.

Filipino Flair: Calamansi Cheesecake Magic

M Bakery has seamlessly woven Filipino taste into their renowned Key Lime Cheesecake. Introducing the Calamansi Cheesecake: a fusion of tangy calamansi and opulent cream cheese. It’s a Manila exclusive – a tribute to the local palate, crowned with a graham cracker crust and a whipped cream peak. M Bakery’s Calamansi Cheesecake is flavored with fresh calamansi juice and finished with a graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches (₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 2,800).

Sweet Serenade: Caramel Pecan Perfection

Venture into the world of creamy elegance with M Bakery’s Caramel Pecan Cheesecake. Envision a creamy vanilla bean cheesecake base, lavishly swathed in homemade caramel and sprinkled with toasted pecans. A harmonious blend of textures and tastes that sings to the soul! Each forkful is a journey through layers of velvety cheesecake and a medley of sweet, nutty perfection. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches (₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 2,800).

Berry Delight: Blueberry Cheesecake Mastery

The Blueberry Cheesecake at M Bakery isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. Imagine a bed of fresh blueberries, atop a classic vanilla bean cheesecake, culminating with a graham cracker finale. The secret? Only the freshest blueberries make the cut – no cans here! What sets this delight apart is their commitment to using only the freshest blueberries, steering clear of canned alternatives commonly found in other bakeries. It’s available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 345), 6 inches (₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 3,250).

Velvety Red Charm: Red Velvet Reimagined

Introducing the Red Velvet Cheesecake, where luxury meets taste. Think rich, chocolate undertones, with a hint of tanginess, all nestled on a chocolate cookie crumb crust, and subtly tart cheesecake resting on a chocolate cookie crumb crust, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. A creation that tastes as heavenly as it sounds. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches
(₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 2,800).

Cookie Enchantment: Lotus Biscoff Extravaganza

If cookie butter makes you swoon, M Bakery’s Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake is your dream incarnate. A cookie butter lover’s dream that leaves customers craving for more. It’s made with Lotus Speculoos spread on a Lotus Biscoff cookie crumb crust, then finished off with yet another generous layer of Lotus spread and sprinkles of Lotus Biscoff crumbs. It’s a dream come true for Biscoff enthusiasts and a delightful twist on a classic cheesecake. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches (₱ 1,775), 9 inches (₱ 3,725).

Nostalgic Nibbles: Apple Crumb Pie Comfort

Each bite of M Bakery’s Apple Crumb Pie is a stroll down memory lane. This single-crust pie is filled with delicious golden apples, cooked to perfection, and topped with a crumbly, butter topping. Each bite is a warm embrace of comfort and nostalgia, making it a must-have for any occasion. Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 450) and 9-inch pie (₱ 1,350).

Pudding & Pie Fusion: Banana Cream Magic

The iconic taste of M Bakery’s banana pudding, now in pie form. Vanilla wafer crust, fresh bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and a whipped cream zenith. Absolute bliss in every bite! This classic pie is filled with fresh bananas and vanilla pudding atop a vanilla wafer crust and piled with mile-high whipped cream. If you’re a fan of their banana pudding, then this dessert should be on your list on your next visit. Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 450) and 9-inch pie (₱ 1,350).

M Bakery’s Best-Kept Secret: Blueberry Jamboree

Meet the under-the-radar sensation: the Blueberry Jamboree. With a pecan shortbread base, creamy layers, and a crown of fresh blueberries, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. An absolute favorite among M Bakery’s super fans worldwide. This luscious treat features a pecan shortbread crust layered with whipped cream and cream cheese filling and finished with a crown of juicy fresh blueberries (not canned blueberries). Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 595) and 9-inch pie (₱ 2,300).

Southern Elegance: Pecan Pie Tradition

Embrace the warmth of southern hospitality with the classic Pecan Pie. This dessert is a harmonious blend of crunchy pecans and a delectably sweet brown sugar syrup, all encased in a traditional pie crust. Each slice is not just a dessert; it’s an experience of the South. Loaded with pecans and enveloped in a sweet and delicious brown sugar syrup mixture, each slice is a celebration of southern hospitality and culinary mastery. Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 450) and 9in pie (₱ 1,950).

Craving these mouthwatering treats? M Bakery‘s delicacies grace their shelves year-round. Swing by their flagship store at Lower Ground of One Bonifacio High Street Mall, or call (+632) 847-9829 or (+63) 917-633-1718 to get your baked treats or to place your advance orders. For your convenience, they’re also available on GrabFood, Food Panda, and Pick.A.Roo. Stay updated on their sumptuous offerings by following M Bakery on Facebook and Instagram. Get to also visit M Bakery’s other stores in Power Plant Mall (2^nd floor) in Rockwell, Makati City, SM Megamall (Upper Ground Level, Mega B), and Mitsukoshi BGC (Basement Food Hall).

October 12, 2023
Doña Elena invites diners on a Mediterranean Journey with Jones All-Day Limited- Edition Menu

Classic recipes, familiar ingredients, and a trip to the cities with good food as the beginning. At Jones All-Day Bistro and Bakery, a relaxed and show-stopping experience awaits, where casual vibe and extravagance of flavors are harmoniously combined.

That’s why this month, the country’s no.1 Olive Oil Doña Elena, brings another Mediterranean experience through its latest partnership with Jones All-Day with Raintree Group of Restaurants corporate chef and Doña Elena chef ambassador as the helm, Kalel Chan. This limited edition three-course menu is specially priced at P1,200 net and can be ordered separately until November 10, 2023. The portion is impressive and the price is also made accessible to highlight the Doña Elena Special Menu, featuring a different twist on the Mediterranean.

As one of the chefs with close familiarity and unparalleled trust in Doña Elena products, chef Kalel’s special Doña Elena menu is a game changer. The appetizer consists of a trio of an irresistible interplay of Mediterranean and Filipino flavors using different techniques, which chef Kalel describes as “the cooking journey of being a chef.” The first dish is a Grilled Barbeque Gremolata Pork Iberico using Doña Elena Pure Olive Oil. Succulent and smoky, the rendition is inspired by the Filipino-favorite street side grill, using an intensely marbled secreto iberico, smothered with a gremolata sauce and Doña Elena anchovies as part of the mix.

The second appetizer Hamachi Crudo Pani Puri with Sinigang Aguachile features a delightful burst of fried golden hollowed semolina dough stuffed with minced Doña Elena green olives and capers, cucumbers and tomatoes, topped with a fresh hamachi fish lightly drizzled with Doña Elena Extra Virgin Olive Oil. It’s finished with a light pouring of aguachile, a zesty sinigang soup base. The last item for the appetizer is the Adobong Pusit Arancini with Grilled Pulpo and Bonito Aioli. A dish inspired by the fried Italian appetizer rice balls, it’s fried in Doña Elena Pomace Olive Oil to achieve its crisp, crunchy exterior and golden brown color. This bite-sized treat is a mouthful of umami-rich flavors added with Doña Elena green olives and a light drizzle of Doña Elena Extra Virgin Olive Oil to enhance its creamy and balanced flavor.

Featuring chef Kalel’s favorite dish, consider the toothsome hunk of Grilled Lamb Ribs using Doña Elena Pomace Olive Oil as the star of the show. Laid on a homemade harissa sauce with cold orzo salad added with Doña Elena Black Olives, this rendition brings out a tried and true taste of the Mediterranean. As a staple Mediterranean condiment, the made-from-scratch harissa sauce heavily uses Doña Elena Pure Olive Oil, blended with warming and fiery spices such as chilies, cumin, and coriander balanced with a lightly sweet, red capsicum, which provides its bright orange color. The mixture makes the perfect pair to balance the smoky, charred lamb ribs, served with a light and cold orzo salad with Doña Elena black olives, drizzled with Doña Elena Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Finished with a bright and citrusy gremolata made of finely chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon, it boasts a refreshing balance to the heaviness of the tender and smoky lamb meat.

As a finale, the labneh ice cream is both rich and refreshing, and an indulgent Mediterranean recipe. Its flavor note is a cross between cream cheese and yogurt with a delightful balance of tang and saltiness. For a sweet touch, it’s mixed with sesame-pistachio brittle for some crunch, drizzled with a fruity and fragrant rosemary oil using Doña Elena Olive Oil as its main ingredient.

For a seasoned chef like Kalel, Filipino food is still a go-to dish at home. “Mediterranean dishes use a lot of herbs, which Filipino food usually doesn’t have. But I love to cook Filipino dishes because it’s very homey and I infuse them with Mediterranean ingredients, such as Doña Elena Olive Oil. For example, a simple adobo can be uplifted using Doña Elena Pure Olive Oil,” he notes. For Kalel, cooking oil is the foundation of good cooking, that’s why he puts a premium on the kind of olive oil that he uses. “It’s easy to cook at home when you have good quality ingredients,” he adds.

With Doña Elena’s 100% pure Spanish olive oil, it can easily elevate the taste of any dish with myriad health benefits. Packed with antioxidants and rich in vitamins A, E, and K, this exceptional olive oil is a kitchen staple—something home cooks and chefs reach for day in and day out. Additionally, aside from the extra virgin for dips and salads, pure for sauteing, and pomace olive oil for frying and roasting, Doña Elena offers a diverse range of Mediterranean ingredients to cater to every culinary need.

The Doña Elena special set menu is available at the Jones All-Day Bistro and Bakery throughout the day from 7 am to 10 pm, Monday to Sunday at Serendra, BGC. For more information, visit Doña Elena Cuisinera Club on Facebook and Doña Elena Cuisinera Club on Instagram.

October 12, 2023
Krispy Kreme Revives Childhood Memories with a Scooby-Doo Halloween!

Halloween is often about the spine-tingling tales, ghoulish costumes, and, of course, the sweet treats. This year, it’s not just about ghosts and witches, but a blast from the past as Krispy Kreme Philippines unveils a delightful surprise. And guess what? Scooby-doo, the iconic Warner Bros. cartoon character we all adored, is taking center stage!

Scooby-doo: A Nostalgic Flashback

Originating in 1969, Scooby-doo and his mystery-solving gang have consistently kept us on the edges of our seats. Owned by Warner Bros., this iconic American cartoon has woven its delightful tales into the fabric of many childhood memories.

Exclusive Krispy Kreme Delights

This festive season, Krispy Kreme is unveiling two exclusive doughnuts that are bound to ignite those fond childhood memories and perhaps, the spirit of mystery-solving!

First up is the Scooby-doo doughnut, a ring doughnut dipped in blue chocolate coating, dolloped with orange kreme & topped with lime green icing and decorated with an adorable Scooby-doo candy topper.

Second is the iconic Mystery Machine doughnut, a ring doughnut dipped in dark choco, sprinkled with choco sprinkles & topped with lime green icing & Mystery Machine candy topper. Who will ever forget this unique van that transports us to the grimmest crime scenes?

That’s not it! After a grueling time of finding clues, quench your thirst with the Midnight Mallow Kreme Soda. It is a cauldron-inspired drink made with Mug Root Beer, toasted mallow flavor, topped with sea salt kreme and finished off with dark chocolate sprinkles. The best pair to your Halloween doughnut!

“We love Halloween at Krispy Kreme! It’s one of our most favorite seasons and we are glad to be offering a very special doughnut collection for our Originals. The Scooby-doo Halloween Doughnuts are close to our hearts as we all grew up watching them solve different mysteries and to be able to bring them to life is something we are looking forward to! We hope that our guests would also enjoy this collection while getting on that Halloween costume or hopping on their Trick or Treat trips! We’re really excited to see you in one of our stores and try on our Scooby-doo collection!” said Ysabel Cruz, Senior Marketing Manager of Krispy Kreme.

Satisfy your mystery-loving taste buds with the Scooby-doo Halloween doughnuts, priced from P70, and the enchanting Midnight Mallow Kreme Soda at P135 for 20oz. But hurry, they’re available from October 13 to 31, 2023, only. Whether you wish to visit in person or prefer a doorstep delivery, a host of options including now.krispykreme.com.ph, GrabFood, Foodpanda, Pick.a.Roo, OrderMo, and Groover are at your service.

October 11, 2023
The Bistro Group’s expansion continues with recent openings and upcoming stores

The Bistro Group pursues its expansion program with the opening of new stores in various locations in the metropolis.

Opening this October are Texas Roadhouse branches at Venice Grand Canal, Mckinley Hill, Taguig; Glorietta; Circuit Mall Makati and SM BF while Italianni’s will launch branches at Circuit Mall and SM BF this October.

Its Chinese restaurant concept, Modern Shang, just opened a branch at Eastwood Mall More stores will be introduced this year at SM BF, Ayala North Exchange, Vista Mall Dasmarinas and Malolos.

Meanwhile El Pollo Loco branches will serve you soon at Trinoma Mall this October and another at The Shops Ayala Triangle Gardens in December while The Bistro Group’s Spanish concept, Tomatito, will open at Estancia Mall side by side with Buffalo Wild Wings this November.

Randy’s, on the other hand, is ready to roll out those huge, fluffy donuts in more locations. One recently opened at UP Town Center bringing to 12 the total number of branches in the country. It has also secured two new locations at NAIA Terminal 2 and Arcovia in Pasig City that is set to open soon.

The Bistro Group’s Japanese concept, Watami, will launch new stores at Vista Mall Dasmarinas and Malolos.

Watch out for these new branches opening in areas near you.

Follow @thebistrogroup.

October 10, 2023
Sheraton Manila Hotel Introduces New Executive Chef Andrea Burzio with S Kitchen’s Pranzo & Cena: Italian Family Feasts

Sheraton Manila Hotel is proud to introduce its new Executive Chef, the culinary virtuoso Andrea Burzio, alongside the launch of Pranzo & Cena: Italian Family Feasts, a remarkable culinary journey that is set to transform the city’s dining scene.

Meet Chef Andrea Burzio: A Culinary Visionary

Sheraton Manila Hotel’s freshly appointed Executive Chef Andrea Burzio invites everyone to savor his first creation, “Pranzo e Cena.”

With over 15 years of international culinary experience, Chef Andrea Burzio brings a world of expertise and innovation to Sheraton Manila Hotel. Beyond his culinary prowess, Chef Burzio embodies a dynamic, energetic, and passionate approach to the dining experience. His philosophy revolves around a hands-on, proactive approach, where every meal becomes an extraordinary event.

Chef Burzio’s culinary journey is a captivating narrative. It begins with his role as the Executive Sous Chef at Sandy Lane Barbados, an iconic luxury resort in the Caribbean. Here, he not only oversaw the Fine Dining Restaurant Acajou but elevated it to receive a prestigious 5-Star Forbes inspection rating, making it the best fine dining restaurant in Barbados. Additionally, Bajan Blue, another outlet at the resort, was hailed as the best brunch spot on the island.

Next, his culinary adventures took him to Shangri-la Kowloon Hong Kong, where he started as the Chef de Cuisine at Angelini, a fine dining haven in Hong Kong’s bustling Tsim Sha Tsui district. His dedication and leadership played a pivotal role in earning Angelini a place among the Top 100 city restaurants in Hong Kong for two consecutive years. Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Chef Burzio orchestrated remarkable results, increasing profitability, revenue, and covers by an impressive 35%.

Chef Burzio’s voyage continued at Acqua, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts Mactan, where he managed Acqua Restaurant and the VIP Ocean Club Lounge. Here, he orchestrated breakfast, lunch, dinner, poolside service, and cocktail hours, serving between 300 to 500 meals daily. His adept management of a team of over 25 chefs, menu engineering, and food cost control, guest relations, and PR and media interactions established him as a true culinary luminary.

The allure of French cuisine beckoned, and Chef Burzio answered the call. In Aix En Provence, France, he took charge of a 45-seat demigastro restaurant and worked as an executive consultant for a new tapas bistro project. His role extended beyond the culinary realm, as he provided culinary vision, managed back-of-the-house operations, selected menu items, recruited and trained a high-caliber team, and handled purchasing, inventory control, and menu research and development. His influence even extended to kitchen hardware layout and planning for the new outlet.

Chef Burzio’s journey also led him to Thailand and Myanmar, where he served as the Head Chef for Zanotti Group. In this role, he managed Seasonal Restaurant in Khao Yai National Park, Thailand, a fine dining Italian sanctuary. His responsibilities then extended to oversee the opening of another fine dining Italian restaurant in Yangon, Myanmar, where he supervised and trained a team of young chefs, ensuring quality control and adherence to executive chef standards.

The culinary odyssey didn’t stop there. Chef Burzio explored a unique avenue as the Senior Sous Chef at Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Onboard one of the three ships, he oversaw breakfast, brunches, all-day dining, bar and lounge service, managing a small team under executive supervision. His poise and performance in the high-pressure cruise ship environment were truly commendable.

Finally, Chef Burzio’s journey led him to the prestigious Michelin-starred La Barrique restaurant, where he worked closely with Michelin-starred Chef Gallo. This chapter of his career involved mastering the art of slow cooking, mousses, espumas, and advanced food preparation techniques. He managed a staff of three highly skilled international chefs and was responsible for catering and private events.

Pranzo & Cena: Italian Family Feasts – Chef Andrea Burzio’s Culinary Masterpiece

Simultaneously, Sheraton Manila Hotel is excited to introduce Pranzo & Cena: Italian Family Feasts, an unparalleled culinary experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Italy. Inspired by the warmth of Italian family traditions, this dining experience aims to elevate communal moments, fostering stronger ties among family and friends.

What makes Pranzo & Cena truly special is that it’s the brainchild of Chef Andrea Burzio himself. Drawing from his extensive culinary journey and passion for authentic Italian cuisine, Chef Burzio has curated a menu that takes guests on a tantalizing journey through Italy’s most exquisite flavors. Pranzo & Cena will be available from Monday to Saturday, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, starting October 2, 2023. Weekday dining is priced at 3,200 net per person, while weekend dining is offered at 3,500 net per person.

To ensure a delightful and intimate experience, reservations are highly recommended and can be made via http://www.skitchenmanila.comor by calling (63 2) 7902-1800 or (63 917) 859-7496. Exclusive discounts are available for Club Marriott members, Marriott Bonvoy members, Newport World Resorts members, and those eligible for government-mandated discounts.

In a time where connections and shared experiences are more vital than ever, Pranzo & Cena: Italian Family Feasts invites everyone to slow down, savor every moment, and relish the joy of shared meals with loved ones, under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Andrea Burzio.

For more information about Sheraton Manila Hotel, you can visit their website at www.sheratonmanila.com or follow their social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @sheratonmanila. You can also reach them by phone at (63 2) 7902-1800 or (63 917) 859-7496.

October 4, 2023
Celebrate Christmas at The Peninsula starting October 6!

It’s never too early to enjoy the world’s longest festive season which is why the countdown to Christmas at The Peninsula Manila starts on Friday, October 6 with The Lobby’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

From the moment of arrival, guests will step into holiday cheer with The Lobby’s dazzling 45-foot Christmas tree all lit up while catching up with friends and family and falling in love all over again with Philippine Christmas traditions over great food, drinks, and festivities.

While the lights and decorations have changed through the years, The Peninsula Manila’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony has remained a quintessential Manila experience for Manileños and visitors alike since December 1976 when then General Manager George Fraschina first lit the holiday season’s most festive tree decorated with thousands of red, white, and green bulbs. 47 years later, current General Manager Masahisa Oba continues this message of hope and peace of lighting up the tree with the children from Virlanie Foundation.

“This will be my fifth Christmas in Manila, but the buzz of excitement in the city with its holiday parties and festive gatherings never fades,” says General Manager Oba. “This is because at The Peninsula Manila, we make the holiday season easy with planning everything from festive hampers ready for pick-up in our gingerbread house to Christmas decorations in our guest rooms, making it our guests’ home away from home for the holidays.”

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will also coincide with a festive concert that will have the Lighter Side Movement Orchestra and Chorale , along with The Peninsula Strings, performing holiday tunes that guests can sing along to while enjoying a festive merienda buffet at The Lobby.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Lobby
October 6, Friday
3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Merienda Buffet
P3,500 (including a flute of Champagne)
P2,500 (adults)
P1,250 (children under 12)

Prices are inclusive of taxes

Guests should book their tables now as they are going faster than they can spell C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S.

The Peninsula Manila’s Christmas Tree and festive decorations will shine brightly from October 6, 2023 through January 6, 2024.

For inquiries or table reservations, please call (63 2) 887-2888, extensions 6691 and 6694 (Restaurant Reservations), e-mail diningpmn@peninsula.com or visit peninsula.com.

October 3, 2023