“Look out for more complex, ‘spicier and funkier’ and ‘true to region’ Asian foods from Northern (Issam) Thai cuisine, Japanese okonomiyaki pancakes and Filipino food.”

– Sterling Rice Group

Filipino food has never been more beloved or in the spotlight. As early as 2014, The Sterling Rice Group predicted that Filipino food would be one of the top culinary trends that would influence and inspire the foodservice industry in 2015. This year alone has seen a wave of positive affirmation for our local fare, with CNN’s social media poll ranking the Philippines as second for the world’s best food destinations and Antonio’s by Chef Tonyboy Escalante being included in the Asia’s 50 Best list.

Inspired by this, The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang launches a one-of-a-kind Filipino Food Festival to celebrate the best of Filipino cuisine, heritage and artistry. “This September 11 to September 27, 2015, we invite you to partake of timeless Filipino classics prepared by the Hotel’s Executive Chef Konrad Walter, with the special participation of culinary personality Dedet “Lechon Diva” Dela Fuente Santos”, says Nian Liwanag-Rigor, Assistant Vice-President for Public Relations and Corporate Communications.

Enjoy reinvented favorites from Lechon Diva Dedet Santos, such as the bestseller Truffle Rice Stuffed Lechon de Leche, Hiplog (shrimps with salted egg sauce), and Balut Salpicao. Her classics of Pancit Parañaque, Mango Trifle and Super Suman, as well as modern combinations like the Adobo Pizza and Palabok Pizza are just some of the sumptuous offerings. Not to be missed are the hotel’s special bibingka and puto bumbong set-up at the alfresco area.

The Manila Hotel also invited people who all have a passion for anything Filipino in their respective crafts to display their works at the storied halls of the hotel. From August 28 to September 27, 2015, marvel at exquisitely romantic Maria Clara gowns and modern chic ternos as well as crafty art pieces and paintings.

To know more about the Filipino Food Festival, please contact The Manila Hotel’s Food and Beverage Team at telephone 527-0011 local 1260 or 1261.

Manila Hotel Lead photo 1 Manila Hotel lead photo 2

Native decorations such as kiping (brightly-colored, lead-shaped wafer made of rice paste) adorn Café Ilang-Ilang, resembling a Filipino fiesta that is sure to make an unforgettable Filipino food dining experience.
Native decorations such as kiping (brightly-colored, lead-shaped wafer made of rice paste) adorn Café Ilang-Ilang, resembling a Filipino fiesta that is sure to make an unforgettable Filipino food dining experience.
Art pieces and paintings by Patsy Paterno, Peggy Pilapil-Lasa, and Martie Datu await art lovers who will dine at the Café Ilang-Ilang during the festival period.
Art pieces and paintings by Patsy Paterno, Peggy Pilapil-Lasa, and Martie Datu await art lovers who will dine at the Café Ilang-Ilang during the festival period.
Dedet dela Fuente Santos spices up Filipino fare at Café Ilang-Ilang
Dedet dela Fuente Santos spices up Filipino fare at Café Ilang-Ilang