Go on a food trip around the Philippines this Independence Day
Words by The Miller
Food has a unique way of telling stories about a nation’s history, culture and its people. Here in the Philippines, Filipino cuisine has always been part of our warm welcome and great hospitality that Filipinos are known for around the world.
A lot more of this culinary experience will be showcased by Dusit Thani Manila as the hotel brings Lasa Regional Food Festival just in time for the celebration of Independence Day. From the title of festival itself, Lasa– a Filipino word for taste or flavors- it’s easy to know what to expect from this weeklong festival. Guests will be taken on a trip around the Philippines, featuring the rich and finest Filipino dishes from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
And if it’s truly local flavors that you seek, fret not- Dusit Thani Manila invited three guest chefs from different regions to provide authenticity and diversity in the offerings. For Luzon, there’s Chef Chris Hernan De Jesus, Chef Gil George Jucaban for Visayas and Chef Datu Shariff Pendatun for Mindanao.
“We bring culinary experts from each region to deliver authentic and vibrant flavors unique from their region,” said Stanley Lo, Dusit Thani Manila’s General Manager, during his opening remarks.
GM Stanley Lo also mentioned that this initiative was in support to Department of Tourism’s programs to promote food tourism in the country. The opening night was graced by one of the DOT officials, the Regional Director for NCR, Ms. Sharlene Zabala- Batin.
Apart from Filipino cuisine, guests were also treated to the best of Philippine art. Dusit Thani Manila also invited Kartini Gallery Asia to dress up the hotel lobby with masterpieces from local artists. Highlighting the works of award-winning artist Joe Dautin, the art exhibit was truly a feast for your eyes.
Adding pride to the Filipino-themed night was the beautiful and colorful presentation by Sindaw Philippines Art Performing Guild. Their jaw-dropping interpretation of Philippine folk dances from different regions set the mood for guests to have a deeper appreciation of Philippine traditions and culture.
Guests were treated to an amazing spread of Filipino dishes at The Pantry, which have been carefully curated spanning from different regions.
For appetizers, Kinilaw and Ensalada sections boast an interesting selection. If you’re craving for street foods, they have banana cue, empanada, kwek-kwek, barbecue and balut.
Having Lechon is a definite delight, which is the epitome of Filipino fiesta.
Savor main dishes like Bicol Express, Lengua Estofado, Igado, Pinakbet and Bopis. Rice and noodles station highlights Arroz Valenciana Negros, Bam I Cebu, Pancit Habhab, Lomi Batangas and Batchoy.
Visayan dishes that will surely satify include Kansi, Linarang, Paklay and Kadyos.
Hailing from Maguindanao, Chef Datu introduced Moro dishes like Piyanggang Manok, Beef Kulma, Tiyula Itim, Pinamilit A Balbed, and Riyandang Kambing.
End the meal on a sweet note with an array of well-loved desserts, including the famous Durian Cheesecake, Tibuk Tibok, Tocino del Cielo from Pampanga, Suman Antipolo, Brazo de Mercedes, Sansrival, Bukayo and many more.
Foodies are in for a Filipino cuisine treat at The Pantry from June 10-19, 2022. An amazing spread of Filipino specialties is available on weekends for PHP 2,500++ per person and a special a la carte menu during weekdays.