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Mark Wiens is bonkers about food. Having run his eponymous YouTube channel since 2010, the foodie has amassed a following of 10 million subscribers tuning in weekly to indulge in his international tasty escapades.
“I've been abnormally obsessed with food ever since I can remember,” the YouTuber told The Beat Asia in an online interview from his home in Bangkok, Thailand.
Mark has ventured everywhere to expose the greatness of food: Ghana to dine on exotic animals, Uzbekistan to sample sheep and horse meat, Mexico for tacos galore, Las Vegas to showcase glitzy buffets, Delhi to survive spicy street food, and Spain to chomp on seafood.
After a decade of food reporting on YouTube and entering his fourth year of operating his Bangkok-based pad krapao-focused restaurant, Phed Mark, the foodie superstar sat down with The Beat Asia to explore his illustrious journey, from budding food lover to notorious culinary reporter.
Born of mixed Chinese-German heritage, Mark spent his early life travelling the globe, following his missionary parents to France, the DR Congo, and Kenya. Primed by his global living experiences, he developed an insatiable curiosity about food.
“Food was a major part of visiting family, specifically travelling to Hawaii, where my mom is from. The island state has access to great seafood, fresh ingredients, and a unique cross-cultural blending of Hawaiian and Asian - Chinese, Japanese, and Filipinos.”
Mark pursued his tertiary studies at the multicultural Arizona State University, engaging with his long-held culinary curiosity with a range of international faces found on campus. He routinely headed south across the U.S.-Mexico border on “food rampages,” as he coins, to join friends in their hometowns, soaking up Mexican cuisine and culture.
“Even though I wasn't able to travel as much when I was in university, I was still able to feed that curiosity of food and culture, and learn about other people being where I was,” he says.
Graduating from college in 2009, Mark collected his savings and committed to an adventure across the world to eat and sightsee. His first foray into recording his experiences began with the founding of Migrationology, a blog journaling guides and information for each country he visited. Mark soon found himself moving to Thailand later that year to teach English, digging deeper into the underbelly of Southeast Asia.
“It took me a year to realise that I don’t enjoy [visiting] museums or running around hitting a city’s top 10 attractions. I’d be happier focusing on food.”
“For two years, I continued to capture the food I was eating and pen blog posts. I loved exploring street food, not just for the food itself, but also for the atmosphere and culture. However, when you just take a photo of the food, you can’t sense that atmosphere. It’s hard to imagine the action or energy of a place.”
“In 2010, YouTube existed simply as a place for watching unedited funny clips. I had a small point and shoot camera, a Canon PowerShot, and began to upload simple shots of food that I enjoyed onto YouTube, describing the flavours and sights. That’s where the emotion of food comes from. I knew video would be the future [online], so I decided to upload two videos each week, non-stop, of my travels around the world. I have never stopped.”
For a decade, Mark has zeroed in on presenting local street food to the masses, rich finds hidden in communities that many a tourist may never seek. “I fell in love with street food because it’s accessible, visual, and budget friendly.”
“Old school mom-and-pop house-style restaurants serve some of the best street food on earth. With street food, you can sense the energy and freshness of the food, and you can connect with the person cooking.”
Mark has previously quoted in interviews his inspirations from Anthony Bourdain, and it is easy to compare him to the late revered food presenter. “He was a pioneer in food and the possibilities of being able to travel to a destination to explore the food and meet the people through food.”
“[Like him], I love how you can connect with the owner of a restaurant or food stall, who may be the chef or family. You can have a personal conversation with them and many people in the neighbourhood. Everyone has their own unique story of how they started cooking, and it's this connection you get with eating street food.”
It is the yummy bowls of noodles, warm plates of meat, and salty-sweet-spicy nibbles that have rendered Mark determined to report on the world’s street finds for 10 years running. “It's always been about the food. It's not so much about the videos, because even if I wasn't making videos, I would still be eating [laughs]!”
Mark’s need for innovation in the international food space came in 2019, when he joined three Bangkok-based industry friends, Khun Tan, Khun Pongthep, and Chef Gigg, to launch Phed Mark restaurant. “It started with a conversation with good Thai friends about pad krapow, a national stir-fry dish of Thailand cooked with holy basil and different types of meat.”
“It’s a diehard Thai dish that everyone knows and loves; there are many variations. We asked ourselves, why don’t we open a small restaurant serving a version of the dish we love?”
“It is an honour to be a part of this project. Thailand has been my home base since 2009. My family is Thai, my wife is Thai. The possibilities are endless.”
Photo: Instagram/@migrationology
The possibility for Mark to extend himself beyond the YouTube frame, and onto the silver screen, came in 2022, when the foodie was invited to the Lion City to create “Food Affairs with Mark Wiens,” an HBO Go-Singapore Tourism Board partnership exposing Singapore’s rich culinary culture in a six-part docuseries.
Mark continued his non-scripted act on TV, employing the temperate city as his playground to explore everything from local hawker finds to Michelin gourmet palaces. “The project was novel to me and exciting to dig deeper than I usually would in a city for a month.”
As he reflects in our interview, Mark is dogged in continuing his mission to serve his online community with a feed of engaging, yummy adventures across the world. “As I get older, I want to provide more value to serving my audience with more education of food.”
In mention of future opportunities to appear in front of the silver screen again, Mark says to watch this space.
Make sure to catch up on where Mark Wiens is travelling next to eat by heading to his YouTube channel or Instagram.
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Step aside, late-night clubbing, Asia’s new social trend is now all about swapping shots of tequila for espresso.
Coffee raves are a growing culture across cities in Asia, offering the same thumping DJ sets and dance floor energy but in broad daylight and fueled by specialty brews instead of booze.
A nod to the global sober-curious and wellness movement, Coffee raves are redefining the youth’s social scene, proving that you don’t need to stay out too late or drink alcohol to have a good time. Also known as “soft clubbing” or “café clubbing,” these caffeine-charged gatherings have been turning cafes, hotel lounges, and even public parks into vibrant hubs where music lovers, creatives, and coffee lovers collide. They are fun and sober alternative events that bring back the focus to making connections within a community — something that proves to be a challenge in traditional nightlife.
With more of these events popping up in cities across the region, we’ve curated some of the popular organizers that are actively hosting these daytime events. Whether it’s Beans & Beats in Singapore, coffee-party mornings in Bangkok, or community-led raves in Manila, there are several spots in the region where you can go coffee clubbing and get your groove on without getting tipsy.
Social Club Series (Hong Kong)
Photo from Instagram/Social Club Series
Organizers Sandy Lam Sin-yi and Isaac Woo Siu-hin launched the Social Club Series last March, which gave partying a daytime twist. This series of events offers themed and genre-driven pop-up parties in unexpected locations (revealed only after ticket purchase), ranging from cafes, pizza joints, and even rooftop spaces.
The series instantly blew up in Hong Kong, having catered to the growing desire for creative and sober-friendly socializing and experiences that won’t give you a massive hangover the next day.
Some of the notable editions in the series include “Coffee & Beats,” which is the first Social Cub Series, the “Crave & Rave,” which combines clubbing with pizza and gelato, and their “Paradise Pool Party.”
If you’re up for some daytime clubbing with espresso shots, their next Coffee & Beats series will include waffles and will take place on Oct. 5, 2025. For updates on the secret locations and ticket sales, follow them on Instagram.
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Made from Mushroom (Hong Kong)
Photo from Instagram/Made from Mushroom
This local wellness brand just hosted its first-ever daytime rave last August, coinciding with the launch of their instant coffee and drip coffee products infused with medicinal mushrooms. Some of the product benefits include boosting stamina, enhancing cognitive clarity, and reducing stress, so it’s fitting that the brand ventured into hosting sober events.
No upcoming events have been announced, but with this new staple product, we’re sure there’s more daytime raves to come. Stay tuned on their Instagram page for updates.
The Proofing Room by Mano Bakery (Macau)
DJ Ziyang at the Proofing Room | Photo from Facebook/Mano Bakery
Filipino-owned Mano Bakery made the announcement last June about a new monthly daytime event series, creating a community-centered event that marries coffee, music, and socializing.
With its owners having a background in the arts, marketing, and creative industries, Mano creates a space that allows emerging artists to showcase their talent and for locals to connect without disrupting their normal schedules.
This coffee culture community, founded by Jenil Aspiras, creates spaces where people can connect and dance while supporting local cafes. With over 40 partner venues, they provide brands with direct access to the coffee rave culture and offer coffee and music enthusiasts a new way to experience music.
They have already held several caffeine-charged raves in and out of the metro, from Quezon City to Markina and Alabang to Batangas City. Their most recent events were in Cavite on Sept. 6 at Crossing Café and in Shangri-la Plaza on Sept. 7.
Deemed as Bangkok’s signature daytime coffee and music event, Swasdee Cup Coffee is a community-led organizer where coffee culture meets coffee energy. They had their premiere rave last March at Rolling Roasters in Ekkamai-one, one of Bangkok’s specialty coffee shops, which was a massive success that led to several other parties, including their upcoming Coffee Festival in Song Wat this September. The fifth edition is reported to be the world’s first 3-Day Coffee Party Festival from Sept. 26 to 28, 2025.
You can buy your tickets here. General admission is priced at THB450. For updates on upcoming parties, follow them on Instagram.
Beans and Beats (Singapore)
Photo from Instagram/Beans and Beats
Singapore’s pioneering alcohol-free events concept puts together specialty coffee and underground music to form a one-of-a-kind experience.
According to the Beans and Beats website, the community was born from “a mission to prove that underground music can be not just enjoyed, but better appreciated in a sober environment.” It has since evolved from apartment gatherings to a full-blown movement that’s redefining social spaces in the city-state by promoting local roasteries, cafes, and DJs.
Stay tuned on their Instagram and TikTok pages for announcements on upcoming events. You can also watch full DJ sets during one of their coffee raves on their YouTube channel.
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KL Coffee & Beats (Kuala Lumpur)
Photo from Instagram/Take the Leap MY
This community has been active in the scene since August and has since been organizing coffee raves that blend caffeine and culture at the heart of the capital. They host and promote dynamic raves across the city, featuring various DJs and local venues.
Some of their upcoming event include social morning parties organized by Take the Leap and Journey Run Club, which invite you to run a few kilometers, all the while enjoying some good coffee in between and good beats afterwards.
For more information on upcoming events, visit their Instagram page.
Brew with Benefits Coffee Rave (Malaysia)
Photo from Website/Marriot Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy recently launched their campaign “Brew with Benefits,” which puts a creative spin on Merdeka celebrations by rolling out a travelling coffee rave that blends Malaysia’s café culture with music and national pride.
The raves, which started last August, will continue to take place at select Marriott Bonvoy hotels throughout September, with each stop transforming hotel lounges into vibrant spaces filled with live music and unique cultural experiences. One of its main highlights is the exclusive “cofftails (coffee-based cocktails)" menu inspired by Malaysian flavors such as pandan, Harumanis mango, pineapple, and rose syrup.
This campaign also allows members to earn points with every purchase of coffee or tea at participating cafés, delis, and lounges.
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Asia’s fast-casual dining scene is about to get extra spicy, in the Californian way. After years of global buzz and countless social media shoutouts, Chipotle Mexican Grill is finally making its debut in Asia. Teaming up with South Korea’s SPC Group, the legendary burrito bowls and guac-loaded creations are coming to South Korea and Singapore in 2026.
Photo from Instagram/ChipotlePhoto from Instagram/Chipotle
The move marks a major milestone for the California-based brand, which has built a global following thanks to its fresh ingredients, customizable bowls, and authentic approach to real food. With over 3,800 restaurants across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, with another 300 to open this year, Chipotle is now setting its sights on Asia’s dynamic dining scene, where demand for fast, flavorful, and responsibly sourced meals is ever-growing.
Known for its bold flavors and build-your-ownformat, Chipotle’s menu is popular among those who are after something fast, easy, and simply good. Their Chicken Burrito Bowl, for example, reigns supreme, packed with grilled chicken, rice, beans, salsa, and a generous scoop of guacamole. Other fan favorites include the Steak Burrito Bowl and Barbacoa Burrito, while their plant-based choices offer a hearty, spicy alternative.
Photo from Instagram/Chipotle
“Real food prepared fast is in high demand in these markets,” said Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright, citing strong brand awareness among Asian consumers. SPC Group, known for bringing Shake Shack and Paris Baguette to the region, will lead the charge locally. Executive VP Heesoo Hur added that they “see an opportunity to introduce Chipotle’s delicious, responsibly sourced food to guests across the continent who aren’t yet familiar with the concept.”
While the brand has not yet arrived in Asia, Chipotle has already gained their Asian fanbase, thanks in part to viral K-Pop shoutouts from BTS to Le Sserafim, and social media buzz due to their meme-style posts. The brand’s cultural influence and Californian taste have long been anticipated for lift-off.
Prepare for Chipotle’s openings in South Korea and Singapore next year. Until then, check out their website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for a sneak peek at their menu.
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Delight in a one-of-a-kind private dining experience at The Residence Bintan, where you can feast alongside lush mangrove forests and under a canopy of stars.
From immersive dinners to gastronomic journeys aboard legendary trains, today’s dining scene has truly stepped up, offering more than just a destination, but a place packed with meaningful experiences and sensory moments that linger long after you take the last bite.
At The Residence Bintan, dining meets nature in a truly unforgettable way with the resort’s signature Dining by the Mangroves experience. Set against the beach resort’s lush mangrove forest, guests can savor thoughtfully curated dishes that celebrate the flavours of the ocean while being enchanted by the tranquil environment.
Courtesy of The Residence Bintan
This intimate private BBQ experience includes a personal chef and server, a curated bottle of wine, and a venue where you can dine surrounded by mystical fireflies. Guests will be served an entrée, main course, and dessert featuring signature delights such as the Mangroves Tataki, a pan-seared sashimi with lemon yuzu and sesame oil, and the Island Lobster made with mango relish and peanut sauce.
Courtesy of The Residence BintanCourtesy of The Residence Bintan
More than the indulgent meal, this experience also carries a purpose as each dinner contributes to the resort’s mangrove reforestation initiative, allowing guests to plant saplings and support local marine ecosystems.
The private BBQ is priced at IDR3.200’ per couple. The destination also offers other menu packages such as the Island-Inspired BBQ menu, the Residence Romantic Dinner menu, and the Vegetarian Private BBQ menu. For reservations, call +62 778 6000 888.
You can learn more about it here. For reservations, email [email protected]. For updates on other exciting dining offers, follow The Residence Bintan on Facebook and Instagram.
Location: The Residence Bintan by Cenizaro,Kampung Galang Batang RT 005 RW 003, Desa/Kecamatan Gunung Kijang, Bintan, Kepri, Indonesia 29151
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The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for moonlit gatherings, glowing lanterns, and the exchange of mooncakes that carry centuries of tradition. Across Asia, luxury hotels, celebrated patisseries, and boutique bakeries are unveiling their 2025 collections, each blending artistry, flavor, and cultural heritage.
From Hong Kong’s inventive lava varieties to Manila’s refined classics, Singapore’s elegant gift sets, Bangkok’s modern twists, and Macau’s indulgent creations, these mooncakes go beyond festive treats — they’re edible works of art perfect for sharing with loved ones!
Imperial Patisserie: Lava Mooncakes & Various Mooncake Selections (Hong Kong)
Photo from Klook
Imperial Patisserie celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival with an imaginative collection curated by Master Yip Wing Wah, famed for creating the original Peninsula custard mooncake. This year’s series includes Bird’s Nest Custard, Lava Musang King Durian,and Low Sugar Tea Mooncakes, all arranged in premium keepsake boxes. For those seeking a festive centerpiece, the Deluxe Mid-Autumn Gift Box (24 pcs) combines mooncakes with palmiers, cookies, and egg rolls, offering an all-in-one celebratory set.
Location:Imperial Patisserie, 地舖, Lai Yuen Building, Lee Garden Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Bold, playful, and stylish, W Hong Kong reimagines tradition with its molten custard collection. The Mini Lava Egg Custard Gift Set offers six golden delights that reveal a luscious flowing center, while the Full Moon Gift Set and Blossom Treasure Gift Set elevate gifting with chic designs and modern flavors. These mooncakes are both decadent and fashionable, making them ideal for gatherings or as luxurious presents. Order yours now on Klook with a “Buy 2 Get 2” promo. Pick-up runs from Sept. 22 to Oct. 6, 2025, at W Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Location:W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road, West Kowloon Station, Hong Kong
W Hong Kong Mooncake Gift Set W Hong Kong Mon, September 22 10:00 AM
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Celebrate Mid-Autumn with W Hong Kong’s Lava Egg Custard Mooncake Gift Sets, available from Sept. 22 to Oct. 6, 2025.
Valerie Pastry marks the season with nine mooncakes that showcase both tradition and modern flair. Options include Lava Chocolate Hazelnut, Earl Grey Custard,Uji Matcha, Red Bean with Aged Tangerine Peel,and traditional Lotus Paste with Yolk. Designed by illustrator Fay Sze, the box captures the warmth of family reunions beneath the full moon, combining taste and aesthetics in one refined collection. These mooncakes are available for collection in Tsim Sha Tsui between Sept. 6 and Oct. 6, 2025, with instant confirmation at purchase.
Location:Valerie Pastry, 7樓C室, Wong King Industrial Building, 2-4號 Tai Yau St, San Po Kong, Hong Kong
Valerie Pastry 2025 Mooncake Flash Sale Offer Valerie Pastry 10:00 AM
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Celebrate Mid-Autumn with Valerie Pastry’s mooncake flash sale, featuring deluxe gift boxes and new flavours, available for a limited time.
Edsa Shangri-La, Manila presents its 2025 Mooncake Collection.Savor flavors such as Red Bean, White Lotus, Black Sesame, and Mixed Nuts, or snow skin favorites such as Hojicha and Champagne Chocolate, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The luxurious packaging adds an extra layer of sophistication. Packages are available to order daily at the hotel’s lobby lounge until Oct. 6, 2025.
Location: Edsa Shangri-La, Manila, 1 Garden Way, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, 1550 Metro Manila
Edsa Shangri-La, Manila - Mooncake Collection 2025 Edsa Shangri-La, Manila 10:00 AM
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Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with mooncakes from Edsa Shangri-La’s Summer Palace. Enjoy 25% off when you pre-order 10 gift boxes before Aug. 14.
Bites of Harmony: Solaire's Mid-Autumn Mooncake Festival 2025 (Manila)
Photo by Solaire Resort
Solaire Resort North brings modern luxury to this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival with artisanal mooncakes, featuring premium spirit pairings of Louis XIII, Dalmore 15 Years, and Fen Jiu 20–30 Years. Gift sets range from deluxe multi-piece boxes to mini mooncakes filled with lava custard. Orders require a 50% down payment, with full settlement by the pick-up date. Guests can pick up their orders until Oct. 6, 2025, at Red Lantern Solaire Resort North upon presentation of email confirmation.
Location:Solaire Resort North, Vertis North, 1 Solaire Way, Quezon City, 1105 Metro Manila
Bites of Harmony: Solaire's Mid-Autumn Mooncake Festival 2025 Solaire Resort Mon, September 15 9:00 AM
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Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with Solaire Resort, where gourmet mooncakes infused with premium spirits offer a luxurious gift experience for families.
Manila Hotel - Mooncake Box of Four (Manila)
Photo by The Manila Hotel
Mark the season with the return of The Manila Hotel’s handcrafted Mooncake Box of Four, available from Sept. 16 to Oct. 6, 2025. This curated set offers an exquisite assortment of flavors: Single Yolk Red Bean, Single Yolk Pure White Lotus, Milk Golden Sand House, Black Sesame, and Passion Fruit, each elegantly packed in a commemorative box inspired by the hotel’s storied façade. A special early bird offer of P2,721.60 nett is available until Sept. 15, with order pick-ups starting Sept. 16.
Location: The Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, 0913 Metro Manila
Manila Hotel - Mooncake Box of Four The Manila Hotel 10:00 AM
- 10:00 PM
Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with The Manila Hotel’s Mooncake Box of Four, featuring handcrafted flavors in an elegant commemorative box.
MOONCAKE 2025 | KIMPTON MAA-LAI BANGKOK (Bangkok)
Photo from Website/Megatix
Delight in a fusion of art and flavor this Mid-Autumn Festival at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok. Designed to be both decorative and functional, the hotel's mooncake collection box doubles as a wooden domino set. Crafted in partnership with Artstory by AutisticThai, this set brings the theme “Rhythm of Destiny” to life through artwork by Sireetorn “BamBam” Puriprecha and Rapeepat “Pi” Athiwattananont. Every purchase supports Artstory by AutisticThai, which empowers autistic artists through their craft.
Location:Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, 78 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
MOONCAKE 2025 | KIMPTON MAA-LAI BANGKOK Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok 10:00 AM
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Celebrate Mid-Autumn with Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok’s 2025 mooncake gift set. Choose from flavor options like Matcha Macadamia, Nutty Sesame Crunch, and more!
MOONCAKE 2025 | THE PENINSULA BANGKOK (Bangkok)
Photo from Website/Megatix
The Peninsula Bangkok unveils its 2025 Mooncake Collection! Enjoy the hotel’s signature Egg Custard Mooncakes, now available in single pieces or boxes of eight. There are also three new gourmet flavors: Osmanthus Tea, Lotus Seed, and Durian. A highlight of the collection is the Limited-Edition Moonlit Masquerade Box, created in collaboration with celebrated Thai artist Pomme Chan. This collectible set includes eight Egg Custard Mooncakes, two tea cups with saucers, and a teapot.
MOONCAKE 2025 at The Peninsula Bangkok The Peninsula Bangkok 10:00 AM
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Celebrate Mid-Autumn at The Peninsula Bangkok with signature egg yolk custard mooncakes, three new flavors, and Pomme Chan’s exclusive box.
Serpenti, 2025 Mooncake Collection | Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel (Bangkok)
Photo from Website/Megatix
Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel has collaborated for the first time with acclaimed Thai artist Krishna the Fifth for its one-of-a-kind Serpenti 2025 Mooncake Collection.Krishna's intricate artwork is inspired by the "Serpenti Lucky Loop," a symbol of fortune, health, and new beginnings. The Serpenti Trunk – Limited Edition combines four mooncakes, a custom-designed ceramic tea set, and an exclusive art print titled “Chandelier of Serpents.” Pick-up and delivery are available until Oct. 6, 2025.
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel Mid-Autumn Mooncakes (Singapore)
Photo from Klook
Mid-Autumn becomes a season of reunions with Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel’s Mid-Autumn Mooncakes 2025. The baked series offers timeless choices, including White Lotus Seed Paste with Single or Double Yolk, Macadamia Nuts,or Salted Egg Praline. Fans of rich flavors can indulge in the standout Golden Black Truffle Mooncake, paired with Dry-Aged Parma Ham, Pistachio, and Single Yolk. DCS Cardholders can enjoy S$30 off with promo code DCSMOON30 for a minimum spend of S$120, valid until Sept. 30, 2025.
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel Mid-Autumn Mooncakes Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel 10:00 AM
- 9:00 PM
Enjoy Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel’s mooncakes. Choose from White Lotus Seed Paste, Golden Black Truffle, Pure Mao Shan Wang Durian, and more flavors.
Summer Palace at Conrad Singapore Orchard Mid-Autumn Mooncakes (Singapore)
Photo from Klook
Michelin-starred Summer Palace offers a mooncake selection that marries heritage and creativity. The Classic Treasures assortment comes with cherished baked mooncakes and handcrafted snow skin varieties, including perennial favorites Black Sesame and Mao Shan Wang Durian, as well as new creations Yam with Gingko Nuts and Avocado Lotus with Pistachio Chocolate. The Luxury Edition ensemble of eight snow skin mooncakes is housed in an intricately designed wooden chest, making it a keepsake beyond the season.
Summer Palace at Conrad Singapore Orchard Mid-Autumn Mooncakes Conrad Singapore Orchard 10:00 AM
- 8:00 PM
Celebrate Mid-Autumn at Summer Palace, Conrad Singapore Orchard, with exquisite mooncake collections from traditional baked treasures to luxury snow skins.
Janice Wong Mid-Autumn Mooncakes (Singapore)
Photo from Klook
Elevate your Mid-Autumn Festival with the Janice Wong Mooncake Collection 2025, where fine craftsmanship meets culinary artistry. Known globally as Asia’s Best Pastry Chef, Wong once again showcases her ability to transform tradition into edible art. This year’s collection offers two distinct experiences: the Assorted Chocolate Mooncakes, a playful reinterpretation of the festive staple with bold flavors and exquisite textures, and the Assorted Baked Mooncakes, commemorating time-honored recipes.
Location:Janice Wong - Branches at Paragon Singapore, Republic Plaza Singapore, Supertree Observatory Singapore
Janice Wong Mid-Autumn Mooncakes Janice Wong: Chocolate & Desserts in Paragon | Singapore Delivery 10:00 AM
- 9:30 PM
Discover Janice Wong’s artistic Mid-Autumn Mooncakes, from chocolate creations to baked classics, presented in collectible tins and sculptural boxes.
CHA BEI Dubai Chocolate Mooncakes (Macau)
Photo from Website/Galaxy Macau
Add a touch of refinement to your Mid-Autumn dinners with the CHA BEI Dubai Chocolate Mooncake. This mooncake set pairs silky French pistachio jam with crispy Middle Eastern kataifi, layered with creamy cashews and encased in 66% dark chocolate. The result is a delicately balanced treat of crunch, sweetness, and cocoa depth. With its inspired flavor profile, the mooncake also pairs beautifully with coffee or fine spirits. Available for advance orders until Oct. 6, 2025, and pick-up from Sept. 15 to Oct. 6, 2025.
Location:CHA BEI, MO 1/F, 1047, Galaxy Macau s/n, Estrada da Baia de Nossa Senhora da Esperanca, Macao
CHA BEI Dubai Chocolate Mooncakes Galaxy Macau 10:00 AM
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Celebrate Mid-Autumn with CHA BEI’s Dubai Chocolate Mooncakes—luxurious flavors wrapped in dark chocolate, available until Oct. 6, 2025.
LINE FRIENDS’s Mid-Autumn Festival Mooncake Gift Box (Macau)
Photo by Lisboeta Macau
Mooncake traditions get a playful twist with the LINE FRIENDS’ Mooncake Gift Box, available at Lisboeta Macau. Inspired by the LINE FRIENDS-themed hotel façade, the box merges Macanese and Portuguese design elements with the charm of LINE FRIENDS characters. Each set has eight BROWN-shaped mini mooncakes: seven Mini Single Egg Yolk Lotus Paste Mooncakes and one Mini Charcoal Lava Custard Mooncake in a blind-box! Redemption runs until Oct. 6, 2025, at BROWN & FRIENDS CAFE & BISTRO.
LINE FRIENDS’s Mid-Autumn Festival Mooncake Gift Box Lisboeta Macau 10:00 AM
- 10:00 PM
Celebrate Mid-Autumn with LINE FRIENDS’s Mooncake Gift Box, available at Lisboeta Macau until Oct. 6, 2025, featuring BROWN-shaped mini mooncakes.
Galaxy Macau Mooncake Collection 2025 (Macau)
Photo by Galaxy Macau
Galaxy Macau ushers in the Mid-Autumn Festival with its 2025 Mooncake Collection, available from Sept. 15 to Oct. 6, 2025. The Mini Mooncake Gift Set (8 pcs) offers an enticing mix of flavors: Egg Custard, Assorted Nuts, Tangerine Peel and Red Bean Paste, Matcha, and Purple Sweet Potato. Each mooncake is a symbol of harmony, crafted to bring joy and connection to gatherings with family, friends, and colleagues. Vouchers can be redeemed at Pak Loh Chiu Chow Restaurant.
Galaxy Macau Mooncake Collection 2025 Galaxy Macau 10:00 AM
- 10:00 PM
Celebrate Mid-Autumn with Galaxy Macau’s 2025 Mooncake Collection, featuring a mix of traditional and modern flavors in an elegant gift set.
EQ’s Celestial Treasures 2025 (Kuala Lumpur)
Photo by EQ Kuala Lumpur
EQ Kuala Lumpur rolls out the Celestial Treasures 2025, recognized as one of the city’s most elegant mooncake offerings. Highlights of the collection include white lotus, red bean, mixed nuts, EQ’s Pearl of Prosperity, Musang King durian, yuzu pandan, mint chocolate macadamia, and sun-dried scallop with mixed nuts. The mooncakes are presented in a chic, reusable case. Choose from sets like the Longevity Collection or indulge in the Premium Collection, which pairs mooncakes with fine spirits for a celebratory flourish.
Location:EQ Kuala Lumpur, EQ, Equatorial Plaza, Jln Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
EQ’s Celestial Treasures 2025 EQ Kuala Lumpur 10:00 AM
- 10:00 PM
EQ Kuala Lumpur unveils its Celestial Treasures 2025 Mooncake Collection from July 1 to Oct. 12, 2025, featuring gift sets of baked and snow skin mooncakes.
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur 2025 Mid-Autumn Mooncake Offerings (Kuala Lumpur)
Photo by Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur introduces the“A Journey Through Time & Taste” mooncake collection.The traditional baked lineup includes White Lotus with Yolk, White Lotus, Pandan, and Red Bean, while two chocolate exclusives — Dark Chocolate and Salted Caramel Chocolate — bring a decadent twist. Gift sets range from curated boxes of Assorted Baked, Chocolate, and Snow Skin collections, alongside single-flavor showcases for those seeking something distinctive. Presented in a refined chest-like case, each set symbolizes celebration and connection.
Location:Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Warisan Merdeka Tower, Presint Merdeka 118, Wilayah Persekutuan, 50118 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur 2025 Mid-Autumn Mooncake Offerings Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur 10:00 AM
- 10:00 PM
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur presents elegant mooncake collections in baked, snow skin, and chocolate varieties, accompanied by premium gift boxes.
Mandarin Oriental - Mid-Autumn Festival Mooncakes (Kuala Lumpur)
Photo by Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur rings in Mid-Autumn in style with an exclusive mooncake collection. Choose from Low Sugar White Lotus Paste, Red Velvet Avocado & Pistachio, Pandan with Single Yolk, Lotus Paste with Single Yolk, Red Bean Paste, Assorted Mixed Nuts, or the seasonal favorite Musang King Durian, and Pandan Lotus Paste. Chocolate lovers will enjoy unique creations such as Mango-Passion Fruit Rice Crispy Dark Chocolate, Dubai Chocolate, Mixed Berry White Chocolate Caramel,and Roasted Hazelnut Milk Chocolate.
Location: Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Mandarin Oriental - Mid-Autumn Festival Mooncakes Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur 10:00 AM
- 10:00 PM
Celebrate Mid-Autumn with Mooncakes by Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, featuring baked, chocolate, and snow skin varieties in elegant gift boxes.
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Coca-Cola just announced BTS’ V as its newest ambassador, sparking reactions and immense support from ARMYs across the globe!
Only weeks after his discharge from the military, Kim Taehyung (real name) is adding a new role to his name as he becomes the new face of the “Best Coke Ever” campaign, which is geared towards the promotion of Coca-Cola Zero. The global beverage brand announced via social media on July 31 with a witty caption: “Best Artist Ever” and “Best Coke Ever,” emphasizing the letter “V” — Taehyung’s iconic screen name.
Photo from Instagram/Coca-Cola Korea
Following the announcement is a short clip featuring the K-Pop icon wearing a simple white tee while holding a Coke Zero can, highlighting his striking visuals and effortlessly cool vibes. The singer was also featured in several interviews with local and international publications, where he was spotted sporting a black denim jacket over a white tee, a red flannel shirt around his waist, and the signature red Coca-Cola cap.
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In an interview with Eyes Magazine, he was asked when he needs Coke Zero the most in his life, to which he replied, “When I’m eating something delicious, when there is a music festival or concert, and also after I finish dance practices. Actually, even if there is nothing, I still drink it, so there are too many instances.” He then proceeds to invite everyone to “enjoy the best and most thrilling summer with V and Coke Zero.”
The news had gained massive reactions online, stirring ARMYs and K-Pop fans alike around the globe in support of the K-Pop legend’s latest collaboration. With this collaboration, V takes over the ambassadorship role from New Jeans, who represented the brand in 2023.
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What happens when you cross a legendary chocolatier with a mischievous little monster?
You get the GODIVA × LABUBU Icy Delights Collection — a sweet, swirly mashup of luxury and whimsy that’s officially landed in Asia.
The premium Belgian brand Godiva has teamed up with THE MONSTERS, the wildly popular IP from POPMART, to bring Labubu into the world of frozen treats.
The lineup includes a lineup of three soft serves and two shakes that remake the classic chocolate flavors. These frosty new creations look like they leapt straight out of a fairytale forest and into your dessert dreams.
Courtesy of GODIVA
The textures and flavors also spark delight, with dried cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries providing a slightly sour note that cuts through the smooth layer of chocolate ganache, topped off with a sprinkle of Dubai chocolate pistachio kunafa.
The three soft serve flavors are Dark Chocolate and Vanilla WhiteChocolate, as well as a twisty combo of white and dark chocolate dressed in Labubu's signature hues. They go for HK$75, and are worth every creamy, dreamy spoonful.
Speaking of spoons, this collab isn’t just about taste. Godiva is leaning into the collectible craze with a custom-designed stainless-steel spoon in an iconic gold finish, intricately etched with a Labubu, and limited-edition packaging featuring Kasing Lung’s original Labubu artwork.
Courtesy of GODIVA
If you prefer your ice cream in slurpable form, Godiva has you covered with two decadent shakes: Dark Chocolate Shake and Milk Chocolate Shake, creamy and flavor-packed, each priced at HK$59.
The GODIVA × LABUBU Icy Delights Collection is now chilling in GODIVA stores across Asia, such as Hong Kong, Mainland China, Macao, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
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At the 2025 Ceremony of Asia’s 50 Best Bars held in Macau at the Wynn Palaceon the 15th of July, Hong Kong's Bar Leone, founded by Lorenzo Antinori, was crowned this year’s winner, earning the coveted Best Bar in Asia title for the second year in a row.
Taking the stage alongside team members Wing Lo and Justin Shun Wah to receive the award sponsored by Perrier. Handing the microphone to his teammates on stage, Lorenzo took a step back as they expressed their thanks to 50 Best Bars, award sponsors, and industry friends before he came back to rally the crowd, inviting everyone to Bar Leone and his newly opened bar, Montana.
Lorenzo commented: “We are immensely proud of being recognized again by Asia’s 50 Best Bars.This is a testament to our passionate team and loyal guests who have embraced the Leone spirit since the very beginning. We are proud to represent Asia and Hong Kong in bringing a touch of Roman hospitality to Asia.”
Courtesy of Asia's 50 Best Bars
Ranking No. 2 Bar in Asia was Zest from South Korea, followed by Jigger & Pony from Singapore at No. 3, with two Thai bars ranking 4th and 5th – Bar Us, followed by Dry Wave Cocktail Studio,which was awarded the Disaronno Highest New Entry title.
Notably among top-listed bars was Hope & Sesame Guangzhou, ranking No. 7 and earning the Best Bar in Mainland China title,and at No. 10 and Best Bar in Malaysia is Penrose from Kuala Lumpur.
In a media roundtable prior to the ceremony, The Beat Asia sat down with the Bar Us (Bangkok), Vender (Taichung), Penrose (Kuala Lumpur), and Penicillin (Hong Kong) teams alongside Emma Sleight,the Head of Content of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, to dive into the bars' award-winning concepts, the celebrations later that evening a true testament to their hard work and dedication.
Bar Us (Bangkok), Vender (Taichung), Penrose (Kuala Lumpur), and Penicillin (Hong Kong) teams Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 photoshoot | Photo by The Beat Asia
Emma opened the conversation, sharing more on the awards' selection criteria: "Asia's 50 best bars is created from the votes of more than 300 bar experts from across the continent, so all we ask them to do is for people to vote for their very best experiences. We have no criteria for best, nor do we believe there should be a criterion or best."
Visiting this year's theme of "Heritage & Culture in Cocktails," Emma and the bar team placed emphasis on locality, from sourcing inspiration and incorporating cultural elements into their craft to practicing sustainability. They also celebrated the fact that the region's leading cocktail bars are not only coming from major capital cities anymore, for example this year's No. 20 awardee Vender hailing from Taichung claiming the Best Bar in Taiwan title, or new entry Boilermaker from Goa ranking at No. 30. With such a strong sense of community that culminated in an overwhelmingly joyful week-long party in Hong Kong and Macau over Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 award season.
Pongsakorn Akarabunditsakul, the Bar Manager of Bar Us, shared, "A lot of Thai bars are also encouraging creations in a wider mixture style, not only in Bangkok, but [innovative mixology has] spread in a lot of good bars in Chiang Mai in the south or even northeast in Khon Kaen. [For example] in the North, they have more local ingredients that you cannot find in Bangkok."
Penrose's own concept also focuses on classic cocktails using Malaysian ingredients, placing emphasis on minimalism and an exceptional guest experience to highlight the quality of their beverages. "We stick very clearly to modernity, minimalism, and elevator classics," says Jon Lee, the Founder of Penrose.
Following three years of successful operations, Penrose opened Lavantha in April 2025 in the repurposed vault of the historic Oriental Bank in Moxy Hotel KL Chinatown.
Courtesy of Asia's 50 Best Bars
Representing Hong Kong, Jay Khan, the Founder of COA(No. 17), COA Shanghai (No. 83), and Co-founder ofThe Savory Project(No. 32), won the Roku Industry Icon title, commending his entrepreneurship, community leadership, and innovation.
Thailand led with seven bars ranking on the 50 Best list this year, including Bar Us (No. 4), Dry Wave Cocktail Studio (No. 5), BKK Social Club (No. 19), new entry G.O.D (No. 26), Vesper (No. 29), Opium (No. 43), and Bar Sathorn (No. 48)!
A total of six bars from Hong Kong made the list, including the aforementioned Bar Leone (No. 1), Argo (No. 11), COA (No. 17), Penicillin (No. 27), The Savory Project (No. 32), and the newly openedGokan,ranked at No. 33.
Five Singaporean bars ranked with Offtrack (No. 23), Nutmeg & Clove (No. 24), Cat Bite Club (No. 44), and Native (No. 45)following Jigger & Pony’s No. 3 title.
Representing Malaysia were four bars, including Penrose (No. 10), Three X Co (No. 15), Bar Trigona (No. 39), and Reka (No. 47).
Courtesy of Asia's 50 Best Bars
Following the award ceremony, Emma commented: "We’re thrilled to gather in Macau with Asia’s vibrant and passionate drinks community. The region’s bars continue to redefine excellence in cocktail culture, as seen in the talent and creativity of this year’s winners. With 20 new entries, the most in recent years, this list is a testament to the boundary-pushing creativity of Asia, with truly memorable drink experiences waiting to be explored by cocktail enthusiasts. Congratulations to Lorenzo Antinori and the entire team at Bar Leone for the incredible feat of retaining the No. 1 spot, and for delivering a consistently outstanding drinking and hospitality experience that brings a bellissimo slice of Rome to Hong Kong."
Founded by industry veteran Lorenzo Antinori, who formerly presided at Argo Bar at the Four Seasons Hong Kong, Bar Leone was the first bar in Asia’s 50 Best Bars history last year to secure its place as the best cocktail bar in the continent as a newly opened establishment. In 2024 as well, Bar Leone ranked as the No. 2 Best Bar in the World, the first of Hong Kong to reach this status.
Courtesy of Asia's 50 Best Bars
The Roman cocktail bar draws inspiration from Italy’s “cocktail popolari” concept, or “cocktails for the people,” truly embodied in the passion for hospitality that Bar Leone’s team delivers at the venue. Aiming to be “the neighborhood’s living room,” in Lorenzo’s words, the venue is nestled in the heart of Central, Hong Kong, on Bridges Street, serving delicious drinks and bites that exude Italian service excellence.
Planning your next visit to Asia’s Best Bar 2025? Don’t miss Campari’s Disco Leone eventhappening from 4 PM to 7 PM on Wednesday, July 17,and check out our full review here!
View the full list of Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 here. You can also find he extended 51-100 list here. Check out Asia's 50 Best Bars website here and follow World's 50 Best Bars on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Asia’s Best Bar 2025 Location:Bar Leone, 11-15 Bridges Street, Central, Hong Kong
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Alerting beer lovers and BLINKs: BLACKPINKis now the face of legendary Japanese rice lager, Asahi Super Dry, coming to your area!
The supreme Japanese beer brand Asahi Super Dry is teaming up with none other than the four global K-Pop queens. For the first time in history, all members of BLACKPINK have officially been appointed ambassadors for a beer brand.
Launching this July, this campaign“BLACKPINK in your dry”is popping up across Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Mongolia.
Asahi is tapping into BLACKPINK’s fierce creativity and global star power to push boundaries and elevate their brand like never before.
“This partnership marks a bold step forward in the Asahi Super Dry brand strategy across Asia. BLACKPINK represents the energy, edge, and global influence that aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. Together, we’ll deliver campaigns that not only capture attention but also connect deeply with our consumers’ evolving lifestyles and passions,” says Ms. Wakana Noma, Head of Beer Marketing Department, ASAHI BREWERIES, LTD.
Keep your eyes peeled for limited-edition Super Dry cans with exclusive BLACKPINK designs, cool branded merch (hello, Asahi Super Dry x BLACKPINK Original Ice-ColdTumblers!), and a series of dazzling activations that will light up the billboards of cities across East Asia.
Come September, these limited-edition products will be on the market across East Asia, so let the countdown begin!
For more information about the collaboration, visit Asahi Super Dry on their website, Instagram, and Facebook.
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Asia’s cocktail capitals are raising the bar once again — for the fifth year running, the extended 51–100 list from Asia’s 50 Best Barshas just been released for the fifth consecutive year!
Asia's 50 Best, sponsored by Perrier, spans 23 vibrant cities in Asia and welcomes 14 standout newcomers.
Curated through the discerning palates of over 300 bar industry insiders — from bartenders and bar owners to drinks writers and seasoned cocktail aficionados — the list reflects a true cross-section of Asia’s vibrant bar community.
The results were unveiled ahead of the much-anticipated awards gala, which takes place at Wynn ResortsMacau on July 15, 2025.
Singapore leads the charge with six bars making the cut, headlined by Side Door, a newcomer entering at an impressive No. 53. The city’s momentum continues with Sago House (No. 56), Origin Bar (No. 60), Night Hawk (No. 77), Employees Only (No. 89), and Fura(No. 95), reinforcing the island’s status as a cocktail powerhouse.
Courtesy of Asia's 50 Best Bars
Bangkok boasts three standout venues on this year’s list, led by Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar at No. 71. Firefly, the stylish jazz-accented bar at the Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel, lands at No. 82, while Messenger Service debuts at No. 90 with imaginative concoctions featuring native Thai elements like betel leaf and fermented rice.
Hong Kong claims its own trio of honors. At No. 80,The Opposites — a boundary-blurring ‘mixology playground’ from industry legends Antonio Lai and Samuel Kwok — makes a bold entrance. Also featured are the newly alcohol-free Mostly Harmless at No. 88 and the ever-consistent Quinary at No. 91.
The region’s diversity continues to show with The Curatorin Manila(No. 78) and Kuala Lumpur’s beloved Coley (No. 92) both making commendable appearances.
Emma Sleight, Head of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, lauded the lineup for its global resonance and praised the boundary-breaking approaches these venues take, capturing the nuances of Asia’s eclectic drinking cultures.
You can find the Extended 51-100 List here:
Courtesy of Asia's 50 Best Bars
With only days remaining until the grand reveal of the top 50, anticipation is rising. The awards will also be livestreamed on 50 Best YouTube channel here, starting at 8 PM Macau time.
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Food is the gateway to culture and has the power to encapsulate a nation’s identity through flavors. If you want to get to know a certain place, tasting the local fare is a good way to go.
This is what the culinary collective, Adobros, set out to do when they opened their supper club at the heart of Melbourne, Australia. Established by two renowned Filipino chefs, Chef Michael Francis Pastrana and Chef Morris Danzen, their mission is simple: to promote Filipino cuisine on a global scale.
Through Adobros, they are able to share their stories, histories, and interpretations of Filipino food, creating an experience unlike any other — all the while pushing Filipino cuisine forward and inspiring new generations of culinary professionals across the globe.
We caught up with the two chefs to know more about the collective, the signature recipes they serve at Adobros, and what inspired them to start their journey of reimagining iconic Filipino dishes.
A Passion for Pinoy Food
Chef Michael Francis Pastrana grew up in Catanauan, Quezon, Lucena City, and Marinduque Province. Although he graduated from culinary school in 2020, he was originally an accountant and had managed restaurants back in his home province. Currently, he’s the Executive Chef at Fable Melbourne, focusing on Mediterranean and modern cuisine, and was trained by Michelin-starred Chef Alex Xinis.
On the other hand, Chef Morris Danzen had been called to the kitchen early in life, as he started cooking out of necessity at 14 years old for his blind dad and brother while his mother and sister worked overseas. He had never dreamt of becoming a chef, but had previously worked at fast food chain restaurants and even as a personal chef in Cambodia for a time. He returned to the Philippines to pursue Multimedia Technology and gained experience as a videographer, photographer, and even a singer when he joined his sister’s band in China.
It was a few years later, when he moved to Italy with his family, that he found his calling in a professional kitchen when he had to revive the restaurant of his in-laws.
“From traditional Italian to Filipino and Sicilian cuisine, I called the restaurant ‘La Bottega Fusion Cuisine,’” Chef Morris told The Beat Asia. “I did my Filipino nights in Italy promoting Filipino cuisine, and eventually won a prestigious competition called ‘Gino Cerca Chef’ held in Italy and Manchester, England by Gino D’Acampo and Fred Siriex.”
However, the restaurant closed during the pandemic, which brought Chef Morris to Australia to search for a new culinary adventure. There, he became the chef at an Italian restaurant in Melbourne called Buono. The two chefs met at a Filipino gathering there, where they bonded over their passion for Filipino cuisine and culture. From there, they decided to put up a supper club with the aim of promoting Filipino food by blending traditional flavors with modern techniques and Australian produce.
Chef Michael Patrana and Chef Morris Danzen | Courtesy of Adobros
“I was inspired by a supper club in Turin, Italy called LoftNovantadue, and I always love to incorporate and showcase our food,” said Chef Morris when asked about the reason they put up the supper club. “When I met Chef Michael, we had the same vision of creating dishes and reimagining Filipino food. Now the supper club gives us the opportunity to be creative and serve our food in our style.”
As for the name, Adobros represents the chefs' common denominator: their Filipino roots and their goal of wanting to introduce Filipino cuisine to the world. “Magkapatid kami sa Adobo (we’re brothers in Adobo),” Chef Michael said, pertaining to the dish considered the face of Philippine home cooking.
More than a Restaurant
Adobros isn’t just a restaurant, buta complete dining experience built around food,community, and tradition. It offers a kind of laid-back luxury, serving reimagined Filipino recipes that have all the familiar flavors but are presented in such a way that they bring something completely new to the table.
“We’re serving our food, culture, and our story. Something unfamiliar yet familiar, and creating something out of the box!” Chef Morris expressed. “Doing supper clubs isn’t easy because there’s a different menu every time. We’re inspired by the different regions of the Philippines, and since we still have full-time jobs at Fable and Buono, it really is a passion project. Our mission is to showcase Filipino food in Australia and inspire a new generation of chefs.”
“However, we are not elevating Filipino food,” Chef Michael added. “Because Filipino food is already elevated.Masarap na talaga ang pagkain natin (Our food is already delicious)!”
Both chefs have something unique to contribute, having experience in local kitchens and abroad. When it came to the skills and techniques they’ve mastered, Chef Morris mentioned that despite technique being very important in creating dishes, it is understanding the ingredients and how connected you are to the produce that you’re using that has helped them shape Adobros’ offerings and its overall identity.
Courtesy of Adobros
And speaking of offerings, the chefs have quite an innovative and interesting dishes on menu. Although they recommend trying the whole experience where they can walk guests through the story behind every dish, the “Adobo Dessert” is what you shouldn’t miss. The chefs describe it as their out-of-the-box take on Filipino Adobo.
“It is an exercise in flavor balance, meriting a familiar yet unique multisensory experience. This creation successfully blends the caramelized richness of soy, the depth of umami, and the unexpected brightness of vinegar. It has chicken as well as Lakan lambanog for the coconut element. Think adobo sa gata (coconut milk) withsaging (banana). We serve it with banana and miso caramel gelato.”
The chefs also stated that every dish they offer at the supper club is their signature dish, and they are constantly creating new menus. Some of their standout dishes include the “Tapsilog Arancini,” a Sicilian-inspired breakfast dish part of their trio canapés, where the rice is cooked with coconut milk and ginger, grated cured egg yolk, traditional tapa filling, and Adobros kesong puti (Filipino white cheese).
Another is the “Sinigang Risotto,” which is inspired by their favorite soup. It’s a fusion of Mediterranean and Filipino flavors, served with Moreton Bay Bugs, tamarind and tomato bisque, smoked eggplant tartare, and pickled okra. Other dishes served at their supper club include Crystal Sisig, Ensalada Tart, Laing Scallops, and the Oyster Sarciado.
Photo from AdobrosPhoto from Adobros
“Our goal is to always offer something new, but still familiar. At the same time, we’re careful not to alienate non-Filipino diners from the flavors of Filipino food,” stated Chef Michael. The chefs also explained how Filipino ingredients are accessible through Asian stores in Australia. They would also sometimes ask people they know who are coming from the Philippines to bring some ingredients for their supper club.
Otherwise, they would find seasonal produce, which is also often more cost-effective, that can substitute for that particular ingredient. “We incorporate the Australian seasonal produce to amplify Filipino flavors,” Chef Morris pointed out. “It serves as our way of creating and inventing something new and also playing with Australian flavors.”
More than crafting and offering good food, Adobros is providing a dining experience that is authentically Filipino, which is reflected not only through the dishes and ingredients but also their service and restaurant’s atmosphere from the plates they use, which are sometimes in the form of banana leaves to the music they play that completes the vibe.
“We share the whole Filipino dining experience through hospitality and plate,” explained Chef Michael. “From how we greet them and how we start to eat by saying ‘Kain na (let’s eat),' to telling our own stories. By joining our supper club, they are able to learn a bit about our culture. There is a sense of connection when we host our supper clubs. It’s not just about the food, but our common whys. We share ourselves on a plate. And since it’s an invitation for everyone, guests would have the opportunity to also connect with each other and learn not only from us but also the stories of guests they shared the table with.”
“I cooked for a group of people in Italy and Melbourne, and they were so happy to try our flavors for the first time,” said Chef Morris when asked about his fondest memories of introducing Filipino food to locals. “The best experience was when they started cooking our dishes on their own after that experience. Knowing that they started cooking Filipino food on their own motivated me to do more for our cuisine.”
Photo from Adobros
Chef Michael and Chef Morris are truly stepping up in terms of promoting Filipino cuisine, and what’s amazing about it is that they’re doing it Filipino style: by hosting community gatherings where food and stories are shared over a good meal.
The chefs are determined to continue their culinary journey with their supper club in Melbourne, all the while pursuing other big projects, all in the name of Filipino food. The chefs participated in the IFEX Philippines, where they got to showcase food the “Adobros’ way,” as well as a bunch of other events by Masterplan Global and Nutribullet Philippines, including collaborations with Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico with Chef Lau and Jac Laudico, Lobby 385 with Chef Kalel Chan, Kwentong Adobo with Mama Sita’s and the Adobo Queen, Nancy Reyes Lumen, and Lumpia Queen, Abi Marquez, who was named FOODPhilippines Advocate par Excellence.
As we wrapped up the interview, the chefs imparted some words of wisdom for aspiring cooks who share the same goal of sharing Filipino cuisine with the world.
“Remember to be authentic with flavors on how you want to present Filipino food. It doesn’t have to be elevated; we can simply advocate for Filipino food by sharing and being proud of our own. These small details make a difference if we do it all together.”
To know more about Adobros, visit their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. For information on events and reservations, contact 0431896069 or email [email protected].
Location: Upstairs, 31 Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Yes Chef! profiles here.
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