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The Manila Hotel will soon be offering a selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes across its dining outlets and banquet offerings.
The Grand Dame of Manila continues to embrace dining trends that nourish both body and soul with this culinary shift that aims to provide various health benefits from supporting cardiovascular health and minimizing environmental impact to embracing holistic well-being. The new offerings address the growing global and local demand for healthier and more sustainable food options, while also honoring Filipino agriculture through the use of locally-sourced ingredients.
“At The Manila Hotel, we recognize the growing importance of conscious dining,” shares Konrad Walter, Executive Chef of The Manila Hotel. “Our enhanced vegan and vegetarian offerings are a reflection of our commitment to wellness, sustainability, and evolving with the modern palate, without compromising the richness, tradition, and flavor that define Filipino cuisine.”
Chef Riza Shanti Lim and Executive Chef Konrad Walter | Photo from The Manila Hotel/Website
The hotel partnered with Riza Shanti Lim, an internationally certified holistic health practitioner, clinical nutritionist, and plant-based culinary advocate, to bring these dishes to life, using her expertise to conceptualize and develop each dish. The menu features a selection of fine dining options from refreshing appetizers and filling main dishes to sweet desserts.
The Manila Hotel hosted an exclusive press dinner at the Champagne Salon last May 7, which highlighted a multi-course preview of the vegetarian fine dining menu,executed by Chef Riza Shanti Lim, supervised by Executive Chef Konrad Walter, and assisted by the hotel’s culinary team.
Fresh Garden Spring Roll in Peanut Cream Sauce | Photo from The Manila Hotel/WebsitePapaine Moringga with Crisps Soup | Photo from The Manila Hotel/Website
Some of the dishes that you can look forward to include the Fresh Garden Spring Roll in Peanut Cream Sauce, Papaine Moringga with Crisps Soup, Fern Salad with Paneer, Vegan Skewers, 8 Spice Curry, and the Creamed Buko Pandan Plantain with Chia Seeds.
Fern Salad with Paneer | Photo from The Manila Hotel/WebsiteCreamed Buko Pandan Plantain with Chia Seeds | Photo from The Manila Hotel/Website
These vegan and vegetarian dishes will soon be available for private banquets, special events, a dedicated station at the buffet in Café Ilang-Ilang, and a la carte dining at the hotel’s restaurants, such as Champagne Room, Red Jade, and Lobby Lounge. It will also be available through in-room dining and M Takeout.
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Step into any café in the Philippines and you’re greeted with a familiar scene: the strong, comforting aroma of freshly brewed beans wafting in the air, the hum of beans being ground in-house, and cups topped with delicate swirls of latte art. Menus are stretched with more than a handful of ways to enjoy a cup of coffee — hot or iced, classic or experimental. And then, quietly tucked on a corner of the page, are the teas — familiar in flavor, often overlooked, slowly steeping for their turn in the spotlight.
Tea has always been a part of our drinking tradition, though in the form of herbal concoctions and home remedies. For many of us, it’s always been the more “grown-up” drink — something more serious and with restraint, unlike coffee’s easy and youthful charm.
For all its quiet appeal, tea deserves more than the quarter of a page in café menus. Around the world, tea is more than just a drink, it’s a culture, a ritual, and a lifestyle. In Japan, matcha is whisked with reverence; in China, oolong is poured mindfully; and in the United Kingdom, tea is an afternoon ritual that cannot be replaced. Each cup of tea is made purposefully, rooted in tradition, ritual, and artistry.
Here in the Philippines, we often think of tea as something medicinal — salabat (ginger tea) for sore throats, turmeric for immunity and anti-inflammation, chamomile for sleep. But what if we treat it the same way that we do coffee?
Tea can be as sociable, expressive, and comforting as coffee — made for a morning ritual, midday perk up, or an evening wind down. It’s a trusty companion for spur-of-the-moment creativity rushes, conversation starters, and buzzing busy days.
So, what’s there to know about tea?
What’s The Tea: Misconceptions, and a Quick Primer on Everything Tea
Just like coffee, tea has its own universe. If coffee can taste different depending on the bean, roast, and brew, tea does too — its character shaped by the leaf, its origin, and how it’s prepared.
Here’s a fun fact: all traditional tea comes from one plant — the Camellia sinensis. From its leaves to its buds and even stems, every part can be used to make tea. Native to East Asia, India, and Southeast Asia, this plant has since been woven into the cuisine of these regions.
Once harvested, whether by hand-picking, mechanical harvesting, or careful pruning, the leaves undergo a process called oxidation. This step is important, because the level of oxidation determines both the flavor and makeup of the tea. Unoxidized leaves, which are often just dried after harvest, give us fresh, light teas. Semi or fully oxidized leaves, usually rolled or crushed to expose them to air, give us bolder, darker brews.
Photo from Website/Krishi Jagran
From there, traditional tea comes in different families or classifications, each with its own taste and ritual:
Green tea: fresh and bright, the unoxidized leaves brew into a light crisp flavor.
White tea: delicate and subtle, the tea leaves are close to its natural state and are also unoxidized, giving it a whisper of flavor.
Yellow tea: sweet and gentle, lightly oxidized and are said to be a favorite of some Chinese emperors in the past.
Oolong tea: balanced and complex, the semi-oxidized leaves offer a flavorful tea that can lean floral, fruity, or roasted depending on style.
Black/Red tea: bold full-bodied, and fully oxidized, it offers a smooth, aromatic taste to the drink, and are often the most caffeinated.
Dark tea: earthy, woody, and slightly sweet, the tea leaves have been fermented over time to bring out a nuanced flavor profile.
And what about herbal tea? To be honest, it’s not tea at all. But it’s a whole different world of infusions, made up of flowers, roots, and herbs, which could be caffeine-free, but are totally rich in tradition, comfort, and wellness.
What many don’t realize is that how you brew your tea makes all the difference. For starters, green tea shouldn’t be steeped too hot, otherwise it could taste bitter. Oolong tea left to steep longer can unravel sweeter, deeper notes. In the same way we appreciate coffee — pour-over to cold brew — the ways we prepare tea often remind us to slow down and appreciate the small details.
Tea for our Daily Rituals
Depending on its flavor and brew, tea can be a reliable companion to fit any part of our day. They have always been about rhythm and ritual, with each cup holding space for any given moment, whether it’s to start your day with clarity, a needed pause during midday, or a restful breather for the night.
So, here’s a short guide to when each type could be squeezed into your routine:
Green tea: perfect for a wakeful morning, giving a slight lift without the caffeine jitters
Black tea: the perfect switch from your typical cup of joe for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up
Oolong tea: this tea is great for breaks, especially inviting you to slow down and savor its floral notes.
White tea: just like Oolong, it’s best enjoyed for when things turn quiet.
Herbal infusions: it depends on what you want to get fixed; a usual chamomile before bed for a restful sleep, peppermint after meals for digestion, ginger when you’re feeling under the weather, or chai when you want a warm hug.
What makes tea different from coffee is the way that it paces your day; with coffee, it allows you to head into everything with speed and bursts of energy, but with tea, it asks you to slow down, comfortably, even while the world continues to hustle and bustle around you every day.
Whether in your typical tea brew, in milk tea, or in artisanal, cold-brew steeps, tea can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter what their age is.
A Possible Shift in the Tea Culture?
With matcha booming globally, Philippine café culture is beginning to catch the wave too — transforming old misconceptions about tea and weaving it into our evolving lifestyles. Brands like CHAGEE are helping shape this shift, bringing authentic and mindful tea experiences into the spotlight.
Their menu places traditional teas such as green and oolong tea at the forefront, celebrating the teas’ natural profiles without relying on artificial sweeteners. At the same time, they’ve crafted globally loved drinks that feel both modern and familiar, such as the fragrant and light BOYA Jasmine Green Tea Milk Tea and the rich, full-bodied Da Hong Pao Milk Tea.
Each cup seamlessly blends tradition with today’s café culture, placing tea on just the same pedestal as coffee — comforting, exciting, and versatile. And perhaps, just a touch lighter and healthier than our favorite Spanish lattes.
Photo from Instagram/CHAGEE Philippines
There’s no doubt that coffee still rules the café scene around the country — we definitely love the hum of the grinder, the quirky swirls of latte art, and the collection of ways to sip our cups of coffee. But slowly and surely, tea is becoming more than just a small corner on the menu; it’s finally taking its rightful spot at the center of it all. Whether you’re enjoying a classic black tea, or a playful twist to your oolong or green tea, all of these prove that it’s more than just an “adult drink.” Tea can be enjoyed by everyone.
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The clinking of steins, the froth of freshly poured pints, and the buzz of good company — Oktoberfest season is upon us. Luckily, the Philippines has a thriving craft beer community that’s more than ready to deliver. If you’re into crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, or experimental brews, the local beer scene has something to thrill your palate. If you’re looking for where to sip, savor, and toast, these breweries deserve a spot on your list!
Engkanto Brewery
Photo by Engkanto Brewery
Founded in 2015 by Gen.T honouree Ian Paradies, Engkanto Brewery has grown into a household name in the Philippine craft beer scene. What began as a bold idea to brew better beer for Filipinos has evolved into the country’s most internationally awarded local brewery, with over 30 global accolades to its name.
Engkanto strikes a balance between marketability and innovation, offering award-winning brews such as the Live It Up Lager, High Hive Honey Ale, Mango Nation Hazy IPA, Paint Me Purple Ube Lager, and Green Lava Double IPA. With flavor profiles inspired by homegrown ingredients like mango, honey, and ube, the brewery creates beers that celebrate both local heritage and global craftsmanship.
Location: Engkanto Brewery, Alegria Building, Chino Roces Ave, Makati City, Metro Manila
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Photo by Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits has been shaking up Manila’s craft beer scene with bold flavors, inventive pairings, and a clear mission: to bring world-class craft beers and hard ciders to every Filipino. Established by husband-and-wife duo Raoul and Erin Masangcay, the brewery began with Raoul’s homebrew experiments and has grown into a multi-award-winning powerhouse.
Their lineup includes flavorful brews like Hop Boi IPA, Lost in Japan White Ale, Tropical Sour Ale, and Darker Vader Stout. Drop by any of their branches and try their famous Pulutan With A Twist. Pair your Elias beer with their Wicked Sisig, Crispy Bagnet Belly, Mushroom Tempura, and Nacho Supreme for that hits-the-spot drinking session!
The Perfect Pint was founded in 2014 by the Tempongko brothers with the guidance of Chef Gene Gonzalez. The brand pairs expertly brewed beers with curated dishes for a full tasting experience. From the light and easy-drinking Legally Blonde Blonde Ale (5.2% ABV) to the bold and hop-forward Simtra Triple IPA (10% ABV), their craft beers ensure diverse flavor profiles.
Signature match-ups include Heap of Fresh Bacon with Hoppy Road IPA and Oyster Sea-Sig with Black Mamba Stout. For those at home, The Perfect Pint also delivers bottled beers and dishes. Their loyalty program lets enthusiasts earn points for future orders. The Perfect Pint offers a complete craft beer experience that’s uniquely Filipino.
Location: The Perfect Pint, Branches at Molito, Alabang, Rockwell, Makati, and Estancia, Capitol Commons, Pasig
Crazy Carabao Brewing Co.
Photo by Crazy Carabao Brewing Co.
Crazy Carabao Brewing Co. brings bold, smooth, and unapologetically Pinoy microbrews. Their range includes easy-drinking Pilsner, balanced Pale Ale, hoppy India Pale Ale, and playful fruit-infused brews like Apple Cider and Pina Colada, each crafted to suit different moods and moments. Their beers embody the adventurous spirit of Filipino drinkers.
From experimenting in a small makeshift brewery to building a state-of-the-art facility in Santa Rosa, Crazy Carabao emphasizes quality, passion, and community in every batch. Orders can be placed directly on their website, making it easy to taste and enjoy local craft beer from the comfort of home.
Monkey Eagle Brewery crafts world-class brews from their 15-hectoliter facility in Tagaytay. Armed with formal brewing education from the Siebel Institute in Chicago and Doemens Academy in Germany, their brewmasters bring technical precision to every batch, producing beers that are both refined and adventurous.
Among their standout creations is the Psychedelic Blonde, a fruity, easy-drinking blonde ale. Their lineup also includes General Luna Ale, Potion 28 IPA, Witful Thinking Belgian Wheat, and Saison. With same-day delivery available across NCR, Cavite, and Laguna, enjoying their brews is as easy as a few clicks. For those looking to stock up, they offer customizable 4, 6, and 12-packs, as well as mixed cases and gift bundles.
Nestled in Makati’s creative hub Comuna, Palm Tree Abbey is the kind of taproom that invites you to linger — surrounded by books, vinyl, warm lighting, and a sense of cozy community. Founders Joel and Marla Darwin, with Canadian beer lovers Jonathan Heppner and Evan Graff, launched the brewery in 2016 after much experimentation.
Their beer lineup reflects that same warmth and intentionality. Expect lighter styles like Abbey Wit (Belgian-style witbier with citrus and coriander), a dry, effervescent Abbey Saison, a crisp Rye IPA, silky Tropical Stout, and even a high-proof Golden Strong — each brewed with careful attention to flavor balance and drinkability.
Location: Palm Tree Abbey, Comuna, 238 Pablo Ocampo Sr. Ext, Makati City, 1203 Metro Manila
Jade's Temple Brewery
Photo by Jade's Temple Brewery
With brewer and entrepreneur Dea Suyosa at the helm, Jade’s Temple® Microbrewery stands out in Metro Manila’s craft beer scene for its creative lineup and all-natural brewing approach. Every bottle is made without enhancers, relying solely on malt and carefully chosen ingredients.
Jade’s Temple has everything from Apple Cinnamon, Cookie Dough, Salted Caramel, and Peach Mango to Toasted Mallows and Peppermint Mocha flavors. Alongside these experimental brews, their classic Lager provides a precise selection of malt-forward, tropical taste and fruity aroma. Jade’s Temple offers same-day delivery within the capital, as well as customizable bundles like their popular OG Bundle or “Build Your Own” 24-pack.
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25 years in the game, and still, Seattle’s Best Coffee sees no hint of slowing down.
Seattle’s Best Coffee (SBC) has officially reopened their flagship store on 9th Avenue, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City, ushering their best era and 25th year in the Philippines.
Courtesy of Seattle's Best Coffee, Good Media
Designed with an American modern-industrial aesthetic of warm wood finishes, matte black fixtures, minimalist interiors, and touches of the brand’s signature red, Seattle’s Best Coffee’s revamped new space can now host over 50 guests and offers an inviting, elevated café experience in the heart of Bonifacio Global City.
To celebrate this launch, Seattle’s Best Coffee brought back the crowd-favorite Ube Deluxe Collection (Hot & Iced Ube Coco) and highlighted the Maple Cloud Cream Collection (Hot/Iced Maple Americano, Maple Breve, and Maple Latte), reflecting their commitment to bringing more bold and exciting flavors to the Filipino coffee drinkers.
Courtesy of Seattle's Best Coffee, Good Media
The launch also included fun activities and giveaways, a serenade by indie darling Clara Benin, and even introduced their playful collaboration with lifestyle brand Milkwear, the SBC x Milkwear Collection, featuring limited-editiont-shirts (P799) and caps (P499) that will be available at select Seattle’s Best Coffee branches starting Sept. 29, 2025.
Courtesy of Seattle's Best Coffee, Good Media
The new flagship also reinforced Seattle’s Best Coffee’s strong expansion plans, with the brand on track to have over 60 branches nationwide by the end of 2025. They have also recently opened stores in Lanao del Norte, Boracay, Zamboanga, Legazpi, and other key cities.
As part of its 25th anniversary in the Philippines, Seattle’s Best Coffee premiered a special video titled “Pause. Forward. Fast Forward,” reflecting on its 25-year journey in the country, and emphasizing the importance of savoring meaningful moments with a cup of coffee.
Seattle’s Best Coffee’s BEST Era Yet
The executives of Seattle's Best Coffee Philippines | Courtesy of Seattle's Best Coffee, Good Media
Seattle’s Best Coffee is brewing more than just drinks — it’s building its future with what Group Marketing Director Lorent Adrias calls “BEST.”
B stands for Bold Innovation, their promise to keep serving exciting, innovative flavors for Filipino coffee drinkers.
E is for Expanding Reach, with more stores set to open before 2025 ends.
S is for Style, bringing forward more lifestyle collaborations and experiences, such as the SBC x Milkwear Collection.
T is for Transform Forward, inviting coffee lovers to move forward with intention and creativity.
Seattle’s Best Coffee has long been a steady presence in the country, building a loyal following along the way. For Lorent, that loyalty comes down to more than just coffee.
“What they [the consumers] really like about us is when they go to a Seattle’s Best, they don’t just get coffee; they get an experience,” he shared. “It’s not transactional. We encourage people to stay, invite your friends over to meet, and that’s what sets us apart from the rest.”
The opening of Seattle’s Best Coffee’s revamped flagship store is more than just an unveiling of a new café — it’s their reaffirmation to innovate, expand, and create meaningful connections with their customers, one cup at a time.
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Forget everything you thought you knew about food festivals. This Nov. 19 to 23, 2025, Terra Madre Asia & Pacific will debut in Bacolod City, and it’s set to redefine what it means to eat with purpose. This isn’t just about gourmet bites and pretty plating; it’s a full-on cultural awakening served with a side of climate action.
Photo from Website/Slow Food International
Held at the lush Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Negros Occidental, the five-day event will welcome over 2,000 delegates from more than 20 countries. From Indigenous leaders and organic farmers to Michelin-starred chefs and youth activists, it’s a melting pot of voices rallying around one shared belief: food should be good for people, good for the planet, and rooted in tradition.
Organized by Slow Food International and backed by the Philippine government, Terra Madre Asia & Pacific will explore the theme “From Soil to Sea, A Slow Food Journey Through Tastes and Traditions,” spotlighting regional staples like rice, soy, spices, and taro through immersive exhibitions, workshops, and tastings.
Photo from Instagram/Terra Madre Asia & Pacific
Expect chef-led demos, public talks on climate resilience and food justice, and a bustling market featuring rare local ingredients like batuan, criollo cacao, and tultul salt. The Community Kitchen, where all 61 barangays of Bacolod will serve traditional dishes, promises to be a soul-stirring centerpiece.
The culinary lineup is stacked with international and local chefs, like Johanne Siy (Asia’s Best Female Chef 2023), Wes Kuo (Michelin Green Star), Melissa Miranda (Musang, USA), and regional icons like Jordy Navarra and Chele González, who will take the stage. Mixologists from Manila to Hong Kong will shake up the Slow Drinks pavilion with sustainable sips.
As a movement, Terra Madre Asia & Pacific will launch a new Slow Food Hub and kick off the Slow Food Travel initiative, aiming to reshape how we eat, grow, and connect.
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The Philippines will now join the ranks of the world’s most celebrated culinary guide as the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Ceremony Manila and Environs & Cebu is set to happen on Oct. 30, 2025, at the Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts.
For the first time, the MICHELIN Guide will unveil its official restaurant selection for Manila, its nearby provinces, and Cebu — highlighting the country’s rich culinary identity, diverse traditions, and exceptional talents.
The exclusive one-night ceremony will feature the official reveal of the MICHELIN Guide Selected Restaurants, Bib Gourmand list, MICHELIN Stars, and MICHELIN GUIDE Special Awards, accompanied by a welcome reception, the highly anticipated awards presentation, and a celebratory cocktail reception curated by renowned international and local chefs.
This historic occasion will bring together esteemed chefs, restaurateurs, industry leaders, MICHELIN Guide’s official partners, and media representatives from all over the globe.
Every establishment included in the selection has been independently assessed by anonymous MICHELIN Guide inspectors, based on universally applied criteria: quality of ingredients, mastery of technique, harmony of flavors, personality of the chef through the cuisine, and consistency, guaranteeing that each awarded restaurant meets a world-class standard of excellence.
The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony: Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026 will be livestreamed via the MICHELIN Guide Asia YouTube channel, allowing wider access to the occasion and food lovers and professionals around the world to be a part of this extraordinary night.
The full restaurant selection will also be available exclusively in digital format on all the Guide’s interfaces: website, mobile applications, and social networks. It will also be on the global MICHELIN Guide restaurant and hotel selections to be found free on its digital platforms.
For more information, guides, and others, visit the MICHELIN Guide website, as well as their Facebook and Instagram pages. Download the MICHELIN Guide free app for iOS and Android.
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Raise your glasses, Manila! The Philippine Cocktail Fiesta arrives this November, highlighting the artistry, innovation, and passion driving the local drinking culture.
Running from Nov. 17 to 23, 2025, this weeklong celebration is more than an event about cocktails, but a community-led gathering that showcases the ever evolving drinking culture through cocktail pairing dinners, guest bartender shifts, industry talks, hands-on workshops, and exclusive guest shifts at some of the best bar hotspots across Metro Manila, including Makati, BGC, Quezon City, San Juan, Marikina, and Entertainment City. The exciting showcase will also welcome guest bars from award-winning venues across the region.
Organized by the country’s first drink-centric publication, DrinkCollectiv.com, and DBYW (Drinks Be With You), a community in the local bar scene that brings together bartenders and enthusiasts through events and cocktail competitions, the upcoming event will also feature an exciting lineup of local and international bartenders from top Asian bars, and will shine the spotlight on key industry opinion leaders and organizers of regional cocktail festivals and events such as KLCW, Taiwan Can Drink, Taiwan’s Taichung Cocktail Camp (TCC), and India Bartender Show.
Photo from Website/The Philippine Cocktail FiestaPhoto from Website/The Philippine Cocktail Fiesta
Additionally, attendees can also enjoy exclusive discounts, freebies, and special promotions from various bars, ranging from merchandise, buy-one-get-one drinks, and exclusive Cocktail Fiesta creations.
Tickets and the official lineup of bars and guests are yet to be announced. You can find more information here or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates.
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Cocktails are already an art form on their own, but cocktails that were inspired by art? Phenomenal.
The worlds of painting and mixology collide at “When Cocktails Imitate Art,” a special collaboration by Fundacion Sansó and The Spirits Library. Here, the spirited floral works and Brittany seascapes of renowned modernist painter Juvenal Sansó are featured in custom-crafted special cocktails by the mixology experts of The Spirits Library, one of the hottest bars in Makati.
The collaboration is inspired by the essence and feel of five different Juvenal Sansó paintings and will be available at The Spirits Library from Sept. 4 to Oct. 4, 2025.
Here are the five Sansó-inspired cocktails:
"With Grandiosity and Splendor" and "A Universe of Things" | Courtesy of Fundacion Sanso, The Spirits Library"Stars of the Earth," "Exalted in Surf and Rocks," and "Calm Sea Spray" | Courtesy of Fundacion Sanso, The Spirits Library
“With Grandiosity and Splendor”: the En Vase Floral is interpreted in a flamboyant mélange of Martinique Rhum, Chamomile, and Cherry Cordial, and egg white.
“A Universe of Things”: the dreamy, turquoise-toned 1960s work is captured with the mix of Beefeater Gin, Génépi Liqueur, and Blue Curacao with Kinchay Flowers.
“Stars of the Earth”: breathtaking and a beauty to look at, the painting is expressed with a mysterious blend of luxe Codico Blanco, Martel VS Cognac, Mezcal, Braulio, Bénédictine, and Osmanthus Tea.
“Exalted in Surf and Rocks”: this classic Brittany Series piece is embodied in a sparkling flute of Elderflower Cordial, Kombu-infused Beefeater, Peach, and Prosecco, topped with flavor-changing chocolate rocks.
“Calm Sea Spray”: soothing and cool, this piece is emulated with a refreshing mix of Havana Club, Pineapple Aloe Cordial, Olive Brine, and Jasmine Tea.
Each of these Juvenal Sansó artworks will also be exhibited within The Spirits Library to accompany drinkers while they sip on their art-inspired concoctions. Alongside this are limited-edition glass merchandise items on offer that are hand-painted by Fundacion Sansó’s artist friends.
Courtesy of Fundacion Sanso, The Spirits LibraryCourtesy of Fundacion Sanso, The Spirits Library
“When Cocktails Imitate Art” is a celebration of Juvenal Sansó and the uplifting, artistic essence of his works. This collaboration will run from Sept. 4 to Oct. 4, 2025, at The Spirits Library. 10% of the Sansó cocktails sales will go to Fundacion Sansó’s scholarship fund for art students.
For more information, follow The Spirits Library on Instagram, and Fundacion Sansó on Facebook and Instagram.
Location: The Spirits Library, 4963 Guerrero, Makati City
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Solaire Resort has always taken pride in its lavish demeanor, marketing itself as a “gateway to luxury.” Indeed, it has no shortage of designer finds, world-class theater shows, and even fine dining options. One such restaurant is Finestra, an Italian restaurant renowned for not only presenting authentic Italian flavors but also offering culturally innovative dishes.
At the helm is Executive Chef Andrea Spagoni, a Michelin-starred talent who has brought the rich flavors of Italy to places such as New York, Hong Kong, London, and, of course, the Philippines. In a video posted on Finestra’s official Facebook page, Spagoni emphasized the restaurant’s roots: “Finestra has always been an Italian restaurant, and it still will be.”
If there’s one thing people should know about this celebrated chef, though, it’s that he never shies away from reinventing himself. He tends to give a contemporary approach to his cuisine, a sensibility he has also brought to Finestra. And for a special, one-time dining experience held at Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Parañaque, he set aside Italian flavors for a while in exchange for a night for the books: a tour to France — told entirely through taste, that is.
“We showcased dishes that would represent French cuisine heritage,” Chef Spagoni told The Beat Asia. “The aim was to present, within a few dishes, the opulence and the [depth] of such cuisine.”
Photo from Website/Solaire Resort
Traversing France Through Rich, Authentic Flavors — And a Glass of Wine
Called Tour de France: A Wine & Dine Experience, the renowned chef presented a six-course menu paired with French wines, meticulously curated by the Director of Beverage himself, David Blais. To say Blais understands his wine very well would be an understatement. Pair these two geniuses together, and you’re guaranteed a sumptuous, memorable night. One that would make you raise a glass and say, “Santé!”
Finestra has already established itself as a restaurant like no other. The moment we walked in, we were immediately greeted with warm hospitality and a complimentary glass of wine to start the night right. It has everything you would expect from a fine dining destination. The walls are adorned with crystal-inspired hanging fixtures, while to the left of the entrance sits the wine cellar — home to more than 600 bottles, a true testament to what Finestra is all about. Against a scenic view of trees through its glass walls, the dimmed, soft yellow lighting casts an intimate glow, setting the stage for what would become a night to remember and cherish.
The setting, in all its glory, is an experience in and of itself. But at the heart of it all is the presentation awaiting us: a premium six-course dinner, paired with six wines to savor — all sourced from Winedrop, a company that delivers curated wines.
The idea was to explore regions of France “through food, but mostly through wine,” according to the beverage director. Through dishes and world-class wines, both Blais and Spagoni made sure each serving would have a story to tell. They wanted guests to experience France through their palates. Out of six wine presentations, three were served in magnums — bottles twice the size of the standard — as Blais believes in the old adage: “size matters.” And in this case, he’s right.
Gillardeau Oyster, Paired With Château Guiraud Sauternes
Photo by The Beat Asia
Inspired by the City of Bordeaux, Blais says that when you breathe in the air, you’ll be greeted by “mostly some ocean breeze.” So he meticulously paired Château Guiraud Sauternes with oysters, a match he describes in just one word: “Wow.” Everything is presented with such precision — and thoughtfully so.
In order to showcase the beauty of Bordeaux, the Gillardeau Oyster — served with gelatin and crème fraîche — greets the palate with a sea-rich flavor: slightly sour, with a satisfying aftertaste. It feels almost as if it were taken straight from the ocean, then elevated with Spagoni’s flair for reinvention. Paired with a sweet, light white wine, the dish achieves a delicate balance that remains approachable even for those less fond of wine. It definitely was such a nice and refreshing opener to the otherwise much stronger five courses that followed.
Foie Gras Terrine, Paired with Gérard Bertrand Cigalus Blanc
Photo by The Beat Asia
Blais notes that while Chardonnay originated in the Burgundy region of France, he wanted a red wine to represent it. Thus, for the second presentation, he gave Southern France a flavorful nod. In contrast to the first course, this pairing is much bolder. It comes with Foie Gras Terrine, served with pickled roots and a citrusy Sauternes emulsion.
“I like the fruitiness, the intensity of the wine. So the intensity of the wine goes perfectly with the intensity of foie gras,” said Blais.
Courtesy of Solaire Resort
Now, this is a biased take: we like our pork belly strong and flavorful, the kind that takes a bite or two to fully savor. This one, however, leaned toward a softer, subtler taste, which a traditional Filipino palate might not fully appreciate. Still, don’t let its gentleness fool you. It’s a dish that guests will eagerly devour — myself included, surprised at just how good it turned out to be. Truly a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
As Blais mentioned earlier in the event, he preferred pairing Burgundy with red wine, which is why even the pork belly was simmered in it. It’s, of course, paired with Nuits-Saint-Georges Burgundy, a rich red wine.
Onion Soup, Paired With Ermitage Le Méal Rhône
Photo by The Beat Asia
Blais sees all six wines as equally "beautiful," though Ermitage is his personal favorite. The Ermitage Le Méal Rhône is paired with Ravioli and radish, served in a thick broth. On creating the onion soup and Ermitage pairing, Blais said, “I told the chef [Spagoni], ‘You know what? [Ermitage] would be brilliant with a French wine and food. Of course, the guy is Italian, so he had to put some Italian touch. [French] onion soups do have cheese, so I decided not to put the cheese, but to make a cheese ravioli for the soup.”
While Ermitage is Blais’ favorite, the onion soup is the dish Spagoni is most proud of showcasing. He told The Beat Asia: “A very traditional dish that, within its simplicity, brings a complexity of flavors and a deep intensity of aromas. At the same time, [I get to] add a bit of an Italian touch with a tiny twist using ravioli in it.”
Josper-Grilled Australian Striploin, Paired With Château Durfort-Vivens Grand Cru Margaux
Courtesy of Solaire Resort
The Margaux is perhaps the most delicate and elegant when it comes to taste. It is paired with a tender Striploin, accompanied by Mushroom Duxelles and a pillowy Potato Mousseline. While Blais didn’t elaborate much on what the presentation was about, he described the pairing in a single word: “Beautiful.” And beautiful it was.
While Blais did most of the talking during the presentation, Spagoni spoke through his cooking, letting the flavors tell the story he wanted to share. It is, indeed, something tasted rather than heard.
Paris-Brest, Paired With Gewürztraminer Vendange Tardive
Courtesy of Solaire Resort
Each wine, from first up to the fifth glass, gets only stronger. But the whole journey led up to a soft, sweet end: dessert, paired with a rich, syrupy Gewürztraminer Vendange Tardive. A sweet tooth knows their dessert, and what makes a good one. And I can say for sure this one just gives the whole journey a nice, playful touch. Truly a fitting finale to what started as a bold showcase of French flavors, accompanied by a little touch of Italian on the side.
Our takeaway from this experience? It just proves that fine dining is more than just its price point. Each meticulously curated serving offers a story to tell.
Finestra at Solaire Entertainment City is open on Mondays and Sundays for dinner, while their Brunch menu is only available on Sundays. You can also book a reservation here or call them at +632-8888-8888.
Visit Finestra’s official website to learn more about their upcoming events, one-time dining experiences, and exciting offers. You may also follow their Instagram page to stay updated.
Location: Solaire Resort Entertainment City, 1 Aseana Ave, Tambo, Parañaque
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM; Brunch on Sundays, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
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Manila’s vibrant dining scene has just become easier to navigate, and your next perfect restaurant can now be found—without the endless scrolling.
Introducing OpenRice, Hong Kong’s #1 dining platform that’s just launched in the Philippines! Filipino foodies now have a new and seamless way to search, book, review, and earn rewards—all in one app.
Founded in 1999, OpenRice has grown into the ultimate dining app, operating across eight Asian markets including Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Thailand, China, Taiwan, Japan, and now the Philippines!
“Filipinos love to eat; they have amazing food here, which makes it the perfect market for us,” said Jenna Sung, OpenRice’s Managing Director. “Filipinos are also pretty tech-savvy, everyone’s on TikTok, and so this makes us the perfect dining app for search and booking.”
What Makes OpenRice a Must-Have App
Courtesy of OpenRice Philippines
Foodies can search for restaurants with ease: With over 19,000+ listed restaurants in Metro Manila alone, OpenRice has powerful search filters that can guide foodies to finding the perfect spot! They can even use videos for a more immersive experience.
Skip the long queues and secure a table through instant table booking at over 150 partner restaurants (and counting) on OpenRice. Some of their partner restaurants include Antonio’s, Single Origin, Le Feu Steakhouse, and Shi Lin!
OpenRice's partner restaurants | Courtesy of OpenRice Philippines
OpenRice also encourages their users to document their dining experiences by writing reviews and sharing photos all in one app, to help the community uncover hidden gems.
Additionally, users can earn rewards while they dine: Dining is much more fun when you earn rewards for it! Connect your GoRewards account to your OpenRice profile to earn points for confirmed bookings and rewards. You can earn up to six (6) points per seat, and eight (8) points for your first review.
For more information and updates, visit the OpenRice website here or follow their Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages!
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Calling all witches and wizards!Krispy Kreme PH just unveiled a magical new doughnut collection inspired by HogwartsSchool of Witchcraft and Wizardry!
In collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), Krispy Kreme presents the all-new Harry Potter: Houses of Hogwarts x Krispy Kreme Collection,which brings to life the four iconic Hogwarts Houses through spellbinding flavors:
Gryffindor Doughnut – a shell doughnut filled with cookie butter flavored Kreme™, dipped in red icing and Biscoff® cookie crumble, topped with golden icing drizzles and the Gryffindor crest.
Slytherin Doughnut – an Original Glazed® doughnut topped with chocolate and green butter creme flavored swirls, chocolate cookie sugar blend, and the Slytherin crest.
Hufflepuff Doughnut – a shell doughnut filled with brown butter toffee flavored custard, dipped in golden yellow icing, and topped with black chocolate drizzle, cookie crunch, and the Hufflepuff crest.
Ravenclaw Doughnut – an Original Glazed® doughnut dipped in blueberry flavored icing, topped with the Ravenclaw sprinkles and crest.
Photo courtesy of Krispy Kreme PH
But wait, there’s more! A Hogwarts Houses-inspired treat wouldn’t be complete without the chance to get sorted. If you didn’t get your Hogwarts letter, you can still receive a sweet reveal through the magical Sorting Hat Doughnut, which is filled with a mystery colored Kreme representing one of the Hogwarts Houses. This spellbinding treat is dipped in chocolate-flavored icing, sprinkled with shimmering gold stars and gold sugar, and topped with a Sorting Hat piece. Simply take a bite, get sorted!
Krispy Kreme also cast a spell to add even more sweetness to this collection with the new Golden Snitch Latte, a rich golden caramel toffee-inspired latte, topped with whipped cream, Biscoff® cookie crumble, and a sprinkle of golden shimmer sugar. It’s e bewitching treat at every sip!
Photo courtesy of Krispy Kreme PHPhoto courtesy of Krispy Kreme PH
“We're channeling the beloved magic of Harry Potter™ and the Houses of Hogwarts for a collection that is truly bewitching," said Alison Holder, Chief Brand and Product Officer for Krispy Kreme. “But the magic is fleeting, and so are these doughnuts, so don’t miss your chance to try them!”
The Sorting Hat doughnut is sold separately in a limited-edition specialty box, while supplies last. The Harry Potter: Houses of Hogwarts x Krispy Kreme Collection is available until Sept. 15, so whether you’re traveling by broom or Floo Powder, go and get yours today!
Available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery via their hotline (888-79000) or partner couriers such as GrabFood, FoodPanda, Pick.A.Roo, OrderMo, and Groover.
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