My Husband and I were privileged to experience the exquisite works of art of our Filipino Chefs when we dined in on a Friday night. San Miguel Beer and Coconut Juice were especially served to partner with our beloved dishes from the Philippines.
From the appetizers to
desserts, everything was done by the chefs. We started with the Sinigang na
Hipon
that warmed and fascinated us with it’s perfect tamarind sour taste and
un-shelled shrimps ready for eating.
The salad section was abundant and one that truly wets the appetite: crispy Bagnet Salad with shrimp sauce, Green Mango Salad with Crab Meat, Salted Egg Salad, Lumpiang Sariwa and Chicken Galantina.
The hot dishes that did not disappoint as one had so many
to choose from. The famous Pancit was a good partner to the freshly-baked
Pandesal and Lumpiang Prito. The Chicken Adobo was more flavourful than ever
because it was topped with Mozarella Cheese (Who would have thought? I will
definitely do this when I cook my Adobo at home). The most tender and saucy
Kalderata and perfectly grilled Pork Ribs were indulgent when paired with
pillowy steamed rice. And the star of the buffet, Crispy Pork Belly, was
everything crispy and crunchy. Sinful and yet worth the calories and
cholesterol.
Laden with mouthwatering treats at the dessert section, we found Leche Flan, Maja Blanca, Cassava Balls and Palitaw. They also lined up the ingredients for making your own Halo-Halo which was a brilliant idea.
We arrived early at Grace Hotel and had a bit of a chat
with all the chefs. It was wonderful to meet them and learn about their cooking
experience in Sydney. They talked about
the dishes they cooked and how they prepared some of them. Most of their time
was spent inside the kitchen as they were the only ones who cooked all the dishes
but they gladly go out of the kitchen once in a while to say hello to customers. I was mighty proud to hear how hardworking
and how pleasant they are in spite being busy.
Grace Hotel set up the perfect ambience for this event as
their staff were accommodating, parallel to the Filipinos’ hospitality. While
we enjoyed the food, we can hear OPM songs being played. For a few hours of
enjoying good quality Filipino, it felt like we were home.
The Flavours of the Philippines at Grace Hotel is ongoing until 26 August. Please check http://www.gracehotel.com.au/ for details and reservations.
This foodie experience is sponsored by Grace Hotel for my "Ang Kalatas" article.
