Manila, the party capital of Asia, sparkles even brighter with the events that hotels in the metropolis come up with. These grandiose celebrations are always worthy of maximum publicity because they showcase not only the skill of the hotel officers in staging a glittering event but they also highlight the party spirit of Manila’s society. Here are some hotel activities I attended recently.
Conrad Manila
This newly opened hotel’s premier Chinese restaurant, China Blue, had celebrity master chef Jereme Leung showcasing his modern interpretation of traditional and provincial Chinese cuisine. To launch the restaurant’s specially curated menu, Conrad Manila General Manager Harald Feurstein invited a select group of friends to solicit their comments on the special menu served only in China Blue.
The 12-course tastefully authentic and sumptuous dinner reaped praises from everyone in the group. It was an out-of-this-world culinary experience. The different courses served us took Chinese cuisine to the nth level, something that foodies would really enjoy and look forward to.
The food made for a perfect match with the restaurant’s plush modern interiors, which features the signature blue chandeliers, local artworks and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer a breathtaking view of Manila Bay.
Hong Kong-born Jereme Leung is hailed as one of the most creative Asian pioneers of modern Chinese cuisine, blending it perfectly with classical Chinese dishes. He has made his rounds as a Chinese executive chef in luxury hotels around Asia before putting up Jereme Leung Concepts Ltd., a Shanghai-based food and beverage consultation company. Since then, he has been instrumental in curating restaurant and menu concepts in various parts of Asia.
China Blue by Jereme Leung is on Level 3 of Conrad Manila and may be reached through 683-3915.
City of Dreams
A glittery night at Chaos, celebrating the heritage and culture of the Filipino-Chinese community, had Manila’s elite circle enjoying the sumptuous buffet of finger food laid out by the City of Dreams culinary team. The by-invitation only event also featured the much-awaited segment of the Mr. & Ms. Chinatown Philippines 2016, the Swimwear Competition, adeptly introduced by program host, the witty Johnny Litton, known for his hilarious one-liners.
Fifteen pairs of female and male candidates paraded individually in their revealing swimwear along an improvised ramp, which cut across the entire hall, making it easy for any member of the audience, regardless of where he/she was seated, to ogle at the attractive contestants.
The event also featured the latest fashion designs of Ditta Sandico, Ann Ong and the jewelry collection of Hoseki. Contestants Shirley Vy and Jan Louie Ngo eventually won the titles and took on the role of ambassadors of the Chinese-Filipino community.
City Garden Hotel
Without much fanfare, this hotel launched its new Meetings Package for a minimum of 20 persons, offering an 8-hour session in any of the hotel’s function rooms, complete with a set lunch and two snacks for a very affordable rate. This new offer is designed not only for the budget conscious corporate establishment but also for those who appreciate being freed from the hassle of having to organize the event.
Complementing the introduction of the Corporate Meeting Package is the debut of delectable creations from the kitchen of executive chef Mario Bassig. The Chef’s Special takes diners on a virtual global culinary tour to Asia, Europe and Oceania.
More information on City Garden Makati’s new offerings is available at 899-1111 local 217 or through www.citygardenhotelmakati.com
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YOUR FRIDAY CHUCKLE
A man brings his best buddy home for dinner unannounced at 530PM after work. His wife begins screaming at him and his friend just sits and listens in.
“My hair and make-up are not done, the house is a mess, the dishes are not done, I’m still in my pajamas, and I can’t be bothered with cooking tonight! Why the hell did you bring him home for?” Husband answers, “Because he’s thinking of getting married!”