Kwento Ni Toto: The Manila Hotel

Showing posts with label The Manila Hotel. Show all posts

2024/01/20

Celebrate Lunar Prosperity with The Manila Hotel's Tikoy Early Bird Deal!

Toto 1/20/2024 08:27:00 AM

Spring Festival or what we commonly known as Chinese New Year, has a rich history deeply embedded in Chinese culture. Dating back over 3,500 years, it marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is celebrated with vibrant festivities, traditional rituals, and symbolic customs. The festival typically falls between January 21 and February 20, depending on the lunar calendar, and lasts for 15 days. Its origins can be traced to ancient agrarian societies, where communities gathered to pray for a bountiful harvest and ward off evil spirits. Over time, the celebration evolved, encompassing family reunions, fireworks, dragon and lion dances, and the iconic red decorations symbolizing good luck and prosperity.

A significant culinary delight associated with Chinese New Year is Tikoy, a sticky rice cake that holds cultural significance. Tikoy, also known as nian gao, symbolizes the wish for progress, growth, and the promise of a better year ahead. The sweet, glutinous rice cake is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who consume it. Families often exchange or gift Tikoy as a gesture of well-wishing for the coming year. The round shape of Tikoy symbolizes family unity and completeness. Whether steamed, fried, or added to various dishes, Tikoy's presence on the Chinese New Year table highlights its integral role in the celebration, creating a sweet and auspicious start to the lunar new year.

As the Lunar New Year approaches, The Manila Hotel invites guests to usher in the Year of the Dragon with an auspicious start through its Tikoy Early Bird Offer.

Nian Gao, also known as tikoy, is a traditional delicacy that holds great significance in Chinese culture. This sticky rice cake has been enjoyed for centuries during the Lunar New Year festivities and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

The Manila Hotel’s fine offerings of handmade tikoy are an essential indulgence during this season. Featuring delightful variations such as Almond and Red Bean—each promising to satisfy discerning taste buds. The Manila Hotel’s Tikoy is priced at a regular rate of Php 1,288 per box.

Patrons can take advantage of the early bird offer, securing an exclusive discount by making advance reservations. From January 20 to 31, 2024, guests can enjoy 30% discount on orders of 5 boxes or more. From February 1 to 11, 2024, guests can avail 10% discount on purchases of 5 to 9 boxes, 15% discount on purchases of 10 to 19 boxes, and 20% discount on purchases of 20 boxes and more. Orders may be redeemed from February 1 to 11, 2024.

For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

Terms and conditions apply. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-184301 Series of 2024.

2023/11/13

updates

Infused with Filipino Tradition, The Manila Hotel Celebrated the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Toto 11/13/2023 09:18:00 PM

The Western civilization may have influenced us, Filipinos, with the Christmas celebrations, but one thing is for sure, this celebration is uniquely Filipino in so many ways.

Just recently, one of the oldest and historical hotel in the Philippines, Th Manila Hotel, welcomed the holiday season with a lively celebration infused with Filipino traditions during its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The centerpiece of the celebration was the magnificent Christmas Tree, carefully decorated with luxurious golden Ilang-Ilang blooms, a tribute to the official flower of the Grand Dame. The color scheme included a pleasing mix of gold, earthy tones, and lively red, resulting in a visually striking presentation that captured the spirit of the season. Mr. Rachy Cuna, Creative & Design Director at The Manila Hotel, conceived and brought to life the idea for this holiday décor.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of The Manila Hotel Chairman Basilio Yap, Vice Chairman Dr. Emilio Yap III, President Atty. Joey Lina, and Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta; along with esteemed guests including the City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna Pangan, City of Manila Vice Mayor John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto, Department of Tourism NCR Regional Director Sharlene Zabala-Batin, US Ambassador H.E. MaryKay Carlson, Nigeria Ambassador H.E. Folakemi Akinleye, and Miss Philippines Air 2023 Kerri Reilly. The Office of the President Chorale added to the festive spirit be serenading the audience with traditional Christmas carols.

“As we aspire to be a part of every family’s Christmas celebration, may our lit Christmas tree serve as a reflection of the hotel’s commitment to embodying the spirit of Filipino traditions this holiday season,” said Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel Director of Sales and Marketing.

Furthermore, in the spirit of giving and sharing, The Manila Hotel has chosen the House of Refuge as the beneficiary of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The House of Refuge is a halfway house which gives shelter and provides the basic needs of street children.

With the Christmas Tree now aglow in the Grand Lobby, The Manila Hotel is set to continue spreading holiday cheer and preserving the spirit of Filipino traditions throughout the festive season.

2023/11/12

updates

The Manila Hotel Christmas Hampers An Early Bird Offer

Toto 11/12/2023 10:53:00 PM

The Manila Hotel presents its delightful Christmas Hamper collection, reflecting the essence of thoughtfulness and indulgence. Specially designed to spread holiday joy, each hamper is filled with a range of signature treats and goodies, perfect for delighting your loved ones.

For those eager to secure these festive treasures early, The Manila Hotel is offering an earlybird offer starting from October 25 to November 30, 2023.Choose from three distinct selections, each one tailored to suit different tastes and preference.

Standard Hamper – Php 2,000 nett earlybird offer
‘Harana’ Pralines in Sinamay Box (9 pieces)
‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar)
Santa Claus Chocolate (small)
Christmas Cookies
Fruit Cake (small)
Gingerbread Man (big)

Deluxe Hamper – Php 3,200 nett earlybird offer
Santa Ana Cabernet Sauvignon or Santa Ana Chardonnay (375 ml)
‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar)
Christmas Cookies
Gingerbread Man (big)
Matte Gold Pralines(10 pieces)
Assorted Nut Cluster
Santa Claus Chocolate(big)
Fruit Cake (big)
Food for the Gods

Premium Hamper – Php 4,000 nett earlybird offer
The Manila Hotel Regular Prestige Card
The Manila Hotel Willy the Bear
Pico Andino Cabernet (750ml)
Pralines (6 pieces)
Santa Claus Chocolate (medium)
The Manila Hotel Coffee Drip
The Manila Hotel Chocolate Bar with Almonds
Banana Thins

These Christmas Hampers will be available at the regular rate of Php 2,500 nett, Php 4,000 nett, and Php 5,000 nett respectively from December 1, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

For orders and inquiries, please call (+632) 8527-0011 or (+632) 5301-5500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

Terms and conditions apply.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-178795 Series of 2023

2023/10/18

updates

The Manila Hotel’s Dining Experience this October

Marco Polo Demo 10/18/2023 10:25:00 PM

The Manila Hotel, well known for its culinary excellence, joyfully greets the month of October with a selection of dining promotions tailored for its valued clientele.

A Celebration of Beers and Brews
Beer enthusiasts and connoisseurs can partake in a month-long merriment featuring handpicked beers and brews. Ranging from classic lagers to artisanal craft brews, the selection guarantees there’s a beer to cater to every palate. Brands on showcase include San Miguel Light, Pale, Super Dry, Cerveza Negra, and Premium Malt; and Engkanto Lager, Honey Ale, Ube Lager, Mango Nation. Available at the Lobby Lounge, Tap Room, and Pool Bar.

Spooky Confections for Halloween
The Delicatessen presents an assortment of handcrafted confections that reflect both the spooky and sweet aspects of this enchanting holiday. From cookies and cupcakes adorned with ghostly figures to pumpkin lollipops and chocolate-dipped strawberries—these treats are crafted to delight not only kids, but also those who remain young at heart. These sweet bites are available at the Delicatessen from October 15 to November 2, 2023.

All Treats No Tricks for the Kids
In the spirit of Halloween, The Manila Hotel has a special treat in store for the little ones. Junior guests dining at Café Ilang-Ilang, Lobby Lounge, Red Jade, or Champagne Room on the evening of October 31 will receive complimentary Halloween goodies.

Sweet Symphony: Mango Sponge Cake with White Chocolate and Almonds Guests can indulge in our featured cake this October—a delicious confection with luscious layers of mango sponge cake, white chocolate, and crunchy almonds. Available at the Delicatessen for everyone’s enjoyment until October 31, 2023.

M Takeout’s Fresh Offerings
The acclaimed takeout service of The Manila Hotel unveils its latest menu, offering its patrons a new variety of dishes that they can enjoy from the comfort of their homes or workplaces. The highlight of the menu is the introduction of new dishes for Solo Meals & Rice and Noodle Bowls, created to a wider range of tastes and preferences.

Solo Meals encompass a range of cuisines including Filipino, Chinese, Italian, Korean, Japanese, and Halal. Each meal is thoughtfully paired with an assortment of proteins, carbohydrates, sides, and dessert, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

The Rice and Noodle Bowl selection is equally impressive, featuring White Chicken with Ginger Sauce, Spaghetti Amatriciana, Beef Ho Fan Noodles, Penne Pasta Pomodoro, to name a few.

A Holiday Prelude: Festive Merienda Especial
As the holiday season approaches, take pleasure in The Manila Hotel’s Festive Merienda Especial—an assortment of French pastries, mini sandwiches, and all-time favorite Filipino delicacies, complemented by a selection of tea, coffee, or the hotel’s signature hot chocolate. Available from Monday to Sunday at the Lobby Lounge from 10:30am to 6:00pm.

To know more about these offers, please call +632 8527-0011 or +632 5301-5500, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

2023/08/05

Western Visayas

Café Ilang-Ilang Highlights the Flavors of Western Visayas

Toto 8/05/2023 08:26:00 AM

It's another feature of cuisines at Cafe Ilang-Ilang.

Western Visayas, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, is set to captivate the taste buds of food enthusiasts as The Manila Hotel celebrates the region’s diverse culinary delights at Café Ilang-Ilang this August.

For its latest dining offer, Café Ilang-Ilang has teamed up with Chef Rafael “Tibong” Jardeleza, Jr. — a culinary virtuoso and a passionate advocate of Western Visayas heritage cuisine.

A Tapestry of Flavors
Through this exciting collaboration, Café Ilang-Ilang brings the essence of Western Visayas directly to its dining tables. Acknowledged as the Food Haven of the Philippines, Western Visayas boasts a vibrant food culture that reflects its history, geography, and cultural influences. The partnership showcases a diverse array of dishes, highlighting the region’s local recipes, distinct ingredients, and time-honored cooking techniques.

A Champion of Heritage Cuisine
Chef Tibong, hailing from Western Visayas himself, has his culinary journey deeply rooted in his love for preserving and promoting the region’s culinary heritage. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing and family traditions, his creations offer a contemporary twist to classic dishes, presenting an elevated experience that resonates with both locals and global food enthusiasts.

Embark on a Gastronomic Adventure
At Café Ilang-Ilang, guests can embark on a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques unique to Western Visayas. Throughout the whole month of August, Café Ilang-Ilang patrons can enjoy selected dishes for lunch and dinner buffet. The weekly cycle of featured dishes includes: Guimaras Mango with Ginamos sa Tulapo, KBL (Kadios, Baboy, Langka), Laswa, Pancit Molo, Pancit Efuven, Beef Morcon, Chicken Binakol, Lengua Estofado, Bitchuelas, Sopa de Ajo, Fabada, Kinilaw na Tanguigue, Paella Negra with Chiperones, Canonigo, and Lapaz Batchoy Ice Cream.

Experience the “Flavors of Western VIsayas” at Café Ilang-Ilang until August 31. For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

2023/07/23

updates

The Buffet Experience at The Manila Hotel's Cafe Ilang-Ilang

Toto 7/23/2023 10:00:00 PM

It's one of the many places where everyone is excited to go and experience. If there's what you call revenge travel, then you have this revenge eating. Most of us have missed the clinking sound of plates and glasses, the smokey smell of the prepared dishes, and the enticing color of each food at the counter area waiting to be picked to fill up hungry tummies. All of these sum up our longing to experience the buffet once again.

As for me, well, I got that momentous time because of an invitation to experience it again and what it meant to be full, somehow bloated. Of course, in moderation.

So, where did I enjoy that sumptuous meal? Well, it's in a place where it witnessed historical events and cultural transformation—an established icon and the very first five-star hotel in the country, The Manila Hotel, with its iconic dining destination, Cafe Ilang-Ilang, known for its extensive and exquisite international buffet selection—an array of different flavors for the palate.

Imagine those mouthwatering dishes that you rarely see on your table or plate. So, this opportunity is priceless. At Cafe Ilang-Ilang, you can indulge in different stations—the Salads and Breads Station, the Churrasco Station, the Pan-Asian Station, the Italian Station, the Mediterranean Station, the American Station, and of course, don’t miss out on the Dessert Station.

This month, Cafe Ilang-Ilang offers an additional selection for buffet enthusiasts and hungry bellies. It has partnered with Calle Arco, an ancestral home in Pagsanjan, Laguna, transformed into a restaurant famous for its authentic Filipino dishes prepared with heirloom recipes. So, on the day of my buffet indulgence, I happened to experience not only international cuisines but also the rich Pinoy cultural dish. It's enjoying both worlds from a singular perspective.

The partnership of Cafe Ilang-Ilang and Calle Arco showcases the annual food festivity in Laguna called Anilag or Ani ng Laguna. It is the locals' way of honoring the province's rich culinary heritage.

The Anilag dishes offered at Cafe Ilang-Ilang are on a rotating line-up, so there are cuisines that are not offered on a specific day or night. But during my buffet experience, I was able to get some of its delectable dishes.

There were Binagoongang Crispy Pata, Hurnong Lechon, Kare-Kare (Galapong), Pancit Habhab, Fried Itik, Grilled Pla-Pla with Pako, and Sinigang na Baka na may Langka.

The Experience

Food has always been my comfort, but it's even more interesting and tastier when having it together with your family or friends. As for me, I had good company that night, and I enjoyed every dish. It was gastronomic, but I felt less bloated.

I was late—thank you for the heavy rainfall—but fortunately, I managed to be there since it wasn't a formal event or anything. The main purpose is to experience!

Since the other bloggers already started, I took my time and let myself settle. I let the aroma flicker into my nose, which later enticed me more to stand up and check which food to pick.

It was my first time at Cafe Ilang-Ilang, so familiarity is recommended. I started to roam around and took some videos and snapshots of the selection.

I finally decided to start with the Pancit HabHab. I wanted to taste this version to compare it with the one from Quezon. The noodles were soft, and the flavor is within it. It would have been a habhab experience if it were served on banana leaves.

The next on my plate is the Lumpiang Ubod. The serving may be small for someone with a big appetite, but you can still go back for another round. With the ubod itself, its crunchiness is just right to enjoy it, not too hard and not too soft. The wrapper, made of battered egg (I think), compliments the crunchiness of the Ubod with its soft and fine texture. My only regret was I didn't ask for the pink one for a better color on my plate. So, if you'll have this dish, putting up 3 or 4 together would really create a colorful and enticing plate of Lumpiang Ubod.

Bad of me that I took the appetizers after finishing the pancit. Anyway, together with the Lumpiang Ubod is the Watermelon Caprese, intriguingly looks good and presented very well that you cannot simply not notice it.

Another dish that I totally dig in was the Baked Salmon. I love fish, and I'm glad that it was cooked well and not that ‘malansa’ or fishy. I would really mistake it for bread or something. Getting into the details of the salmon, the fish meat texture is still firm and exactly how it should be, not overcooked nor undercooked.

Of course, I won't miss the opportunity to try some of the main courses of the Anilag offerings—the Kare-Kare (Galapong) and the Adobong Kangkong. Hmm... it makes a rhyme. I'm sure it will also rhyme in your palate.

Added also are the Kani Salad and the Maki, which I like.

After a round of tummy-filling flavors, it’s time to tickle our taste buds with some sweet indulgence at the dessert station. A slice of Ohaina Cake, Mango Sorbet, Strawberry Ice cream, Kakanin, and Halu-halo end the buffet experience.

If you’re adventurous with your palate and love to indulge in different cuisines and flavors, Cafe Ilang-Ilang at The Manila Hotel lets you become an adventurer.

Cafe Ilang-Ilang is located at the Ground Floor level of The Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila

For their Buffet Schedule:
BREAKFAST
6AM to 10AM

LUNCH
Daily 11:30AM-2:30PM

DINNER
6:00PM-10:00PM

REGULAR BUFFET DINING RATES:
*BREAKFAST RATE: P1,750.00 nett per person
Child rate: P875.00 (for kids ages 5-12 years old only)

LUNCH (MONDAY to SATURDAY)
Adult Rate: P2,995.00 NETT per person
Child Rate: P1,497.50 NETT

LUNCH (SUNDAY)
Adult Rate: P3,145.00 NETT per person
Child Rate: PHP1,572.50 NETT

DINNER (SUNDAY TO WEDNESDAY)
Adult Rate: P3,145.00 NETT per person
Child Rate: P1,572.50 NETT

DINNER (THURSDAY TO SATURDAY)
Adult Rate: P3,790.00 NETT per person
Child Rate: P1,895.00 NETT

You can also call them for inquiries or reservations at +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500 or you can send an email to restaurantsrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

Anilag's selection is available at Café Ilang-Ilang at lunch and dinner buffet until July 31. So if you’re in to experience Anilag visit Cafe Ilang-Ilang in The Manila Hotel.

2023/05/14

updates

The Joy of Creativity with Project Hulmahan Exhibit at The Manila Hotel

Toto 5/14/2023 06:34:00 PM

One of my favorite places to visit when I'm not in the mood or I lack inspiration is the gallery. There are lots of places in the metro where you can experience the joy of being inspired by the creation of others.

So, here's one place that you'd definitely enjoy. From May 8 to 20, Project Hulmahan is setting foot at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery. The art exhibit features a diverse range of artworks such as sculptures, paintings, and mixed media pieces—all using shoe molds—created by both established and emerging artists who share a passion for helping others through their art.

“We looked for volunteer artists by posting publicly on Facebook who were willing to paint or make any kind of art out of hulmahan [shoe molds] that are no longer being used because the pandemic hit the struggling shoe industry in Marikina, the Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” relates Bernardo. The call for volunteers had a positive response that hundreds of artists all over the Philippines expressed interest. The Manila Hotel’s creative consultant Rachy Cuna, National Artists Maestro Ryan Cayabyab and Kidlat Tahimik, sculptors Pete Jimenez, Jonathan Dangue, Julie Lluch-Dalena, and thespian Dolly De Leon are some of the participating artists whose works are featured in Project Hulmahan.

Project Hulmahan is a brainchild of Zena Bernardo, one of the members of Ladies Who Launch (LWL) and one of the co-founders of Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya. Ms. Bernardo met with shut down shoe manufacturers in her hometown, Marikina, and their group purchased almost 500 pairs of shoe molds with the intention of transforming them into artworks to earn funds for community- based activities.

“It is fitting that The Manila Hotel collaborates with inspiring ladies, as the Grand Dame celebrates ladies, especially mothers, in the month of May”, says Marvin Kim Tan, Director of Sales and Marketing of The Manila Hotel. Ladies Who Launch is a four-woman team made up of Zena Bernardo (mother of Ana Patricia 'Patreng' of the famed Maginhawa community pantry), Dolly De Leon, internationally-acclaimed actress, Judith Albano, and Jasmine Ong. They were the founders of the community kitchen, which assisted many people during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The proceeds from the artworks will benefit the advocacy efforts of these three organizations: Bayanihang Marikenyo at Marikenya for community kitchen and livelihood programs, The Community Kitchen Project for nationwide disaster response, and a community-based art school for kids.

“Sa akin napaka-deep ng story ng [Project] Hulmahan. We want to give dignity back to the community; we consider them as partners in our community-based projects and not beggars. We may not be popular, but we want to be transparent and accountable. [Project] Hulmahan is about molding a person and molding a society. The success of this project will depend on working together and pooling resources so we can ensure that those in need have access to necessities during these challenging times,” says Bernardo.

Project Hulmahan is on display at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby and Art Gallery until May 20, 2023. Admission is free.

To culminate the fundraising endeavor, a grand auction will be held at Centennial Hall of The Manila Hotel on May 21 from 6PM to 11PM. This is by invitation only.

2023/03/02

updates

Indulge in an Epicurean Journey at The Manila Hotel's Champagne Room: A Unique Saga-gyu and Wine Affair You Can't Afford to Miss!

Toto 3/02/2023 03:13:00 PM

Come and experience an epicurean journey with The Manila Hotel’s Champagne Room as they invite you to their ‘A Taste of Japan’ event featuring an exclusive Saga-gyu dinner paired with bespoke wine.

Savor a 7-course dinner filled with delectable dishes prepared by the renowned guest chef, Hiroki Samata, who is a master butcher and classically-trained chef with impeccable knife skills that are admired by many.

Chef Samata will showcase his culinary prowess by highlighting Saga-gyu beef, which is one of the most sought-after delicacies in the world. What sets it apart from other meats? Saga beef cows are raised in comfort and luxury using expert breeding techniques, allowing them to relish the natural beauty of their surroundings in Saga. Consequently, the cows produce a perfect balance of fat marbled in lean meat, which is called tsuya-sashi or “glossy marbling” in Japanese. This is the key to the meat's melt-in-your-mouth texture and unparalleled flavor.

To enhance the dining experience, Titania Wine Cellar, their partner, will guide diners with wine pairing nuances, offering an extensive range of quality wines such as Piccini Memoro Italia Bianco and Chateau Loyasson Bordeaux AOC, among others.

This elegant night of fine dining and wine pairing will be held exclusively on March 15, 2023, at 7 PM in the Champagne Room, with limited seats available for 40 persons priced at Php 10,000 nett per person.

For inquiries and reservations, you may call (+632) 85270011 or (+632) 53015500 locals 1262-1266, 1300, or send an email to restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com or r.champagneroom@themanilahotel.com.