Unveiling the extraordinary: An exclusive preview of the Kurobuta Showcase at The Manila Hotel’s Cafe Ilang-Ilang

As a food blogger, I always welcome extraordinary gastronomic experiences. There’s little wonder then, that when I received an invitation to an exclusive preview of the Kurobuta Showcase at Cafe Ilang-Ilang in The Manila Hotel, I knew I couldn’t possibly miss it.

An Enchanting Dining Atmosphere

As the epicenter of Manila’s power dining, Cafe Ilang-Ilang has been a beloved spot for generations. The newly reimagined cafe seamlessly blends casual chic dining with an extensive selection of buffet delights.

The spacious restaurant features open kitchens that offer a fresh spin on various cuisines from Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and the West, which include home-baked breads and pastries, hand-rolled sushi, charcuterie, Chinese noodles and dumplings, carving stations, artisanal ice cream, healthy green salads, Halal food options and much-loved Filipino dishes. The stunning open Pan-Asian kitchen, Churrasco station, decadent dessert station, and Italian kitchen contribute to a truly unique gastronomic adventure.

Alongside fellow bloggers and esteemed media representatives, I stepped into the elegantly-appointed Atrium, the largest function room of Cafe Ilang-Ilang, styled by the hotel’s creative consultant Rachy Cuna to experience its Kurobuta Showcase.

Unveiling the wonders of Kurobuta Pork

Kurobuta pork, also known as Berkshire pork, is a culinary gem known for its exceptional qualities. It has earned its distinction as the “Wagyu of Pork” thanks to its exceptional marbling, the abundant intramuscular fat which creates a tender, juicy texture that melts in your mouth. Each bite of Kurobuta pork reveals a rich, a distinctive yet naturally sweet and nutty taste, accentuated by the high fat content, which added depth and complexity to the dishes crafted by Cafe Ilang-Ilang’s culinary team helmed by the hotel’s executive chef Chef Konrad Walter using this premium pork.

Kurobuta Pork Skin Chicharones. Crispy and golden-brown pork skin that crackles with each bite. Made with deep-fried Kurobuta pork rinds, these chicharones offer a mouthwatering combination of rich flavors and irresistible crunch.

Spicy Thai Mince Kurobuta Pork Salad. A harmonious blend of spicy and refreshing flavors, this dish featured finely minced Kurobuta pork tossed with vibrant Thai herbs and spices. Each bite offered a burst of aromatic sensations.

Japanese Kurobuta Pork Ramen Noodle Soup. The soul-warming bowl of ramen was elevated to new heights with tender slices of Kurobuta pork. The broth, infused with rich flavors and depth, enveloped the senses, making it an irresistible comfort dish.

Korean-Style Grilled Pork Belly. A crowd favorite, this dish showcased the marriage of Kurobuta pork and Korean flavors. The grilled pork belly was impeccably seasoned, boasting a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky notes which translated well when wrapped in fresh greens with kimchi and other classic banchan dishes.

Mediterranean Kurobuta Pork Stew in Red Wine Sauce with Prunes. This indulgent stew presented a delightful fusion of flavors. The succulent Kurobuta pork, braised to perfection, was bathed in a rich red wine sauce that married beautifully with the sweetness of prunes and sweet potatoes.

Kurobuta Pork Spareribs Mandarin Style. A true symphony of flavors, the tender Kurobuta pork spareribs were coated in a tantalizing Mandarin-style sauce. Each bite delivered a harmonious blend of sweetness and tanginess that delighted the taste buds.

Whole Roasted Kurobuta Pork Shank. The roasted Kurobuta pork shank is a carnivore’s dream with succulent and flavorful meat perfectly complemented with a rich and savory gravy.

Grilled Kurobuta Pork Loin with Rosemary and Garlic. Simple yet elegant, this dish highlighted the natural flavors of the Kurobuta pork loin. The expertly grilled meat, infused with aromatic rosemary and garlic and accompanied by a tangy chimichurri sauce, showcased the pork’s exceptional qualities.

Mini Ensaymada with Pork Lard. A delightful twist on a Filipino classic, the mini ensaymada showcased the versatility of Kurobuta pork. The addition of pork lard added a savory depth to the sweet and fluffy pastry.

An Unforgettable Gastronomic Experience

The Kurobuta Showcase at Cafe Ilang-Ilang is a culinary adventure that should not be missed by any discerning food lover. The meticulous curation of the menu, the exceptional qualities of Kurobuta pork, and the creativity and expertise of The Manila Hotel’s culinary team make this dining experience truly extraordinary. The dishes I had the pleasure of savoring were a testament to the hotel’s commitment to sourcing premium ingredients and pushing the boundaries of flavor.

The dedication to sustainable and ethical farming practices at Esguerra Farms, the source of the Kurobuta pork, added another layer of appreciation for the culinary journey I embarked on.

If you’re a foodie seeking an extraordinary gastronomic experience, I wholeheartedly recommend the Kurobuta Showcase at Cafe Ilang-Ilang in Manila Hotel. Prepare to be enchanted by the ambiance, tantalized by the flavors, and captivated by the artistry of the culinary team. Indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the exceptional qualities of Kurobuta pork and promises to leave an indelible mark on your taste buds.

The dishes featured during the preview will be be available on a rotating basis at Café Ilang-Ilang’s Dinner Buffet, available from 6pm to 10pm every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from June 5 to 28, 2023 at Php3,145 nett per person, with a half-rate applicable to children aged 5-12 years old. Children aged 4 years old and below enjoy free admission.

To make inquiries or reservations, please contact +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500 or send an email to restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

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

Know more about Manila Hotel and its offers by visiting its website or following it on Facebook, Instagram or Youtube.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting event held at this restaurant. Food items mentioned here were served at no cost to the attendees.