manila hotel – Jellybeans in the City

Cowrie Grill celebrates a decade of culinary excellence

In the shopping and entertainment haven of Promenade Greenhills, Cowrie Grill stands tall as a beacon of culinary excellence, celebrating a remarkable 10 years of serving discerning connoisseurs and food enthusiasts alike. What was once nestled within the historic walls of The Manila Hotel has evolved into a destination for exquisite cuisine, maintaining its legacy as an epitome of fine dining.

A Culinary Legacy Unveiled: The 10 Most Popular Dishes

To mark this milestone, Cowrie Grill joyfully unveils its “Decade Favorites” — a collection of the 10 most beloved dishes that have defined a decade of gastronomic brilliance. Guests are invited to indulge in the timeless elegance of tableside Caesar Salad, the comforting embrace of French Onion Soup, the rich flavors of Fettuccine Al Funghi E Tartufo, and the sumptuousness of Grilled Chilean Sea Bass. The celebration also features a culinary journey through Saga Wagyu Beef Rib Eye, Chateaubriand U.S. Angus, Bone-In Tomahawk Ribeye, Iberico Pork Loin, U.S. Angus Beef Tournedos Rossini with Foie Gras, and concludes with the spectacular Baked Alaska flambéed with brandy.

“We are truly grateful for the continuous support and loyalty of our guests since the restaurant’s early days at The Manila Hotel. Our 10th anniversary is a tribute to our commitment to culinary excellence and the cherished relationships we’ve built over the years,” expressed EJ Yap, F&B Director of Cowrie Grill by The Manila Hotel.

An Elegant Venue for Every Occasion

Beyond its exquisite culinary offerings, Cowrie Grill is an ideal venue for private events and intimate gatherings. The restaurant’s elegant interior and customizable space provide the perfect setting for those seeking refinement and exceptional service for their celebrations. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or a corporate event, Cowrie Grill’s versatility ensures an unforgettable experience for its diners.

Cowrie Grill is open seven days a week from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, ready to welcome patrons to a world of culinary delight. For inquiries and reservations, please contact +632 8477 6385, send a Viber message to 0977 641 8815, or email r.cowriegrill@themanilahotel.com.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

The Manila Hotel embraces Filipino traditions with glittering Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

In a vibrant celebration embracing Filipino customs, The Manila Hotel kicked off the holiday season with its enchanting Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 9. The centerpiece of the evening was the resplendent Christmas Tree, adorned meticulously with golden Ilang-Ilang blooms, paying homage to the Grand Dame’s official flower. The blend of gold, natural tones, and vibrant reds created a visually stunning display echoing the true essence of the season. This spectacular holiday décor was brought to life by the creative genius of Mr. Rachy Cuna, The Manila Hotel’s Creative & Design Director.

Distinguished Guests and Joyous Melodies

The ceremony welcomed esteemed personalities, including The Manila Hotel Chairman Basilio Yap, Vice Chairman Dr. Emilio Yap III, President Atty. Joey Lina, Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta, City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna Pangan, and other honored guests. Adding to the festive spirit, the Office of the President Chorale serenaded the audience with traditional Christmas carols.

Sharing the Season’s Spirit

Embodying the holiday spirit of giving and sharing, The Manila Hotel embraced the House of Refuge as the beneficiary of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The House of Refuge serves as a halfway house, offering shelter and meeting the basic needs of street children.

The Essence of Tradition

Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel Director of Sales and Marketing, expressed, “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.”

Continuing the Festive Glow

With the Christmas Tree now radiantly glowing in the Grand Lobby, The Manila Hotel remains dedicated to spreading holiday cheer and upholding the spirit of Filipino traditions throughout the festive season.

About The Manila Hotel

Nestled next to kilometer zero (0) in the heart of Manila, The Manila Hotel stands as an iconic establishment within walking distance of the Philippines’ renowned landmarks. Since its inception in 1912, the hotel has maintained an esteemed status, offering over 500 well-appointed rooms and an array of function spaces. Boasting world-class amenities like the Manila Hotel Spa, pools, Health Club, a Heritage Museum, and an Art Gallery, it offers a unique window into history and contemporary art. With six dining outlets, each promising a distinct culinary journey, The Manila Hotel continues to provide an unparalleled experience for its guests.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Filipinas National Football Team Finds Homecoming Glory at The Manila Hotel

The esteemed Philippine women’s national football team, known as Filipinas, has returned home after an impressive showing at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The team’s exceptional performance has brought them immense pride, and they are now being welcomed with open arms at The Manila Hotel.

A Glorious Achievement on the Global Stage

Comprising a group of 23 valiant women players, Filipinas set out on a mission to make their fellow countrymen proud by representing the Philippines at the world-renowned 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Their journey culminated in a remarkable victory against New Zealand, a triumph that caught the attention of the international sporting community. This historic win not only secured glory for the nation but also marked the Philippines’ debut appearance in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The team’s diversity was overshadowed by their shared commitment to hoisting the country’s flag, showcasing an unwavering dedication to representing every Filipino with utmost pride.

A Resounding Welcome from The Manila Hotel

In celebration of the team’s extraordinary achievement and unwavering dedication to the sport, The Manila Hotel is honored to extend a heartfelt welcome to the Filipinas national football team. This distinguished establishment will serve as the team’s home during their stay following their triumphant return from New Zealand. Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel, expressed his thoughts on the occasion: “Just being qualified to compete, for the first time ever, in the FIFA Women’s World Cup which is undoubtedly football’s biggest stage, was a great honor in itself for the Filipinas. Compared to many countries that have scored their first wins after numerous games in several world cups, the Philippines’ early win was phenomenal indeed.”

An Inspiring Legacy for Future Generations

Filipinas’ success at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the Philippines. Their remarkable journey from diverse backgrounds to a united force on the global stage sets a precedent for determination, unity, and national pride. The team’s story is a beacon of hope for future generations of athletes who dream of representing their country on the world stage.

About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is a prestigious establishment known for its rich history and luxurious accommodations. Located in the heart of Manila, the hotel has been a symbol of excellence in hospitality for generations. With its commitment to providing an unparalleled experience, The Manila Hotel is proud to host the Filipinas national football team as they bask in the glory of their accomplishments.

Details provided in a recent press release.

A culinary journey at the International Buffet of The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang

There are few dining experiences that will have had me braving the July’s heavy monsoon rains, the threat of flooding and the metro’s infamous traffic jams, but that’s exactly what happened that particular Thursday evening, when I met up with fellow foodies to enjoy Cafe Ilang-Ilang’s much-celebrated dinner buffet spread.

A Legacy of Culinary Excellence

Named after the ilang-ilang tree which symbolizes love and romance, Cafe Ilang-Ilang is a much-beloved spot that transports diners to a world of culinary excellence. The Manila Hotel’s flagship restaurant has undergone several renovations and is now an architectural masterpiece. With a legacy spanning over half a century, Café Ilang-Ilang has become synonymous with exceptional dining experiences in Manila.

Global Flavors on Your Plate

Café Ilang-Ilang prides itself on offering an extensive array of cuisines from around the world. Here, my fellow foodies and I were able to explore the buffet spread that spans continents and satisfies every palate with a delightful showcase of diverse flavors.

Salads and Breads Station. Whet your appetites with Cafe Ilang-Ilang’s assortment of vibrant, crisp salads, freshly baked bread, cheeses and delicatessen. This station offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures to complement your buffet experience.

Churrasco Station. Immerse yourself in the tantalizing aroma of grilled meats and seafood. Indulge in succulent grilled beef, pork, chicken, lamb, sausages, and seafood skewers, accompanied by a variety of delectable sauces.

Pan-Asian Station. Embark on a culinary journey through Asia with a wide selection of dim sum, sushi, sashimi, noodles, dumplings, and stir-fries.

Italian Station. Indulge in classic Italian dishes that will transport you to the heart of Italy. Savor mouthwatering pizzas and pastas, freshly prepared and cooked to perfection.

Mediterranean Station. Delight in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Sample refreshing salads, fresh seafood, halal dishes and perfectly grilled meats.

American Station. Experience the best of American hearty fare. Let loose your inner carnivore juicy steaks and tender roasts.

Dessert Station. Indulge your sweet tooth with a delectable array of sweet treats. From luscious cakes and pastries to creamy ice cream, the dessert station offers a delightful finale to your culinary adventure.

Anilag Festival: A Celebration of Culinary Heritage

The true showcase of that evening’s luxurious repast is the Anilag Festival, a carefully curated menu that showcases revered recipes from Calle Arco, an ancestral home in Pagsanjan, Laguna, renowned for its authentic Filipino dishes. Café Ilang-Ilang collaborated with Calle Arco in bringing the vibrant flavors of Laguna’s annual food festival, Anilag or Ani ng Laguna on a rotating basis to the restaurant’s Filipino buffet station throughout this month of July. These include:

Binagoongang Crispy Pata. A fusion of two Filipino classics, crispy pata and binagoongan made cuts of deep-fried pork leg braised in flavorful stew made with shrimp paste.

Fried Itik. A signature dish from Victoria, Laguna wherein a duck is marinated in special seasonings then deep-fried to a crisp.

Kare-Kare (Galapong). A rich and flavorful oxtail stew with vegetables, simmered in a peanut sauce made from ground peanuts, chili peppers, spices, and glutinous rice.

Pancit Habhab. A stir-fried noodle dish made with miki noodles, shrimp, pork, and vegetables.

Sinigang na Baka na may Langka. The tangy and refreshing flavors of a sour soup made with beef, vegetables, and tamarind with some sweet notes from jackfruit.

Grilled Pla-Pla with Pako. Grilled tilapia served with pako leaves, adding a hint of sweetness and bitterness.

Adobong Kangkong. A staple in many Filipino homes, this dish is made with a combination of water spinach (kangkong) and classic adobo elements such as pork belly, garlic, bay leaves, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, oil, and black pepper.

Café Ilang-Ilang at The Manila Hotel is a haven for food lovers seeking a remarkable buffet experience. With its rich history, stunning ambiance, and an exquisite selection of global cuisines, it promises an unforgettable dining adventure. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the diverse flavors from around the world while celebrating Laguna’s culinary heritage during the Anilag Festival.

Personally, the trek across the metro’s congested streets in the midst of a deluge for this feast was well worth it.

Cafe Ilang-Ilang serves dinner buffet from 6pm to 10pm daily, priced at Php3,145/adult and Php1,572/child from Sundays to Wednesdays, and Php3,790/adult and Php1,895/child from Thursdays to Saturdays.

For 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.

Yul Servo Nieto presents captivating solo exhibit at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery

Yul Servo Nieto, the Manila Vice Mayor, accomplished actor, public servant, and multi-talented artist, is ready to captivate art enthusiasts with his highly anticipated solo exhibit, Directions II. This exclusive exhibition will take place at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery, showcasing Nieto’s unique vision and exceptional creativity.

A Passion for Art Beyond Acting

Although widely recognized for his acting prowess, Yul Servo Nieto’s passion for art goes beyond the screen. Directions II presents a collection of his works where he masterfully transforms discarded metal scraps into stunning pieces of art. Marvin Kim Tan, the Director of Sales and Marketing at The Manila Hotel, expresses gratitude for the opportunity to host Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto’s second solo exhibit in their art gallery.

Pushing the Boundaries of Artistic Expression

Following the resounding success of his debut exhibit, Yul Servo Nieto embarks on his latest endeavor, Directions II, to push the boundaries of artistic expression even further. The exhibit serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to environmental consciousness and the profound impact that art can have in sparking meaningful conversations.

Influenced by his Father’s Legacy

Yul Servo Nieto draws inspiration from his father, Martin Nieto, an architecture graduate and visual artist who played a significant role in the pioneering of the giant billboard advertising industry in the Philippines. While his father primarily works with oil and acrylic, Nieto explores the world of metal sculpture. Despite their different artistic paths, their shared love for art serves as a foundation of support for each other’s endeavors.

Join the Artistic Discourse at Directions II

Embark on an inspiring artistic journey at Yul Servo Nieto’s Directions II exhibit as he showcases masterful pieces on the walls of The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery, starting on June 12, 2023.

The net proceeds from the sale of Servo’s artworks will be donated to selected beneficiaries and charitable organizations.

For additional details and inquiries, please contact +632 852700111 or +632 53015500.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Loboc Children’s Choir performs at The Manila Hotel and Manila Prince Hotel

Hotel guests may witness special performances of Loboc Children’s Choir as they are scheduled to sing at the lobby ofManila Prince Hotel on April 30, 2023 at 2:30 PM and at the grand lobby of The Manila Hotel on May 1, 2023 at 2:30 PM.

Admission is free.

The renowned Loboc Children’s Choir has captivated audiences far and wide with their musical talent. Having won national and international competitions, the choir has grown into one of the Philippines’ most outstanding choirs today.

Loboc Children’s Choir was founded in 1980, and within its forty-three years of existence, the choir has received accolades around the world as they held concerts in Austria, Belgium, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, and United States of America. They took home the gold medal in both the Youth Category and Grand Prize at the 6th International Folksongs Festival “Europe and its Songs” held in Barcelona, Spain.

For inquiries, please call +63 2 5328 2222 for Manila Prince Hotel and +63 2 8527 0011 for The Manila Hotel.

About Manila Prince

Manila Prince Hotel, a subsidiary of The Manila Hotel, is situated in the heart of Manila’s business district and has close proximity to the city’s historical tourist spots as well as the main transportation hubs. With its 300 well-appointed rooms, 6 function rooms, an elegant lobby with 24-hour reception, a business center, a swimming pool, and gym access, the Manila Prince Hotel offers value for money and stylish comfort. Along with excellent service and luxurious hospitality, the hotel has exciting dining experiences for you and your family at its all-day dining restaurant Marcelino Street Café. The hotel is also connected to the UN Square mall for convenient shopping and dining. These and more, make Manila Prince Hotel a top choice for leisure and business travelers’ choice.

About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is situated in the heart of the City of Manila. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Over the years, The Manila Hotel continuously provides the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 515 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with The Manila Hotel Spa and Health Club. It has 6 dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.

Sweet Valentine surprises for your sweet someone at The Manila Hotel

Sweets to the sweet, or so they say.

So on the day of hearts, treat your special someone to something special from The Manila Hotel.

Chocolate gifts have long been a staple of Valentine’s Days for decades, so what better way to show your love than with handcrafted chocolates. Two new items from The Manila Hotel Deli will surely make your Valentine’s night all the sweeter. Surprise your loved one with either the Valentine Praline Bouquet or the Chocolate Strawberry Bouquet.

For only P980 nett, the Valentine Praline Bouquet is exactly that—a round bouquet of hazelnut gianduja-based pralines, with highlights of rolled pistachio nuts. Timeless and popular, round bouquets are popular in weddings, but this artisanal chocolate bouquet is one that will surely add a sweet touch to Valentine’s Day.

The Chocolate Strawberry Bouquet, which sells for only P1,380 nett, combines the taste of juicy strawberries and the comforting sweetness of chocolates loved by many. Dipped in artisanal Belgian chocolate and interspersed with pink variant, this is a perfect gift that says a lot.

These sweet surprise variants can be pre-ordered starting February 8, 2021 from The Manila Hotel’s Delicatessen, or by calling 85270011 or 09989501912.

And just in time for the day of hearts, the Valentine-inspired Raspberry Delight heart-shaped cake combines three ingredients that make the perfect combo: Chocolate Mousse brings sweetness and mellowness; raspberries an acidity note; and pistachio biscuit just the right crunch. For only, Php1,300 nett, this indulgent dessert is just what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard. One-day pre-order is recommended.

The Delicatessen also has a host of other chocolate gift items in regular boxes and collectible boxes like heart-shaped sinamay containers. From Belgian chocolate bars to assorted pralines to heart-shaped concoctions, you have numerous options to choose from.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Give your dad the day he deserves

Father’s Day may look a little different this year because of the general community quarantine, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still devote the day to Dad. Got a special dad who deserves a special meal? Show him your appreciation with an exceptional family lunch or dinner with his favorite dishes. Whether you’re planning to fire up the grill or set up a sit-down meal indoors this Father’s Day, The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang Ilang Takeout service is here to help you create the perfect menu.

Express your gratitude and admiration to the greatest man in your life with an exceptional Father’s Day meal which you can easily make at home. Delight your dad with any of our Home Buffet options or A La Carte menu. Because the best dad deserves only the best, let him indulge with an enticing main course of any of our new Sous Vide Steaks offerings.

Eating steak is a sensorial gustatory experience: from the visual delight of seeing the marbling on your steak to the sizzle you hear as it cooks to the sensational smell of grilled meat. Dads will surely delight in our special imported meats. It’s value-for-money, too. The cuts are enormous and good enough to share, for those who aren’t voracious carnivores. Marbling is the main contributor of beef juiciness, flavor and tenderness. The steaks are superb, juicy, perfectly tender, and so good.

Our cooked sous vide steaks, with easy to re-cook instructions, are:
U.S. Beef Rib Steak, 500 grams—Php2,300 nett
U.S. Beef Tenderloin with Black Peppercorn Sauce, 180 grams—Php1,500 nett
Prime U.S. Beef Striploin, 280 grams—Php2,100 nett
Black Angus Beef Rib Eye, 340 grams—Php1,900 nett

Enjoy 20% discount if you make an advance order with a minimum amount of Php2,500 nett from our Home Buffet or A La Cart menu or any of our new Sous Vide Steak Offerings from now until June 19,2020 (Friday) for pick-up or delivery on Father’s Day (June 21, 2020).

End the meal on a sweet note with any of our Cake Creations: trio of chocolate mousse layered Opera Cake, Mango Cheesecake and Ohaina chocolate gateau — alluring desserts that your dad will surely love. Enjoy a 10% discount on our Cake Creations if pre-ordered with our Father’s Day promo.

Additional fee for delivery within Metro Manila only. Other discounts are not applicable for this promo.

Call us now at +63 2 85270011 or SMS/Viber at +63 998 9501912 for your pre-orders.

Unwinding at Manila Hotel’s Tap Room

Taking advantage of a credit card promo, my mother-in-law treated us to dinner at Manila Hotel’s Tap Room to celebrate my sister-in-law’s birthday.

Manila Hotel is a historic 5-star hotel located along Manila Bay. Built in 1909, it is the oldest premiere hotel in the Philippines.

The Tap Room is Manila Hotel’s English pub-inspired bar. Its dim lighting, dark wood interiors, plush seating and soothing jazz music from live performers make it an appropriate place to unwind in with your favorite drink.

While waiting for our orders, we were served with salted peanuts and green peas to go with our drinks (mine was, of course, a double shot of Bailey’s).

Our food orders included:

Being located in a 5-star hotel, the Tap Room’s service was top-notch. The wait staff was elegantly dressed, very accommodating and helpful. They even brought out a slice of chocolate mousse as a birthday treat for my sister-in-law.

The food was well-presented and well-flavored. However, given the pricing, hanging out at the Tap Room for dining or drinks is not something I can do too often.

Tap Room is located at the Ground Floor, The Manila Hotel, 1 Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila.