Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) recently kicked off its week-long participation in the Cebu Food & Wine Festival with a series of events hosted at its properties in The Mactan Newtown in Cebu. These events not only delighted guests with culinary experiences but also provided an opportunity for chefs and F&B leaders to further refine their skills, elevate the culinary experience, and embrace innovation beyond the kitchen.
The festivities commenced on June 12, 2023, at Savoy Hotel Mactan with the grand celebration called Fiesta Filipinas. This event paid homage to the rich Filipino food heritage and featured a delectable spread of local dishes prepared by the top chefs from MHR’s 12 homegrown hotel brands. Guests were treated to a culinary journey, spanning the diverse flavors of the Philippines. From Ilocos’ Bopis Pie to Bacolod’s Native Chicken Inasal Khati Rolls and Zamboanga’s flavorful Beef Kulma Turnover, the event showcased the country’s culinary diversity. In addition, there were cheese and cold stations featuring locally sourced cheeses, as well as carving stations presenting the famous Lechon of Cebu.
On the following day, June 13, MHR’s F&B Council presented a signature tasting menu event called LaMeza, The Modern Filipino Table, with a special focus on Cebu’s unique cuisine. This immersive culinary experience took guests on an 8-course degustation inspired by the 12 municipalities of the province. Each dish was thoughtfully crafted to highlight the distinct delicacies from the various locales, resulting in an engaging fusion of flavors. The Saang Laksa, Labtingaw Salad, and USDA Ribeye Balbacua were particularly noteworthy. These were complemented the appetizing courses brought out in timely fashion and artful presentation by the service staff.
Further adding to the culinary festivities, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts organized a two-day Culinary Conference on June 14-15. With the theme “Innovate to Elevate, Embrace Your Culture,” the conference gathered renowned industry experts to share their insights, best practices, and inspirational stories. The conference was a great opportunity and valuable platform for chefs and F&B leaders to learn new skills, network with other professionals, and get inspired to create new and innovative culinary experiences.
These three remarkable events not only showcased the best of Filipino cuisine and talents of Filipino chefs but also provided an opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in Cebu’s vibrant culinary scene. The Cebu Food & Wine Festival, spanning 15 days and encompassing multiple venues across Cebu and Mactan, aimed to create a unique festival experience.
In addition to the culinary festivities, MHR officially welcomed Belmont Hotel Mactan to their expanding portfolio of hotels. Belmont Hotel Mactan became the second hotel for Megaworld Hotels & Resorts in Cebu and the twelfth property overall. With 280 guest rooms and suites, along with a variety of dining and entertainment options, Belmont Hotel Mactan offers guests a stay experience that complements the company’s commitment to exceptional hospitality. (L. Bautista)
