Savoy Hotel Manila proudly introduces the inaugural Iloilo Food Festival slated from March 11 to 17, 2024. This landmark event will make history across Megaworld Hotels and Resorts’ 12 properties, featuring the acclaimed Chef Ariel Castaneda from Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, who will take center stage in the kitchen.
Chef Ariel will curate a week-long extravaganza dedicated to showcasing the vibrant flavors, diverse cuisine, and rich culinary heritage of Iloilo. As Savoy Hotel Manila sets its sights on spotlighting the culinary treasures of the southern regions of the Philippines, the Iloilo Food Festival promises to be a celebration of flavors and traditions like no other. Renowned Chef Ariel Castaneda brings his expertise and passion for authentic Ilonggo dishes to Savoy Hotel Manila, offering guests a unique opportunity to savor the essence of Iloilo’s gastronomic delights.
Throughout March 11 to 17, guests can indulge in a delectable array of Ilonggo Heritage dishes meticulously prepared by Chef Ariel and his team. Savoy Café will be transformed into a culinary haven, featuring iconic favorites such as La Paz Batchoy, Chorizo Ilonggo Pudpud Pasta, Linutik Valenciana Ilonggo, Kusahos na Tapa, and more. Additionally, guests can explore a specially curated menu of à la carte Ilonggo dishes, ensuring a truly immersive dining experience. 
The highlight of the Iloilo Food Festival will be two exclusive degustation dinners, where guests can embark on a sensory journey through Iloilo’s culinary landscape. Indulge in exquisite creations such as Sampaguita, Kusahos na Tapa, a USDA sun-dried beef tapa over a Sampaguita crostini with Sampaguita cheese spread; Kinilaw, a fresh mahi-mahi fish tossed on creamy coconut and tangy tuba vinaigrette, zesty libas oil, sweet Guimaras mango, pickled onions, calamansi caviar, spicy chili, crispy fish skin, and delicate tobiko; Inasal Tacos, a one-of-a-kind creation of chicken nasal drizzled with Ilonggo barbecue sauce in taco shell topped with pickled vegetables, soy pearls, leeks and calamansi aioli; and Linutik, made of made of mashed pumpkin garnished with malunggay leaves, underneath is lechon Ilonggo sprinkled with kalkag (tiny shrimps or krills); crispy meticulously crafted to entice the taste buds and evoke the essence of Iloilo’s rich food culture.
But the culinary adventure doesn’t end there. Savoy Manila will delve deeper into the unique flavors and textures of Iloilo with Pinaksiw na Linugaw (porridge infused with smoked pork and pork skin), Pinangat (shrimp Thermidor paired with pinangat puree), Batuan Granita (citrusy icy treat as palate cleanser), Karne Frita (sous-vide butter-aged ribeye with caramelized onions), Sampaguita Ice Cream, and Sampaguita Polvoron. The grand finale awaits with Tablea, Pinasugbo, and Tultul that features a decadent cheesecake complemented by toasted pinasugbo coulis, a promising a symphony of flavors and an unforgettable culinary experience.
Experience the charm of Iloilo’s culinary identity at Savoy Hotel Manila’s Iloilo Food Festival. From innovative culinary practices to a commitment to preserving traditional cooking methods, this event promises a feast of delectable dishes and unforgettable tastes.
