Although I couldn’t attend the tasting event myself, there’s no denying that Solaire Resort Entertainment City’s 12th anniversary celebration left a lasting impact on Manila’s culinary scene.
For the third consecutive year, Solaire brought one of the world’s top Michelin-starred chefs to Manila, delivering an unforgettable gastronomic experience that redefined luxury dining. Three culinary legends—Chef Jun Yukimura, Chef Sun Kim, and Chef Heinz Beck—came together to offer guests an exclusive opportunity to indulge in their exceptional dishes at some of Solaire’s signature restaurants.
The anniversary event wasn’t just about food; it was an immersive experience that took guests on a journey through diverse culinary traditions. From the precision and artistry of Japanese cuisine to the sophisticated flavors of Italian fare and the bold innovation of Korean cooking, this event was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these culinary masters in action.
A Toast to the Experience: The Welcome Drinks
Guests were welcomed with an atmosphere of elegance and warmth, as the celebration kicked off with welcome drinks inspired by the distinct cuisines of each featured chef. At Yakumi, the award-winning mixologist Shingo Gokan crafted exceptional cocktails, including the Ancient Tomato Tree, a delightful twist on his signature drink. Waterside offered a refreshing oolong tea paired with soju or a mocktail with oolong tea and pineapple, while Finestra Italian Steakhouse introduced the crowd-pleasing Esposito cocktail—a fresh, margarita-style concoction. Every sip offered a glimpse into each chef’s unique vision and set the tone for the extraordinary meals to follow.
Chef Jun Yukimura: The Epitome of Japanese Precision at Yakumi
Yakumi guests were treated to an extraordinary 9-course menu from the three-Michelin-starred Chef Jun Yukimura, whose meticulous attention to detail made every dish a work of art. The meal began with delicate Hokkaido sea urchin caviar and cold soba noodles topped with bottarga powder, showcasing the clean, briny flavors that Japanese cuisine is known for. From flounder Japanese cockle and pike conger with velvety textures to snow crab and Kinross lamb chop that balanced sweet and savory flavors, the courses were a journey of taste.
The wagyu beef shabu-shabu was particularly memorable, with tender slices of beef melting in a savory hot broth. As the meal progressed, a refreshing pineapple sorbet offered the perfect sweet finish to an unforgettable evening of exceptional food.
Chef Sun Kim: A Fusion of Korean Heritage and Global Flavors at Waterside
At Waterside, Chef Sun Kim presented a 6-course menu that reflected his culinary journey, beautifully blending Korean flavors with global influences. The meal began with a delicate sashimi of tuna paired with cuttlefish, seaweed, yuzu, and myoga—a light and refreshing start. Hokkaido scallop with rice and aged soy sauce followed, balancing delicate sweetness and brine in perfect harmony.
A reinvention of Chawanmushi with spanner crab and chili oil gave guests a bold umami experience, while the Jeju abalone porridge was a showstopper. This dish, infused with lily bulb and kamtae, captured the essence of Chef Sun’s innovative style and was a true crowd favorite.
The Miyazaki grilled wagyu beef was rich and savory, complemented by celtuce, onion purée, and mushroom ragout. Dessert arrived in the form of sweet corn from the Philippines, paired with caramel and popcorn ice cream. The infusion of black tea and rose petals by Tea Master He Jia added a fragrant and delicate note to the meal, ensuring a perfect finish to an extraordinary dining experience.
Chef Heinz Beck: The Balance of Flavors at Finestra Italian Steakhouse
Finestra Italian Steakhouse hosted renowned chef Heinz Beck, owner of the prestigious La Pergola in Rome, for a 6-course menu designed around his philosophy that food should be both gourmet and balanced. Chef Heinz’s menu was expertly paired with wines from the prestigious Gaja Winery in Italy’s Langhe region, enhancing every dish with perfect harmony.
The evening began with marinated amberjack, followed by a rich scampo paired with sweet peppers and green gazpacho—a light and delightful introduction to the feast ahead. A standout dish was the pumpkin risotto, which featured a beautiful contrast of textures from the sweet, crunchy elements and the richness of balsamic vinegar and black truffle.
The pistachio-crusted veal, served with dried fruit purée, was a refreshing twist on savory, while dessert—an exquisite red fruit ice sphere with tea cream and crystallized raspberries—provided a burst of fresh, sweet flavors. As part of the Sunday brunch experience, the interactive setup at Finestra included roast beef, a table filled with desserts, and a seafood tower, making it a feast for both the eyes and the senses.
A Celebration of Culture, Taste, and Memories
Solaire Resort Entertainment City’s 12th anniversary celebration was more than just a culinary event; it was a celebration of culture, tradition, and the artistry of some of the world’s most renowned chefs. Every dish told a story, every ingredient was carefully chosen, and every moment was designed to create lasting memories for those fortunate enough to experience it.
While I wasn’t able to attend, it’s clear that this event offered a truly unique opportunity to experience the finest in global cuisine, from the precision of Japanese dishes to the indulgence of Italian classics and the inventive nature of Korean cooking. It was an event that not only delighted the palate but also brought people together, offering a taste of the world’s culinary diversity right here in Manila.
For more details and to stay updated on future events, visit Solaire Resort Entertainment City’s website or check out their Facebook and Instagram pages.
No comments:
Post a Comment
God Bless & Stay Safe!