CEBU, Philippines – When Executive Chef Marites “Tata” Bermejo invited me as a MOST Culinary dinner guest, I didn’t have second thoughts as it was certainly going to be a one of a kind experience.
True enough, guest of honor Acting Cebu City Mayor Michael Lopez Rama, together with the other guests, entered a room which was transformed into a dining area reminiscent of Classical Europe. Perfectly executed, it made us feel like we were transported to Paris!
Moreover, the beautiful lamppost in every corner created a romantic ambiance, which was complimented by a backdrop of the famous Eiffel tower.
Champagne was immediately served when we were seated and the soothing classical music added the aural touch to the entire preparation.
Our meal started with an hors d’ oeuvres platter, which consisted of caviar and cream cheese on crackers, asparagus in smoked salmon bundles, prosciuotto and cheese canapés.
A delicious and creamy pumpkin soup with smoked salmon, shaped like a flower bud, was promptly served.
The soup was an instant hit!
Crab & Mango Salad in lemon vinaigrette dressing followed and made more stimulating to the palate by the white wine.
As the sumptuous meal progressed, our conversation shifted towards the tender and succulent Pan-Seared Lamb Chops. We delighted on how the lamb chops were prepared.
I learned it was cooked with mint and balsamic honey reduction sauces and went very well with mashed potato and the sauteed vegetables.
Then there were the Portabello mushrooms and black olives in the vegetable concoction.
Servings of red wine overflowed as the meal went on.
As per my rule in my dining escapades, I always leave room for dessert.
Once again, the aspiring chefs paraded and served us the Pavlova Dessert in Strawberry Coulis made of light and crispy meringue served with fresh assorted fruits.
It was very delicious and fulfilled an unexplained craving of the senses.
The guests did not only feel transported to the City of Lights based on the senses of sight and sound, but also taste.
It was truly an experience that I hoped would not end in just one night, but then nothing lasts forever.
I’d like to thank and congratulate Executive Chef Marites “Tata” Bermejo and Sous Chef Ann Myril Chua.
The same goes to the Batch 8 team of Bryan Reynes, Cynthia Tariman, Leila Pesquera, Richard Taylor, Ivy Largo, Romeo Samonte, Desiree Ople, Janice Pestano, Deborah Augusto, Daryl Ann Bonsol, Joel Borbajo, Christopher Cabrera, Ingrid Ceniza, Ruth Gabiosa and Bruno Bollozos.
Last but not least, thank you to the amiable owners of MOST Institute of Culinary Arts, Mr. and Mrs. Jan Michael Uy, as well as Head Chef Evan Basco of Manila, who came over to witness the event, and also to Cebu culinary administrator Ms. Maria Anna Climaco.
Thanks to Elmer Perez, Glen Gamoyot and Marivic Potot for the photos.
Batch 8 will have its graduation rites at Casino Español with Acting Mayor Rama as guest speaker.
MOST Culinary Institute is located at Khuz Building along M. C. Briones, Ibabao, Mandaue City.