On the table: Food, culture and travel
It was definitely a “yes” the moment we received a message from our good friend Menchu Tantoco Lopez to enjoy an exclusive dinner blending two exquisite cuisines from Spain and Japan at Bon Appetit’s 1120 House in Makati.
More than just a meal, the event showcased culture and gastronomy in collaboration with Amanpulo to create an extraordinary experience that transcends borders.
The gastronomic idea came from travel and food enthusiast Rica Lopez de Jesus to present an epicurean experience, “Umami Sabe Bien,” with Spanish premium artisanal ingredients featuring an impressive collection of unique finds from Bermeo, a coastal town in the Basque region — to Navarra, Teruel Province, Caceres, Mora and the Iberian pastures.
The high-quality selection contained pork meat, sustainable seafood, free-range Moulard duck, artisanal cheeses, pates, and more.
“We choose our purveyors based on quality and based on their artisanal characteristics,” Rica enthused. “We like supporting small farmers’ farms and most of all we like working with the families that own these farms and businesses. More than anything else, we value their friendships and partnerships. We promote them because we want to help them and make their products known to more people. That is why we enjoy what we do.”
With these finest products from Bon Appetit, Amanpulo executive chef Kengo Tomita created flavorful dishes through the art of umami exquisitely presented with Japanese precision.
With more than 28years of experience in the culinary world, most of which was spent in Spain, the Japan-born chef’s heritage is reflected in his craft. The two-night event featured cocktails and a five-course dinner, gathering people together in celebrating the thrill of exploration and the art of food.
