Vivere: A nest for togetherness

MANILA, Philippines - At Vivere Hotel, it is about strengthening and giving value to relationships. It is no surprise then to see entire families, or even groups of friends, happily enjoying their “we” time at the five-star deluxe hotel.

Vivere general manager Elvie Sanchez-Quiazon observes that with these groups turning the establishment into their go-to place for such quality times, the hotel has just about served its purpose.

“You see, here at Vivere, we want to positively influence all people to value their relationships,” Sanchez-Quiazon begins. “We have always envisioned Vivere Hotel as an avenue for family or friends bonding.”

As a prime example, she says, the hotel’s dining centerpiece, the Nest, nestled at the 31st floor, is designed to become “a home.” She says, “A nest is a home, a shelter, a place where you bond and stay together. That, more or less, is the idea behind the Nest.”

The Nest menu is a veritable list of favorite comfort foods, the kind that people enjoy eating together. The portions are good for sharing, and the flavors are superb. Try the classic appetizers such as beef salpicao, buffalo chicken wings or the cheese flautas.

How about starting the big meal with truffle scented tomato basil soup or crispy catfish salad? The Nest offers some of the best pasta dishes in town, from longanisa pasta to chicken, mushroom and boursin pizza.

The menu is on-point, with Filipino favorites occupying practically main billing. It is not surprising, of course. Pinoy food always win the day. It gets any conversation going, and makes for more relaxing dining. Vivere has its best-selling crispy binagoongan, binalot na adobong baboy at pusit, pinalutong na tilapia, and what could most likely be the best crispy pata in the south.

The comfort food selections extend to grilled meats (steaks and ribs come to mind), crunchy southern fried chicken, and seafood (prawns thermidore, pesto-stuffed salmon steak, seafood crepe). Asian specialties are not far behind either: satay tofu, beef rendang, nasi lemak, and more. The Nest also has sandwiches and desserts.

“What makes dining at the Nest special for everyone is the unique al fresco dining experience. We are the only one that has al fresco dining at the rooftop of a hotel,” she says. “The view offers 360-degrees of fresh air, sunset, nature, even the city from afar.”

“We have always believed that gastronomic experiences are a sure-fire way of strengthening ties. Nothing says quality more than eating together, sharing joys and triumphs, even stories,” she adds.

The price, she hastens to add, “is very reasonable.” “It is not intimidating. Yes, the dining happens in a hotel, but the reasonable prices are a pleasant surprise. We want to make our own dining experience within reach of everyone, to make togetherness more special.”

Thus families have a venue for all occasions and reasons for celebrating, be it birthdays, anniversaries, successful job applications, winning tennis matches, weddings, personal milestones.

“Our name Vivere is not just a coincidence. It has a purpose: to encourage all to live fully and happily, with relevance, with purpose,” Sanchez-Quiazon declares. “Living that kind of life is making a mark on people, of giving value to those one holds dear. That is why at the Nest, our instrumental music is more of enhancing the atmosphere, not overpowering it. It is all about the company one is with at the Nest. We are here as a venue.”

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Vivere Hotel is located at 5102 Bridgeway Avenue, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa. For more information, call (632) 771-7777, fax at (632) 771-0158, e-mail at info@viverehotel.com.ph or visit its website at www.viverehotel.com.ph.Photos by Fernan Nebres