Sabores de España at Marco Polo Plaza

Philippine Cuisine was greatly influenced by the Spanish colonization a long time ago. Food historians claim that 80 percent of Philippine dishes are of Spanish origin. Because the Spaniards formed the elite, dishes adapted by upper-class Filipinos were also Spanish-inspired. Thus, many of the party and fiesta dishes and those served for special occasions bear names like relleno, morcon, paella, callos, embutido, caldereta, etc.

Marco Polo Hotel, Cebu celebrated Sabores de España, for the third time already. The event was launched on July 16, 2010, and went on until July 25, 2010. It was graced by the Spain’s Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Luis Arias-Romero, and Honorary Consul of Spain, Jaime Picornell, Ms. Gema Pido and Mr. Hans Hauri.

Special performances by the internationally-awarded Filipino concert pianist, Maestor Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz, accompanied by Guitarist Ruben Reyes entertained the guest during the short program. They romanced the audience with a colorful and spellbinding reportoire at the Lobby Lounge.

The ceremonial cutting of the Serrano Ham at Café Marco and unveiling of the quintessential Paella at El Viento Restaurant at Pool bar highlighted the event. The Parade of Chefs and Waiters made the event more festive.

Paella

The main event was the dinner where several Spanish food were served. Gema Luisa Pido, Cebu’s foremost authority on Spanish culinary tradition, brought out her treasured family recipes for Paella, Lengua Estofada, Cocidos, Rellenos, Croquettas, Gambas, Sans Rival, Leche Flan, and other Spanish delicacies – all becoming part of Cafe Marco’s award-winning international buffet.

Related posts:

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Sabores de España by Michael Sinjin Pineda

Marco Polo Cebu celebrates the flavors of Spain by Ethelbert Ouano