Manila’s historic The Manila Hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining experiences. Today, we had the pleasure of indulging in a taste of Pampanga at their famed Café Ilang-Ilang during their ongoing Pampanga Food Festival. Let me tell you, it was an explosion of flavor that transported us straight to the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines”!
Walking into Café Ilang-Ilang is an experience in itself. The elegant ambiance and attentive staff immediately set the stage for a memorable meal. But the true star of the show was the Pampanga food selection.
Diners can expect to indulge in an array of well-known Kapampangan dishes encompassing traditional favorites like Kalderetang Bibe, Ningnangang Hito at Dalag (grilled catfish and freshwater eel), Kapampangan Bringhe (Filipino style paella cooked in coconut milk), Tidtad Babi (Kapampangan version of dinuguan) with puto, Suam Mais, Sipo Egg, Saleng Manuk, Lengua, and the classic Sisig.
Other delectable dishes include Pako Salad (fern salad), Pizza with Sisig, and Aligue Pasta (seafood pasta in crabfat sauce).
Of course, no Filipino feast is complete without dessert. Café Ilang-Ilang’s Pampanga Food Festival extended to their sweet offerings, and we couldn’t resist indulging in sweets like Tibok Tibok (made from fresh carabao’s milk topped with latik), Kalame Duman (sticky rice cake), Sans Rival, Sasmuan Polvoron, Barquillas, Cashew Mazapan, Panecillos Cookies and Turrones de Casuy (with edible wrapper!)
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While the Kapampangan dishes were the stars of the show, Café Ilang-Ilang’s signature buffet spread remained available. This allowed us to mix and match flavors, enjoying everything from fresh sushi to succulent carving station offerings.
Overall, our lunch experience at Café Ilang-Ilang’s Pampanga Food Festival was a delightful adventure for our taste buds. It was a perfect way to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Pampanga without leaving the city. If you’re looking for a chance to explore Filipino cuisine in a luxurious setting, this festival is a must-try! Just be sure to come hungry (and maybe wear loose clothing – you’ll thank me later!). The festival runs until May 31st, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to embark on a delicious adventure.
For more details and to know their Lunch and Dinner Buffet Rates, go to: https://www.manila-hotel.com.ph/dining/cafe-ilang-ilang/
One Response
best of pampanga 😍 ang sasarap po nyan. craving satisfied for kapampangan dishes