These Filipino restaurants make it to the first-ever 'Essence of Asia' list
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The list pays tribute to restaurants that embody a country's culinary traditions.
Four restaurants from the Philippines have made it into the inaugural “Essence of Asia” collection, an unranked list of restaurants that “represent the spirit of Asian gastronomy.”
Farmer's Daughter in Baguio, Earth Kitchen and Hapag both in Quezon City, and Bale Dutung in Pampanga were all recognized for representing the country's rich culinary culture and keeping local food traditions alive.
“Carrying the torch for the cuisines of indigenous ethnic groups and the high-altitude Cordillera region,” it said about Farmer's Daughter.
Earth Kitchen was commended for supporting “local farmers, fishers and indigenous commununities” and designing “globally inspired dishes to showcase Filipino ingredients.”
Hapag was cited for its experimental menu that “explores the diversity and complexity of Filipino cuisine using only locally sourced ingredients.”
Meanwhile, Bale Dutung was described as “Serving traditional Filipino food with a focus on the produce of the area, the eatery offers a choice of three substantial degustation menus: Pampango, Lechon (suckling pig) and 'Anthony Bourdain', the latter in honour of the late American chef and TV presenter who featured Bale Dutung in his No Reservations series in 2008.”
The “Essence of Asia” list covers food outlets in 49 cities across 20 countries.
Chefs of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list for 2020 and 2021, 50 Best Academy Chairs, and trusted gourmets in the regions all gave their recommendations to help in the selection process for the list.
“Essence of Asia features the sort of places that honour culinary traditions, revive indigenous cuisines or rediscover centuries-old recipes, as well as many that play a key role supporting and connecting their communities,” it said on its website.
The list hopes to help uplift the culinary and hospitality industries across Asia in the wake of the global pandemic that affected businesses and the travel and tourism sectors.
With restrictions easing (at least on some parts of the world) and nations raring to open up their economies, the list can serve as a guide for local and foreign tourists wanting to discover the rich and diverse food culture across Asia through the restaurants mentioned.
