by Marisse Gabrielle Reyes
MANILA – The scale and calibre of gastronomy that Madrid Fusion Manila brought to Philippine soil was unprecedented. Madrid Fusion is widely known in the food world as one of the largest and most prestigious events. Over the weekend, the Department of Tourism Philippines and Tourism Promotions Board Philippines-backed event was brought to the Philippine capital in commemoration of 370 years of history between Spain and the Philippines.
Eight of the best culinary talents in Spain (such as Elena Arzak or Arzak and Andoni Luis Aduriz of Mugaritz) presented the latest trends and techniques at the SMX Convention Center. They were joined by ten local chefs (such as Bruce Ricketts of Mecha Uma and Chele Gonzalez of Gallery Vask) as well as two regional ones (Andre Chiang of Restaurant Andre and Alvin Leung of Bo Innovation).
“The whole concept behind Madrid Fusion Manila is to get the best in culinary arts to come to the Philippines, share their knowledge, and learn from our local culinary chefs at the same time,” said Department of Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr..
If you were able to look past the operational mishaps, the event, which was comprised of two parts (the International Gastronomy Congress and a trade show), indeed met their targets. The in-depth expertise shared by the industry insiders at the congress was exciting and inspiring. Elena Arzak spoke on creativity, Chele Gonzalez spoke on rediscovery and reverence, and Myrna Segismundo spoke on Philippine coconuts.
The adjacent hall housed the public trade show where vendors showcased the best produce of the land (Down to Earth and Holy Carabao did this best); booths promoted regional cuisines by chaotically distributing samples; and Spanish food and drinks were proffered. Apart from the supermarket brand eye sores, the selection of food and drink, although somewhat raw, spoke volumes about the unique and bountiful offering of the Philippines.
Without shadow of a doubt, Madrid Fusion Manila was a pioneering event for the Philippine’s culinary scene. Manila’s food scene, with its fondness for chains and restaurant groups operated by influential families, arguably lacks the authenticity and point-of-view that other more well-developed food cities have. But the tremors felt from Madrid Fusion Manila have potential to invigorate, elevate, and inspire our culinary scene – right down to its bones.
