Adobros (1)

Featured art by Bhernn Saenz. With images courtesy of Guevarra's.

MANILA, Philippines — Following the success of its first two outings, Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico marks yet another significant move with the latest installment of Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey. This serves as a continuing effort put forth by Filipino culinary figures behind the food haven and beyond, for an ongoing celebration of Filipino culinary artistry and cultural pride.

For the latest edition to the series, Taste of the Philippines takes an exciting turn with the restaurant’s newest collaborators, Melbourne-based culinary collective Adobros, with the dynamism of Chef Michael Pastrana and Chef Morris Danzen Catanghal at the helm.

The collaborative effort between two culinary sensations brings a feast unlike any other, where heritage meets innovation, and classic Filipino recipes are elevated with Aussie flair. This partnership sees a shared mission of elevating Filipino cuisine to the global stage and inspire the next generation of chefs to march forward celebrating the richness of Filipino flavors while connecting with a multicultural audience.

Image courtesy of Guevarra’s.

It is with a serendipitous meeting in Melbourne, where Chef Roland Laudico and the proponents behind Adobros discovered a shared passion for championing Filipino food around the world. This then brought a  beautiful fusion of flavors and ideas, bringing together the clever gastronomic reinventions of the now Melbourne-based Quezon and Bulacan natives.

“This partnership marries time-honored Filipino recipes with contemporary ingredients and techniques,” says Chef Roland Laudico. “By incorporating local produce and cooking styles, we want to create dishes that are both rooted in tradition yet modern. It’s a creative dialogue between two culinary cultures, one that pays homage to heritage while embracing the evolving palate of today’s diners.”

Adding global flair to the already-iconic menu offerings of Guevarra’s, Adobros infuses their takes on classic Filipino dishes like the flavorful Tinola sa Gata, the Lamb Adobo, and the Chicken Afritada Croquettes. A favorite among the ones served at the exclusive press event is the Adobong Pusit Valenciana, served as a familiar dish with a subtle playful twist.

(L-R) Chef Roland Laudico, Chef Jackie Laudico. Images courtesy of Guevarra’s.

As Chef Michael Pastrana puts it, “I love how food can access a memory.” Drawing inspiration from contemporary Australian cuisine, Mediterranean and Italian influence, melded expertly with modern Filipino sensibilities, the dishes from this collaboration speaks volumes about the diversity and depth of Filipino culinary identity, bringing a menu that pushes boundaries while honoring roots. All of these beautiful servings are housed in the already storied 1920-restored ancestral house-turned-culinary fan-favorite buffet restaurant.

Culinary artistry prepared and served at Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico. Image courtesy of Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico.

“We want the world to see Filipino food for what it is: sophisticated, dynamic, and deserving of a place on the global table,” says the team. “This is just the beginning.”

With this mission put to the fore, the third installment of Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey showcases more than just a celebration of flavor and heritage but a growing movement to zoom in on Filipino culture and identity. Through this initiative, Guevarra’s and Adobros seek to pique the curiosity and appreciation for Filipino cuisine not just locally, but on the global stage.

These creations from Guevarra’s x Adobros is now available as part of the buffet selection for an entire season.