Something for the Lovers

I was quite astonished to hear that Valentine's Day is even bigger than Christmas, at least in the hotel industry in Manila. My colleagues and I have been preparing to delight all couples out there (with, of course, some treats for the single ones too) for the day of hearts.

Let them eat cake. Or chocolates, cupcakes, and macaroons, too, for that matter. From 7 February up to 14 February, sweet treats prepared by our Executive Pastry Chef Roberto Molleman will be available at the Mandarin Deli.

Flowers, anyone? The beautiful, long-stemmed Ecuadorian roses at the Flower Shop are irresistible; in fact, I've seen many guests (especially the ladies) stop, and literally smell the roses. A special package for Valentine's is available too: one can get roses, champagne and chocolates to sweeten the deal.

Wining and Dining. If they say that the best way to the heart is through the stomach, then our chefs will make sure you fall in love all over again. The Tivoli offers an exquisite seven-course menu, with such dishes as Poached Sea Bass with stewed tomatoes and oyster nage; Australian Mulwarra Lamb rack; and a dessert of Tonka and Valhrona chocolate delight.

Paseo Uno, meanwhile, offers its famous pan-fried duck liver station, prepared to your liking by our chefs. It also comes with all the sweet and savoury condiiments. Tin Hau offers two great Valentine's Day set menus too, if you're craving for some Chinese.

Our F&B Head, Mr Oliver Kreuzer, also came up with some enticing giveaways for couples this year: long-stemmed roses, a box of macaroons, and a gift voucher (PHP1,000 for Paseo Uno and Tin Hau; and PHP2,000 for The Tivoli) to be used on the next visit.

If you wish, you can also have watch Kuh Ledesma, together with Christopher de Leon and Jomari Yllana, in a special Valentine's Day concert at The Captain's Bar, right after dinner.

Single? Not to worry. Come to Martinis on 13 February for Single's Awareness Day. Get a special on bubbly, and get a chance to win some prizes including treatments at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, as well as cosmetics from Estee Lauder and MAC.

Of course, there's also Chinese New Year coming up--and that means a lot of activities in store for the hotel on the weekend of the 13th and 14th!

For more information on our Valentine's Day activities, call Mandarin Oriental at 750 8888.

Weekend Luxury Buffet at Paseo Uno

The Manila culinary scene is really dynamic--today's hit restaurant can sometimes be tomorrow's run-down hole-in-the-wall. That's why it's important to be ahead of the curve, all the time.

Paseo Uno caused quite a commotion back in 2003 when it first opened. It introduced the concept of open and interactive kitchens to the country; soon, every hotel followed.

So how's does the innovator stay ahead? Simple--keep introducing new, exciting ideas. The success of the Thai and Israeli Food Festival, as well as the Filipino Heritage Festivals, kept Paseo Uno in the forefront of choices among buffet restaurants.

Recently, Paseo Uno introduced its Weekend Luxury Buffet--a true gastronomer's idea of heaven. At its center is a pan-fried duck liver station, replete with all the sweet and savoury condiments to complement its rich, buttery taste.

One can also enjoy the other luxe culinary offerings: US Prime Rib; an array of oysters and lobsters; and Alaskan King Crab, among others. One should leave room for dessert, as Executive Pastry Chef Roberto Molleman's delicious creations are on display. They're definitely the perfect way to cap off the meal.

Paseo Uno's Luxury Buffet is at PHP1990 nett, and are held every Friday and Saturday evening. Reservations are strongly recommended. Please call Paseo Uno at 750 8888 extension 2411.