Romance Meets Bespoke Dining at City of Dreams Manila's Signature Restaurants
The irresistible allure of bespoke menus beckons at City of Dreams Manila’s signature restaurants, which are presenting Heart’s Day-inspired culinary offerings this Valentine’s weekend. Crystal Dragon, the integrated resort’s restaurant specializing in Cantonese and regional Chinese specialties entices couples with a five-course menu at P5,500++ per person, available for lunch and dinner on February 13 and 14. Enjoyed in a refined setting, the menu for minimum two persons, starts with: Deep-fried Crispy Stuffed Scallop with prawn mousse and golden creamy pumpkin sauce, and Poached Fish Maw in Spicy Pickled Tomato Broth with cod fish; followed by Wok-fried Tiger Prawns in creamy butter lemon sauce and Pan-seared A5 Wagyu Steak in Chef’s special sauce; and Wok-fried Aromatic Gravy and Crispy Dried Scallop. For a sweet ending, diners will be served a Chilled Osmanthus Sweetened Pear Soup with bird ‘s nest together with a Black Fairy Swan Puff.
Equally worthy of a celebration is a six-course Valentine’s Omakase at the Nobu Manila, the globally renowned restaurant brand founded by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Located at Nobu Hotel Manila, the restaurant’s romantic dinner menu, available on February 13 and 14, is priced at P6,888 net per person. The first course of Sushi Tortilla - a trio of tuna truffle with microgreens, Salmon Spicy Mayo with negi (Japanese long green onion) and tempura crunch, and Lapu-lapu Tiradito - whets the appetite before the mouthwatering second and third courses of assorted sushi, (Bluefin with Wasabi Salsa, Unagi, Ika Yuzu Kosho, and Tamago),served together with Kani Bisuku, a blue crab bisque with sesame seeds, sesame oil, and chives. The palate builds up with Yuzu Dashi Cream Red Snapper with sweet corn salsa, yuzu dashi cream sauce, and coconut kabocha puree; followed by the tempting Sesame-crusted Japanese Wagyu Beef with goma (sesame) crust, beetroot puree, roasted heirloom carrot, and ponzu butter sauce. The Strawberry Yuzu dessert, a medley of strawberry mousse, strawberry compote, jelly, mixed berry sorbet, and yuzu black sesame tuille provides a sweet conclusion to the meal.
An amorous dining experience awaits couples at City of Dreams Manila’s modern Filipino restaurant, Haliya, which presents a special menu that captures the flavors of the season of love. Available for lunch and dinner on February 14, the menu takes guests on a gastronomic journey that commences with an amuse bouche of Lobster Tartare and Caviar Oscetra preceding the five-course menu consisting of: Lover’s Gravlax, an irresistible dish of Beetroot-cured Salmon with citrus segments, red dragon fruit, pearl onion, and spiced coconut vinaigrette; the Red Bell Pepper Krema with beetroot tortellini, basil, cherry tomato, and herb sourdough croutons, which takes the dining experience a notch higher, along with The Scallops, a tempting course of pan-seared scallops, celeriac noodles, and porcini powder; and Chicken and Morel, a combination of chicken farce, bacon-mushroom duxelles, foie gras, morel, Iberico ham jerky, and herb jus. To sweeten the occasion, Haliya’s Valentine’s menu includes unlimited helpings of an array of confections at the dessert station, as well as a choice of two love season-inspired cocktails. Haliya is open from 12 noon to 11 pm on Valentine’s Day, and its special menu is priced at P9,500 net for two persons.
Café Society spoils guests with its array of thoughtfully packaged sweet indulgences to celebrate love this season. Available from February 9 to 15, is a deliciously charming lineup of handcrafted chocolates, decadent cakes, pastries, and other confections that are perfect for gifting to loved ones. Not to be missed are:the Heart-shaped Blueberry Cheesecake, Valentine Assorted Macarons, My Choux Valentine Cake, and Peach Mango Silvanas Cake. For the artisanal chocolates, the Rose-kissed Bear, Love on Wheels, and Heartfelt Surprise are choices that are sure to make the heart flutter, especially if these confections are paired with flowers that are also available at the Café – be it with a long-stem rose, a bouquet of three, six, or 12 roses, if not a full spring bouquet. For reservations and information, call 8800-8080 or e-mail [email protected], or visit https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com
Exceptional Easter Treats at City of Dreams Manila
The magic of Easter is in the air at City of Dreams Manila as it presents eggs-citing offerings that set the tone for a meaningful and festive celebration. The integrated resort charms with eggs-traordinary adventure at DreamPlay, seasonal menus at Nobu Manila and Café Society, and staycation packages at its three Forbes Travel Guide Star-rated hotels. The world’s first DreamWorks-inspired family entertainment center, DreamPlay, is inviting adventure seekers to be part of its annual Easter event on April 20, Easter Sunday, with registration starting at 10 am. The Legendary Easter Package (P3,499 net) brings children to an exclusive experience of unlimited fun in the world of DreamWorks animations. The package is comprised of an all-day participating pass to the 12 attractions, access to the Dream Theatre movie “Secrets of the Masters” in 4D, and egg-citing activities which start at 11:30 am with a jigsaw puzzle game, followed by a magic and balloon twisting show at 12:45 pm. DreamPlay’s dining café, Chez Gingy, offers a buffet for package holders from 11 am to 2 pm, where a meet-and-greet with DreamWorks characters will also take place.
At 2 pm, the beloved characters are set to take the fun a notch higher with an Easter parade at The Shops at the Boulevard to be participated by Shrek, Princess Fiona, Puss in Boots and a surprise character. Legendary package passholders are also given a loot bag, an Easter cupcake, an Easter Egg cookie to decorate when cooking with Gingy, and other entitlements including a 50% discount on in-park printed photos and 20% discount on flower-shaped cotton candy. The Easter event at DreamPlay is open to only 150 participants and ideally for ages five years old and above. Kids below five years old availing of this package must be accompanied by an adult holding a separate Classic Easter package (P1,899 net), which includes access to the Chez Gingy buffet. Advance ticket purchase for the Legendary Easter and Classic Easter packages are ongoing until April 19 at the DreamShop counter.
The popular Sunday brunch at the Manila outpost of the world-renowned Nobu Restaurant features Easter specials in addition to the signature Nobu-style dishes globally popularized by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Feast on featured carvings Roasted Whole U.S. Prime Ribeye and Nobu style Salmon Wellington, which are offered alongside buffet highlights such as Japanese Uni Tempura, King Prawn with yuzu kosho, Gallagher Oyster Okonomiyaki and Japanese Uni Palabok with assorted seafood. The Nobu brunch concept combines an all-you-can-eat dishes in an a la carte menu with a lavish buffet spread where chefs in action prepare Nobu sushi, sashimi and maki rolls at the sushi bar and grilled skewered meats and vegetables at the kushiyaki station. The indulgent Nobu Easter Brunch is available from 11:30 am to 3 pm and price starts at P4,388 net per adult for the Regular package, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails. Other packages that include alcoholic and premium beverages are also available. Children ages 6 to 12 years old enjoy half price and five years and below dine for free when accompanied by an adult availing of the Nobu brunch.
Café Society sweetens the occasion with handcrafted chocolates and exquisite confections masterfully prepared by chocolatiers at Café Society, perfect for gifting this season. The artisanal selection includes white and milk chocolates artfully carved into Easter bunnies and chicks, colorful Easter eggs, and other whimsical animal figures, starting at P450. Complementing these treats are other Easter-themed confections and pastries such as Easter Chixcake (P2,100), Easter White Chocolate Rabbit Cake (P2,000), Easter cupcakes (P1,000 for a set of six), bunny cookies (P250 for two pieces), and Tres Leches Loaf (P750), among others.
City of Dreams Manila’s three Forbes Travel Guide Star-rated hotels highlight an Easter getaway staycation package for direct bookings, which start at P12,200 net at Nüwa Manila, P10,900 net at Nobu Hotel, and P9,698 at Hyatt Regency Manila. The Easter room packages include an overnight stay with complimentary breakfast for two adults and two children 12 years old and below, P1,000 dining credits that can be used at City of Dreams Manila’s operated outlets, 20% discount on DreamPlay’s participating tickets, 20% discount on selected Spa services, and a complimentary Maxibar in the room. Booking period is until April 19 with stay period from April 14 to 20.
Auspicious Festivities to Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake at City of Dreams Manila
City of Dreams Manila commences its Year of the Wood Snake festivities with auspicious and vibrant Lunar New Year rituals; and dining offers that symbolize prosperity and good fortune at premium restaurants Crystal Dragon, Nobu Manila, and contemporary dining outlet Red Ginger. To augur good fortune for the community and to highlight an eye-dotting ceremony on January 29, revelers will witness a spectacular Chinese New Year ceremony featuring lion and 70-ft long dragon dance performances in majestic Chinese New Year tradition performed by skilled artists from Ling Nam Athletic Association in front of the main casino entrance at 5 pm. At the main casino lobby, an imposing installation of this year’s intriguing Chinese zodiac, resplendent in sapphire hues in celebration also of the luxury resort’s tenth year anniversary, is on display.
City of Dreams Manila’s award-winning Cantonese restaurant Crystal Dragon presents its auspicious and curated specialties that reflect the significant culinary traditions of the Lunar New Year. Comprised of premium ingredients, the festive a la carte menu, available on January 27 to February 12, is headlined by Crystal Dragon’s indulgent rendition of the traditional prosperity toss salad, levelling it up with Prosperity Abalone Yee Sang (P2,388++, good for three to four persons per serving), To beget luck, the colorful and auspicious salad ritual consists of sliced abalone (for abundance), colorful julienned papaya (evoking youthfulness), pomelo and carrots (for good luck), radish (or swift progress), onion leeks (for wisdom), chopped peanuts, and deep-fried flour crisps(for prosperity) drizzled with oil (for a smooth sailing year), and sweet plum dressing (for sweet and harmonious family relationship).
The Yee Sang is an integral celebratory fare shared by a group, gathered around the table, to mix and toss the ingredients high up with chopsticks while reciting auspicious phrases to bless all present with well-wishes, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere. The ritual is believed to augur good fortune: the higher the toss, the better the prospects and greater wealth for the coming year. This meaningful Lunar New Year tradition is popular in Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore where heritage Chinese restaurants introduced it in the 1960s.
Completing Crystal Dragon’s Chinese New Year symbolic specialties to usher in good fortune are: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall in Rich Golden Broth; Poached Yellow Skin Chicken with Chinese spices and Szechuan pepper oil, Steamed Live Sea Grouper in homemade spicy “Choi Hiong” sauce; Live Green Lobster in duo flavor: Wok-fried Green Lobster Meat in fragrant golden garlic and Crispy Salted Egg Lobster Ball; Braised Eight Treasures with Lo Han Vegetables in Golden Nest; Wok-fried Yam Rice with braised pork trotter, roasted duck and crispy pork; Deep-fried Three Layered Salted Egg Yolk Nian Gao, and Chilled Peach Jelly, Snow Swallow & Wolfberries with citrusy Osmanthus honey. Crystal Dragon is open daily from 12 noon to 11 pm.
The season’s flavors and traditions can likewise be savored at the Manila outpost of the globally renowned Nobu Restaurant. From January 27 to February 2, Nobu Manila highlights luxe Chinese New Year ala carte dinner specials featuring premium turbot and rock lobster platters that are a rare feast for up to four persons. The Whole Turbot Fish Sashimi and Sushi Platter consists of sashimi enhanced with matcha soy salt and dry miso in yuzu lemon juice; sushi, which comes with konbu in yuzu lemon juice and turbot liver; and a cut roll of turbot tempura with eel sauce. The Whole Rock Lobster Sashimi and Sushi Platter consists of sashimi of new-style lobster in yuzu soy sauce and dry miso in capsicum yuzu; and cut roll of lobster tempura, avocado, masago, (fish roe) and chives; primed with steamed lobster roe. To further tempt the palate, the prime dishes are also offered as indulgent hot entrees -- the Whole Turbot Fish in black bean sauce and tempura with amazu ponzu; and the Whole Rock Lobster Tempura in sweet chili cilantro sauce. Alternatively, the season’s Nobu’s seven-course Omakase menu is also offered. Nobu Manila is open for dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm, Sunday to Thursday and until 11 pm every Friday and Saturday.
The contemporary Asian bar and bistro Red Ginger infuses Southeast Asian flavors to its Lunar Festival menu available daily from January 15 to 31, 11 am to 1 am. The special ala carte menu includes a “Prosperity” salmon Curry Puff, a savory dish of salmon and vegetable curry, and hard-boiled egg enclosed in a homemade puff pastry; “Longevity” Crispy Noodles with seafood and gravy, a delicious medley of crispy egg noodles topped with shrimp, squid, lapu-lapu, lobster balls, and assorted vegetables; “Wealthy” Braised Pork Belly with Asia spices, which features a melt-in-your mouth slow-cooked pork belly, bok choy, quail eggs, and braised tofu; “Lucky” Golden Crispy Chicken that comes with sweet chili sauce and chips; and “Fortune” Nian Gao, which features assorted rice cake rolls served with vanilla ice cream and a fortune cookie. For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 for the or e-mail [email protected], or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com.
Countdown Revelries, Festive Menus and Raffle Prizes Await at City of Dreams Manila's New Year Celebration
City of Dreams Manila culminates 2024 and ushers in the new year on a high note with countdown revelries, enticing special menus, and a raffle draw for a festive media noche celebration. City of Dreams Manila’s Grand Ballroom is the place to be to ring in 2025. The New Year’s Eve Countdown presents thrilling live band performances starting at 8:30 pm with Mifan band. The excitement builds up as acoustic band MYMP takes the stage at 10:30 pm, preceding the final show of the night at 11:20 pm, with powerhouse vocalist Gigi De Lana and Gigi Vibes Band leading the countdown.
Completing the revelry is a special buffet menu that features a slow-cooked steamship beef roast that comes with a choice of sauces; lechon pork belly roll, a hefty spread of cheeses and cold cuts, entrees, and a selection of desserts including a premium chocolate fountain and special bibingka. Indulging diners on the last day of the year, the buffet also includes an open bar with unlimited helpings of sodas, chilled juices, beer, special cocktails, wed and white wines, soju, coffee, and tea. Ticket holders are eligible to win raffle prizes such as Nobu Spa treatments, and overnight stays at Hyatt Regency Manila and Nobu Hotel Manila. Tickets to the New Year’s Eve Countdown at The Grand Ballroom are at P8,000 net per person (Silver) and P10,000 net per person (Gold). Special rates are offered when booking a table for ten: P60,000 net (Silver) and P80,0000 net (Gold).
For those opting for a hotel stay, City of Dreams Manila’s three hotels are offering packages inclusive of an overnight stay, complimentary breakfast for two, two reserved tickets for the Grand Ballroom’s New Year’s Countdown event, and complimentary welcome amenity, among other perks. The packages (net prices), start at P25,888 for Hyatt Regency Manila; P26,888 for Nobu Hotel Manila; and P28,888 for Nüwa Manila Booking period is until December 30 and stay period is until December 31.
Created for the ultimate new year entertainment experience, the contemporary entertainment bar CenterPlay revs up the new year celebration with head-bopping performances from CenterPlay’s local artists Eye Candies, Part 3 Band, and Zyncxation Band. Revelers can choose from three countdown packages, which includes a media noche platter consisting of crispy lechon pork belly, chicharon bulaklak (pork flower cracklings), kinilaw na tanigue (Spanish mackerel ceviche), kwek-kwek (quail eggs deep fried in orange batter) and sapin-sapin (layered glutinous rice cake),: P10,000 net for a VIP table for four inclusive of a bottle of sparkling wine and P6,000 consumables from the regular menu; P20,000 net for a table with couch seating for 8 persons, inclusive of two bottles of sparkling wine and P12,000 consumables. Single-seat package is also offered at P2,500 net inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine, and P1,500 consumables from the regular menu, for three or less persons.
Nobu Manila ushers in the new year with vibrant flavors that capture the essence of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s new-style Japanese cuisine. Offered exclusively on December 31 and January 1, 2025, the five-course New Year’s Omakase dinner tasting menu priced at P6,653.57 net per person consists of: a chef’s choice of zensai (appetizer), Nobu Sashimi Sampler (yellowtail with melon puree and caviar, squid salad with Jalapeño dressing, and salmon with yuzu gravy); followed by a seasonal selection of premium assorted sushi. The menu continues with Lobster with cha soba and truffle tosazu butter sauce; Wagyu Beef with foie gras and kuri-kinton (a staple new year dish in Japan made from candied chestnuts and sweet potatoes). Providing a sweet conclusion to the meal is the Red Bean Butter Mochi.
Nobu Manila also offers a New Year Sunday brunch menu for P4,388 net, on December 29. The distinct Nobu Experience features unlimited helpings of popular Nobu-style dishes laid out on the buffet combined with dishes served a la minute: the Nobu Signature Sashimi Trio of Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellowtail Jalapeño and Salmon Karashi Su Miso; Black Cod Butter Lettuce, to name some; and a premium array of chef’s selection of sushi cups, nigiri, and maki rolls unique to Nobu. Not to be missed are the featured carvings of the day – Slow-Smoked Whole Wagyu Brisket and Roasted Whole Turkey. Other tempting buffet highlights include the whole tuna sashimi station complemented by a chilled seafood bar that features a selection of oysters, blue crabs, shrimps, and green mussels; different choices of kushiyaki (skewers) prepared a la minute; and a dessert station that includes a chocolate fountain.
City of Dreams Manila’s modern Filipino restaurant Haliya captures the heartwarming flavors of the Filipino media noche with the exclusive ala carte choices available for dinner on December 31 and January 1. The special New Year menu is comprised of: The Oyster with water spinach, queso de bola, lemon crème, caramelized bacon and leeks, calamansi, roasted capsicums and microgreens; Krema de Castanyas, a soup enriched with ricotta chicken tortellini, guisantes, chestnuts, herb oil, red radish, cherry tomatoes, and microgreens; Beef Mosaic or Haliya’s creative take on Beef Wellington served with cauliflower puree, creamy mashed potato, king mushroom, chicken skin mousse, prosciutto, asparagus, baby carrots, and humba glaze; and Fruit Pavlova, which consists of custard cake, pavlova, persimmon jam, compressed seasonal fruits and chocolate leaves.
City of Dreams Manila’s signature restaurant for Cantonese cuisine and regional Chinese specialties continues to highlight its five-course season set menu available for lunch and dinner until January 1, 2025. Perfect for holiday indulgence, Crystal Dragon’s set menu consists of: Deep-fried Fluffy Abalone with marinated seaweed and micro herbs; Rich Lobster Bisque with poached Hokkaido scallop and crab meat; Wok-fried Wagyu Beef with Chinese yam in black bean sauce, crispy dough stick and king mushroom; Creamy Braised Green Lobster with shimeji mushroom, and crispy dragon beard vermicelli; and Baked Alaska Flambé. The menu is offered for P6,000++ per person for a minimum order for two persons.
Hyatt Regency Manila’s interactive show-kitchen The Café restaurant brings the season’s flavors through curated holiday buffet spread of local and international cuisine available for lunch and dinner on December 31. Lunch service (P2,499 net) highlights include Roast Beef on the carving station; Masala-rubbed Roasted Trevally, which comes with condiment choices including garlic sauce, spicy yogurt, and mint sauce at the Indian corner; Thai-style Whole Fried Chicken; selection of tempura; assortment of meats and vegetables at the live teppanyaki station; and assorted skewers of meat and vegetables from the grill section. On December 31, The Café opens two dinner seatings: h from 5:30 pm to 8 pm for P3,199 net, and from 8:30 pm to 11 pm, for P3,999 net. The latter package features entertainment with alternating performances from Alley Cats Band and a DJ starting at 9:30 pm until the countdown to 2025 at midnight, and an extended service from the pastry and dessert buffet station in addition to the unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is offered from 11 pm to 1 am.
Not to be missed for the first seating dinner spread are the Steamship, Tuna and Salmon Sashimi, and Roasted Peking Duck. Tempting choices on the second dinner seating include Crispy Pata (pork leg), Porchetta, and seafood choices such as slipper lobsters and curacha, to name a few. Completing the lunch and dinner spread are a hefty selection of Italian, Japanese, and Korean favorites, dim sum, roasting and noodle choices at the Asian section; seafood options; various cold cuts, cheeses, and salads at the cold section; and assorted pastries and desserts. The lunch and dinner packages are inclusive of free-flowing juices, coffee, tea, local draft beer, red and white house wines. The second dinner seating also includes cocktails, red sangria, and party favors. Children ages six to 12 are entitled to a 50% discount.
To add delight in ushering the new year, consider booking a staycation and dining package starting at P18,888 net at Hyatt Regency Manila; P19,888 net at Nobu Hotel Manila; and P21,888 net at Nüwa Manila. The packages are inclusive of an overnight stay, complimentary breakfast for two, dinner for two adults and children 12 years old and below, and a special welcome amenity, among other inclusions. Booking period is until December 30 and stay period is until December 31. Terms and conditions apply. For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail [email protected].
A magical “Christmas of Dreams” transforms City of Dreams Manila into golden yuletide wonderland, unwrapping a predominantly Filipino festive décor and alluring holiday offerings. Setting the mood for joyful gatherings, the resort’s holiday installations pay homage to the Filipino Christmas tradition of displaying parol (lantern). Purposefully crafted from locally sourced materials including anahaw, malunggay, and paco, the golden, handmade parols that light up The Shops at the Boulevard infuse sustainability and celebrate a festive Filipino Christmas. Elsewhere at the lobbies of Nüwa Manila, Nobu Hotel and Hyatt Regency Manila, dazzling Christmas trees provide IG-worthy settings to capture the holiday cheer.
Crystal Dragon, City of Dreams Manila’s signature restaurant for Cantonese cuisine and regional Chinese specialties, highlights a five-course set menu available for lunch and dinner from December 16 to January 1, 2025. Perfect for holiday indulgence, Crystal Dragon’s set menu consists of: Deep-fried Fluffy Abalone with marinated seaweed and micro herbs; Rich Lobster Bisque with poached Hokkaido scallop and crab meat; Wok-fried Wagyu Beef with Chinese yam in black bean sauce, crispy dough stick and king mushroom; Creamy Braised Green Lobster with shimeji mushroom, and crispy dragon beard vermicelli; and Baked Alaska Flambé. The menu is offered for P6,000++ per person for a minimum order for two persons.
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s new-style Japanese cuisine beckons at Nobu Manila, with a five-course Christmas Omakase dinner tasting menu on December 24 and 25. At P6,653.57 net per person, the menu commences with a complimentary chef’s choice of appetizer followed by a sampler of Nobu Sashimi. A seasonal selection of assorted sushi and Chawanmushi with rock shrimp and truffle come after. The Lobster with Truffle Yuzu dressing, mixed mushrooms and crispy garlic chips; and Braised Wagyu Short Ribs with wasabi mashed potato, cranberry sake-mirin reduction, are the tasting menu’s pièce de resistance preceding the delightful Chestnut Brûlée with chocolate sorbet and tonka bean foam. Nobu Manila also fêtes guests with an early Christmas “Nobu Experience” at its Holiday Sunday Brunch on December 22 for P4,388 net per person. Unlimited helpings of popular Nobu-style dishes laid out on the buffet combined with an a la carte menu include the Nobu Signature Sashimi Trio of Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellowtail Jalapeño and Salmon Karashi Su Miso; Black Cod Butter Lettuce, Uni Palabok; and an array of premium chef’s selection of sushi cups, nigiri, and maki rolls unique to Nobu, to name a few. The featured Carving of the Day – the Roasted Whole US Prime Ribeye and Crispy Pata (pork leg) -- complemented by a whole tuna sashimi and selection of seafood including oysters, blue crabs, shrimp, and green mussels; different choices of kushiyaki (skewers) prepared a la minute; and a dessert station that includes a chocolate fountain, take diners to a one-of-a-kind celebratory dining experience.
Haliya invites diners for a Filipino noche buena that evokes the flavors of the season on December 24 for dinner and on December 25 also for lunch. The signature modern Filipino restaurant of City of Dreams Manila offers customized Filipino Christmas menu with a la carte choices comprised of: Yuletide Ensalada, a medley of fried herb goat cheese, caramelized figs, mesclun greens, radicchio, prosciutto, cranberry dressing, Biscocho and cherry tomatoes; Suam na Lamang Dagat, a rich and comforting concoction of prawns, clams, mussel, lapu-lapu, kasubha, corn, capsicum and microgreens; Pork Chop with baby carrots, brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, broccolini, celeriac crème, jamonado pork jus, pineapple and pickled green apple; and Kastanyas Broas comprised of chestnut cheesecake, broas (ladyfingers), caramelized saba banana, apricot gel, vanilla mousse Chantilly and mixed berries.
Hyatt Regency Manila’s interactive show-kitchen restaurant The Café brings the season’s flavors through a curated Christmas buffet spread of local and international cuisine available for lunch and dinner on December 24 and 25. Lunch service highlights include Slow-Roasted Wagyu Whole Beef Leg that comes with a choice of sauces: red wine, peppercorn or mushroom on the carving station; Masala-rubbed Roasted Trevally, which comes with condiment choices including garlic sauce, spicy yogurt and mint sauce at the Indian corner; Thai-style Whole Fried Chicken and Crispy Pata at the fry counter; and assorted skewers of meat and vegetables from the grill section. Not to be missed for the dinner spread are the Roasted Peking Duck and Tuna and Salmon Sashimi. Completing the lunch and dinner spread are a hefty selection of Italian, Japanese, and Korean favorites, dim sum, roasting and noodle choices at the Asian section; seafood options; various cold cuts, cheeses, and salads at the cold section; and assorted pastries and desserts. The lunch and dinner buffet are priced at P3,799 net and inclusive of free-flowing juices, coffee, tea, local draft beer, red and white house wines. Children ages six to 12 are entitled to a 50% discount.
Christmas wafts in the air at Café Society, with various holiday-themed confections transforming the cafe into a whimsical Christmas wonderland. Playful chocolate sculptures, gingerbread houses alongside a spread of confections and pastries are offered until the end of December. Colorful Gingerbread Houses (starts at P1,500 net each), Christmas Chocolate House (P2,500 net), Santa Bear in milk and white chocolate in varying sizes (starts at P500 net), and other Christmas staples like Panettone (Italian Christmas bread); Stollen (cake-like bread with its origin in Germany), fruit mince pies, and yule log cakes complete Café Society’s fancy holiday spread. Not to be missed are the holiday cakes priced at P2,000 net such as Christmas Tree Cake, (moist chocolate sponge cake with chocolate mint mousse, and buttercream); Snowman Cake (vanilla chiffon sponge with white chocolate mousse and raspberry compote filling); and Reindeer Cake (moist chocolate sponge with dark chocolate ganache and chocolate buttercream).
HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES
The spirit of the season fills the air as various choirs serenade guests every weekend from 3 pm to 3:45 pm with timeless Christmas Carols. Lux Christi Vocal Ensemble performs on December 21, and 24 at Nüwa Manila lobby, and Hyatt Regency Manila lobby, respectively. Not to be missed are performances of Hail Mary Queen Children’s Choir on December 14 at Hyatt Regency Manila lobby; Mandaluyong Children’s Choir on December 15 at The Shops at the Boulevard; and Kammerchor Manila on December 22 at the Hyatt Regency lobby and 25 at Nüwa Manila lobby.
Adding fun and excitement for families, DreamPlay holds an all-star Holiday Parade of well-loved characters from DreamWorks Animations at 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday of December, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day at The Shops at the Boulevard. Characters from the films Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Puss in Boots, Madagascar, and Trolls will be on parade to delight the kids and kids at heart.
A Christmas bazaar at The Shops at the Boulevard comprised of well-curated kiosks amps up the holiday shopping until January 2, 2025. Participating brands are Lacoste, Kultura, Boss, Bally, Furla, Coach, Beyond the Box, Lukfook Jewellery, Pandora, Alfredulla, @Tokyo, Ray-Ban, Eye Society, Samsung, Bose, Manila Diamond Studio, Dyson, Delsey, World Traveller, Lojel, Hedgren, Herschel, Travelon, Hydroflask, SMEG, Pacsports, Estee Lauder, Jo Malone, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Mac, Origins, Nike, Adidas, Mikasa, Spalding, Skechers, Wilson, Yonex, Panasonic, Carrier, Make Room, and Pottery Barn.For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 or e-mail [email protected]. For more information, visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com.
The Manila outpost of the globally-renowned Nobu Restaurant is among the 57 Nobu locations in the world that is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the brand. A taste of the past, present, and future is in store for guests as the milestone celebrates Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s culinary innovation and vision, capturing the essence of his innovative take on Japanese cuisine with Peruvian ingredients. Each featured dish, from new creations to iconic dishes, is imbued with Chef Nobu’s personal story – from the early days of the Nobu restaurant’s history to the present - to his vision for the future. Known for his service trademark “kokoro”, which means “from the heart”, the anniversary menu embodies Chef Nobu’s philosophy of humility, gratitude, and hospitality.
For the occasion, Nobu presents a special five-course Dinner Omakase Menu that is offered worldwide from October 7 to 13, celebrating the rich three-decade history of Nobu. Guests are invited to delve into the world of Nobu and experience the limited-time special tasting menu priced at P8,871.43 net per person, which commences with a four-way starter of Toro Tartar, Salmon Tataki in Karashi Su Miso, White Fish Tiradito, and Yellowtail Jalapeño.
To further whet the appetite, a selection of carefully prepared sushi is served: Tuna Nigiri, White Fish with Maldon salt and lemon juice, Scallops with dry miso, and Nori Taco with Caviar. The Nobu dinner experience, continues with Black Cod Butter Lettuce and Crab Amazu Ponzu, followed by Japanese Beef Anticucho with hijiki seaweed, grilled tomato, and oshinko. The meal concludes on a sweet note with a selection of mini desserts of strawberry cheesecake, milk chocolate and sesame cream, and mochido. The rarefied experience offers diners a full taste of Nobu’s signature dressings and sauces that define Nobu’s New Style cuisine.
Complementing the enticing dinner menu is the restaurant’s impressive indoor restaurant space that includes two private dining rooms and five picturesque open-air floating cabanas surrounded with charming waterworks and lush garden that make it a perfect spot for leisurely alfresco dining.
For pre-dinner cocktails or simply to hang out, Nobu Manila also offers during the same period Nobu’s Anniversary Bar Bites, comprised of : Spicy Miso Chips (P550), Nobu Nori Tacos (P3,100), Lobster Ceviche Butter Lettuce (P1,250), Seafood Harumaki Caviar (P1,200), Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna (760), Wagyu Dumplings (P1,000), Chilean Sea Bass Umami Butter Lettuce (P1,000) and Tuna Asparagus Cut Roll (P430).
Guests can opt to lounge at the Nobu bar, cabanas, or main dining area and pair their choice of bar bites with the featured anniversary cocktail Matsuhisa Martini (P560) or their favorite beverage. Heightening the Nobu anniversary experience and hip vibe at Nobu Manila are entrancing DJ tracks featured from Thursday to Saturday, 7 to 10 pm as part of the “Sounds of the City” music entertainment that is currently drawing music lovers to the resort.
Nobu Hotel guests can satisfy their cravings for New Style Japanese cuisine anytime in the comfort of their room as the in-room dining menu also offers the anniversary special Four-Way Starter selection of Toro Tartar, Salmon Tataki in Karashi Su Miso, White Fish Tiradito, and Yellowtail Jalapeño. Nobu Manila is open from 5 pm to 10 pm, Sunday to Thursday and until 11 pm every Friday and Saturday. For inquiries and reservations call 8800-8080 or e-mail [email protected]. For more information, visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com.
Nobu Manila
Level 1 Nobu South Tower, City of Dreams, Entertainment City, Parañaque
Nobu Manila at City of Dreams Manila is offering the ultimate indulgence as it extends its popular Nobu Sunday Brunch to includes Saturdays as well. The Nobu Weekend Brunch now lets food enthusiasts enjoy another daytime indulgence in the world of Nobu.
I was back at Nobu Manila last Saturday for another unlimited adventure through Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. Here's a short video to show you what you can enjoy at the Nobu Weekend Brunch which is now available on both Saturdays and Sundays.
The Nobu Weekend Brunch highlights a distinctive experience with the innovative new-style Japanese cuisine popularized by the globally renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and deliciously served by Nobu Manila Head Chef Michael de Jesus and Head Sushi Chef Kei Hirukawa.
Nobu Manila’s hybrid buffet includes an all-you-can-eat a la carte selection showcasing Nobu specialty dishes prepared a la minute, which on a rotating menu may include Signature Sashimi Trio: Tuna Matsuhisa, Yellow Tail Jalapeño and Salmon Karashi Su Miso and Black Cod Butter Lettuce.
The a la carte choices complement the buffet of premium sushi, sashimi, nigiri, salads, hot dishes, and other Japanese brunch favorites. Not to be missed are the fresh Irish Gallagher oysters, slipper lobsters, blue crabs and prawns heaped on a bed of ice, which vary depending on seasonal availability. Diners get introduced to various Nobu signature sauces throughout the meal.
Live action stations featuring carving of the day: Roasted Whole U.S. Prime Ribeye, Porchetta, Smoked Whole Beef Brisket or other specialty carving; kushiyaki (grilled and skewered meats and vegetables); a lavish desserts corner and beverage bar complete the brunch offer. Nobu Manila’s brunch also puts a spotlight on Filipino-inspired dishes prepared the Nobu way, such as pork Nobu Sisig or Nobu-style Uni Palabok.
Kokoro, Chef Nobu’s service trademark that means “from the heart” makes the difference in the luxurious visual and gastronomic weekend feast. Guests get to choose their seating preferences: whether at the restaurant’s spacious indoor dining area with two private dining rooms, or al fresco at the tropical-themed patio and any of the five floating cabanas surrounded by cooling water features and lush garden. A warm and anticipative service staff trained in custom Nobu style of service elevates the Nobu brunch experience.
The Nobu Weekend Brunch is from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday, with varying menu highlights each week. The Regular brunch package is available for P3,499 net per person and includes unlimited non-alcoholic drinks: soda, chilled juices, mocktails, iced tea and hot tea, and coffee, while children ages 6 to 12 years enjoy a special rate of P1,749 per child. At an additional P1,330.70 net per adult, the Standard package comes with unlimited beverages in the regular package plus a host of select red and white wine, cocktails, local beers, and spirits; while the Premium package priced at an added P2,550.54 net per adult is comprised of unlimited beverages included in the regular and standard packages plus unlimited champagne and champagne cocktails.
Nobu Sunday Brunch
Level 1 Nobu South Tower, City of Dreams, Entertainment City, Parañaque
Festive Easter Treats and Activities at City of Dreams Manila
The spirit of Easter celebration is alive at City of Dreams Manila as it highlights exciting activities at DreamPlay, and an impressive collection of delectable artisanal chocolates and confections designed for this season at Café Society. Bringing the family celebratory mood a notch higher, a feast of specialties popularized by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa beckons at Nobu Manila’s Sunday Brunch. Guests can hop over to Café Society, located at The Shops at the Boulevard, that’s brimming with various chocolate indulgences until April 17. Playful chocolate masterpieces such as Easter bunny and duck chocolates, colorful eggs with eight egg pralines, small bunny chocolates in white, dark, milk or ruby variants, Easter chocolate chicks, chocolate eggs in a meringue nest, Easter cookies and cream tiles, Easter cherry gianduja bars, among others that make a perfect spectacle for an Easter spread. Guests are further spoilt for choice with Café Society’s other Easter-themed confections and signature pastries including bunny face cookies, egg chocolate sugar cookies, bunny green tea and white chocolate mousse cake, blueberry coconut purple entremet cake, chocolate egg cheesecake, blueberry cheesecake danish, and raspberry vanilla cream croissant, among others.
For an unforgettable Easter celebration guests can set out on a Nobu gastronomic experience with Nobu Manila’s well-loved Sunday brunch. The Nobu Sunday Brunch showcases the iconic new-style Japanese cuisine of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa in his restaurants that he co-founded with Hollywood’s Robert de Niro and Meir Teper that are drawing celebrity crowds. The brunch features classic Nobu dishes and freshly prepared custom sushi and sashimi matched with Nobu signature sauces and dressings. It also offers a premium carving of the day; an a la carte selection of all-you-can-eat Japanese-Peruvian, and Filipino-inspired hot dishes. An extensive selection of appetizers, varied kushiyaki or grilled skewered seafood, red meat, poultry and vegetable items complemented with a hearty selection of rice, salads, soups, signature Nobu desserts, and a selection of mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks complete the brunch fare at P2,950 net.
DreamPlay’s Ultimate Easter Eggstravaganza is a one-of-a-kind weekend celebration that awaits families as DreamPlay engages them in fun family festivities this year. On Easter Sunday, DreamPlay’s VIP Pass for P2,399 net per person gives pass holders access to a myriad of fun activities the world’s first DreamWorks-inspired family entertainment center offers: all-day access to all the play space’s engaging and immersive attractions, along with the perks to enjoy the convenience of express entrance pass and express check-in for all attractions. The package also provides access to various activities to celebrate this family day: make-your-own Easter egg, Easter egg cookie baking with Gingy, Easter Egg Hunt activity at 3 p.m. with special freebies and chocolates to be awarded to winners, and Easter parade at 5 p.m. led by Poppy of DreamWorks’ Trolls movie. The participants walk through City of Dreams Manila’s famed The Shops at The Boulevard retail strip as they fill their loot bags with Easter goodies from restaurants along the strip, including Café Society, JingTing, Red Ginger, Hidemasa J. Park Garden, Ruby Jack’s, Modern Table and Starbucks, and from participating retail shops such as Boss and Furla. In addition, VIP Pass ticket holders are entitled to the following freebies: special Easter tote bag, one scoop of bubble gum ice cream at Chez Gingy, and special DreamShop items including a dragon pin and one Astrid bobble head toy from DreamWorks’ How To Train Your Dragon movie. DreamPlay’s regular tickets with access to all the play space’s attractions are also available on the day at P1,500, while non-participating tickets can be purchased for P250.
For inquiries, call 8800-8080 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
