September 26 to October 2 means An Australian Sojourn at Makati Shangri-la Hotel.

For the past few months, as I browse through my travel photos, the only country I’ve been contemplating too much is Australia. More than the culture, the environment, and the people, I give the food a high remark. Unquestionably I was rejoicing deep inside when I received an invitation from Makati Shangri-la to be one of their select guests at the Australian Sojourn lunch.

The very beautiful and alluring Lesley Tan (Director of Communications) commenced the afternoon lunch with a short message. I just have to commend Lesley for her vibrant and pleasing personality. Shangri-la is very lucky to have her working for them.

Up next, the Belgian General Manager and my seatmate Alan Borgers welcomed us that afternoon.

Australian wines were brought by Artisan Cellars.

And finally, Australian guest chef Matthew McCool stood in front to warm us up before the delightful dishes were served. McCool brings his12 years of culinary experience in Michelin-starred and world class restaurants to Manila, luckily at Makati Shangri-la hotel.

Australian Sojourn is a week-long buffet celebration at Circles Event Cafe featuring Chef McCool’s modern Australian dishes and Pacific Rim cuisine.

Pacific Rim cuisine – A type of cuisine where East and West. It’s the fusion of culinary styles and techniques of the Pacific Islands and the Western coast. In Australia and New Zealand, Pacific Rim tops the list of popular cuisines.

Thick and fresh spiced tomato soup served with Australian Damper and Dukkah.

Not just a sight to see but a plate to experience through my sensitive tastebuds. Beetroot cured tasmanian salmon was plated with elegance as you can see the fine cuts of fresh salmon. I gave myself a treat by getting a second and then a third round of Beetroot Salmon.

Farmhouse Australian cheeses paired perfectly with wine served by Artisan Cellars.

I’d say health is important but taste shouldn’t be neglected. This quinoa plate looked gorgeously healthy and my oh my, very luscious too!

I was waiting for a rack of lamb since “Australia” had been the main keyword from the start of our lunch. Darling downs roasted lamb with lemon myrtle remarkably met my expectations of a lamb dish. Consistent with its texture that deserves a second, or maybe a third round as well.

Whole steam red snapper with mussels, potatoes and ginger. Prepared lightly that attracts a fish-loving person like me. But I was loyal to the Beetroot Salmon that afternoon.

Say hello to the shot glasses of pavlova in lime flavor. Yep, it’s lime and it’s sour. It will wake you up with a good mood when you taste it’s sourness. I call it sunshine in a glass!

Lamingtons Platter, a traditional Australian dessert, concluded our appetizing lunch. Squares of sponge cake coated with chocolate, raspberry and coconut.

For every P2,000 spent at Circles Event Cafe at get a chance to win roundtrip tickets good for 1 person to Sydney Australia care of Cebu Pacific Air and accommodations by Shangri-la Hotel, Sydney Australia. Wow! I want to win that promo! And I’m sure you’re eyes are on the prize too.

Lunch – Php 2,149net

Dinner with Iced Tea buffet – Php 2,395net

The highlight of my Australian lunch was meeting and eating with Mr. Bill Tweddell, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines!

Will you drive your wheels to Makati Shangri-la this week for a taste of Pacific Rim cuisine prepared by chef Matthew McCool?

Share with me your thoughts, foodie! 🙂

Cheers,

Website: http://www.shangri-la.com/manila/makatishangrila/dining/restaurants/circles-event-cafe/

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