For gatherings meant to be beyond the ordinary
Some of the most important conversations in the country’s history, the most crucial deals, and the most lasting memories have been made within the fabled walls of the Manila Hotel.
And through its 105-year existence, it has continually made enduring impressions on both locals and tourists, exhibiting a knack for elevating the most memorable moments in their lives.
The city frequently makes it hard to understand Manila’s appeal, but the Manila Hotel, and the historic area surrounding it, put most of what makes it endearing front and center.
Taste for the finer things
Equally renowned as the hotel is its premier restaurant, the Champagne Room, which has likewise played a vital role in the rich history of Manila’s social scene. Its discriminating diners, over the years, translate to a litany of the country’s who’s who – from politicians and foreign dignitaries, to executives, and the cognoscenti of the finer things.
The Champagne Room has managed to sustain its timeless beauty, and its stature as the fine dining restaurant of choice for the most discerning guests who put a premium on the blend of exquisitely prepared dishes, excellent service, and the understated ambience of luxury.
With its lavish décor that features crystal palm trees and tasseled ceiling fixtures, paired with top-notch service, and sumptuous culinary creations – the Champagne Room has come to embody the Manila Hotel’s penchant for providing guests with only the finest experiences that often lead to lasting memories.
Epicurean delights
The cold and hot appetizers set the tone for a dinner beyond the ordinary with varied offerings such as the Beef Carpaccio, Lobster Tail in Zucchini Ribbon, Pan-seared Foie Gras and Mango, Escargot and French Onion Soup.
The main course offers refined palates exquisite choices that include Magret de Canard (roast duck breast on passion fruit-pommery mustard sauce with coconut banana fritters and market vegetables); Veal Medallion Australia; Roast US Prime Beef Rib; Organicus Tomahawk, Brandt; Australian Wagyu; Roast Lamb Rack in Thyme Juice; Seafood Medley, and King Prawns with delectable sides.

And to cap off a night of gastronomy, new desserts include Baked Alaska, Truffle Crème Brulee and Hot Soufflé.
The Champagne Room is an epicure delight with its numerous culinary choices, making for an exceptional dining experience with its organic and freshly sourced farm-to-table, sea-to-fork plethora of indulgent selections offered in its new menu and the featured monthly Degustation sets.
Deserved notoriety

This writer was only recently made privy to the distinct experience afforded by the Champagne Room – and that’s exactly what I found – that it was an experience. For as delectable as each and every item was on that night’s degustation menu, it was the commingling of the elements of the renowned fine dining restaurant that stood out the most.
The intimate setting environed by the unmistakable elegance and style left us no doubt as to how the Champagne Room continues to enjoy its well-earned notoriety.
An otherwise nondescript night was turned on its head as one to remember, as the choice for where a future special occasion needed to be held was made crystal clear.
The Champagne Room is located at One Rizal Park, Manila, and is open Mondays to Saturdays 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. For reservations and more information, contact (02) 527-0011 ext. 1262 to 1264, or send an email to restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.
 

• The Tap Room

Following an intimate dinner at the Champagne Room, loosen your collar and put your feet up at the Tap Room to carry on with the memorable gathering.
With its old English pub-inspired interiors, accentuated by a dark timer ceiling, and plush armchairs, the Tap Room provides a unique, soulful, and laid back atmosphere – making it an ideal place to unwind. It offers an extensive selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, complemented perfectly by delectable bar chow, and regular performances by Filipino jazz artists.

 
By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY