As Turkish regional specialties have enjoyed at the world’s kitchen, Cucina, with guest Chef Gürsel Keleş took guests from Manila’s social elite to a culinary journey to Istanbul with authentic and fine dishes, paired with smooth European wines.
With years and years of culinary expertise, Chef Gursel has always been an advocate to his country’s cuisine, especially its sensual aroma, which was experienced in the recent A Taste of Istanbul wine dinner, held last 9 October, at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila.

Guests were welcomed by Turkish canapés featuring Hunter Patty with Red Pepper and Walnut Dip which matched the featured wines to start off the evening. It was then followed by remarks of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila General Manager Frank Reichenbach and Turkish Airlines General Manager Erhan Balaban. Her Excellency Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines Esra Cankorur, the evening’s guest of honor, also shared a few words about Turkish tourism and, and appreciation to the hotel for showcasing the cuisine.
Continuing the culinary journey are Marinated Sea Bass with Artichoke and Beans, Turkish Prawn and Fish Soup, and Slow-Braised Lamb Shank with Turkish Spices and Almond Rice, paired with Macedonian and French wines. Topping off the dinner are Baked Rice Pudding with Coffee Ice Cream paired with Louis Guntrum Reisling from Germany, and Turkish Delights with a traditional Yeni Taki Spirit from Turkey.
“We are very proud to have showcased this great cuisine in our commitment to deliver authentic experiences to our guests in Manila. It is our honour to celebrate Istanbul’s vibrant flavours with Chef Gursel”, says Mr. Reichenbach.

To know more about Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, visit www.marcopolohotels.com. Follow the Hotel in Facebook at facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila or @MarcoPoloManila on Twitter or Instagram.