Indulging in a culinary adventure is usually an exhilarating experience, but when it involves braving the elements and navigating the hustle and bustle of the city, you know it’s something special. That’s exactly what happened on a rainy Thursday night during a memorable gastronomic journey at Café Ilang-Ilang, the flagship restaurant of The Manila Hotel.
Known for its heritage of culinary excellence, Café Ilang-Ilang derives its name from the ilang-ilang tree, which symbolizes love and romance. Having gone through several renovations, the restaurant now stands as an architectural masterpiece, captivating diners with its elegance. With more than half a century of culinary heritage, Café Ilang-Ilang has earned the reputation of providing unique dining experiences in Manila.
At Café Ilang-Ilang, guests are treated to a unique array of global flavors, catering to every palate. The buffet spread offers a diverse selection of cuisines from around the world, promising a delightful showcase of culinary diversity.
The Salads and Breads Station presents a variety of vibrant salads, freshly baked breads, cheeses, and deli meats, creating a perfect introduction to the culinary journey.
For lovers of grilled delicacies, the Churrasco Station immerses guests in the enticing aroma of grilled meat and seafood. Here, delicious beef, pork, chicken, lamb, sausages, and seafood skewers are topped with many delicious sauces.
The Pan-Asian Station takes diners on a culinary voyage through Asia, featuring a wide selection of dim sum, sushi, sashimi, noodles, dumplings, and stir-fries—each dish prepared with authentic flavors.
At the Italian Station, guests can enjoy classic Italian dishes, indulge in mouthwatering pizzas and perfectly cooked pastas, reminiscent of the heart of Italy.
The Mediterranean Station treats diners to the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, offering refreshing salads, fresh seafood, halal dishes, and perfectly grilled meats.
For lovers of American cuisine, American Station is a haven of hearty fare, boasting juicy steaks and tender roasts that will satisfy carnivore cravings.
No culinary adventure is complete without a sweet ending, and the Dessert Station offers a delightful array of treats, from delicious cakes and pastries to creamy ice cream—a perfect end to the dining experience.
However, the real highlight of the evening was the Anilag Festival—a celebration of culinary heritage from Calle Arco, an ancestral home in Pagsanjan, Laguna. Café Ilang-Ilang has partnered with Calle Arco to present a curated menu featuring revered Filipino recipes, including Binagoongang Crispy Pata, Fried Duck, Kare-Kare (Galapong), Pancit Habhab, Grilled Pla-Pla with Pako, and Adobong Kangkong—a tasty tribute to Laguna’s culinary traditions.
Café Ilang-Ilang at The Manila Hotel truly offers a haven for food lovers looking for a unique buffet experience. The rich history, beautiful ambiance, and a wonderful selection of global cuisines make it a must-visit destination for all food lovers.
The dinner buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang is available every day from 6pm to 10pm, with prices varying from Sunday to Wednesday and Thursday to Saturday, ensuring a memorable culinary adventure with exceptional value.
For inquiries or reservations, interested guests may contact +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or send an email to restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.
Café Ilang-Ilang is located on the Ground Floor of The Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila.
For more information and updates about The Manila Hotel and its offerings, guests can explore their website or follow their social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. The exquisite culinary journey at Café Ilang-Ilang promises to leave a lasting impression on the taste buds and hearts of all guests, making it an experience to be cherished.
