Most hotels dazzle their guests by pulling out the big guns — seasoned chefs with a not a few stars to their name, some even coming from abroad to collaborate with the local team.
That is why it was so refreshing to taste dishes prepared and hosted by culinary and restaurant interns of The Westin Manila during a special preview marking the completion of their mentorship program with the hotel’s seasoned and award-winning team.
And it was heart-warming, too, knowing that the 7-course degustation menu that will be rolled out on May 19, 2025 is also for a worthy cause — th one-night-only dining event is for the benefit of Save the Children Philippines.
“Talent is a very valuable asset in the hospitality industry, and we understand our role in creating a sustainable future in the community in which we operate,” said General Manager Alexander Dietzsch.
The “Culinary Showcase,” Dietzsch said, is under the banner of the Mentor-Mentee Program of Marriott Next Gen Worldwide Business Councils – Philippines.
“The Culinary Showcase is designed to provide our interns with an early insight into the industry and prepare them for their future roles by teaching them the fundamentals of running a restaurant and mounting a dining event,” addee Executive Chef Rej Casanova.
“While our hotel regularly offers internship programs, the Mentor-Mentee Program is a more in-depth experience, and we open the slots to interested students who are currently onboard our internship programs. The intensive training and mentorship include different disciplines and specialization, including menu development, creating a market list, costing, cooking and presentation, booking management, guest engagement, service, and more.”
Offered at P3,300 nett per person, the dinner event will take guests on a gastronomic journey through continents across seven courses.
Interns will take over the Seasonal Tastes dining area and live interactive kitchen, allowing guests to see all the cooking action as they dine.
“Each intern is assigned a role and responsibility in the planning and execution. These include leadership roles such as Executive and Sous Chefs, restaurant managers, and more,” said Grace Weihrauch, Director of Operations.
“We believe that having this experience as chefs and hosts will help interns gain more confidence and realize their full potential. It is a privilege for us to share our time and knowledge to the younger generation as they carve out their future and career in hospitality,” added Chef Casanova.
(Book a table via https://qrco.de/CulinaryShowcase. Visit www.westinmanilahotel.com to know more about the hotel and book the best available rates. For inquiries and other reservations, contact +632 8256 2020 or westinmanila@westin.com, or follow @westinmanilahotel on Facebook and Instagram for updates and announcements.)