Taking a peek inside the family-run cooking business even celebrities love
Have you ever experienced tasting something and memories just start flooding in? Food feels like a universal language of love, a link to our past, and a common source of comfort and joy. A family-run culinary haven in Antipolo brings this sentiment to life, serving heirloom Filipino recipes that trigger nostalgia and celebrate Filipino heritage.
“Casa Ilustre is our mom’s passion project,” shares Jaimie Tintiangko, daughter of Vibian Tan, the driving force behind the culinary venture. “As a natural cook and advocate of heirloom Filipino recipes, she had a clear vision of what she wanted Casa Ilustre to be known for.”
The story of Casa Ilustre began during the pandemic, a time of global uncertainty and personal reflection. As Vibian retired from her successful career, she sought a new path to channel her energy and passion.
“The pandemic coincided with our mom’s retirement,” Jaimie explained, “and as an entrepreneur she found herself wanting to channel her energies into something productive but worthwhile.” Noticing the rise of online food businesses, the family recognized an opportunity to share Vibian’s culinary gift. Her love for cooking and her desire to preserve traditional Filipino cuisine converged, giving birth to Casa Ilustre.
Vibian’s passion for cooking has been a lifelong companion.
“Cooking has always been her main outlet since she began working for the family business at a very young age,” Jaimie revealed.
Despite a busy life as a businesswoman, Vibian always found solace and fulfillment in the kitchen, expressing her love through elaborate meals shared with loved ones. This tradition echoes the spirit of their ancestral home on Ilustre Street in Santa Cruz, Manila, affectionately known as “Casa Ilustre” – a gathering place where friends and family connect over delicious food.
“No matter how busy our mom was with work, her love language and the main mode of gift-giving always came in the form of the heirloom Filipino dishes she would tend to for hours in the kitchen,” Jaimie reminisced.
The aroma of stews and rich hot cocoa filling the house during Christmas mornings created lasting memories for them.
Culinary historians
Casa Ilustre’s heirloom recipes are documentation of history passed down through generations.
“Heirloom Filipino recipes are essentially dishes that are informed by culinary traditions and preparations that have been passed down through generations either within families or communities,” Jaimie explained.
Growing up in a multicultural household, Vibian was exposed to a diverse range of culinary influences, further enriching her culinary know-how.
Vibian’s dedication to authenticity extends to frequenting local markets (“palengkes”), forging connections with vendors and farmers, and incorporating their wisdom into her cooking. This deep-rooted connection to the community and its culinary heritage is what sets Casa Ilustre apart.
Among the many treasured recipes, some hold an extra special place in the family’s heart.
“During the holidays, she always makes it a point to make several batches of macaroni salad and embutido for gift-giving!” happily Jaimie recalled. The memory of their home transforming into a “Santa’s workshop” during Christmas, filled with enticing smells of holiday treats, speaks volumes about the love and dedication poured into every dish.
These recipes are pots and pans of Filipino culture and tradition. “The Filipino cultural practice of ‘magiliw na pagtanggap’ underpins every recipe that my mom has managed to learn,” Jaimie emphasized. This spirit of warm hospitality seems to shine through.
Taste of home
These days, when speed and convenience become priorities, the food business offers an option. “Casa Ilustre is a reminder for us to slow down, savor, and find solace in flavors and experiences crafted with care, dedication, and time,” Jaimie reflected.
Through their food, they hope to bring out a sense of nostalgia, transporting customers back to simpler times filled with the comforting flavors of home.
This connects deeply with their customers. “The ones that struck us the most are clients who tell us that our food reminds them of specific moments in time and memories they have of their loved ones,” Jaimie shared.
The food business is committed to upholding time-honored traditions and using high-quality ingredients. By prioritizing local produce and fostering strong relationships with suppliers, they create dishes that are both delicious and ethically sourced.
Casa Ilustre envisions a future where their food continues to nourish people’s lives.
“Our vision for Casa Ilustre is to grow our business in a way that touches the lives of more people,” Jaimie stated.
They plan to achieve this by honoring their roots while embracing innovation. To ensure the legacy endures, they are committed to carefully documenting their family recipes. They are safeguarding the heart and soul of Casa Ilustre so more generations will get a taste of history. Every dish becomes a culinary journey.
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