Some of the men behind Resorts World Manila’s signature restaurants share what it’s like working in the kitchen of a world-class integrated resort which, over the years, has introduced several flavors in chic venues.
“I’ve been with Resorts World Manila for 10 years and all I can say is that nothing compares,” enthuses Chef Mario Manaloto or “Tatay” to his co-chefs at RWM.
Tatay Mario says, “No one can stick to a job this long if he doesn’t like the work he’s doing and if he doesn’t care enough for the company,”
Tatay Mario has been a chef for over 20 years now, with experience in both local and international kitchens. He currently heads Silogue, RWM’s Filipino specialty restaurant at the ground floor gaming area.
Working in the kitchen, Franks head chef Robert Ching says one must “First, love what you do.”
“You should always be passionate and happy when cooking. If you have problems, you leave it outside the kitchen,” he adds.
“Personally I am an advocate of Philippine cuisine as how RWM is. We all want the world to recognize our Filipino dishes,” shares Chef Robert.
As more dining outlets in the resort are showcasing Pinoy favorites and new creations, RWM executive chef Godfrey Laforteza says, “When I joined the RWM team, I wanted to share my pursuit in pushing Filipino cuisine at the global culinary forefront.”
“When I was younger, I always wanted to be a soldier,” reveals Victoria Harbour Café head chef and 10-year RWM employee Charlie Simangan. “As a Thrillmaker (the name given to every RWM employees), I’m also like a soldier, but in the kitchen fighting hard for our guests’ satisfaction,” he adds.
Most of the integrated resort’s kitchen soldiers like Chef Charlie have stuck around with RWM through thick and thin over the years. Most of them are former OFWs who are very grateful to RWM for the opportunity to do what they do best without leaving their families for jobs abroad.
“I’ve always said that if ever I retire, RWM will be the last kitchen I’ll ever work in,” asserts Chef Charlie.
At present, RWM operates 12 signature restaurants within the Newport City property, including Garden Wing outlets Café Maxims, Passion, Ginzadon, and The Terrace at Maxims Hotel; Silogue, Franks, Victoria Harbour Café, Happy 9, and Bar 360 at the gaming area; and El Calle Food and Music Hall at the Newport Mall.
With the opening of the Grand Wing, more RWM signature restaurants are slated to open soon.
In celebration of its 10th year, RWM collaborated with its partner hotel and restaurant outlets for the Grand Food Trip campaign to give diners a one-of-a-kind gastronomical experience across several buffet stations for P10,000 per person.