A Taste of Boracay’s Heirloom Recipes at Savoy Hotel Manila, Just Minutes from NAIA

Having traveled to Boracay on countless occasions, I thought I knew the island well—the powdery white sands, the turquoise waters, the vibrant nightlife. Yet, in all those visits, I never truly tasted Boracay’s soul through its heirloom recipes. Despite being part of Aklan province, I often found myself opting for the more familiar: the Western dishes on hotel menus or the international fare in bustling cafés. It wasn’t until now, without even hopping on a plane, that I was able to explore the true flavors of Boracay, brought to me at Savoy Café in Savoy Hotel Manila. The experience was a culinary revelation, unveiling the rich and authentic tastes of Boracay’s local cuisine.

Savoy Hotel Manila's café offers a modern, cozy ambiance, blending soft, inviting tones with playful decor. The space buzzes with the gentle hum of conversation, creating a warm atmosphere. What truly stands out, however, is its homage to Boracay, featuring a captivating recreation of the island’s iconic sandcastles. Instead of real sand, they use sustainable materials like eggshells and Lego-like structures, adding a creative, eco-friendly twist to the décor. This centerpiece gives a nod to the beauty of Boracay while promoting sustainability in a unique way.

As the flavors lingered on my tongue, I realized this was not just a meal - it was a journey, one that had been lovingly prepared by the hands of those who know Boracay's soul. From the head chef of Savoy Boracay, who brought some of the island's key ingredients, to the head chef of Savoy Manila, whose passion harmonized them into something unforgettable - this was an experience that captured more than just taste. It captured the essence of Boracay itsef.

The café’s modern yet cozy ambiance sets the perfect stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The room is bright, welcoming, and reminiscent of the island with its homage to Boracay’s iconic sandcastles — though instead of using actual sand, they used sustainable materials like eggshells and Lego cupboards.

Experience Authentic Boracay Cuisine Near NAIA: A Culinary Journey Whether you’re a traveler staying near NAIA or simply looking for a unique dining experience, here’s a taste of what to expect at Savoy Hotel Manila:

1. Tinumis A savory pork dish with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and vinegar. Similar to sisig, this version uses Batuan puree, bringing a brighter and fresher flavor to the table.

2. Pansit Bisaya A Visayan noodle dish with a mix of egg and rice noodles paired with seafood, pork, and chorizo. It’s hearty and bursting with the vibrant flavors of the Visayas region.

3. Alugbati and Kesong Puti Salad A fresh, local take on a salad featuring alugbati greens, cherry tomatoes, and creamy kesong puti. Drizzled with a dalandan vinaigrette, it’s as refreshing as a sea breeze.

4. Tinola Binakol na Manok A comforting twist on the classic tinola with chicken simmered in coconut juice, offering a tropical richness that is distinct to Boracay.

5. Tinumnkay/Linapay A creamy, rich dish made with freshwater shrimp, coconut, and ginger, wrapped in taro leaves. A nod to my Bicolano roots, this reminded me of Pinangat but with its own island flair.

6. Chori Pasta A Filipino twist on spaghetti, featuring chorizo for a rich, bold flavor that plays with the classic sweetness of Pinoy-style pasta.

7. Beef Kansi A personal favorite, this Ilonggo dish features beef shank and jackfruit, tenderly cooked in a sour broth with batuan and lemongrass. It’s so tender it practically melts in your mouth, a comforting dish you’ll savor long after.

8. Inubarang Manok This Aklanon specialty offers native chicken slow-cooked in coconut milk with lemongrass and ginger, paired with ubad (banana pith), an ingredient native to Aklan. It’s a soulful dish that speaks to the heart of Aklan’s local cuisine.

9. Mango Graham Shake A tropical dessert in a glass, featuring sweet mango, coconut, and graham crackers. It’s the perfect way to end your meal with a taste of island life.

Why Choose Savoy Hotel Manila: Perfect for Travelers Near NAIA Not only does Savoy Hotel Manila offer an unparalleled culinary experience with its Boracay-inspired dishes, but it’s also one of the best options for travelers looking to stay near NAIA. Its close proximity to the airport makes it the ideal choice for those who want to indulge in a great meal while waiting for a flight or those who simply want to stay in a luxury hotel near NAIA with top-notch amenities.

The two executive chefs featured in the event are Kit Carpio, the executive chef of Savoy Hotel Manila, and Nicks Valmeo, the executive chef of Savoy Hotel Boracay. They collaborated to bring the authentic flavors of Boracay’s heirloom recipes to Manila, ensuring that diners experience the true essence of Aklanon cuisine. Joining them in the photo is general manager of Savoy Hotel Manila is Den Ferdinand Navarro, who has been instrumental in driving the hotel’s unique offerings such as this. 

Beyond dining, the hotel offers a relaxing environment with modern rooms, a spa, and easy access to shopping areas. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a local resident looking to taste the best of Boracay’s heirloom dishes in Metro Manila, Savoy Hotel Manila delivers an experience that’s both authentic and unforgettable.

A big thank you to Savoy Hotel Manila and Savoy Hotel Boracay for the thoughtful gifts I was able to bring home! My dog absolutely loves the purple plush toy, which has become an iconic keepsake for guests at the hotel. As for me, the beautifully wrapped pastry was the perfect companion to my morning coffee the next day—delicious and memorable. Your hospitality truly added a special touch to the entire experience!