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Hilton Manila Newport World Resorts invites couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day with Maria Clara at Ibarra: The Journey of Two Hearts, an intimate dining experience at Vega Pool Bar on February 14 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Inspired by the timeless romance of Maria Clara and Crisostomo Ibarra, the evening features a five-course culinary journey by Executive Chef Lord Bayaban, complemented by a live harana trio serenading guests beneath the moonlight.
Maria Clara, known for her grace and quiet devotion, and Crisóstomo Ibarra, her steadfast and idealistic suitor, are central characters in Jose Rizal’s novel, Noli Me Tangere. Their story of patience, loyalty, and heartfelt courtship has become a symbol of enduring Filipino love, serving as the inspiration for this Valentine’s Day experience.
The dinner translates their journey into a five-course culinary experience. It begins with Ensaladang Lato, a fresh sea grape salad with calamansi and vinegar, evoking the innocence and familiarity of their youthful bond. The appetizer, Laing Rolls, features tender taro leaves wrapped in crisp lumpia pastry with rich coconut cream, a testament to patience and devotion. The soup course, Bulalo, offers slow-cooked veal shank with indulgent marrow, celebrating respect, family approval, and the social bonds that shaped their love. The main course, Surf and Turf Kare-Kare Royale, pairs succulent oxtail, tender beef, and sustainable prawns in velvety peanut sauce with crisp garden vegetables, reflecting Ibarra’s steadfast and selfless love, prepared with Chef Bayaban’s signature finesse. The journey concludes with dessert, Sylvanas de Maria Clara, delicate cashew meringue biscuits layered with buttery cream, a restrained yet unforgettable nod to her enduring devotion.
Each plate is crafted not only for flavor but to tell a story of Filipino courtship, bringing to life the romance, patience, and elegance that defined the love between Maria Clara and Ibarra.
It begins with Ensaladang Lato, a fresh sea grape salad that captures the innocence and familiarity of their youthful bond. Laing Rolls, tender taro leaves wrapped in lumpia pastry with rich coconut cream, reflect the patience and devotion that sustained their love across distance. Bulalo, a hearty veal shank soup, celebrates familial respect and the social bonds that shaped their union. The main course, Surf and Turf Kare-Kare Royale, pairs oxtail, beef, and sustainable prawns in velvety peanut sauce, embodying Ibarra’s steadfast, selfless love. The evening concludes with Sylvanas de Maria Clara, delicate cashew meringue biscuits layered with buttery cream, a subtle nod to her enduring devotion and quiet strength.
“I am continually amazed by the depth and nuance of Filipino culinary tradition,” says General Manager Gagan Talwar. “This set menu is not only a celebration of love, but also a journey of cultural appreciation. Each course tells a story, and Chef Lord Bayaban’s creativity brings the romance of Maria Clara and Ibarra vividly to life. It’s educational, it’s indulgent, and it’s a heartfelt tribute to Filipino heritage.”
Guests may select from a variety of seating experiences, including poolside tables, in-pool dining, elevated decks, and private cabanas. Packages include wine pairings, sparkling wine or Moet & Chandon, floral arrangements, and exclusive keepsakes, with additional inclusions varying depending on the chosen seating or package. Rates start at PHP 15,000 nett for two, ensuring a memorable and indulgent Valentine’s experience.
Maria Clara at Ibarra: The Journey of Two Hearts offers couples a Valentine’s celebration where food, music, and Filipino courtship traditions come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Reservations are required. For inquiries and bookings, contact Hilton Manila Newport World Resorts at +63 917 851 4044 or email [email protected].
