Tasting Australia at The Peninsula Manila

The Land from Down Under is about to steal the spotlight from our local foodie scene as the Australian Embassy in Manila together with The Peninsula Manila celebrate Australia's National Day with a month-long festivity starting with an exquisite gastronomic adventure to Australia's renowned gourmet produce and world-acclaimed wine through "Tasting Australia."

Roasted Tasmanian Ocean Trout 

with Wild Dill Pepper Sauce

A nine-day celebration filled with nothing but the goodness of Australian cuisine, which started last January 18 and will last until January 26, Tasting Australia is already captivating every local and international guest's palette with its indulgent buffets, exotic poolside barbecues, wine and beer tastings.

Headed by The Peninsula Manila's Australian-born Executive Chef Richard Green, who was named "Best Chef of the Year" in the Middle East for 2012, Tasting Australia is offering a wide range of Australian dishes from Cold Appetizer, Hot Appetizer, Soup, Beef Tenderloin down to their Dessert selections.

Executive Chef Richard Green

I had a wonderful time tasting some of their offerings for this festivity during its press launch, which took place at The Peninsula's Banquet Kitchen. An experience I won't definitely forget, because aside from these delectable dishes, my night was made more fun with the Aussie-born guests who we have there adding charm to the night, and they were all led by the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Bill Tweddell.

His Excellency Bill Tweddell

The dishes were all good, without a doubt, but I really think that they became more tasty and fun to eat due to the naturally fun but classy Aussie ambiance shared to us by The Peninsula and the Aussies who graced the night.

Blue Swimmer Crab and Avocado Tartlet

Seared Queensland Scallops

From January 18 to 26, at Old Manila, Escolta and at The Lobby, there's a display of the annual epicurean festival that comes with Australian food and wine. On January 18, 24 and 25, at the Poolside, there's the Aussie Barbie by the Pool. Adult guests will be charge Php1,650 per head, while children under 12 are priced at Php950.00. And on January 23, DJ Callum will be spinning at Salon de Ning from 10:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

My two most favorite desserts - Pavlova and Tim Tam Parfait

All prices are subject to 10% service charge and applicable government taxes. Guests can inquire or reserve a slot by simply calling The Peninsula Manila at (02) 887-2888. Guests can also e-mail them at diningpmn@peninsula.com or they can just visit peninsula.com/manila.

To my Australian reader and friends, Happy National Day to y'all!
Eat well and be merry! Happy eating and drinking, mates!