Marco Polo Plaza Cebu regularly dishes out themed celebrations for its guests, local and foreign alike. This July, Marco Polo Plaza takes us to another culinary journey, this time to beautiful and romantic Spain.
Centuries of Spanish colonization has undeniably influenced our very own Philippine Cuisine. The food of the Philippines reflects on the adaptation of Spanish cuisine. Food historians claim that 80 percent of Philippine dishes are of Spanish origin. Wow! Because the Spaniards formed the elite, dishes adapted by upper-class Filipinos were also Spanish-inspired. Thus many of the party and fiesta dishes and those served for special occasions bear names like relleno, morcon, paella, callos, embutido, caldereta, etc.
For the 3rd time, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu celebrates Sabores de España. Launched on July 16, 2010 and ongoing until July 25, 2010, the activity was marked by the cutting of the Serrano Ham at the Cafe Marco and
unveiling of the Paella at the El Viento Restaurant and Pool Bar with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to the Philippines, Luis Arias-Romero, Honorary Consul of Spain Jaime Picornell, Ms. Gema Pido and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu General Manager Mr. Hans Hauri.
Internationally-awarded Filipino concert pianist – Maestro Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz also demonstrated the passion, grace and fire of the best Spanish music.
Accompanied by guitarist Ruben Reyes, Maestro Cruz romanced the audience with a colorful and spellbinding reportoire at the Lobby Lounge.
Finally, the food! I got to enjoy each one! Gema Luisa Pido, Cebu’s foremost authority on Spanish culinary tradition, brought out her treasured family recipes for Paella, Lengua Estofada, Cocidos, Rellenos, Croquettas, Gambas, Sans Rival, Leche Flan, and other Spanish delicacies – all becoming part of Cafe Marco’s award-winning international buffet.
Paella
Spanish Food: They look very Filipino, don’t they?
My favorite part would have to be the desserts! Here we have Brazo de Mercedes, Spanish Churros and Creme Brule.
OTHER PHOTOS:
Parade of Chefs and Waiters at the Staircase
Marco Polo Plaza Cebu GM Hans Hauri and H.E. Spanish Ambassador Luis Arias-Romero
Special thanks to Ms. Belle of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu for the invite! 
