It was mid-day on a weekday, and I was set to meet three good friends for lunch at New World Manila Bay Hotel. “I am genuinely excited,” my friend texts me, and I was, too. Rebranded from a previous management just earlier this year, big things are coming from this second New World Hotel in the Philippines, and we were going to have a taste of that—quite literally.
I entered Market Café at the third floor of New World Manila Bay Hotel, and immediately I was welcomed with a quiet, comforting ambiance. Warm wood accents to an otherwise modern, classy facility establishes a feel of familiarity—like revisiting fond memories when you were a child. I see my friends seated at a round table by the window overlooking the streets of Malate, and the feeling of familiarity grows all the more. We haven’t seen each other in a while, and catching up over an abundance of good food just seemed like the perfect way to start the month. At the table I meet New World Manila Bay Hotel’s Director of Communications, too, Mina Gervacio, and soon after, we walk around the café as she shows us around.
Ms. Mina tells us that New World Manila Bay Hotel is all about providing world-class modern service with an Asian heart. And it is easy to see why. Asians have always been known around the world to be some of the most hospitable and friendly people. That’s not only something to be proud of, but something we can bring to the table, globally. New World Manila Bay Hotel knows exactly that. And that is what they aim for.
Another thing I loved about Market Café is how they integrated the Filipino culture into, not only their service, but how they serve their food, as well. Wonder why they’re called Market Café? Their presentation is inspired by traditional Filipino baskets, crossing it with a modern touch for that fine finish. This was the vision of the Hong Kong based world-renowned artisan that is Bilkey Llinas Design.
Market Café is proud of its interactive dining concept, innovating on the idea of show kitchens and live cooking. There are four main show kitchens in Market Café: The Western Kitchen which showcases authentic European and American cuisine, the Japanese Kitchen which gives you a taste of the best the land of the rising sun has to offer, the Chinese Kitchen, and The Bakery and Dessert Kitchen which, personally, is my favorite. Because who doesn’t love dessert?
Take a look at some of Market Cafe’s dishes that were so fulfilling for both the eyes and the palate:
Our little corner table was drenched in the daylight seeping through the glass windows, and our conversations over Market Café’s delicious dishes were just as bright. Just as warm. The same could also be said about Ms. Mina, who chatted with us and rode with our funny antics as if we’ve known her for a while. As drinks were poured, (try Market Café’s specialty juices—refreshingly delicious!), ideas came flowing in, too. Visions were shared, projects discussed.
I looked around and saw the same revelation happening at our neighboring tables, too. Men in their long-sleeves and ties sitting around a long table, seemingly in meeting over lunch. Friends in their work attires, coming in for a good meal, and hotel guests—either in pairs or families—sitting together in smiles.
It seemed to me that the ambiance Market Café—and ultimately New World Manila Bay Hotel—has created, is one that can bring people together for a relaxing, cozy experience. Where ideas and good conversations can flow. And to be located in the heart of Manila, in the vibrant yet busy district of Malate, that is a rare and very good thing.
Market Café at New World Manila Bay Hotel
1588 Pedro Gil corner M.H. Del Pilar, Manila 1004
www.manilabay.newworldhotels.com
Operating hours: 6am to 11pm daily
Reservations: (02) 252-68-88 / dining.manilabay@newworldhotels.com
