I’ve always wanted to go to Thailand. It’s an architectural wonderland full of life and culture that is completely mesmerizing. Going there, however, isn’t that easy for most, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience it at all. In Dusit Thani, it’s as close as you’ll get to immersing yourself in the beauty of Thailand without leaving the country.
Dusit Thani is an international Thai hotel chain that found its way in the business capital of the Philippines—Makati City. Ever since 1995, they’ve been providing world-class hospitality that promises ultimate relaxation. Aside from the unforgettable staycation, the whole Thailand-esque escapade won’t be complete without traditional Thai food, which can be found at their in-house restaurant, Benjarong.
Benjarong is a classic restaurant with signature Thai interior and dishes. The rustic, earthy, and royal vibe complements the elegantly-plated specialties that will truly take you to Thailand while still adhering to the Filipino palate. This October, Dusit Thani Manila will relaunch the well-loved Benjarong. Food connoisseurs can expect it to have a more elevated look in a new location within the hotel and, most of all, a more modern take on Thai gastronomy while retaining the classic, century-old recipes that Benjarong has been known for.
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Their new recipes were artistically and aesthetically inspired by two renowned chefs born and raised in Thailand—Iron Chef Thailand 2015 title-holder Kamol Chobdee-ngam or ‘Chef Gig Kamol’ and resident Thai chef of Dusit Thani Manila and guest chef of Iron Chef Thailand 2014 Watcharapon Yongbanthom or ‘Chef Ja’. We were lucky enough to try the food these kitchen wizards created to let us know what we can expect in the new Benjarong, and it was delicious!
If you’re into Thai food, you do not want to miss out on this one. Here are some of the dishes that you can expect to see in the new Benjarong this October:
Stir Fried Chicken with Cashew Nuts
This delicious chicken may look spicy, but it’s actually not! Despite its color, the sweetness from the onions and oyster sauce and the saltiness found in the soy sauce balances everything, creating an explosion of flavor in your mouth. The crunchiness of the cashew nut goes well with the tender chicken breast in every bite, as well, so it truly makes an unforgettable dish.
Verdict: If this will be finalized in their new menu, this would definitely be something I would order every time I go to Benjarong. I can imagine eating this with rice or their signature pad thai.
Stir Fried Crabmeat in Curry Sauce
I am blown away by this dish. I have never seen a crab so meaty and juicy nor have I tasted a curry sauce this rich. The crab is perfectly blanched and the curry sauce is on-point—creamy thanks to the milk and whipped cream and mildly spicy because of the chili oil. If you are a fan of both seafood and curry, this is a gem.
Verdict: As someone who dislikes seafood, I can vouch for you that Chef Gig’s Stir Fried Crabmeat in Curry Sauce is delicious.
Crispy Chicken Wing Stuffed with Green Curry
Chef Ja has outdone herself with this one in terms of creativity. This dish is made out of chicken wing stuffed with minced chicken meat through a very meticulous process. It has been boiled and deep-fried, so you know it is cooked through and through. There are three sauces that come with these stuffed chicken wings and each of them different and delicious in their own ways.
Verdict: If you want to taste something new (or even see something new), this dish is perfect. You will also enjoy the variety of flavors it gives thanks to the different sauces available (tamarind sauce, sweet chili sauce, and special mayonnaise dip).
There is almost a month before Benjarong opens. Make sure to head on there and experience Thailand right here in Metro Manila—you won’t be disappointed.
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Benjarong
1st level, Dusit Thani Manila, Epifanio de los Santos Ave., Makati City
www.dusit.com/dusitthani/manila
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