A quick, mid-week trip to the islands is always a good idea in my book. I’ve been feeling rather antsy and was looking for an easy escape the last few, stressful weeks. So when the opportunity to go back to Boracay presented itself, it didn’t take me long to move a few scheduled appointments around and find myself on a one-hour-flight that would bring me back to one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Some scoff and act all snooty, saying Boracay is too commercialized but no one dare question how beautiful the beach is—white, powdery sand and turquoise waters that come in such a mild, welcoming temperature. I may be biased but it’s no lie that this is pretty much paradise, especially for someone like me who loves her creature comforts and indulging in a thriving dining scene.

This visit brings me back to Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay. It’s been almost two years since my last visit, which was marked by wonderful memories with fellow journalists who have become good friends in the industry. Back then, general manager Patrick Manthe was starting to roll out unique art and dining experiences at the resort and I’m happy to note during this visit that they’ve been well-received both by visitors and the island’s locals. From a dinner that incorporates a feast for the senses to art programs involving artist residencies and opportunities for the youth, the resort has become an art lover’s destination.

August is not the most popular time to come to the island. The habagat (southwest monsoon) season brings stronger winds and sporadic showers. But a case can be made for the milder temperature it brings along with and the allure of having much less of a crowd on the island. I had the resort’s main pool to myself for a good half an hour one morning and it was the kind of peace I’ve been looking for.

Most expats in Manila go to Boracay for their first island vacation. Some don’t come back thinking they’ve seen it all. But as a repeat customer of this island, I must say there’s always something new to explore, even in places you’ve already been to. If there’s one thing that’s constant on this island, it’s change, especially in the food scene.

Crimson’s three restaurants are well-known throughout the island, from their guests to locals and even those who have decided to make the island their home since the pandemic. As for me, they’re just three of the many reasons I keep coming back.

Mosaic
One of Crimson’s famed dining destinations, Mosaic is a Latin American grill that has been voted for having the best steak on the island. Before having dinner, we were treated to an education on steak, led by Crimson’s executive chef Nickolai Stoyanov. From cuts to texture and tastes, we tried everything cooked in a Bertha oven. A favorite among our group was the sirloin steak paired with a chipotle sauce that really meant business.

When it was finally time for dinner, we were treated to an edition of Art on a Plate. The special dinner event happens every few months. It features a five-course meal while a musician plays live music and an artist creates a piece on the spot, a multi-sensory experience and an absolute treat. A standout during dinner was the Kurobuta pork tenderloin, which came with thick slices of pork belly, edamame puree, and pumpkin in a port wine sauce. The cream of cauliflower was a surprise favorite with its almonds and blue cheese puff.

Azure
I’ve always had a soft spot for Crimson’s beachfront restaurant and bar, mainly because it serves the best seafood laksa on the island, where the tandoori ovens are always put to good use. To be completely honest, it’s also such a pretty spot by the beach. We tried a couple of things from the menu this time and my instant favorite was the shrimp tandoori that was served with garlic naan and a mild chutney. There are also pork short ribs, which are great with rice and even better with a cocktail on the side. Tequila and grapefruit-based Pink Summer and the rum and coconut concoction that is Naked Rock are two you won’t go wrong with.

With all these, you might think that Azure only serves Indian food. With 65 items on the menu, that’s not really true. It’s my go-to for its raw offerings. Oysters, tuna poke, and even the rolls are so good. There are also unique pizza flavors—one with char siu and the other with eel.

Saffron
Breakfast buffets don’t normally get a huge share of the spotlight. But Saffron’s menu, which transforms for lunch into an à la carte selection, has also garnered its own following. “We like to highlight Filipino dishes,” said Stoyanov when asked if it were a Filipino restaurant. The riyandang, a Maranao-style rendang, was thick, spicy, and deep. A seemingly simple ensalada stole our group’s hearts with its hints of sweetness and tart along with a humba that had a sweet-salty complexity.

Visiting Boracay might be synonymous with its gorgeous beaches, yet the discovery of its equally impressive dining venues adds an extra layer of interest, especially for those seeking a serene getaway intertwined with exceptional culinary experiences. And all these are just a quick flight away from the capital. How lucky are we to call the Philippines our home?