Led by Chef Chele Gonzalez, known for his modern take on traditional dishes, Samira by Chele Gonzalez at Anya Resort Tagaytay offers a new menu for 2024. Highlighting Spanish cuisine and grilling techniques, the menu features various options for every course.
Members of the media were invited to the resort in Tagaytay for a sneak peek of the new menu. Tucked away in a hidden, lush green environment, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the resort provides the perfect ambiance to enjoy Chef Chele's new creations.
"Seasonally, we come up with new ideas, new inspirations, and fresh creations. Traveling, collaborating with other chefs inspired me. I have the need to develop new dishes and put those ideas on plates," shared Chef Chele, during the media preview.
"This is the time of the year we change some of the dishes in Samira, but we keep to the same roots. Inspired by the flavors of the world, especially Spain and the grill as our main weapon, we are ready for 2024 new season delights.”
Starters and Appetizers
We began our culinary journey with small plates: Salmon Tartare on crispy tapioca crackers, Cheese Puffs, and grilled Iberico pork satay skewers. For a taste of Filipino cuisine, Bulalo tacos were also served.
For starters, there were dishes like Beef Carpaccio and Seabass Ceviche with pickled onion and avocado dressing. Baked Brie wrapped in Jamon Serrano was a rich and decadent option as well.
For a hearty and comforting start to the main course, Chef Chele offered Bouillabaisse Soup, a seafood stew with saffron and fresh herbs.
The main course selection boasts dishes inspired by various cuisines. For seafood lovers, there was Red Snapper with Thai basil, sweet potato, and eggplant. We also tried their pan-seared red snapper with black ink mashed potatoes. Meat options included Oven Glazed Beef Cheeks with creamy mushroom risotto and Iberico Pork Chuleta with parsnips and jus.
For those who prefer a lighter option, there was also Smoked Salmon and Tanigue Salad, which combines smoked salmon, beetroot, walnuts, and raisins.
For sweets, there was Ube Tres Leche with coconut custard and ice cream - a tropical twist on a classic dessert. We also tried their decadent Pineapple Pavlova with cinnamon and clove-infused ice cream, which provided a refreshing and sweet ending to the tasty media preview.