Feliciano Rodriguez III

Cheers to the north

This holiday season, raise a glass to good cheer and great company. While southern Metro Manila often steals the spotlight for festive dining and nightlife, Quezon City is brimming with vibrant options. From inventive cocktail bars to dynamic dining hubs, these northern neighborhoods are perfect for celebrating Christmas, New Year, and every gathering in between.

Israel highlights its wine heritage with inaugural wine event in the Philippines

The Philippines served as the stage for a milestone in Israel’s wine tourism as the country hosted its first wine event in Manila on Dec. 4. Titled “L’Chaim, Discover Israeli Wine”, the event was a collaborative effort by the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, the Israel Ministry of Tourism, and the Israel Ministry of Economy and Industry. It showcased Israel’s emergence as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts while fostering stronger ties with Filipino wine distributors.

FOODIES: Bite into the Little Wolf’s Italian creations

Il Lupino Prime by Peter Zwiener has found its home in Quezon City’s new and posh
Opus Mall, bringing with it a fresh and sophisticated take on Italian cuisine. The
restaurant, which opened Nov. 27, is the first Il Lupino location in the Philippines and
adds a premium Italian option to Metro Manila's upscale dining scene. As part of the
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Group's continued expansion in Asia, Il Lupino combines the
traditional flavors of Italy with a modern, elevated twist.

A cut above tradition

For over three decades, Melo’s Steakhouse has been a cornerstone of fine dining in the Philippines, renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition. Established in 1988 by Carmelo Santiago, the restaurant introduced certified angus beef to the local dining scene, setting a benchmark for premium steaks. Today, the legacy continues under the stewardship of Santiago’s daughters, Caron Macasaet and Carmina “Cricket” Mesias, ensuring that Melo’s remains synonymous with excellence.

Stirring memories, savoring tradition

For Dr. Lydia Rodriguez Ar­cellana, the holidays were never about the twinkle of lights, festive music, or the bustle of commercial festivi­ties. Instead, they were defined by the aroma of home-cooked meals, turning her childhood home into a culinary haven.