Reimagining Filipino Cuisine: TasteSetters® at IMFF
Last August 9, TasteSetters® participated at the World Filipino Food Congress, as a part of the first International Manila Food Festival at Newport World Resorts. The event marked an important milestone for Filipino cuisine, with a focus on blending heritage and innovation. Industry leaders, culinary schools, and global voices came together in
TED-style panels and discussions to explore identity, innovation, sustainability, and the role of Filipino food on the world stage. Here, TasteSetters® presented the upcoming Taste Trends of 2026–2027, offering a glimpse into the evolving flavors, movements, and dining experiences that will shape the future of the Filipino culinary landscape.
Our very own Ms. Sandy Cu took the stage to present these trends, highlighting dynamic culinary movements — these included the revival of regional dishes reimagined for modern tastes, to the upcoming localvore movement aimed at celebrating homegrown produce, and the renewed appreciation for heirloom ingredients that connect today’s dining tables with the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Ms. Sandy began her talk through the question, “What if the next big revolution isn’t in tech, but on your plate?” She emphasized that each meal and bite we partake in can tell a deeper story — transcending flavor and dipping into culture, sustainability, and innovation. She continued by explaining how the Filipino palate has been molded by layers of history, colonization, and exposure to global influences, all coalescing towards our everyday eating habits.
In Photo: Ms. Sandy Cu presenting the Filipino Food Plate
From rice paired with rich viands and sawsawan, to the growing presence of noodles, dim sum, pasta, pizza, and even bread with palaman, the Filipino plate remains a living reflection of both tradition and adaptation. Through this lens, Ms. Sandy Cu continued into the trends mentioned, outlining how the local and international Filipino food industry can not only anticipate what’s to come, but also shape the industry towards one that’s more sustainable, rooted in culture and Filipino identity, and innovation.
Following this enlightening discussion, TasteSetters® brought the trends to life through a specially curated tasting menu that showcased how heritage and innovation can coexist on the Filipino plate. Chef Sonny Mariano led the experience with standout creations — starting with a reimagined Chicken Pastil with Inasal Rice, elevated by
Clara Olé Tapa Marinade and Inasal Barbecue Marinade. Guests then enjoyed Seafood Tamales, a fresh and flavorful dish enriched with TasteSetters® Brand Crab & Shrimp Flavor Savory Sauce. To end on a sweet note, the menu featured a decadent Black Rice Bibingka with Coconut Caramel, highlighted by TasteSetters® Brand Caramel Cream Dessert Paste.
In Photo: Chicken Pastil with Inasal Rice, made with Clara Olé® Tapa Marinade and Inasal Barbecue Marinade.
Each course not only exemplified bold, inventive flavors but were also carefully designed to embody the Taste Trends — bridging the presented ideas into reality.
The fun didn’t stop there though, because on August 10, TasteSetters® joined the Lasa x Lahi Grand Tasting at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, where Chef Sonny Mariano brought the trends to life with his Chicken Inasal creation. Made with Clara Olé Inasal Barbecue Marinade and paired with a tomato and pesto ensalada using Clara Olé Cheesy Pesto Pasta Sauce, the dish was elevated with crispy inasal chicken skin, tinapa, and garlic bits. This flavorful showcase highlighted the revival of regional dishes and the localvore movement, proving how Filipino classics can be refreshed for today’s tables.
In Photo: Chef Sonny Mariano’s Chicken Inasal
The International Manila Food Festival ultimately highlighted how Filipino cuisine is evolving — honoring its roots while confidently stepping onto the world stage. For TasteSetters®, the experience reinforced its role as a trusted partner for chefs and food businesses, helping them create flavors and concepts that resonate with modern palates while staying true to heritage. With optimism for future editions of IMFF, and with Filipino cuisine gaining growing recognition both locally and globally, TasteSetters® remains committed to inspiring innovation and celebrating the rich diversity of our food culture.
Check out a short video we made recapping the events!
