A ‘Taste of Istanbul’ in Marco Polo Ortigas

Turkish guest chef Gursel Keles. (Contributed Photo)
Turkish guest chef Gursel Keles. (Contributed Photo)

AH TURKEY, a country most often misunderstood because of the news circulating about it, but a country so rich in culture and culinary delight as its geographical location straddles between the continents of Europe and Asia. Theirs is a cuisine that blends Balkan, Mediterranean and Asian cooking with spices such as cardamon, fenugreek, sumac, saffron – which brings in such intricate flavors.

“A Taste of Istanbul” was held in Marco Polo hotel in Ortigas recently that was well attended by culinary adventurers, after all, the Marco Polo brand maintains its long-standing ethos of discovery, creating unique guest experiences and drawing on the key philosophies of its namesake, Marco Polo: an adventurer, a traveller, an entrepreneur and a connoisseur of culture - just as Marco Polo’s modern travellers are today.

As Turkish regional specialties were enjoyed at Cucina, the all-day dining restaurant featured live show kitchens. Marco Polo had guest Chef Gürsel Keles who took guests from Manila’s social elite to a culinary journey to Istanbul with authentic and fine dishes, paired with smooth European wines.

With years and years of culinary expertise, Chef Gursel has always been an advocate to his country’s cuisine, especially its sensual aroma, which was experienced in the “A Taste of Istanbul” wine dinner.

Guests were welcomed by Turkish canapés featuring Hunter Patty with Red Pepper and Walnut Dip which matched the featured wines to start off the evening. It was then followed by remarks of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila General Manager Frank Reichenbach and Turkish Airlines General Manager Erhan Balaban. Her Excellency Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines Esra Cankorur, the evening’s guest of honor, also shared a few words about Turkish tourism and appreciation to the hotel for showcasing the cuisine.

Continuing the culinary journey are Marinated Sea Bass with Artichoke and Beans, Turkish Prawn and Fish Soup, and Slow-Braised Lamb Shank with Turkish Spices and Almond Rice, paired with Macedonian and French wines. Topping off the dinner are Baked Rice Pudding with Coffee Ice Cream paired with Louis Guntrum Reisling from Germany, and Turkish Delights with a traditional Yeni Taki Spirit from Turkey.

“We are very proud to have showcased this great cuisine in our commitment to deliver authentic experiences to our guests in Manila. It is our honour to celebrate Istanbul’s vibrant flavours with Chef Gursel”, says Mr. Reichenbach.

Turkish dishes can be enjoyed at Cucina this month so head on to Marco Polo Ortigas for Turkish delightful treats.

Marco Polo Ortigas

Address: 1600 Meralco Ave, San Antonio, Pasig, 1600 Metro Manila, Philippines

Phone: +63 2 720 7777

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