While at Marco Polo Davao, the Rooster crowed twice on the eve of the Lunar New Year and with good reason. First, 2017 is its year with the Fire Rooster ruling the Chinese calendar and second, the nest we were celebrating it in was named one of Philippine Tatler’s Best Restaurants for 2017.
It doesn’t come as a surprise why the house of buchi reaped its reward on the national level. The buchi can take the Chinese dining place to the top of the list, but since it’s always a group effort (I’m referring to the menu loaded with Cantonese specialties), Lotus Court certainly does deserve a spot on the Tatler list.
"Lotus Court is all about refinement," says the Tatler review. "The elegant interiors and flavorful Cantonese dishes make it one of Davao's favorite dining spots."
Lotus Court won the prestigious award together with 172 culinary gems in the whole country and the only Cantonese restaurant that made it on the list from Davao region. The award is evaluated on the feedback of professional chefs and client feedback.
"We are very honored and proud to represent not only the Marco Polo Hotels but Davao City. We are happy that our city is gaining recognition not only as the model city of our President but as a destination for culinary adventures," says Executive Chef Alex Destriza who was present during the BRG Launch.
He adds, "There is no other way but to get better and introduce innovations to make our guest[s] [have unforgettable] experience."
Lotus Court is Marco Polo Davao’s Cantonese restaurant located at the 3rd floor of the hotel.
Some of Lotus Court’s Signature items include the Yin Yang Garupa, Braised Mushroom, and Tofu & Sweet Sesame Buchi.
The buchi, of course, is an integral part of a Lotus Court dining experience. No spread is complete without it. That’s why on the eve of the Rooster Year, there were three varieties served on the buffet—green tea, chocolate and the original red bean, the reason why this dragon’s heart (I was born in the year of the dragon) was beating with glee.
As the lions were dancing across the hotel to usher in good luck, revelers flocked to the Lotus Court for a sumptuous spread. This is how every New Year is met at the hotel’s Chinese food hall – feasting on good food enjoyed with family and friends, and a cultural performance presented by students from the Colegio de San Ignacio school.
As always, I went home toting a box of buchi. Lotus Court, you are always on top of my best restaurants list.
Kung Hei Fat Choy and congratulations Lotus Court and Marco Polo Davao!
Email me at jinggoysalvador@yahoo.com. For more lifestyle & travel stories, visit www.ofapplesandlemons.com & www.jeepneyjinggoy.com