The sun-dappled Sunday morning cast a warm glow as I made my way to Arima Restaurant, nestled within the tranquil haven of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. Anticipation danced in the air, for it marked the beginning of a tantalizing journey: “The Great Bowl of Asia.” With every step, I could almost taste the promise of flavors yet to be discovered.
As a food lover, especially of Asian cuisine, I looked forward to this moment. Also, there’s something about noodles that captivated me. In fact, I have previously written this blog post “The World in Noodles” as a testament of my interest on the topic.
A Bounty of Flavors and Culinary Delights
Entering the restaurant, I was greeted by a bustling scene of culinary artisans and flavor enthusiasts, all drawn to the allure of this 45-foot-long buffet that promised to be a celebration of our palates. The whispers of the diverse Asian dishes that awaited swirled around me, evoking a sense of excitement akin to that of a child in a candy store.
As I surveyed the spread before me, it was clear that “The Great Bowl of Asia” was not just a buffet; it was an ode to culinary diversity. Each dish station was a portal to a different corner of Asia, inviting me to explore the depths of Chinese chow mein, the vibrant hues of Korean Jap Chae, and the enchanting medley of flavors in Pad Thai. The buffet was a symphony of textures, aromas, and colors – a testament to the passion behind its creation.
Craft Your Culinary Masterpiece at The Great Bowl of Asia
My heart raced as I stood before the array of noodle dishes, each a gateway to the flavors of a different Asian landscape. Kung Pao Noodle, Gochujang Noodle, Korean Japchae, Palabok, Chow Mien, Pad Thai, Chef’s Special – they all beckoned to me. In fact, they were inviting me to embrace the role of a food artist. The information provided at each station was a guide — recommended ingredients, choice of noodles, the ingredients in the sauce, and the allergens — but it was my imagination that was set free.
I was particularly drawn to the Pad Thai since I really love Thai cuisine, so I immediately grabbed a bowl to fill it with my personalized Pad Thai creation. Later on, I was torn between the Gochujang Noodle and the Korean Japchae, so I went ahead and made two separate concoctions to satiate my palate. I could feel the rush of creativity as I selected ingredients, envisioned pairings, and dared to blend flavors that were uniquely my own.
Mongolian Barbecue-style Cooking
What also elevated this experience was the choice between noodles and rice, a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. There were rice noodles, glass noodles, egg noodles, tao sham noodle, flat rice noodles, miki noodles, vermicelli noodles and spaghetti noodles. Then, with options like black rice, white rice, or red rice, you can tailor your creation to perfection. There are also different meat and seafood selections and 30 savory sauce choices that you can add to your food masterpiece. It was a canvas of culinary possibilities, and you can seize the opportunity to craft a medley that mirror your palate’s desires.
The Cooking Station added an element of theatre to the culinary voyage. As my masterpiece was expertly prepared Mongolian Barbecue-style, I felt a sense of connection with the flavors unfolding before me. It was no longer just a dish; it was a creation that bore the mark of my choices, my creativity, and my culinary journey.
Meet the Culinary Master Artist behind the Great Bowl of Asia
And at the heart of this masterpiece lay the artistry of Executive Sous Chef Billy Jo Andaca. Her passion for blending flavors and her commitment to creating an unforgettable experience were palpable in every bite. Her team of culinary maestros transformed mere ingredients into a symphony of tastes, leaving a lasting impression that lingered on my palate and in my memory.
As the sun began to set on this Sunday, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the culinary adventure that had unfolded before me. The echoes of laughter, the clinking of cutlery, and the shared joy of flavor exploration were the elements that had painted this day with vivid hues of satisfaction.
Dates and Pricing of The Great Bowl of Asia
You can etch these dates in your mind – from August 20 to September 24, 2023 at 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm – a fleeting moment in time when this culinary marvel grace our Sundays. And at only PHP 650 net per person, it is a treasure trove of flavors that felt like a gift to our senses.
Similarly, you can enjoy this food experience, and what makes it even more thrilling are the surprises that may await you each Sunday. Additional offerings and unexpected delights lay in wait, teasing your taste buds with the promise of the unknown. It was an invitation to savor not just the known, but also to relish the anticipation of culinary wonders yet to be unveiled.
Reserve Your Seat Now!
So, if you’re seeking to unleash your inner food artist, to embark on a journey that transcends sustenance and becomes an experience, “The Great Bowl of Asia” awaits you at Arima Restaurant within the Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. Let the flavors of Asia awaken your senses, and to secure your place at this gastronomic celebration, reach out to +63 34 706888 or +63917 829 0567.
Embrace this limited-time opportunity, and let the flavors of Asia become a part of your story – a memory that you’ll carry with you, igniting smiles and conversations for years to come.
So happy! Cravings for different dishes satisfied.