Cantabria is a is an autonomous region nestled in Northern Spain bordered by the Bay of Biscay and the Basque Country. It is an idyllic, lesser-known region of Spain with a unique culture and distinct traditions. It also happens to be the hometown of prolific culinary Master Chef Chele Gonzalez. And he has made it his mission to share the spirit of his roots and the old country.
Cantabria by Chef Chele Gonzalez is a wonderful new dining experience on the rooftop of the Westin Manila. The concept was born between Chef Chele and Chef de Cuisine Ivan Saiz Sordo, both native Cantabrians and their desire to share the region they grew up in. The star is of course the seafood-forward cuisine, a mix of wonderfully rustic tapas and Spanish heirloom recipes that instantly tells the story of Chele’s home. The interiors and overall ambience are wonderfully achieved too and add to a thoroughly fresh experience of Spanish cuisine.
It’s hard to miss when you have the experience of Chef Chele and Chef Ivan to map out the menu. There are classic tapas of the region, classic Spanish fare that we all look forward to plus some inventive cocktails at Cantabria’s beautiful bar, which is reason enough to drop by.
We had a sampler of starters and tapas, all fantastic but the Tartaleta de Viera and Grilled Pulpo were so good we’re still talking about it weeks later, As was the Paella de Pato Y Setas. Rounding the meal off perfectly was a Cantabrian rustic cake, Sobao Pasiego and a Toffee, Cacao, Avellana Y Café mousse.
It’s an absolutely perfect place for a special dinner but evenings can be quite busy at Cantabria, alternatively a Spanish Lunch is a great way to experience Spanish in a fresh new way.
Cantabria by Chef Chele Gonzalez is located on the Top floor, The Westin Manila, San Miguel Avenue corner Lourdes Drive, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.
For reservations call at +63282562020