HRRAC, NFS to host “Cebu Goes Culinary 2023” in September

CEBU CITY – Cebu Goes Culinary 2023 on September 30 to October 1 at the SM Seaside City Sky Hall and Atrium Areas with the theme, "Malakas at Maganda: The Surge of Filipino Cuisine" jointly presented by the Hotels Resorts and Restaurants Association of Cebu Inc. (HRRACI) and the National Food Showdown (NFS) featuring categories for both professionals and the academe.

"We are thrilled to bring Malakas at Maganda: The Surge of Filipino Cuisine to Cebu Goes Culinary 2023. This event not only celebrates our rich culinary heritage but also fosters healthy competition among the finest chefs in the region," HRRACI President, Alfred Reyes said during the media launch on July 20 at Citadines Cebu.

Reyes added that this event also promotes food tourism, hospitality and the restaurant industry. The theme reminds people of the origins and roots of local cuisine and this event puts a modern twist of tradition of the local cuisine and the importance of the culinary promotion at the national level.

Cebu Goes Culinary 2023 gathers the top chefs in the Central Visayas region, each vying for the esteemed title of the best. With a lineup of thrilling competitions, the event promises to be a showcase of skill, creativity, and passion for Filipino cuisine, Reyes bared.

As a culinary extravaganza like no other, Cebu Goes Culinary 2023 is set to captivate food enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the general public alike. Mark your calendars for this gastronomic showcase that promises an unforgettable experience for all.

What to expect at Cebu Goes Culinary 2023?

Highlighted events include the much-awaited Klasika Moderna Kulinarya, also known as the Battle Royale, where chefs will captivate taste buds with their innovative renditions of traditional dishes. Adding to the excitement, a secret ingredient will be unveiled during the competition

An epic culinary clash at The Compleat Chefs competition, where skilled contestants vie for regional cuisine supremacy. Suka and Bagoong will take center stage as featured ingredients, while the celebrated Visayan SUTUKIL (Sugba, Tuwa, Kilaw) steals the spotlight.

Savor elevated regional Pica-pica and the renowned Cebuano Puso, as top chefs push the boundaries of flavor and creativity.

Step into the world of culinary artistry at the Culinary Flair competition, where elite bartenders and baristas will dazzle in flair-tending, cocktail, and mocktail mixing. Be enthralled as coffee and tableya concoctions showcase the pinnacle of mixology mastery and witness a display of unparalleled creativity and skill in every sip.

Table Setting with floral centerpiece will showcase the perfect fusion of aesthetics and taste and see the top banquet teams vie for the title of the best table setting and design teams in the industry.

A delectable showdown in the Sweet Revenge segment, where kakanins and cakes steal the spotlight. Contestants will tantalize judges' palates with the exquisite creations of Filipino delicacies and delightful desserts.

For the past fourteen years, The NFS, led by its overall chair, Myrna Segismundo and esteemed personalities in the culinary and hotel industries, has partnered with regional Tourism and Hospitality organizations for this annual gastronomic extravaganza to celebrate the Filipino cuisine and culinary talents in Central Visayas.