Food has always been one of the strongest ways to experience a destination. Beyond satisfying the palate, it tells the story of a place, including its history, people, traditions, and way of life. Recognizing this, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) brings together the distinct flavors and stories of the country’s regions through “Gateway to Gastronomy,” a group-wide campaign that transforms every stay into an authentic culinary journey.
Championed by SMHCC, the campaign supports the Department of Tourism’s Food and Gastronomy Tourism Roadmap 2024–2029, which seeks to position the Philippines as a leading gastronomic destination in Southeast Asia by promoting regional cuisines, strengthening partnerships with the hospitality sector, championing locally sourced ingredients, and creating immersive culinary experiences for travelers.
“Gateway to Gastronomy” positions SMHCC’s hotels as immersive spaces where guests can explore the culture, history, communities, and traditions that have shaped every Filipino dish. Across its portfolio, each property interprets its culinary heritage through the lens of its destination, inviting guests to discover not only what Filipinos eat, but why these flavors matter.
“Every destination has a story to tell, and food is one of its most powerful storytellers,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Leah Magallanes. “Through Gateway to Gastronomy, we celebrate the richness of our local culinary traditions while supporting the Department of Tourism’s vision of making Philippine gastronomy a compelling reason to travel. Beyond offering memorable dining experiences, this campaign strengthens our partnerships with local farmers, fisherfolk, artisans, and food producers, helping preserve regional food traditions while creating opportunities for the communities that keep these culinary legacies alive.”
Regional Culinary Experiences Across SMHCC Properties
At Taal Vista Hotel, “Mga Bayan ng mga Bayani: A Culinary Heritage Journey” brings Philippine history to the table through Pansit Canton, Lechon Manok sa Saha, and Tinola ni Tandang Sora, inspired by Filipino heroes and complemented by regional specialties from Laguna, Batangas, Tarlac, and Pampanga. Every dish connects guests to the people, places, and stories that shaped the nation’s culinary heritage, transforming each meal into a meaningful journey through Philippine history.
Meanwhile, Pico Sands Hotel’s “Lasang Lokal, Proudly Pico” follows the journey of local ingredients from source to plate. Through stories like “From Coast to Cove,” guests discover fresh catches such as lapu-lapu and pusit, transformed into elevated coastal dishes while celebrating Batangas’ fishing communities, local producers, and sustainable sourcing. By highlighting the people behind every ingredient, the initiative deepens guests’ appreciation for the connection between responsible sourcing, local livelihoods, and exceptional dining.
In Central Luzon, Park Inn by Radisson Clark’s “Pamangan Kapampangan” showcases Pampanga’s culinary legacy through beloved dishes such as Sisig, Bringhe, and Lelut Balatong while highlighting the artisans, home cooks, and communities preserving generations of Kapampangan culinary traditions. The experience encourages guests to discover why Pampanga continues to be recognized as the country’s culinary capital.
For Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, “The QC Table” celebrates Quezon City’s vibrant food culture by bringing together the iconic culinary districts of Retiro, La Loma, Maginhawa, and Kamuning, from Retiro’s legendary late-night pares to neighborhood favorites that capture the city’s diverse gastronomic identity. Inspired by the communities that have shaped Quezon City’s dining scene, the initiative offers guests a flavorful introduction to one of the country’s most dynamic culinary destinations.
In Western Visayas, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s “Panubli-on” preserves treasured Ilonggo family recipes through Ani Restaurant’s Heritage Menu. The Savory Collection features Pork Asado Rolls, Pork Empanadas, and Chicken Inasal Sliders, while The Sweet Heritage Treats offer the hotel’s award-winning Bibingka, Suman, and Butterscotch. Guests can further experience The Perfect Pairing, a curated afternoon tea featuring heritage pastries, native sweets, and locally inspired beverages, celebrating Iloilo’s distinction as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy while honoring the families who continue to safeguard these culinary traditions.
Just across the island, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s “Azucar de Herencia” pays tribute to Negros Occidental’s storied hacienda culture through Kare Kare de Hacienda, Salpicao de Solomillo, and Papisik nga Manok, celebrating the province’s agricultural legacy and enduring Spanish influences. The menu reflects the richness of Negrense cuisine while honoring the traditions that have shaped the region’s distinct culinary identity.
Further south, Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s “Duwaw Davao: Eat & Sip” highlights Mindanao’s multicultural flavors through Tiyula Itum, Chicken Pastil, and the nostalgic Knicker Bocker, inviting guests to experience the region’s rich culinary diversity through dishes deeply rooted in local tradition. Together, these specialties showcase the cultural influences that have long defined Mindanao’s vibrant food heritage.
Complementing these destination-led initiatives, Lanson Place Mall of Asia reimagines Filipino classics through refined craftsmanship, featuring dishes such as Ukoy with Mixed Vegetables and Sikwate & Puto Maya. By marrying familiar flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, the property demonstrates how modern hospitality can showcase Filipino cuisine in ways that resonate with both local diners and international travelers.
SMHCC Supports Philippine Gastronomy Tourism
Collectively, these initiatives demonstrate how SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation advances Philippine gastronomy tourism by preserving culinary traditions, supporting local producers, and creating authentic destination-driven dining experiences. Each participating property highlights the unique food culture of its destination while strengthening connections between travelers and local communities through regional cuisine.
More importantly, the campaign reinforces the role of hotels as partners in promoting local culture, strengthening regional tourism, and generating opportunities for the communities whose stories are reflected in every dish. Through “Gateway to Gastronomy,” SMHCC continues to position each of its properties not only as a place to stay but also as a destination where every flavor reflects a heritage, every table celebrates a culture, and every meal tells a story that creates a lasting memory.
