One destination, three cultures

There are food adventures, and then there are food odysseys, and what I experienced at the grand launch of Maple Tree House, Du Hsiao Yueh and Rossopomodoro was nothing short of extraordinary. Three restaurants, three countries, three distinct cuisines — all in one place: SM Mall of Asia’s North Entertainment Mall.

Thanks to Viva International Food and Restaurants, the ever-growing empire behind Botejyu, Wingzone, Paper Moon and Greyhound Café, we now have a premium Korean barbecue experience, an iconic Taiwanese noodle house and an award-winning Italian pizzeria, all bringing their authentic, time-honored flavors straight to the west coast of Manila.

With Viva Foods president and COO Vicente Raphael del Rosario IV and marketing manager Miguel de la Rosa present, the night was nothing short of a celebration of culinary excellence. And, let me tell you, I indulged in every bite, every sip, every moment.

Maple Tree House: Korea through taste

Korean barbecue has become a global phenomenon, but Maple Tree House is in a league of its own. Originally from Seoul, South Korea, this high-end K-BBQ joint is known for its impeccably sourced meats, refined flavors, and an elevated dining experience. After taking my first bite, I understood why this deservingly went global.

First, let’s talk about the Cola Chicken. The sweetness perfectly balanced the juiciness of the meat, making every bite burst with flavor. Then came the Soybean Stew, a warm and hearty soup that felt like a comforting hug, the kind of dish you’d crave when you’re under the weather.

The beef and pork selection? Simple yet perfect. Just the right amount of salt and pepper, no gimmicks, just pure, premium quality meat grilled to perfection. And the Japchae? I hold Japchae to the highest standard, and Maple Tree House delivered. It wasn’t too sweet, just the perfect harmony of flavors.

And the best part was it was never smoky inside. Somehow, Maple Tree House has managed to perfect the art of Korean BBQ without making you smell like one.

Du Hsiao Yueh: Taiwanese icon

If there’s one thing I love about Taiwanese cuisine, it’s the balance of flavors, comforting yet complex, familiar yet unique. And Du Hsiao Yueh, which has been serving its famous dan zai noodles since 1895, is a testament to Taiwan’s rich culinary tradition.

The Xiao Long Bao was nothing short of immaculate – thin, delicate skin holding a burst of rich, savory broth that flooded my mouth with every bite. There’s simply no feeling that compares.

Then came the Dan Zai Noodles, the dish that made Du Hsiao Yueh a household name. Unlike your typical noodle bowl, this one had an unexpected twist, mung beans added a delightful texture, while the shrimp topping brought a depth of umami goodness.

And, of course, to wash it all down? Their signature milk tea —smooth, fragrant and the perfect end to a deeply satisfying meal.

Beyond the food, Du Hsiao Yueh also made a huge announcement at the event, its partnership with Steam Box Corporation for their HotBox technology. Imagine a self-heating, portable food box that keeps your meal warm anywhere, at the office, the beach, or even outdoors. Just pull a string, and steam will magically heat your food, no microwave needed.

The restaurant, now on its second branch in Manila after SM North EDSA, is not just preserving a legacy, it’s bringing it into the future.

Rossopomodoro: Heart of Naples

I have eaten my fair share of Neapolitan pizza, but Rossopomodoro is on another level. As Italy’s largest pizza chain, they don’t just serve good pizza, they serve real pizza, the kind you find in the streets of Naples, handcrafted, wood-fired, and packed with history.

At the grand opening, instead of a ribbon-cutting, the executives did something better, a pizza-cutting ceremony. Because really, what better way to celebrate the best pizza in the world?

First up: Cinque Formaggi Pizza, a five-cheese masterpiece. But the real surprise? Peanuts on top. Who would have thought? And yet, it elevated the dish, adding an unexpected crunch and nuttiness that blended beautifully with the melted cheese.

Then, the Bruschetta, a seemingly simple appetizer but overflowing with tomatoes of the best kind, juicy, fresh, and sweet. The highest quality ingredients make all the difference, and Rossopomodoro delivers nothing but the best.

To end the night, I ordered a Negroni, just the right balance of bitter and sweet, smooth but with a perfect kick. MOLTO BENE!

And finally, the Tiramisu. Oh. My. What a tiramisu. Creamy, airy, coffee-soaked perfection. What a way to end the night’s food adventure.

No passport needed

With Maple Tree House, Du Hsiao Yueh and Rossopomodoro, Viva International Food and Restaurants has created a world of flavors right at SM Mall of Asia. Whether you’re craving sizzling Korean BBQ, comforting Taiwanese noodles, or classic Italian pizza, it’s all here. No plane ticket required.

After indulging in three incredible cuisines in one night, I left with a full stomach, a happy heart and a newfound appreciation for how food can transport you across continents.

And now, Manila, it’s your turn to take the trip, one bite at a time.