International Filipino flavors take center stage at Guevarra’s

Guevarra’s, the Filipino-themed buffet restaurant known for its classic and homey ambiance, turned a regular day into a grand celebration of local culinary talent last September 2025. Housed in a heritage building dating back to the 1920s, the restaurant’s vintage interiors, private function rooms, and spacious garden created the perfect setting for intimate gatherings, birthdays, weddings, baptisms, and corporate events.

The buffet, curated by Chefs Roland and Jackie Laudico, offered a feast of both traditional and modern Filipino dishes. Diners enjoyed bestselling crowd favorites like Angus Beef Tapa, Bellychon, Grilled Pancit Bam-I, and Party Spaghetti, complemented by a wide array of intricately crafted desserts.

This milestone event, the fifth edition of Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey, highlighted the expertise of internationally acclaimed Filipino chefs Princess Anne Uy and Marc Earlmand Nacua. Both chefs have made significant contributions to Australia’s multicultural dining scene while championing Filipino flavors abroad.

For the Manila presentation, Chef Princess Anne Uy crafted a menu that paid tribute to beloved staples while introducing global influences. She served Umami Lechon Belly Roll, Prawn Toast with Kare-Kare Bonito, Chicken Moringa Chawanmushi, and Seafood Udon. Chef Marc Nacua complemented the savory offerings with desserts including Dried Mango Rum Baba, Piñacolada Pavlova, and Winter Morning, delighting diners with creative interpretations that blended heritage flavors with refined techniques.

“Being part of Taste of the Philippines is both an honor and a responsibility,” Chef Princess Anne said. “It’s about showing the world how Filipino cuisine can stand proudly on the global stage while inspiring the younger generation to take pride in our food and culture.” Chef Marc added, “Through every dish, I aim to bring not just my skills but also the resilience, creativity, and warmth of the Filipino spirit. This event is a celebration of who we are, both at home and abroad.”

Chef Princess Anne Uy’s career spans prestigious kitchens such as Nobu, Crown Casino, and Marvel Stadium, where she managed large-scale catering for up to 60,000 guests during shows by international artists including Nicki Minaj, U2, and Lady Gaga. Her accolades include the Silver Knife Bocuse d’Or Australia – National in 2025 and second place in Seafood at the 2024 World Food Championship in Indianapolis. Her culinary style merges Filipino taste memories with Japanese discipline and modern Australian techniques, honoring tradition while pushing boundaries.

Marc Nacua, a celebrated pastry specialist, brings over 15 years of experience from Melbourne’s Crown Casino and his role at dnata Inflight Catering. Recognized as Dessert Champion at the 2024 World Food Championship in Australia and Top 7 at the World Food Championship in Indianapolis, his creations transform Filipino inspirations into sophisticated desserts that balance artistry and bold flavors.

The 2025 edition of Taste of the Philippines reaffirmed Guevarra’s commitment to cross-cultural culinary exchange. With Chefs Marc Nacua and Princess Anne Uy leading the experience, the event reminded diners that Filipino cuisine continues to thrive globally while remaining deeply rooted in local flavors.