From the Editor, Leigh O’Connor.
Modern Filipino cuisine is quickly emerging as the next big thing on the Australian dining scene, blending bold traditional flavours with contemporary flair.
Long overshadowed by its Southeast Asian neighbours, Filipino food is stepping into the spotlight with its rich cultural heritage, Spanish influences and a growing number of innovative Chefs reimagining classic dishes.
Expect to see adobo reinterpreted with native ingredients, lechon paired with modern sides and desserts like halo-halo served with a twist. The cuisine’s hearty, soulful nature appeals to both comfort food lovers and adventurous diners, while its vibrant mix of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavours creates a uniquely satisfying experience.
As the Filipino-Australian community grows and food culture becomes more diverse, diners are discovering and embracing this underrepresented gem.
With its perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, modern Filipino cuisine is carving out a delicious space in Australia’s ever-evolving culinary landscape.
Join us this week as we explore…
Filipino cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of bold flavours, rich traditions and multicultural influences. From the sour tang of sinigang to the sizzling delight of sisig, each dish tells a story of family gatherings, regional pride and a culinary heritage that’s both humble and inventive.
For Australians looking to expand their palates, we dish up six Filipino dishes worth discovering.
Those with a sweet tooth and a curiosity for cultural indulgence will discover Filipino desserts are a treasure trove of unique textures, tropical flavours and heartfelt tradition.
Fusing Malay, Spanish, Chinese and American influences, Filipino sweets are as colourful as the country’s 7000-plus islands and as warm as its people.
From shaved ice delights to sticky rice treats, these desserts offer more than just a sugar hit - they’re a journey into the soul of the Philippines. Check out our curated guide to dessert decadence.
Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is a magnet for travellers - blending centuries-old heritage with a dynamic, cosmopolitan spirit. We take a deep dive into why Manila is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations, as well as discussing why Filipino beaches appeal to the Aussie travellers.
Bottoms up, or should that be pants down? Thursday is National Tequila Day and we have two organic Margarita recipes using Matthew and Camila McConaughey’s Pantalones tequila. As the Hollywood couple bears testament to – you don’t have to wear pants to drink Pantalones!
Sip and see the Canberra wine region like never before with the launch of the new Wine Hopper tour. This hop-on, hop-off service offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility to choose your own adventure, allowing visitors to experience the world-class Murrumbateman wine region at their own pace.
Set against a backdrop of stunning views, the Wine Hopper’s flexible weekend schedule invites you to design your own day of discovery, stopping at Canberra’s most celebrated wineries, lingering at leisure and savouring exceptional cool-climate wines.
There is no need for a designated driver, just sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery… and the wine of course.
Enjoy!
