Melo Villareal
MANILA, Philippines — One of the best things about traveling is discovering a destination through its food. A bowl of noodles can tell a story of generations, while a simple street snack can reveal centuries of culture and tradition. That’s exactly the spirit behind Asian Eats 2026, a vibrant culinary festival that invites visitors to explore the diverse flavors of Asia without leaving Manila.
(from left) NutriAsia Marketing Group Head for Category and Consumer Marketing Ms. Gretchen King, Embassy of Indonesia Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Ms. Victorina Dewayani, Embassy of Australia Media & Public Diplomacy Manager Mr. Kevin Punzalan, Asia Society Philippines Center Head and Managing Director Ms. Natalie Christine Jorge, H.E. Jing Quan of the Embassy of China, H.E. Makawadee Sumitmor of the Embassy of Thailand, H.E. Endo Kazuya of the Embassy of Japan, Asia Society Philippines Chairperson Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho, Asia Society Philippines Co-Vice Chairperson Mr. Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Century Pacific Food Inc. AVP & General Manager Mr. Bryan Lingan, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Administration Hon. Ma. Theresa Dizon – de Vega, Shang Properties Inc. Executive Vice President for Retail and Commercial Ms. Joy Polloso, Kikkoman Philippines Country Head Mr. Taichi Makino, H.E. Harsh Kumar Jain of the Embassy of India, H.E. Marc Innes Brown of the Embassy of Australia, and Embassy of Malaysia Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Norjufri Nizar Edrus.
Now underway at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-La Plaza, the three-day festival, organized by Asia Society Philippines, runs until August 9. It brings together authentic cuisines, cultural performances, live cooking demonstrations, and interactive experiences that showcase the richness and diversity of Asian heritage.
Whether you’re a passionate foodie, an avid traveler, or simply looking for a unique weekend activity, Asian Eats 2026 offers a delicious way to experience the cultures that make Asia one of the world’s most exciting regions.
Where Food Becomes a Cultural Journey
Asian Eats is much more than a food festival. It’s a celebration of the traditions, stories, and people behind every recipe.
As Asia Society Philippines’ flagship culinary diplomacy initiative, the annual event highlights how food can connect people across cultures. Every dish served represents more than its ingredients—it reflects history, identity, family traditions, and the communities that have preserved these recipes for generations.
“At Asia Society Philippines, we believe that food is far more than sustenance. It is a powerful expression of history, identity, and culture. It has the unique ability to transcend borders, foster understanding, and create meaningful connections among people,” said Doris Magsaysay Ho, Chairperson of Asia Society Philippines.
Her message perfectly captures what makes the festival special. Visitors aren’t simply tasting different cuisines—they’re experiencing the cultures and shared values that unite Asia’s diverse nations.
A Gathering of Cultures Under One Roof
The opening ceremony welcomed government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural partners, reflecting the festival’s role in promoting friendship and understanding through food.
Among those present were Asia Society Philippines Co-Vice Chairperson Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Center Head and Managing Director Natalie Christine Jorge, and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Dizon-De Vega, together with representatives from participating embassies and members of the diplomatic community.
Their presence highlighted the growing importance of culinary diplomacy as a way of strengthening cultural ties across the region.
Discover the Flavors of ASEAN
One of this year’s biggest attractions is the ASEAN Showcase, a special feature celebrating Southeast Asia’s rich culinary traditions.
Presented in recognition of the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit, the showcase demonstrates how food continues to strengthen connections among neighboring countries. While each nation has its own unique flavors and cooking traditions, visitors will also discover the shared influences that have shaped the region’s diverse cuisines over centuries of trade, migration, and cultural exchange.
It’s a wonderful reminder that food often tells the story of a region better than any history book.
Take Your Taste Buds Across Asia
One of the festival’s greatest pleasures is the opportunity to sample authentic dishes from different parts of Asia—all in one place.
Participating embassies and their partner merchants are offering culinary specialties and signature products representing:
- Australia
- China
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- South Korea
- Thailand
- Vietnam
From comforting bowls of noodles and fragrant curries to sweet treats and regional delicacies, every booth offers visitors a chance to discover something new. It’s the kind of experience that inspires future travels—or brings back fond memories of past adventures.
Learn from the Chefs Behind the Flavors
Watching skilled chefs prepare traditional dishes is another highlight of the festival.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy live cooking demonstrations featuring respected culinary experts, including Chef LV Wei of the Embassy of China, Chef Surat Rana of the Indian Women in Enterprise, Chef Donna Marie Morales of Coco Mama, Chef Bruce Lim with Kikkoman, and Chef Gerick Manalo representing NutriAsia.
Beyond showcasing recipes, the chefs share techniques, ingredients, and cultural stories that help explain why these dishes remain beloved in their home countries.
More Than Great Food
While food takes center stage, Asian Eats also celebrates the music, dance, and artistic traditions that make every destination unique.
Throughout the festival, participating embassies present colorful cultural performances that bring the sights and sounds of Asia to life. Traditional dances, music, and artistic presentations create an immersive atmosphere that complements the culinary experience, allowing visitors to appreciate each country’s heritage beyond what’s served on the plate.
It’s a reminder that travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about the people, traditions, and experiences you encounter along the way.
A Weekend Worth Savoring
One of the best things about Asian Eats 2026 is that it’s completely free and open to the public, making it an easy addition to your weekend plans.
Whether you’re searching for your next favorite dish, curious about different Asian cultures, or dreaming about your next overseas adventure, the festival offers something for every kind of traveler and food enthusiast.
Supported by partners including Kikkoman, Century Pacific Food, Inc. through its Coco Mama brand, NutriAsia, GCash, and Highlands Coffee, Asian Eats continues to show how food can build bridges, spark conversations, and bring communities closer together.
For anyone who believes that the best travel experiences often begin at the dining table, Asian Eats 2026 is a journey well worth taking—no passport required.
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