Cafe Marco’s must try Festive Buffet

It was my first time to try eggnog, that traditional anglosphere drink that is often consumed as part of the Christmas festivities. Made from whipped eggs, sugar, milk or cream then topped with nutmeg, the frothy drink is just delicious. I wouldn’t mind having a second helping.

Cafe Marco, Marco Polo Hotel Cebu’s signature F&B outlet and judged 5th Best Restaurant in the Philippines by the prestigious Miele Guide, is currently having their Festive Buffet, a unique and flavorful array of Christmas favorites on top of their standard buffet offering.

Indulge in their homemade honey glazed Christmas ham with pineapple chutney that is succulent and tender. Or how about a Filipino favorite, chicken relleno, stuffed chicken that is a staple in most noche buena table?

Paella Valenciana, another adopted Spanish favorite, makes its comeback at Cafe Marco. A savory rice dish cooked with vegetables and seafood, it’s also a dish becoming popular in the Filipino’s Christmas celebration. And of course, dessert completes the Festive Buffet. I got curious with the Baked Alaska, a rich ice cream cake enveloped in meringue. And of course, Cafe Marco’s buffet has lots of interesting cakes and pastries, malicious cookies and more.

Then there were some more. The herb crusted fish with lemon and mango salsa was quite interesting. Dory fish fillet covered with herbs and crushed nuts. The sweetness of the mango salsa just jives well with the slight saltiness of the fish. Beef rendang made its appearance too and tamed for the Pinoy taste with the spiciness toned down for this Asian classic.

Do try the Festive Buffet while you still can! From 26th to the 30th of December, feast on Café Marco lunch buffet at Php1,155 net per person and dinner buffet at Php1,345 net per person.

NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN
Are you a fan of the BLOOMFIELDS? Catch them live at the Grand Ballroom of the Marco Polo Hotel Cebu with their own rendition of just good 60s and 80s music. Buffet dinner is at P2,888 net per person and already includes entry to the Grand Balcony for the New Year Countdown.

Other options (includes entrance to New Year’s Countdown party at the Grand Balcony):

• Festive Buffet at Cafe Marco, El Viento and Lobby Lounge for Php 1,888 net per person with free-flowing drinks, entertainment by FOJ, and Dogs and Butterfly.
• Blu Bar & Grill, a thousand feet at the top of the hotel for a special New Year’s Eve six-course set menu with wine pairing for Php 3,800 net per person. Third String Band will serenade you.

After dinner, the New Year’s Countdown Party will take place at the Grand Balcony and get a chance to win round-trip tickets to your favorite travel destinations during the raffle with world-class DJ Nix setting the party mood. Get ready to party for only Php 900 net for walk-in guests, inclusive of one glass of sparkling wine, party favors and Php 300 worth of food and drinks.

For inquiries and reservations, call 253-1111 or email mpplaza@marcopolohotels.com. Visit their website at www.marcopoloplazacebu.com. For real time updates, like their Facebook page at facebook.com/marcopolocebu or follow them on Twitter at @5StarInCebu.