The culinary scene in Metro Manila recently welcomed a new gem with the opening of Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez at The Westin Manila. This collaboration between The Westin and renowned chef brings an elevated Spanish dining experience to diners.
Cantabria, a region nestled along the northern coast of Spain, serves as the inspiration for this gastronomic venture. It's hailed as a "tierra infinita" or "infinite landscape" renowned for its culinary treasures, ranging from exquisite seafood to tantalizing meat dishes, set against a backdrop of mythic oceans and verdant mountains.
At Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez, patrons can expect a menu that celebrates the flavors of Gonzalez's hometown. Specializing in seafood delicacies, creative tapas, comforting meats, and traditional Spanish favorites, the restaurant promises a journey to the shores of Cantabria with every bite.
One of the highlights of the dining experience is the open seafood display, where the freshest catches of the day are expertly prepared in front of diners, adding an interactive element to the meal.
Located on the roof level of The Westin Manila, Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez aims to become a premier destination for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic Spanish dining experience.
General manager Alexander Dietzsch expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, "A Spanish restaurant has always been in the plans for our hotel, and we wanted to collaborate with a chef who can bring an authentic experience to the table. We searched far and wide, and we didn’t find anyone in Manila who is as dedicated to the concept as Chele.”
The culinary roots of chef de cuisine Ivan Saiz Sordo, who also hails from Cantabria, add an extra layer of authenticity to the menu. Together with Gonzalez, they craft a blend of tradition and innovation, offering guests a taste of Spanish cuisine that is both familiar and surprising.
“Spanish cuisine continues to evolve over time, and so do tradition and techniques. Cantabria presents a unique side of Spanish cuisine and raises the bar by showcasing a blend of tradition and trends through a flavorful journey,” said Gonzalez.
The restaurant takes a creative and sophisticated approach to seafood, featuring dishes like Rodaballo a la Parrilla (grilled wild turbot fish) – a specialty from Cantabria's vibrant Atlantic coast. Diners can also savor a variety of other seafood options, including baked grouper, signature oysters, and a refreshing oyster and salmon tartare.
Cantabria's tapas menu offers a modern twist on classic Spanish bites. Diners can indulge in delectable options like braised beef ravioli with parmesan espuma, wagyu tartare with salmon roe, and a decadent Solmillo Iberico "Sando" sandwich featuring deep-fried pork tenderloin.
For meat lovers, Cantabria boasts an impressive selection, including the signature Presa Iberico steak with fried potatoes and flavorful mojo sauces, and the Chuleta Angus, a grilled Angus beef rib eye.
“We've embraced a wide range of tradition and innovation across our menu. We want you to experience Spanish cuisine anew through authentic and progressive cooking as well as seafood and time-honored delicacies,” Gonzalez said.
The restaurant serves dinner from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.