Food for Tooth
By Otto George I. Weber
In a league of its own
Last 12th of March 2013, my wife, Socorro and I had the privilege
of attending the formal opening of the newest and grandest structure for any
social gathering in town – Carmel’s Convention Hall. Designed by Chad Yuvienco
Go, the glass and concrete two-storey building is impressive – its clean and
modern lines pleasing to the eye.
Along with the multitude of
guests, we were received at the lobby by host, Greg Santillan (whose birthday
it also was that day), Mayor Ginggo Valmayor, Cip & Annette Antonio and Fr.
Johnny Lagdamen (who blessed the twin celebrations). Proceeding to the upper
level main hall, we entered the cool and predominantly white interior – made
festive by arrangements of colorful balloons.
Pre-dinner, cold beer was served
with the appetizing and tangy ‘tuna sashimi’. We were glad to be seated and
befriend retired couple from California – Ramon & Liz Estrada.. Keeping the
Mayor and b-day celebrant company at their round table were Vice EQ and Admin.
Manong Franni. They were eventually joined by SCBI top guns, Noli Segovia and
Arnel Amparo – whose wife, Gina was the only rose among the thorns in that
table of heavy-hitters.
Incidentally, the main hall has
enough space to sit 200 guests (or 300 if chairs are arranged theater-style).
The lower hall can hold about 150 people. A unique feature of the building is
the pair of deluxe rooms at the rear lower back – just perfect for a wedding’s
entourage or a seminar’s lecturers.
Eldest of the brood, Wilbert
caught the attention of everyone, esp. the table of Councilors Criston, Momoy,
Hernan, DX, Eddie and PJ as he took us on a well-delivered nostalgic trip down
Carmel’s memory lane. Power-couple Pocholet & Lita Valmayor (who, according
to Socorro looked so fashionable in her dress) with affable Carlos Valmayor
watched with interest the slideshow that followed.
After blessings, dinner
commenced and I must say that Mila Santillian outdid herself this time. The
sumptuous food on the 10-course buffet-line was a gastronomic treat for all – a
hallmark of Mila’s culinary touch. Socorro found the potato salad and lasagna
delectably delicious while I fell for the outstanding pork asado and steamed
‘aha-an’ fish. I’m sure that both gatekeepers of the Mayor’s office – Edith T.
& Maian B. – would agree to that.
Seen enjoying the mouth-watering
meal was fellow Bosconian and budding chef, Bebe Wee, as were partners Lito
& Raquel Villarante.
Civic club
honchos Junover, Sluggo, Boylibs, William and Clint seemed to savor with
delight the flavorful kare2x, chopsuey, lumpia, to name a few. Other guests
couldn’t get enough of the super-tasty and crispy lechon. While the yummy
dishes were remarkable, I just couldn’t resist the chocolate cake for dessert –
simply exceptional!
Also exhibiting the same
hardworking ethic of both parents, Ena, JR, Carmel and Kristin were present
with their respective families for this special occasion. Completing the family
circle were siblings Rene, Anhtit, Dodong and in-law Marilou who came with
families in tow.
Starting from scratch in 1980,
Carmel’s pioneered the chicken bbq, lechon manok and pizza until becoming a
full-service restaurant with an inn and now, a brand new convention hall. Never afraid to take
risks, Mila & Greg realized their dream by dint of hard work &
perseverance – truly an inspiring story. And the most admirable part of it
all?... both have remained humble all these time.
Now,
that’s a hard act to follow, don’t you think?
No comments:
Post a Comment