Exploring the Heart of Filipino Flavors with a Modern Twist

By Mye Mulingtapang

Photography by Valsite Imprints Photography & Films

Filipino cuisine has long been celebrated for its bold flavors, rich traditions, and deeply rooted culture. At Adobros, chefs Morris Danzen Catanghal and Michael Pastrana are reimagining these traditions, creating modern interpretations that excite and inspire while staying true to Filipino roots. The restaurant’s menu is an artful fusion of both traditional and innovative flavors, with an emphasis on local ingredients and global culinary techniques.

More than just a dining experience, Adobros is a movement—a celebration of Filipino food that transcends borders. The collaboration between Chefs Morris and Michael showcases how Filipino cuisine can evolve, while never forgetting its cultural significance. Their ability to blend traditional Filipino flavors with contemporary techniques is reshaping the future of Filipino dining.

Chef Morris Danzen Catanghal: The Filipino-Italian Fusion Maestro

Chef Morris has built his reputation by blending Filipino flavors with Italian culinary techniques. As a culinary ambassador in Sicily, his work bridges the gap between two seemingly disparate cuisines. His victory in Gino Cerca Chef, Italy’s prestigious televised cooking competition, highlighted his ability to craft dishes that tell a story—merging the richness of Filipino heritage with the sophistication of Italian dining.  Morris’s cooking philosophy is simple yet profound: he draws inspiration from childhood memories which shape the heart and soul of his cooking. As the only Filipino chef in Sicily, Morris has taken it upon himself to introduce and gain recognition for Filipino cuisine in Italy.

Despite challenges in a competitive culinary environment, his Filipino-Italian fusion dishes showcase the richness of Filipino flavors while embracing global trends.

His creations at Adobros include sophisticated plates like sinigang risotto and lechon porchetta, where Filipino favorites meet Italian fine dining, allowing diners to experience familiar tastes with a fresh twist.

For him, cooking is about more than just food; it’s about evoking cherished childhood memories and telling stories through ingredients. Chef Morris proudly introduces Filipino flavors to an international audience, a responsibility he takes seriously in order to elevate Filipino cuisine globally.

Chef Michael Pastrana: From Overseas Restaurants to Melbourne’s Filipino Cuisine Innovator

Chef Michael Pastrana, a culinary maestro from Lucena City, Philippines, brings a wealth of international experience to Adobros. Before settling in Melbourne, Chef Michael was at the helm of several restaurants overseas. His journey from humble cafes to high-end fine dining establishments shaped his deep understanding of both Western and Filipino cooking techniques. The fusion of these influences is what makes his approach to Filipino cuisine so innovative.

In Melbourne, Chef Michael’s culinary journey took a transformative turn, where he honed his skills in Western cuisine. His time abroad, running successful restaurants, gave him the ability to craft dishes that seamlessly blend traditional Filipino ingredients with Western techniques, bringing new life to familiar flavors. Dishes like adobo short ribs and tapsilog arancini reflect his commitment to maintaining the integrity of Filipino food while incorporating the elegance of global cuisine.

Chef Michael’s leadership at Adobros is a testament to his dedication to showcasing Filipino food at its finest. He views cooking as an ongoing exploration, constantly evolving his craft while honoring Filipino culinary traditions.

At the heart of Adobros is not only its innovative menu but also its immersive dining experience. Chef Morris and Chef Michael understand the importance of connection, and they’ve created a space where guests can explore Filipino food in an intimate and relaxed setting.

Through supper clubs and private events, Adobros fosters an atmosphere where diners can engage with the chefs, learn about the dishes, and share a meal in a way that goes beyond just eating—it becomes an experience. These exclusive gatherings invite guests to enjoy curated menus that tell a story, evoking memories and emotions through food. The experience is personalized and dynamic, making every meal at Adobros a unique celebration of Filipino culture.

Adobros’ commitment to Filipino food goes beyond the surface. While the menu embraces modern flavors and fusion techniques, both chefs make sure to incorporate traditional Filipino ingredients and cooking methods into every dish. The collaboration between Chefs Morris and Michael showcases how Filipino cuisine can evolve, while never forgetting its cultural significance. Their ability to blend traditional Filipino flavors with contemporary techniques is reshaping the future of Filipino dining.

For those who seek a culinary adventure that’s both familiar and exciting, Adobros offers more than just a meal—they offer a story, a journey, and a deeper connection to Filipino culture. Stay connected with Adobros by following them on Facebook or visiting their official website.

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