Hotel Celeste in Makati is pretty much unknown to the vast majority of people not knowing anyone from Assumption or someone who trawls Pasay Road on a daily basis. I find it really sad because the restaurant they have inside is a treasure. I remember them fondly because this was where I find tasted foie gras, so the whole experience is pretty much etched in memory.
I was sad when I learned that Hotel Celeste revamped their in-house French restaurant and turned it into one that specializes in Italian cuisine. The dire news was softened a bit when I learned that the restaurant was manned by Chef Davide Lombardi, a true blue Italian (that can speak Tagalog) who is an instructor at the Center for Culinary Arts (CCA) as well. Talking to him, you immediately get a feel of how passionate he is about food and how he wants to share his expertise. When you show so much zeal and enthusiasm about your work, it shows in the end product. If you want to try Italian fare that's made with heart and is full of soul, try Lucia Ristorante out. read more