The award-winning chef headlines the fourth installment of Guevarra’s Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey
Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico, in partnership with Nutribullet, pushes Filipino gastronomy further onto the international stage with the fourth edition of Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey. This latest installment spotlights the bold, boundary-crossing cuisine of David Jezreel Lizardo Pamplona — Chef Dabo — a multi-awarded chef who has been instrumental in putting Filipino flavors on the map in Dubai’s vibrant dining scene.
A Filipino Voice in a Global Kitchen
Held at Guevarra’s flagship in San Juan, the event celebrated Chef Dabo’s journey from the Philippines to the multicultural restaurants of Dubai. As Managing Director, Head Chef, and Co-Founder of Naimas Café & Bistro, Chef Dabo brings 13 years of professional experience and a playfully disciplined approach that blends Pan-Asian and Latin influences with unmistakable Filipino soul. His résumé includes four Gold Medals at the Salon Culinaire Dubai and recognition as a PRO Chef 2019 finalist — achievements that underscore his technical mastery and creative vision.
“Dubai is a global dining hub, and Filipino cuisine is so versatile it fits any culture,” Chef Dabo said. “My goal is to make our ingredients as globally recognized as sushi or curry — distinct, respected, and true to their roots.”
Technique Meets Tradition
Chef Dabo’s signature philosophy is simple: marry fine-dining technique with honest Filipino flavors. “I mixed fine-dining techniques with authentic Filipino flavors,” he explained. “Diners in Dubai love something new if it’s done well, and that’s where Filipino cuisine can shine, especially when it’s honest, rooted, and executed with heart.” At the event, his dishes demonstrated how meticulous preparation and cross-cultural inspiration can elevate everyday Filipino ingredients into refined plates that still feel familiar and comforting.
A Shared Mission: Promoting Filipino Cuisine Abroad
Chefs Roland and Jackie Laudico — the forces behind Guevarra’s — framed the collaboration as part of a larger advocacy to champion Filipino food both at home and overseas. “It’s been our mission from the start to promote Filipino cuisine both here and abroad,” said Chef Roland Laudico. “This time, we’re highlighting world-class chefs working overseas who share our advocacy. It raises awareness in their host countries and, hopefully, draws more people to visit their restaurants.”
Chef Jackie Laudico added, “Working with a Filipino chef based in the Middle East brings a unique perspective, especially since the region has one of the largest overseas Filipino communities. His food reflects his global journey, an experience shared by many Filipino chefs abroad.”
What’s on the Plate: Filipino Classics, Reimagined
For a limited time, Guevarra’s guests can sample a curated buffet selection that showcases Chef Dabo’s reinterpretations of Filipino staples. Highlights include:
- Humba-Rum Chicken Empanada — a playful, hand-held riff on the classic humba, glazed with a rum-kissed reduction.
- Tiyula Itum Inasal Yakitori — smoky inasal techniques meet the dark, aromatic broth of Tiyula Itum, served yakitori-style for a bold, layered flavor.
- Bistek Saltado — a cross-cultural tango of Filipino bistek and Latin saltado techniques, brightened with citrus and soy.
- Shrimp Laing Rebosado with Coconut Wasabi Cream — crunchy, spicy, and luxuriously creamy: laing wrapped and deep-fried, paired with a daring coconut-wasabi dip.
These offerings reflect Chef Dabo’s promise: “Filipino flavors belong to the global stage. It has always been my personal mission to bring our culture beyond one menu and let it live everywhere.”
A Culinary Bridge for Culture and Community
Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey is more than a dining event — it’s a cultural exchange. Guevarra’s partnership with Nutribullet and its invitation to chefs like Dabo demonstrate how Filipino cuisine can adapt, innovate, and still hold fast to its heritage. For diners, the collaboration is an invitation to taste the Philippines through a modern, globally informed lens.
Guests interested in tasting the Guevarra’s x Chef Dabo menu are encouraged to visit Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico at their San Juan location; the special menu is available as part of the buffet selection starting this month for a limited run.
