There is something seriously exciting cooking over at Novotel Manila Araneta City. Following its 10th anniversary, the hotel is completely shaking up its food game with a massive culinary relaunch. We are talking about everything from an ambitious new buffet experience and a refreshed pastry shop to plant-forward wellness dishes and an inclusive Halal-certified banquet kitchen.
Wazzup PH team scored an invite to the exclusive press launch, and the entire experience was honestly superb. The food was fantastic, but what really made the event stand out was the incredible team leading the kitchens. Cluster Executive Chef for Outlets Athena Tuble is an absolute gem. Her energy is so warm and welcoming, setting the perfect vibe for a spectacular feast.
Here is why you need to put Novotel Manila on your food bucket list right now.
The Ultimate Feast: Freshfinity at Food Exchange Manila
If you think you have seen it all when it comes to hotel buffets, Freshfinity will make you think again. Led by Chef Athena, this modern buffet concept moves away from overwhelming excess and focuses heavily on high-quality, responsible dining. The spread is divided into six distinct stations, taking you on a journey from the aromatic spices of India at The Maharaja and handcrafted dim sum at Flavors of Asia, to fresh
Here is why you need to put Novotel Manila on your food bucket list right now.
The Ultimate Feast: Freshfinity at Food Exchange Manila
If you think you have seen it all when it comes to hotel buffets, Freshfinity will make you think again. Led by Chef Athena, this modern buffet concept moves away from overwhelming excess and focuses heavily on high-quality, responsible dining. The spread is divided into six distinct stations, taking you on a journey from the aromatic spices of India at The Maharaja and handcrafted dim sum at Flavors of Asia, to fresh sashimi at Sakura Sumi and artisanal pizzas at Cucina Italiana. If you are a meat lover, Brasserie Maison and the Butcher’s Block serve up premium seafood and generous, chef-selected cuts of roast carved right to order.
What makes Freshfinity really cool is its commitment to Our Table Values. They focus on thoughtful, smaller portions to keep the food fresh and drastically reduce food waste, while heavily supporting local farms and producers like Auro Chocolate and Meliomar.
“Dining has always been about more than what is on the plate. It is about discovery, comfort, connection, and the moments we share around food.”
You can catch the Freshfinity buffet every Friday for dinner, and every Saturday and Sunday for both lunch and dinner. It is priced at PHP 2,799 nett per person.
The Return of Everyday Indulgence
For anyone with a serious sweet tooth, the newly reopened Indulge Gelato and Bakery is pure heaven. Under Cluster Executive Pastry Chef Angelique Angel Llantanda, the spot got a fresh interior makeover and a playful new menu that blends contemporary bakery culture with classic Filipino comfort flavors.
You definitely need to try their unique local twists, like the Ube Cheese Croissant, Chicken Adobo Pocket, and Longganisa Egg Danish. If you want something decadent to pair with your afternoon coffee, the Matcha Biscoff Cheesecake and Triple Chocolate Mousse are elite.
Wellness Without the Boring Restrictions
Over at the Gourmet Bar by Novotel, vegetables are officially taking center stage. Cluster Executive Chef for Banquet Michael Ramos has introduced a plant-forward menu that proves healthy eating does not mean sacrificing flavor. Part of the hotel’s
Longevity at Novotel campaign, the menu features vibrant, incredibly satisfying creations like the Seared Cabbage Steak layered with miso cream and furikake, and a hearty Cauliflower Bibimbap. It is colorful, full of character, and tastes amazing.
A Truly Inclusive Feast
In a major win for inclusive dining, Novotel Manila’s banquet kitchen has officially secured its Halal certification. This allows the hotel to properly cater to diverse cultural traditions for weddings, massive conferences, and social celebrations. Their banquet lineup is exceptionally strong in Chinese and Indian cuisines, with the latter heavily supported by their homegrown restaurant, Prana Indian Cuisine.
The Wazzup PH Verdict
Novotel Manila Araneta City is not just adding more options to the table; they are completely reimagining what good food should be. Thanks to a brilliant team of chefs, top-tier hospitality, and an unforgettable spread, this new era of dining is a certified hit.
For inquiries and table reservations, you can contact Novotel Manila at (+632) 8990 7888 or email H7090@accor.com.
