5 things to expect from Dinner in the Sky Philippines

It won’t be a surprise if this has been in the bucket list of many adventurous travelers ever since pictures and videos of diners hoisted up in cranes spread in social media.

This Belgium-based novelty dining experience has been around since 2006, and it’s not its first time in this side of the world. After Malaysia and Thailand, it’s now Manila’s turn to find how it feels to dine 150-feet up in the air and with a bird’s eye view of the city.

Since this dinner is like no other, we’ll clue you in on what to expect from this limited-time only gastronomic opportunity.

All photos for illustration purposes only

1. Think airport check-in and rollercoaster seats

Local and foreign thrill seekers will get their chance to tick off another item from their to-do list starting April 3, 2018. Because of the nature of this activity, guests will be required to arrive at the Dinner in the Sky Lounge an hour before your dinner schedule (there will be two seatings per night, by the way)—just like a flight check-in.

There will be a safety supervisor who will brief patrons about the safety regulations before the “flight”. Expect to be strapped onto your seats with safety harnesses like what you see in theme park rides. Wear comfortable clothes and avoid slip-on shoes, maybe?

2. You're in safe hands

Since it’s not a restaurant with regular dining sets, Dinner in the Sky follows certain standards and safety precautions. Diners should be at least 13 years old and with a minimum height of 145cm (4 feet and 9 inches) and a maximum weight of 150kg. This is because the seats are conformed to that size.

For those with fear of heights, don’t fret because all concepts are designed according to German norm DIN 4112 and these have been tested by TÜV Rhineland, which is a world-renowned provider of technical, safety and certification services.

There have been thousands of dinners served in 40 countries, with no single incident ever since they started in May 2006. Still, all guests would be required to sign an indemnity and waiver form.

German engineering takes care of safety

3. Redefine culinary heights

This doesn’t have to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can book more than once since there will be five different chefs who will prepare world-class cuisine for the duration of the event. Three are from Solaire Resort and Casino: Chef Hylton Le Roux of Waterside, Chef Alan Marchetti of Finestra, and Chef Norimasa Kosaka of Yakumi.

Also included in the lineup are Chef Kenneth Cacho who is the Director for Culinary Arts of the International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management, and  Michelin-star Chef Yves Mattagne of Sea Grill in Brussels, Belgium.

They will all serve different four-course set menus (some of which feature black truffle, foie gras, sushi platter), plus a vegetarian set menu option as well.

Look forward to a superb dinner while enjoying nice view of the city and Manila Bay. And in case you plan to celebrate a special occasion, you may request add-ons such as birthday cake or a bottle of champagne for a minimal fee.

Check the chefs' schedules here.

4. No bathroom breaks

This particular dinner experience will take place for just an hour. Only 60 minutes. You might want to pass by the restroom before your “flight”, and in fact, you are highly recommended to do so. Should there be an emergency while mid-air, the table can be lowered down. However, keep in mind that the other 21 guests, not to mention the chef, will be inconvenienced as they have to wait for you before lift off again.

Dinner in the Sky Manila will take place at the Esplanade of Solaire Resorts

5. It comes with a pretty penny

Or peso, for that matter. This unique dining experience starts at P9,990 per person. It's not the most affordable but for a four-course, 60-minute meal at 150-feet up in the air, plus bragging rights, you might want to consider breaking your piggy bank open.

How many people could claim that they have indulged in a gourmet meal while hoisted up in the air and with an amazing view of the cityscape even for just an hour?

Some have had a chance to do so at the Strip of Las Vegas, the gardens of the King David Hotel, the Marina of Dubai, the hills of Villa Borghese, and the Petronas Twin Tower, among others. In Manila, it's going to be at the Esplanade, Solaire Resort and Casino, Entertainment City, Parañaque City. — LA, GMA News

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