Chef Chele Gonzalez pays homage to his Cantabrian roots in new Ortigas restaurant

Chele Gonzalez is a name that needs no introduction in the Philippine food scene. He is the genius behind critically acclaimed concepts Gallery by Chele, Samira, and Deli by Chele.

This year, Gonzalez has collaborated with The Westin Manila for a new restaurant poised to be an elevated Spanish dining concept inspired by his Spanish hometown, Cantabria.

Located on the northern coast of Spain, Cantabria is known for its delicious seafood and a variety of meat delights, which Gonzalez is dead set on putting front and center at his new dining concept located at the roof level of The Westin Manila in Ortigas.

Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez specializes in creative seafood, tapas and comfort meats on plates prepared with the unique Spanish flair.

“Spanish cuisine continues to evolve over time, and so do tradition and techniques,” Gonzalez said during the media launch of Cantabria.

“We take on a creative and sophisticated approach to seafood, and showcase a unique side of Spanish cuisine unknown to most, together with innovative tapas, meats, and other Spanish favorites,” he added.

At Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez, the central attraction in the dining area is an open seafood display, with the fresh catch of the day prepared in front of diners.

Among the restaurant’s signature dishes is the Rodaballo a la Parrilla (P2,000/100g), which is flown fresh from the Cantabria region. The wild turbot fish is simply grilled to perfection, creating moist and juicy white meat with collagen-rich nooks.

Meanwhile, Tapas are given a sophisticated and creative twist. Must-orders include the Ravioli de Carne Guisado con Espuma de Parmesano (P840), which is a braised beef and porcini ravioli with parmesan foam and basil oil, and the Wagyu and Ikura Toast (P990), beef Wagyu tartare with salmon roe and truffle yolk over a brioche toast.

Meats are not to be missed. The most recommended ones are the Presa Iberico con Patata y Mojos (P2,400), a grilled pork Iberico steak with fried marble potatoes, and the Chuleta Angus (P4,500/600g), a grilled Angus beef ribeye with fries.

Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez is located at The Westin Manila, San Miguel Avenue corner Lourdes Drive, Ortigas Center. It’s open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

— LA, GMA Integrated News