Cafe Ilang-Ilang

Last Sunday, I was fortunate enough to have the full Cafe Ilang-Ilang experience! Even before I went, I was already hearing so much buzz about this little piece of heaven at the Manila Hotel, and I was most definitely not disappointed when it was finally my turn.

I love how you feel like you’re in a totally other hotel once you enter the buffet. The Asian-Egyptian-inspired ceramic wall is probably one of my favorite parts about its interior, and the fact that the logo lit up - pure genius!

The place is actually so much larger than one would expect! It expands into different sections and table setting styles, all the while maintaining this seamless cohesive interior, as the pictures below demonstrate.

Of course, if you’re looking for a little fresh air as you enjoy your sumptuous meal, the place opens to an al fresco area overlooking their large pool as well as a nearby bar.

Anyways, enough of my fangasming over their interior design! Let’s get on to the food!

Bread, bread, and bread! Cafe Ilang-Ilang doesn’t skimp on these soft beauties along with the tens of cheeses and spreads to choose from.

A fresh seafood bar that’s sure to knock your socks off! A definite must-try!

Asian cuisine section with the chef looking all badass. LOL The traditional Chinese food really hits home!

The Italian section, also known as the best-dressed section! The decor was too adorable for words. Look at that sculpture of the Leaning Tower of Pisa! It’s made of 100% uncooked pasta! Amazing food, amazing environment, too!

What’s a buffet without sushi? The Japanese food they have to offer is definitely not to be missed!

Their dessert bar is also unparalleled. You can gorge yourself in their incredibly decadent array or go sugarfree with their equally wide collection of healthy yet delicious dishes for the weight-watching sweet tooth!

I went a bit crazy for their gelato! They have flavors from classic pistachio, biscottino, to Filipino favorites such as Ube and Mango!

Aaaaand this is my plate before I wolfed it down like there’s no tomorrow! As you can see, I went crazy over the Indian section. (Which I sadly did not get to take a picture of.) What can I say? I have a special love for Basmati and all things Indian when it comes to food.

And that’s pretty much my Manila Hotel experience! Now going to end this food review with a random selfie I took against the crazy gleaming gold walls of the reception area. LOL

By the way, I’m sorry I haven’t been able to post much lately. Exams have been killing me for the past few days, and now that Christmas vacation is finally on, I’ll definitely make an effort to post more so be sure to check in!

'Til next time!