Pastry; Chef MJ

CEBU, Philippines – Chef Micah James "MJ" Lituco was born in Valenzuela, Metro Manila and raised in Obando, Bulacan. He spent his early years in places that are rich in culture and culinary heritage. At age six, Chef MJ could already identify some salt fish variety offered at the fish stall in their family owned business located in Farmers Market in Cubao. He honed his knife skills not just when he was at culinary school but when he would help out in fabricating (filleting, cutting, de-boning and cleaning) fish at their fish stall.

Raised in a family that loves good food and family gatherings, Chef MJ always finds himself in the kitchen helping out and satisfying his curiosity of how dishes are made. Influenced by his sister Shelly, he decided to pursue his culinary dreams.

Straight from high school he enrolled at the Center for Culinary Arts Manila for an intensive culinary program under Culinary Arts and Technology Management line. He then realized his passion for Pastry Arts, half way through the culinary course. After class, he would head to the school's culinary library to read and borrow some pastry and baking books.

As part of the school requirement, he apprenticed at several hotel and food establishments, where his learning was further enhanced. He put his learning to practice, initially testing his products with friends and relatives. His clientele soon expanded to Metro Manila, especially for his celebration cakes made with fondant, which he designed and made in collaboration with the clients.

He encountered problems and discouragements along the way. But Chef MJ held on, even joining cooking demonstrations, seminars, and food expos to expand his mastery of his craft. Shortly before his graduation, he got a job offer as a pastry artist in the Middle East. He declined; he wanted to work in his home country.

He soon landed a job as Pastry Chef in a bakery café in Manila. Next he briefly joined Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie Salon de Restaurant, under Bench Corporation, as a pastry chef. He did not limit himself to Pastry, he had also worked as Chef de Partie with the Cravings Group.

Fate has then brought Chef MJ to Cebu. Since Febuary this year, he's been the pastry chef at the Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino. Given his training in turning classic Filipino dishes into modern, world-class treats, he brings to Cebu pastries and desserts with classical roots but prepared and presented using modern techniques and approach.

His delectable pastry creations are served at UNO, at Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino. For the month of August, Chef MJ dishes out White Chocolate Ivory Cheesecake and the Exquisitely Pinoy - a modern twist on Filipino Merienda. Those interested may call 340-4888 or log on to www.waterfronthotels.com.ph.