Omasake leave it to me

CEBU, Philippines - Omasake - a Japanese word that means "leave it to me" is exactly how dinner is going to be like on Friday, January 30 - at Azure Beach Club of Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan.

The modern Japanese dishes to be served bear familiar flavors, but in different execution and presentation. Traditional Japanese flavors and technique meets contemporary cuisine.

As the title suggest, there is no specific menu and everything relies mainly upon omasake, "the Chef's heart." The chefs are to cook based on the day's freshest ingredients and according to their inspiration. An exciting notion especially to those who would like to surprise themselves and try something out of the ordinary.

"We want to introduce something new to Cebu," says Executive Chef Godfrey Laforteza. "We want our clients to be able to trust us completely and allow us to surprise them with what we can do. True to Azure's proposition, we will bring contemporary concepts in Mactan dining, and this is something we are excited to do."

The concept came about because of Chef Godfrey's Japanese cuisine background, which he has honed working in internationally renowned restaurants in New York, Hong Kong, Jakarta and Bali.

"As they say, cooking with love and with your heart creates the best tasting food," Chef Godfrey adds.  "Going by this mantra and with the skills and technique I have acquired through the years, I will be cooking based on what I feel. [Guests] will be surprised how a burst of inspiration coupled with mastered techniques can go a long way in creating surprising dishes that are as great tasting as they look."

Although the food on the night is a surprise, everyone can expect the quality, taste, presentation and service according to the high standards of Azure Beach Club, which has been known for good food and friendly service since its opening in October last year.

Reservations for the Omasake Japanese night dinner may be phoned in at 401 9999. (FREEMAN)