Allana Montelibano’s anticipated birthday celebration
What was meant to be an intimate dinner quickly turned into a lively gathering as friends arrived in droves to celebrate the anticipated birthday of Allana Montelibano at Vino Wine Bar in Rockwell. The cozy evening soon filled with laughter and warm reunions as Allana’s circle of Visayan childhood companions, schoolmates and Manila-based social and business friends came together for the occasion.
Gracious as always, Allana shared heartfelt reflections on the year past, expressing gratitude for good health, enduring friendships, and the unwavering love of family. “Life’s most meaningful treasures are the relationships we nurture,” she noted, acknowledging the people who have enriched her days with loyalty and joy. The gathering became a joyful reunion of sorts — an evening of stories, shared memories, and heartfelt toasts as friends celebrated another meaningful year in Allana’s life.
A monthly gourmet ritual: Nomad’s caviar dinner
Elegantly starched napkins and meticulously set tables welcomed eager diners to the inaugural evening of the much-anticipated Nomad caviar dinner at Antonio’s at PGA Cars. Conceived as a monthly culinary affair, the gourmet evening has quickly captured the attention of Manila’s discerning diners and epicureans who relish refined yet innovative dining experiences.
According to Nomad’s Carol Foz Asuncion, reservations for the upcoming April and May dinners are already filling up fast — clear proof that this indulgent gastronomic gathering is gaining a loyal following. The seven-course menu, thoughtfully crafted by celebrated chef Tonyboy Escalante, highlights sustainable Kaluga hybrid caviar in every course, with an optional wine pairing. “We were drawn to Nomad because of the way the caviar is sustainably farmed and sourced, yet remains offered at a price that makes the experience more approachable,” Escalante shared.
The dinner unfolded like a refined tasting journey — from a buttery, crisp brioche with egg yolk jam to Legris oysters from France, crab fat capellini, delicate fish quenelle, foie gras crowned with wagyu, and a caramelized chocolate finale. Diners happily compared favorites, each dish luxuriously accented with Nomad’s prized caviar.
