Michelin-star chef Richard Toix at Mandarin Oriental

MANILA, Philippines - A rare gastronomic experience with Michelin-starred chef Richard Toix, chef-owner of the acclaimed Passions et Gourmandises restaurant, ongoing this week at Mandarin Oriental, Manila’s The Tivoli. The French chef, who was flown in from Paris over the weekend by Etihad Airways, showcases his award-winning contemporary approach to French cuisine until March 2.

Chef Toix has been awarded by multiple institutions, including the Michelin Bib Gourmand; a Large Table Award by Chateaux and Hotels Collection by Alain Ducasse, whom he considers a mentor; three toques by the Gault et Millau guide; and many more.  

His most recent achievement was his collaboration with Chinese painter Zhou Tiehai, where he combined painting with French traditional pastries for a grand exhibition in 2010. His restaurant Passions et Gourmandises, which he operates with his wife, is situated in the charming village of Saint-Benoit. It earned its first Michelin star in 2008, nine months after it opened.

Excited to be in the Philippines for the first time and share his love for cooking with the local community, chef Toix has visited our markets to source local fresh produce. “I look forward to exploring more of the local markets, as the experience helps me understand a country’s cuisine and its people,” he says.

The passionate chef has already won over many of Manila’s gourmands with his culinary style and contemporary techniques. His six-course degustation has become an immediate favorite, featuring gastronomic creations such as Chaud Froid of Young Vegetables and Shellfish, Potato-Black Truffle Croustillant with Brown Butter, Chestnut Soup and Comte Toast, Lamb Loin in Seaweed Crust, and the decadent Black Forest Cake 2014. 

Richard Toix’s work features delicate plating and gastronomic artistry, as evidenced in the beautiful, colorful presentations of his dishes.  The fresh and sumptuous flavors of his award-winning cuisine makes its way to The Tivoli via the signature three-course Business Lunch menu at P1,950, and the six-course Degustation Dinner menu at P3,400 with an additional P1,800 for wine pairing. A selection of dishes is also featured in the restaurant’s daily à la carte menu.

For information, call 750-8888 or email momnl-tivoli@mohg.com.