Charitable celebrity chefs at Paseo Uno Launch

It was a glittering and glamorous night when the trendiest restaurant in town, Mandarin Oriental’s Paseo Uno, was launched by way of a charity celebrity cook-out. Gorgeous celebrities, prominent politicians, illustrious diplomats and social figures filled the stylish restaurant to the brim, and all in the name of charity!

Guests of honor Congressman Teddy Boy Locsin and Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay were assisted by Mandarin chairman Nonoy Colayco and general manager Helmut Gaisberger in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, together with Globe Wireline Business’ COO Gil Genio. Amiable RJ Ledesma did a great job as emcee.

Twelve celebrity chefs, including your columnist, were garbed in Paseo Uno’s chef’s jacket and the de rigueur apron and cap. Shortly after being briefed by Mandarin F&B Director Dave Thomas and executive chef Norbert Gandler, we went to work at the restaurant’s live stations and buffet tables. Celebrity chefs who waived their professional fees for the less privileged children of Bantay Bata 163 were philanthropist and socialite Rose Marie Arenas, ABS-CBN Foundation managing director Gina Lopez, broadcast journalist and program host Ces Drilon, veteran designer Pitoy Moreno and designer and proprietress of Silk Cocoon Jeannie Goulbourn. Philippine Models Association president and top ramp and print model Rissa Samson, model-entrepreneur-social worker Illac Diaz, popular TV host TJ Manotoc and athlete and sportscaster Dyan Castillejo were also among those who added chic and panache to the chef’s uniform. It was such a delight cooking for and serving guests for a worthy cause!

Enjoying the music of the Jewelmer Jazz Band while feasting on vegetable skewers, beef kebabs, prime ribs, grilled Thai chicken wings, salmon teriyaki and other bacchanalian delights were British Ambassador Paul and Carolyn Dimond, Frances Lim, Vina Gaisberger, Josephine Knox and Philippine Star publisher Max Soliven, and many more!

With Paseo Uno’s excellent and innovative cuisine, people wouldn’t mind lining up for reservations! See you there!