Fresh, white asparagus at The Tivoli

MANILA, Philippines - Mandarin Oriental’s executive sous chef Remi Vercelli unveils this season’s prized delicacy: fresh, white asparagus flown in from France and Germany. The sublime, white asparagus is the star of a menu that features chef Remi’s contemporary French cuisine at The Tivoli of Mandarin Oriental, Manila.

The best white asparagus comes from Germany and France, where a specific combination of soil, temperature and rain gives the product the perfect taste.  This is offered only until June. The Tivoli’s special white asparagus menu includes White asparagus with pan-fried foie gras and truffle sauce, with Parma ham gratinated with hollandaise sauce. It is also offered to complement main courses like Australian lamb chops, kalamata olives and lamb jus; roasted sea bass, ikura caviar and lobster sauce; or as main courses served optional with traditional Wiener Schnitzel, veal paillard or Australian beef tenderloin.

Unlike the distinct and powerful flavors of its more familiar green relative, white asparagus is less fibrous, making it remarkably tender and giving it a succulent, delicate taste. Not only is it brimming with flavor, white asparagus is also good for the health. It only has 100 calories per pound and is a good source of vitamins A, B and C.

Chef Remy even incorporates this white asparagus in a dessert! A special degustation menu is also available.

I had a great time eating this huge delicacy. Don’t miss it!

(The Tivoli is open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday to Friday; and for dinner from 6:30 p.m.

to 10:30 p.m., Monday to Saturday. For inquiries and reservations, please call 750-8888 or e-mail [email protected].)