Text and photos by Monsi A. Serrano
Video by Rowie E. Cantuba
Italian chefs typically forego elaborate preparations. They’d rather focus on simplicity and quality of ingredients, and by the time they’re done, they certify each dish out of the kitchen with that magic word — “Mangiamo!”
Last night, September 25, invited media and guests had a taste of Italy at the Novotel Araneta Center, as wine and mocktails overflowed. Guests indulged in a genuine Italian experience complete with a lovely-decorated tent to introduce Novotel’s newest family member in its executive team.
Novotel General Manager Mike Brown took pride in introducing Novotel’s new Executive Chef, Massimiliano Pauletto, an Italian who has more than two decades of culinary experience.
(Photo By Monsi A. Serrano/THEPHILBIZNEWS)
Chef Massi, speaking to THEPHILBIZNEWS, shared his excitement in working with Novotel, known as the crown jewel of Quezon City, the Araneta City.
“I am really happy to be here in the Philippines. And my excitement is really high. I have a great team and I know I will also learn from the greatness of Filipino Chefs,” he said.
“Italian Chefs gain our expertise from our family. From one generation to another. Like me, from my grandmother, to mother. See we are like Filipinos. Grandmothers and mothers love to cook for their family, and I am excited to be assigned here and work with my team here at Novotel Araneta Center,” Chef Massi said.
(Photo By Monsi A. Serrano/THEPPHILBIZNEWS)
Asked what the secret of Italian cooking is, he said: “Simplicity is the key. That’s what Italian Chefs and cooking are known for. But it goes more than simplicity of course. We choose fresh ingredients and this is what guests in Novotel Araneta Center will experience. We bring Italy here at Novotel.”
“So come here at Novotel and we will make sure that we will share our passion, food, fresh ingredients and a lot more,” Chef Massi concluded.
From left: Erwin Dona – Director of Marketing Communications, Jose Rasalan – Director of Finance, Nikko Matias – Director of Talent&Culture, Matt Salcedo – Director of F&B, Mike Brown- General Manager, Maria Garcia – Hotel Manager, Chef Massimiliano Pauletto – Executive Chef, Therese Galindo – Director of Guest Experience and Sustainability, Darwin Labayandoy – Director of Rooms, Ronnie Virata – Director of Engineering, Sam Tse – Director of Sales and Market Development
(Photo By Monsi A. Serrano/THEPHILBIZNEWS)