July 05, 2004

By: Dustin Kempirek
Website: http://www.1st-in-steaks.com

Edsa Shangri-La, Manila continues the tradition of genuine Italian cuisine

Edsa Shangri-La, Manila continues the tradition of genuine Italian cuisine amidst a trend-setting ambience at Paparazzi. Designed by Warner Wong Design + Architecture of Singapore, Paparazzi was completed recently as a part of the hotel's year-long renovation programme.

Paparazzi's overall concept is a boutique displaying Italian food items in a sophisticated contemporary setting, with four main features guaranteed to stimulate the appetite for fine cuisine. The first of these is the Entrance, defined by an elliptical bar wrapped in a backlit timber weave screen.

The crisscross pattern and uneven texture of the screen are a perfect contrast to the smooth and subdued black granite wall opposite it. To complete the subtle yet powerful transition, the entrance connects to a lively bronze and orange bar counter and a black stonewall showcasing colourful jars of olive oil and preserved vegetables.

Murano light fixtures provide refreshing primary colors against the warm mahogany and blue interior of the restaurant. In the main dining area, chairs made of natural wood are upholstered in rust, yellow and mocha, enhancing the cozy and intimate atmosphere.

The tabletop setting is minimalist, with luxurious Italian linens and modern floral arrangements. At the centre of the main dining area is the second feature, a sculpted dining table stylishly clad with green and gold Italian mosaic tiles from Bisazza and upholstered with rose-colored leather.

Right across the bar is the restaurant's third and most unique feature – a Zabaglione counter where the chef prepares this traditional dessert made of egg yolk, sugar, Marsala wine, whipped with cookies or berries and served warm a la minute. Separating the main dining area and the private dining section is the fourth feature – large and arresting clear glass and metal tubes displaying a wide array of preserved Italian herbs, fruits and vegetables.

This vibrant architectural focal point bathes its surroundings with intense colours and bright light. The elevated private dining area is lined from floor to ceiling with shelves of dark wood featuring colourful and whimsical displays of Murano glassware, a rich complement to the playful burgundy, olive and cream swirls of the carpet.

The meticulous attention to the details of the interior were also carried on to the staff uniforms designed by one of the Philippines' leading fashion designers Rajo Laurel. The tailored suits are made of pinstriped fabric in slate gray, accented by a splash of energetic purple.

Fit for the setting is an authentic menu consisting of classic favorites and innovative dishes, prepared by the hotel's resident Italian chef. These include risotto, a wide a selection of home-made pasta, and signature dishes such as fresh assorted seafood salad with prawns, mussels, calamari and octopus in lemon dressing, chargrilled king prawns with balsamic reduction and white wine sabayon, poached seabass fillet with potatoes and red bell pepper cream sauce and braised milk-fed veal shank, porcini mushrooms and polenta.

For lunch, Paparazzi offers a buffet of starters, entrees and home-made pasta with a variety of sauces. To complement all these is an extensive selection of more than 250 wines, 200 of which are served by the glass.

Author Notes:

Dustin Kempirek contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-steaks.com.  Great tips on buying top quality meats, steaks and seafood from the finest ranchers and butchers.