Bold flavors come alive at Hann Resorts
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Hann Casino Resort has not only made its mark as the first fully integrated resort in Clark, becoming an iconic landmark with its showstopping facade. The sprawling splendor is also home to equally show-stopping interiors, gaming facilities, and international hotels with world-class hospitality.
The blinking lights of almost a thousand slot machines make Hann Casino Resort look enticingly like it’s the holidays all day, every day. The 130,000-square-meter gaming area also has over a hundred tables and two VIP clubs. Between Clark Marriott, the first five-star hotel in Central Luzon, and the first Swissôtel Clark in the Philippines, the complex offers 700 rooms with cutting-edge facilities and exceptional services. Soon to open are the salon and 8th Avenue, a strip of mid-high-end and well-loved brands to quench guests’ thirst for shopping sprees during their stay.
Of course, a gastronomic adventure also awaits, especially when visiting Pampanga, the culinary capital of the Philippines. This distinction is made even more significant by Hann Resorts, which has clinched the moniker “Culinary Capital of Clark.” Its exceptional restaurants have practically swept the Top 10 spots on the US travel research and review community Tripadvisor’s list of the best dining spots in the area.
Exceptional Chinese cuisine at Wu Xing
Wu Xing, their Chinese restaurant at Clark Marriott is suitable for all types of gatherings (intimate, family, or even business), was a fitting introduction.
In my opinion, one can’t go wrong with Chinese food. It’s especially true for the Filipino palate, but the statement really holds water even with international clients. Chinese dishes have not reached so far and lasted so long for no reason, and Wu Xing just adds another point to that.
A staple favorite from the lunch spread is the sweet and sour pork, whose coating managed to remain crunchy despite the ample sauce, and the roast beef so tender that each mouthful got effortlessly crushed between my tongue and the roof of my mouth.
Truly a must-try is their signature Peking duck, which is served tableside. It is marinated and roasted using locally sourced star-apple firewood, resulting in tender and flavorful meat with crispy skin. The duck can be enjoyed in four ways: skin and breast meat with leek and cucumber wrapped in a Chinese pancake; duck soup; minced duck wrapped in romaine lettuce; and deep-fried duck with salt and pepper.
Smoki Moto delivers flavor and flair
For dinner, be treated to a breathtaking view of the Zambales mountain range and Mt. Arayat at Smoki Moto, which snagged the top spot of the Tripadvisor list—and for good reason.
According to Clark Marriott Hotel executive chef Robert Czeschka, whose culinary journey has traversed Michelin-starred restaurants and world-renowned hotels in various prestigious locations worldwide, boldness defines Smoki Moto—from its scenic views on the 17th floor of the Clark Marriott Hotel that create a picturesque backdrop for any occasion and the glass floors that offer a thrilling dining experience to the elevated flavors of every dish that leave a one-of-a-kind lasting impression.
A full-service restaurant and bar known for its expertise in grilling premium Black Angus beef over charcoal fires, Smoki Moto offers an authentic dining experience that celebrates rich flavors and boasts an impressive drink menu featuring a selection of premium wines, soju, beers and craft cocktails.
“Smoki Moto aims to deliver an unforgettable dining experience by engaging all the senses,” said Chef Robert. “Our top-notch service ensures that every aspect of your dining experience is exceptional, from the moment you arrive until the last sip of your cocktail.”
Truly, the presentation (the gin thriller was served with a dramatic swirling of the glass cover, slowly letting the smoke seep out in incremental theatrical swooshes) and the styling of the plates make dining there incredibly gratifying. If you’re looking for flavor and flair, it’s the place to go.
The Korean-Japanese-American top-rated restaurant is also open to preparing special off-menu items upon request, when possible. Aside from great food and dining experience, Smoki Moto also champions sustainability.
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We prioritize sourcing ingredients from local suppliers who share our commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. By sourcing locally, we reduce our carbon footprint and support the local economy, while also ensuring the freshness and quality of our ingredients,” the executive chef said.
Immersing in European market culture at Markt
Swissotel Clark’s Markt is easily the standard for buffet breakfasts for anyone who has tried it, with its seemingly endless array of scrumptious morning fare that isn’t limited to your typical idea of almusal. The all-day buffet restaurant brings the European market concept to Clark where you can have your pick of dishes and have them freshly cooked for you upon ordering. The range of hearty and healthy (even vegan) choices is mind-blowing. Who says you can’t have sushi and ice cream for breakfast?
Breakfast buffets are where I usually wish I had two stomachs, but with Markt, you may need two or more spares. The variety of different types of breads and pastries alone is enough to overwhelm (more than 20, if I counted correctly).
Aside from the usual cereals, pancakes and toasts, there are also a strip of incredible Filipino breakfast fare like fried danggit, dilis and pusit, pork longganisa, beef tapa and champorado. There are also international choices like congee, vegetable fritters, quinoa salad, chicken noodle soup and curry. Markt really makes a compelling case for waking up early, taking it slowly, and just chilling while filling up the belly for the day ahead.
‘Fun dining’ at romantic Ristorante di Verona
Ristorante di Verona by Swissotel Clark is endlessly Instagrammable: from its romantic “Romeo and Juliet”-inspired interiors to its exquisitely scrumptious offerings, and even the showmanship when serving its signature dishes, like the tomahawk and tiramisu.
According to chef Roald Schuur, Swissôtel Clark’s culinary director, Ristorante di Verona offers a “fun dining” experience. “Engagement is key,” he said, explaining that chefs regularly come out for a chat, table presentations, or to seek feedback.
The open-kitchen layout itself gives diners insight into the heart of the restaurant as they watch how their food is prepared. “We also have the Verona Brunch Club Sundays, where we aim to be the perfect venue for vibes, beats, and cheers. Both service staff and chefs make every dining experience for all guests special.”
Chef Roald mentioned that Ristorante di Verona sources excellent local produce as much as possible to lower carbon footprint, aiming to promote a sustainable culinary journey. “However, as the nature of the restaurant has its roots in Italy, we do get various unique items from there.” The chef added that the service and kitchen staff can work closely to accommodate guests’ food restrictions.
Ristorante di Verona is particularly proud of having the greatest number of wine and grappa selections in the region. The alfresco area offers a picturesque view of the Zambales mountain range, which Chef Roald emphasized no other Italian restaurant in the region has.
With a sparklingly refreshing four seasons drink in hand, one is invited to dive in. For starters, the sourdough with olive oil and strawberry vinaigrette gives an interesting welcome—the blend of sweet, tart, and earthy flavors is addicting.
But don’t miss out on the pasta! Authentic carbonara really hits differently—none of the heavy cream found in our localized version, but one that’s light with the smokiness of the bacon shining through.
For the main show, the mouthwatering tomahawk served tableside is perfect for sharing, along with other Italian favorites like their seafood risotto oozing with tomato goodness and delightfully bright prosciutto pizza.
Truly giving a “dolce vita” (sweet life) experience, Ristorante di Verona’s tiramisu offers a delightful conclusion to any indulgent meal. Its decadently drenched creaminess orchestrates a smooth dance in the mouth, where the bitter notes of coffee and the gentle sweetness of the cream harmonize in a romantic symphony, leaving a lasting impression of culinary bliss.
With a broad array of delectable offerings awaiting exploration, Hann Resorts holds a wealth of lusciously appetizing choices for any guest’s culinary adventure, which would take more than a brief weekend to savor fully. Its bold flavors, warm service, and inviting surroundings ensure that “goodbyes” turn into “see you agains” with every visit.
