Gourmet Grandeur: An Exquisite Culinary Event at the Makati Garden Club
Last June 20, 2024, the Makati Garden Club transformed into a haven for food enthusiasts as it hosted a highly anticipated cooking demonstration event. The occasion, graced by the presence of Executive Chefs Popit Rodolfo Lauro Leviste De Leon and Pixie Rodriguez Silva, turned out to be an unforgettable culinary journey for both members and guests. The event was not just a cooking demonstration but an exquisite celebration of flavors, techniques, and gastronomic passion.
A Showcase of Culinary Expertise
Chef Popit De Leon, a culinary virtuoso with an impressive career spanning over two decades, brought his extensive expertise to the event. A graduate of the prestigious Les Roches Vales Hotel Management School in Switzerland, Chef Popit has honed his skills across the globe. His culinary journey includes a notable tenure at HDS Services in Michigan, USA, and roles as a culinary instructor at esteemed institutions such as the Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts, SHRIM CSB, and Treston International College. In addition, he has made a name for himself with his private fine dining services under his company, World Domination Through Food.
Complementing Chef Popit’s savory prowess was Executive Pastry Chef Pixie Rodriguez Silva. Chef Pixie, a graduate of both the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and the Culinary Institute of America Greystone, has an illustrious career adorned with accolades for her exceptional dessert creations. Her experience includes teaching at OB Montessori College, AHA, Heny Sison, and MIHCA.
As a food stylist and writer for prominent magazines such as Flavors, Yummy, and Food Magazine, and as a travel show host with Kat de Castro for the ESCAPE travel show, Chef Pixie has continually showcased her versatile talents. Her collaborations with leading brands like Bakersfield, Ovaltine, De Longhi, and Kraft further highlight her influential presence in the culinary world.
An Unforgettable Culinary Journey
The event at the Makati Garden Club was meticulously organized, with every detail crafted to perfection. Members and guests were greeted with a warm ambiance, setting the stage for an afternoon of culinary delight. The highlight of the day was the cooking demonstration by Chefs Popit and Pixie, who prepared a delectable lunch menu featuring Cassoulet D’Agneu — a sumptuous lamb stew with butter beans — served alongside sour creamed potatoes, a refreshing salad, and a delightful dessert.
As the chefs worked their magic, attendees were enthralled by their skillful techniques and insightful tips. Chef Popit’s expertise in savory dishes was evident in the rich flavors of the Cassoulet D’Agneu, while Chef Pixie’s dessert captivated the audience with its delicate balance of sweetness and texture. The interactive demonstration allowed guests to engage with the chefs, ask questions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the culinary arts.
A Resounding Success
The event was a resounding success, with attendees leaving with not only satisfied palates but also a newfound appreciation for the culinary arts. The Makati Garden Club’s dedication to creating memorable experiences for its members was evident in the flawless execution of the event. The cooking demonstration by Chefs Popit De Leon and Pixie Rodriguez Silva was a testament to their extraordinary talents and passion for food.
As the event came to a close, members and guests lingered, savoring the delightful dishes and exchanging stories of their culinary experiences. The afternoon at the Makati Garden Club was more than just a demonstration; it was a celebration of food, community, and the joy that comes from sharing exquisite meals with friends and loved ones.
In attendance is Pizzazz Luxury Kingsley Benedict Sode Medalla, Conchitina Araneta-Ladao, Sandra Fernandez, and Atty. Ruth Espenilla-Duque (June 20, 2024).
