Cover Elegant yet inviting, Samira beckons its guests to enjoy the flavours its charcoal grills produce (Photo: courtesy of Samira)

Housed in Anya Resort in Tagaytay, Samira by Chele features European cuisine highlighting their masterful use of the grill

Grilling is more than a technique—it is an art. To bring out the excellence in any ingredient, the utmost attention, timing, and instinct is needed. Samira by Chele González utilises this method to its full potential with stylish flair, serving dishes with a robust, smoky flavour that keeps guests coming back for more. Supported by an incredible menu rooted in European cuisine, this restaurant is a worthy, must-visit destination in Tagaytay. As proof of their excellence, it has won several awards, including the Best Luxury Boutique Resort Restaurant in Asia, and the Best Luxury Sustainable Restaurant in Asia too.

In case you missed it: 10 years of chef Chele González in the Philippines

Tatler Asia
Above Treat yourself with the baked brie with Pancetta Tesa (Photo: courtesy of Samira)
Tatler Asia
Above Charred grilled octopus is a classic dish that proudly shows off the excellence and artistry of Samira (Photo: courtesy of Samira)

Hailing from Spain, chef Jose Luis ‘‘Chele’’ González has long made waves in the local culinary scene, making great use of Filipino produce and European techniques to craft his stunning global tasting menus at Gallery by Chele (which is part of Tatler Best of Asia's top 100 restaurants). He is also known for Deli by Chele and Adviche, his F&B consulting brand too. He brings this same experience to Samira, housed in Anya Resort Tagaytay, which masterfully uses the charcoal grill to create exceptional dishes that leave you with a strong impulse to order more.

Tatler Asia
Above The churrasco takes centre stage with its vibrant flavours (Photo: courtesy of Samira)
Tatler Asia
Above Pineapple pavlova conditions you to take another bite (Photo: courtesy of Samira)

Whet your appetite with their stunning array of starters. Their baked brie with pancetta tesa is an indulgent dish enhanced with the full flavours of Palawan honey and complemented with toasted sourdough bread. For a more classic rendition, try their charred grilled octopus with black ink breadcrumbs, which has just the right tenderness and crisp at the tips.

Its mains take centre stage, anchored by their churrasco, a succulent grilled Argentinian-style US Angus beef, paired with chimichurri to give it a kick and rush of spice and tang. For those who favour fish over red meat, worry not; its pan-seared citrus salmon with cauliflower purée and mayonnaise is light yet still bursting with flavour.

Its finale, the pineapple pavlova, is just the sweet ending you need. The roasted pineapple ice cream is partnered with the rich, slightly woody notes of cinnamon and cloves, all resting on a whirl of cheese chantilly.

See more: Cantabria by Chele González at The Westin Manila

Tatler Asia
Above Pan-seared citrus salmon with cauliflower purée and mayonnaise is refreshingly light and zesty (Photo: courtesy of Samira)

Samira's elegant decor maintains an air of sophistication, yet remains refreshingly approachable. It is aided by the overall soft, light-toned colour palette and use of the familiar solihiya patterns in its furniture. This restaurant is an excellent and accessible setting for casual diners and or festive occacions alike; it makes any intimate celebration or moment for foodies across the board that much more special. For an added spark to your lunch or evening engagement, consider their wine pairing, which is specially curated to complement their menu.

Tatler Asia
Above Samira's atmosphere exudes sophistication while simultaneously making you feel at home (Photo: courtesy of Samira)
Tatler Asia
Above Wine and dine at Samira (Photo: courtesy of Samira)

Samira is unafraid to pull the trigger when it comes to flavouring its dishes; outstanding, impactful, and vibrant succinctly sums up the food that it serves. It has turned grilling into a work of art, proven by every spoonful you take. If you’re looking for unique offerings and an excellent grilling experience, take the long trip to Tagaytay—it’s more than worth it.

Book your reservations for your own grilled experience by contacting Samira by Chele at 0998.955.3630 and visit the website at anyaresorts.com.

NOW READ

Keeping It Fresh: Gaggenau’s Vario 400 series presents the latest cooling innovations

Christmas 2024 foodie gift guide: 19 holiday hampers to gift your loved ones

Raise a glass: Four spirits for the holiday season

Topics

Tobias Jared Tomas
Associate Editor for Branded Content and Tatler GMT, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia
Tobias Jared Tomas

About

Tobias wants to write things that make people think, laugh, and reflect. He’s especially proud when he can sneak in a cheeky pop-culture reference or a pun in his titles and articles. 

He possesses a deep love of history, resulting from years of books, games, and museum visits. It was this fascination with the human endeavour that fostered his love of writing, spanning genres, tones, and moods. He one day hopes to write a novel—he just hasn't decided on a genre yet. A certified homebody, you'll often find him on the computer he built himself, binge-watching Seinfeld or House, playing his favourite gacha game, or reading a book.

Work

Tobias is a features writer that specialises in branded content. Reach out to him at tobias.tomas@tatlerasia.com.