Asia's 50 Best Restaurants has released the premiere edition of The Essence Of Asia, a collection that celebrates authentic flavours and culinary traditions spanning across the region
The diversity of Asian food is a treasure to the culinary scene. This year, Asia's 50 Best Restaurants honours those that "preserve culinary traditions, honour authentic flavours, and provide a vital link to their communities" with the first-ever Essence of Asia Collection. Unranked and inclusive, the collection features establishments from 49 cities across 20 countries with a myriad of food purveyors that range from street vendors to well-established eateries and casual restaurants.
The list, which was based on recommendations from chefs and professionals from the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants network, features four Philippine restaurants from all over the country.
Read also: Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Reveals Its New Top List: Essence Of Asia 2021
1. Farmer's Daughter in Baguio
Plumped just outside the Tam-awan Village, The Farmer's Daughter is a charming nipa hut set against the verdure of Baguio City. Its name is a humble homage to the women who have impacted the life of owner, Pil-od, whose mother, grandmother, and wife are all daughters of farmers.
The food, which is fresh and straightforward, may look simple but, once tasted, prove to be a medley of complex yet complementary flavours. The chefs use traditional cooking techniques to bring out the best in each ingredient. In particular, they're famous for their kinuday or smoked meat, which is applied to beef, chicken and pork. Pinikpikan is another distinctive dish, which is prepared by beating a live chicken to give it a distinct flavour. By serving up uniquely Northern cuisine, The Farmer's Daughter preserves culinary traditions that would otherwise have been lost amongst the modernisation and Westernisation of Filipino food.