Dining at home in style with Sheila Romero: from cooking to setting the perfect dinner table

Romero’s hospitality extends far beyond the professional sphere. In her high-ceilinged, art-filled home, she shines as a warm and meticulous hostess. Walls are adorned with works by Filipino masters, while coffee and end tables are dressed in fresh flowers. From elegant spreads of cheeses and charcuterie to chilled Champagne and homemade iced teas, every gathering is thoughtfully curated, down to the smallest detail. 

“Hosting gives me joy—not just through the food but in the creation of a warm, welcoming atmosphere where people can connect and make memories,” she says. For Romero, entertaining is never just about aesthetics; it’s about intention. From arranging flowers to adjusting place settings, she personally sees to every element, ensuring guests feel truly welcomed, not as acquaintances, but as part of her inner circle.

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“There’s something special about inviting someone into your home,” she reflects. “You’re not just welcoming them to a place, you’re sharing a piece of yourself.” Her home, much like her life, tells a layered story of resilience, elegance and authenticity. From intimate framed family photos and stacks of well-loved books to perfectly plated dishes and thoughtfully chosen art, her home is a reflection of the woman herself: dynamic, deeply generous and endlessly inspiring.

To learn more about her expert tips and stylish perspective, read on:

Why do you enjoy tablescaping and setting up for an event in your home?

Entertaining at home lets me curate unique experiences for my guests. From themed dinners to simple pool BBQ parties, I get to express my creativity in the table settings, menus and ambience. More so, I like making my family happy through food. We are foodies, and whipping up a special meal for my family gives me joy. 

Describe your aesthetic and the type of looks that you enjoy creating.

I always begin with the theme—be it formal or more casual. Second, the cuisine comes into play. If I’m serving Thai cuisine, especially since I own Nara Thai, the tablescape is thoughtfully infused with Asian-inspired elements. Orchids are a must—they’re elegant and of course, very Thai. I like to incorporate subtle touches of Asian flavour even through textures, colours and accessories. The floral arrangements can be monochromatic for a more formal or refined look, or more whimsical for a playful and vibrant look.

If it’s Christmas or Easter, I would use elements that reflect the season. Little Christmas trees, a gingerbread house, Easter eggs, Easter bunny and the like.

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Is your home known for a signature type of food or cuisine?

I usually like throwing sit-down dinners. So I get a private chef and meticulously put the menu together after a food tasting. I like serving something different every time we have a special occasion. I like surprising my kids! For those who have not tried Nara food, I do either a buffet or a plated one. Yes! Nara does special sit-down parties for a maximum of 30 persons. I also have my signature dishes and favourites at home, like our tinapa pasta, something quick and easy to cook and serve with roasted chicken and baked salmon. My family loves my Spanish menu of chorizo and mushrooms al ajillo, lengua, callos and steak too!

What is your go-to pica pica to serve guests?

I usually serve Thai appetisers like fried spinach with lime sauce, shrimp cake with plum sauce and spring rolls, plus some of our signature cocktails and mocktails. For more relaxed gatherings, especially after an event, I often serve a charcuterie board with wine—something easy for my staff to prepare, yet still elegant. We usually continue the get- together at home, where it feels more comfortable and intimate… and often ends with karaoke!

See also: Terra Madre Asia & Pacific 2025: Slow Food’s biggest food festival is coming to Bacolod

What scents do you use when entertaining? Any favourite candles?

I love Dyptique Baies room spray or Trudon.

What music do you like to put on when guests are over?

I usually hire a pianist or an acoustic duo. We love to sing! It’s just more fun and memorable when there’s live music. If it’s piped in, just instrumental bossa nova music so you can hear the conversations.

How did you build your tableware collection over the years?

Over the past 33 years, I’ve collected a variety of dining sets, many of which I picked up during my travels. As my style and hosting preferences evolved, so did my tableware. What started as simple, casual pieces gradually became more refined as I began hosting more formal gatherings. Along the way, I’ve drawn inspiration from Pinterest, lifestyle influencers and my own experiences, constantly upgrading and curating a collection that reflects both elegance and my personality.

How do you decide what centrepieces or decor to use?

It really depends on the occasion. I consider whether it’s formal or casual, and of course, the overall theme or purpose of the celebration. Earlier, I mentioned celebrating holidays like Christmas, Easter, Halloween, etc. I love incorporating decor that reflects the spirit of the season. From elegant floral arrangements to festive and playful accents, I choose centrepieces and decorations that set the right mood and create a memorable atmosphere for my guests.

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