Monday, October 12, 2026

From Dubai to Manila: Chef Dabo brings Filipino and Pan-Asian flavors to the world stage

From Dubai to Manila: Chef Dabo brings Filipino and Pan-Asian flavors to the world stage

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Guevarraโ€™s by Chef Laudico, in partnership with Nutribullet, continues to propel the Filipino culinary artistry to the exciting new places with the fourth edition of Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey. The latest installment features the remarkable talent of David Jezreel Lizardo Pamplona, popularly known as Chef Dabo.

The event, which took place at Guevarraโ€™s in San Juan City, Metro Manila on August 18, 2025, highlighted Chef Daboโ€™s contributions to Dubaiโ€™s multicultural dining landscape.

As the Managing Director, Head Chef, and Co-Founder of Naimas Cafรฉ & Bistro in Dubai, Chef Dabo brings with him 13 years of culinary experience, honed by his innovative approach and commitment to quality. According to his profile, his expertise in Pan-Asian, Latin American, and Filipino cuisines have won him multiple awards, including four Gold Medals at the Salon Culinaire Dubai and a PRO Chef 2019 finalist spot.

โ€œDubai is a global dining hub, and Filipino cuisine is so versatile it fits any culture,โ€ says Chef Dabo. โ€œMy goal is to make our ingredients as globally recognized as sushi or curryโ€”distinct, respected, and true to their roots.โ€

The multi-awarded Dubai chef adds, โ€œI mixed fine-dining techniques with authentic Filipino flavors. Diners in Dubai love something new if itโ€™s done well, and thatโ€™s where Filipino cuisine can shine, especially when itโ€™s honest, rooted, and executed with heart.โ€

Chefs Roland and Jackie Laudico, the visionaries behind Guevarraโ€™s, expressed deep admiration for Chef Dabo and the collaboration.

โ€œItโ€™s been our mission from the start to promote Filipino cuisine both here and abroad,โ€ said Chef Roland Laudico. โ€œWeโ€™ve participated in countless food festivals to champion our flavors, but this time, weโ€™re highlighting world-class chefs working overseas who share our advocacy. It raises awareness in their host countries and, hopefully, draws more people to visit their restaurants.โ€

Chef Jackie Laudico added, โ€œWorking with a Filipino chef based in the Middle East brings a unique perspective, especially since the region has one of the largest overseas Filipino communities. His food reflects his global journey, an experience shared by many Filipino chefs abroad.โ€

For a limited time at Guevarraโ€™s by Chef Laudico, guests can anticipate a curated menu that reflects Chef Daboโ€™s culinary philosophy, honoring heritage while embracing international influences. โ€œFilipino flavors belong to the global stage,โ€ explains the multi-awarded dining guru. โ€œIt has always been my personal mission to bring our culture beyond one menu and let it live everywhere.โ€

Signature creations will feature select Filipino staples reimagined through refined techniques and cross-cultural inspiration, such as Humba-Rum Chicken Empanada, Tiyula Itum Inasal Yakitori, Bistek Saltado, and Shrimp Laing Rebosado with Coconut Wasabi Cream. These delicious creations from Guevarraโ€™s x Chef Dabo will be available as part of the buffet selection starting this month.

About Guevarraโ€™s by Chef Laudico

Guevarraโ€™s is a Filipino themed buffet restaurant that offers a unique dining experience with our classic and homey ambience. Having been built in the 1920s, the vintage interiors of this heritage house-turned-restaurant, along with the private function rooms and spacious garden area make Guevarraโ€™s the perfect place for intimate gatherings, birthdays, baptisms, weddings, and corporate events.

The buffet features a feast of both classic and modern Filipino dishes created by Chefs Roland and Jackie Laudico. From their bestselling Angus Beef Tapa and Bellychon to the Grilled Pancit Bam-I and Party Spaghetti, there will surely be a dish for everyone to enjoyโ€”not to mention the whole spread of intricately crafted desserts for the perfect ending to every meal.

Takeout and deliveries are available via http://www.guevarras.com