We kicked off our team dinner with warm chatter about life both inside and outside of work. We traded stories, shared happy moments from our roles and our personal lives, and laughed over little memories we’ve collected along the way. And once the hunger finally started to sneak in, we shifted from stories to the best part — sharing the foods we each prepared.
There’s something magical about a favorite food. It’s never just about taste. It’s the memory it brings back, the people it reminds us of, and the feeling it wraps around us like a warm blanket. For our team dinner, we’re sharing the dishes that live rent-free in our hearts, and the sweet little stories of why they became our go-to comfort meals.
Juliene’s favorites are a dream duo: Pancit Bam-i and Buko Salad. She says they’re hands down her top picks, and honestly, it’s easy to understand why. Pancit Bam-i is a savory mix of noodles, combining bihon and canton, tossed with meat, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce that brings everything together. It’s the kind of dish that feels hearty and satisfying without being too heavy.
What makes it more meaningful for Juliene is the balance it brings, especially when paired with Buko Salad — a cold, creamy dessert made with young coconut and fruit. The contrast between savory and sweet is something she always looks forward to, making the experience feel complete and comforting.
Curly chose Chicken Afritada, and her reason makes it even more special. This was the first dish she ever cooked when she was 17, turning it into more than just a meal, but a personal milestone. Chicken Afritada is a classic Filipino dish, with chicken simmered in a tomato-based sauce along with potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers.
It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, something you’d find on the table during family meals. For Curly, it’s a reminder of where she started and how far she’s come. Each time she has it, it brings back that sense of growth, confidence, and the joy of learning something new.
Maggy’s heart goes straight to Lechon Kawali, a dish often tied to family gatherings and celebrations. It’s the kind of food that instantly brings people together and makes any meal feel special. Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, lechon kawali is a favorite that rarely stays on the table for long.
Beyond the taste, it represents something deeper for Maggy — togetherness. It’s the dish she associates with shared laughter, full tables, and moments when everyone simply enjoys being around each other.
These dishes aren’t just meals. They’re memories you can taste, comfort you can hold onto, and little reminders of the moments that shaped us. And honestly, if this is what our “favorites” look like, our team dinner isn’t just a meal — it’s a gathering filled with stories, connection, and meaning.