EMILIO AGUILAR CRUZ aka ABE
Abe has long been a favorite restaurant of the family when it comes to classic Pinoy food. Little did I know then that Abe was conceptualized by Larry J. Cruz ( the founder of LJC Restaurants Group) in honor of his father who was born in Magalang a town at the foot of Mt. Arayat in Pampanga. Thus Abe Restaurant’s focus on Kapampangan cuisine. Abe aka Emilio Aguilar Cruz was a well-known writer, artist, diplomat and a great influence to LJC.
LARRY J. CRUZ aka LJC
“leading Filipino Pioneer in theme or concept restaurants”
Before his death he already have in his LJC Restaurants Group, 9 restaurants most of which are now considered iconic in the Philippine food and cultural scene.
“I fancy myself not as a gourmet – my father and I hated the word being applied to us – but a serious eater. I know what I like and I know what tastes good…” – Larry J. Cruz
LJC FESTIVAL OF FLAVORS
Last Friday, it was my good fortune to be invited to a preview of LJC’s Festival of Flavors/ A Tribute to Larry J. Cruz. The concept of the event was actually threefold.
First , the Festival of Flavors pays homage to LJC’s love for food. Each chef from the 9 restaurants in LJC Restaurants Group, crafted two new dishes to celebrate LJC’s passion for good eats.
Second, the Good to Dine Campaign which is on its 8th year, sought to benefit The Cancer Institute of PGH. From September 17 to December 31, LJC shall donate P10 to PGH for every order of the featured dish and drink.
Third this is for loyal patrons like us. On Larry’s natal day September 17, Larry’s Treat gives you the opportunity to win something from the pick-a-prize-bowl if you dine in any LJC Restaurants. Prizes include free dinner, overnight stay at Abe’s farm, free Cafe Havana buffets, to name a few
Abe’s Two Dishes for LJC Festival of Flavors
Klassik Tortang Talong P230
No tweaks nor twist needed on the iconic and well-loved Tortang Talong. Sawsaw lang sa ketchap ayos na! 🙂
Pininyahang Manok P425
Chicken stewed in coconut milk with pineapple and vegetables
At first I thought it was chicken curry because of the yellow color. But then I saw the grilled pineapple on the dish. Turned out it was Pininyahang Manok. The flavor of “gata” (coconut milk) was unmistakable. I loved how they grilled the pineapple first. It elevated the whole dish another notch. The dish had the right balance of sweet and fruity as well as umami. I shall replicate at home.
Overall…
ABE continues to amaze with its consistently delicious, simple, familiar and well-loved kapampangan fare. Pat on the back to the Chef who crafted both dishes. Im pretty sure LJC is beaming with pride wherever he is….
Thank you LJC Restaurants Group for having us and Zomato for the invite.
ABE Restaurant has branches in BGC, Megamall and MOA.
SM Mega Mall
3rd Floor Mega Fashion Hall
BGC
Ground Floor Serendra
MOA
2nd floor Entertainment Mall
SM Mall of Asia Pasay City