Kickstarting 2026 the only way that makes sense… around a table, among friends and a room full of people who believe in Filipino food.
Last night January 7 marked my first event of the year, the grand launch of Siklab’s flagship store at SMaison, Conrad.
As Mr. Manuud, President of The Bistro Group, put it—this is Siklab’s third branch, but this one’s different.
The biggest yet. Two hundred ninety seats. Three function rooms. A statement.
The night began the right way—with ritual.
The ceremonial pouring of gata for one of Siklab’s soul dishes, Kuhol ni Tanggol.
In the room: Michelin two-star chef Josh Boutwood, and later, The Voice USA winner, Sofronio Vasquez, who reminded everyone exactly why that crown belongs to him—Pinoy favorites sung straight from the gut.
Then came the food.
A parade of familiar comforts done loud and proud. Think okoy, fresh lumpia, chicharon bulaklak, chased down with binibining dalandan, guinumis, and a bracing cold kamias drink.
The mains didn’t hold back—crispy pata, kare-kare, sisig, poqui-poqui, sinigang na bangus, tortang talong.
And for dessert?
Halo-halo, bibingka, buko pandan, palitaw. Because you always end sweet.
Siklab SMaison at Conrad opens to the public today, January 8
Come hungry. Leave satisfied and smiling.
Siklab is located at Level 1S Madison Conrad beside Watami
Pigoutmanila 