The return of “Culinaire” at the SMX Convention Center earlier this month was nothing short of spectacular. After a long hiatus since 2019, this signature event roared back to life, showcasing the best of the Philippine culinary scene with a unique twist—pairing the art of food with the magic of cinema.
The event offered a fresh and exciting experience, underscoring SMX’s commitment to advancing the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector and highlighting the talents of its partner caterers.
This year’s theme, “Flavor Flix,” was a playful nod to the world of cinema. The convention center was transformed into an immersive culinary playground where each of the eleven participating caterers presented dishes inspired by different film and series genres. From the moment attendees walked through the doors, they were transported into a world where food and film collided in the most delightful ways.
The event featured four distinct themed areas. Guests could then wander from a glamorous “Golden Age of Hollywood” setting, where classic dishes were reimagined with a modern twist, to a vibrant “Action and Adventure” zone, where bold flavors and dynamic presentations took center stage. This creativity exemplified the innovation and skill that has become synonymous with Culinaire.
Culinaire: Flavor Flix was about the sumptuous food, as well as about connections and collaboration. The event was attended by SMX corporate clients, SM affiliates, partner hotels, and industry partners, offering a prime opportunity for networking and learning. The exhibitors showcased their culinary expertise, but they also demonstrated how SMX Convention Center could cater to a wide array of events, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.
Michael Jaey Albaña, Vice President-General Manager of SMX Convention Centers, spoke about the broader significance of the event. “Flavors, creativity, and innovation with a cinematic flair—much like the feeling of watching your favorite show,” Albaña said. “Each offering is not just food, but a story, a piece of art that showcases the ability and ingenuity of our partner caterers.”
This year’s Culinaire proves the resilience and creativity of the Philippine culinary industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. “After navigating the challenges, we sit here together, resilient and ready to embrace brighter chapters of our journey,” Albaña said, emphasizing the importance of the event as a celebration of perseverance and renewal.
A showcase of excellence
The event’s success was a result of the combined efforts of SMX’s partners and suppliers. With ten exceptional caterers, nine SM Hotels offering vouchers as prizes, and various other suppliers contributing to the event’s setup, production, and entertainment, Culinaire: Flavor Flix was a true showcase of collaboration.
“This event is a testament to the growing MICE industry in the country and shows that SMX is more than just a venue—we’re here to provide everything you need for an unforgettable event,” said Shaina Santiago-Moraga, cluster director of the Business Development Group. As one of the head organizers, Moraga expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the SMX team and its partners.
The list of participants and contributors was impressive, featuring some of the country’s top caterers such as Bizu, Conrad Manila, Hizon’s Catering, Juan Carlo, Kitchen City. The event also received support from a range of industry suppliers and partners, from Goldilocks to Ginger Event Styling, ensuring that every aspect of the event was meticulously planned and executed.
Culinaire: Flavor Flix was a bold statement about the future of the culinary and events industries in the Philippines. The event successfully combined the art of food with the magic of cinema, creating an experience that was both entertaining and inspiring. It served as a reminder of the endless possibilities within the MICE sector and the role that SMX Convention Center plays in bringing these possibilities to life.
