Ever heard of a chef selling paella at 13? That’s the spirit behind Manay alma. Manay alma is more than just a restaurant. It is a story of passion that started far away.
Chef Luis grew up in Valencia Spain. Valencia’s waters teem with life and paella is a tradition. These shaped Chef Luis’s culinary journey that you will find at Manay alma.
Manay alma first opened in Siargao in 2020. It was a bold move launching during the pandemic. Yet, it thrived tucked away overlooking fishermen’s boats. Manay alma became a community hub. It mixed Spanish flavors with Siargao’s relaxed vibe.
Even after a typhoon sadly forced its doors to close, the spirit of Manay alma did not disappear.
Chef Luis then brought his vision to Manila. He opened Terraza Martinez in September 2022. Here he elevates Mediterranean Spanish cuisine.
But let’s rewind a bit. How did Chef Luis’s love for cooking begin? It all started in his parents’ kitchen in Valencia. His entrepreneurial journey began early. His father encouraged him to sell paella in the neighborhood at just 13 years old. The original Manay alma was opened with his brother in Spain. It showed their family’s love for Spanish cuisine.
After a holiday in Siargao Chef Luis decided to launch his next adventure. He brought authentic Spanish food to the island. He cultivated a devoted following. Managing to keep Manay alma afloat during the pandemic showed his dedication.
So whether you are in Siargao or Makati Manay alma offers a Spanish escape. It is a place to enjoy authentic flavors and relax.
Manay alma represents Chef Luis’s journey. It is a blend of Spanish heritage and Filipino warmth. It’s a place where every dish tells a story of passion family and adventure. So take a seat enjoy the flavors and let Manay alma transport you.