Have yourself a very Ramsay Christmas
Contrary to popular belief, chef Gordon Ramsay does not go ultra-violently humbugging during the Christmas season like Scrooge in tidy whites, leaving a trail of idiot sandwiches, vampires killed by garlic, and errant Monday motivators in his wake. Instead, the commander of Hell’s Kitchen talks about preparing heavenly Christmas meals with centerpieces such as turkey, beef, or sea bass, as well as selecting wines and curating cheese boards to go with that one hell of a feast. (“Christmas would not be the same without a beautiful, delicious, honey-glazed ham,” he gleefully shares.) Yes, the man speaks for us all as to how we need to sit down with loved ones, and eat the cares away during the most wonderful time of the year—even as the skies of the world turn apocalyptically red with our collective dread.
So, when Newport World Resorts invited us over to sample Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill Philippines’ festive menu to be offered to diners on Dec. 24 and 25, we couldn’t say, hell no. Bring it on! So we said to the chefs at the restaurant’s helm. And what they brought out was a bespoke six-course menu featuring dishes steeped in quintessential British flavors.
Anchored by the iconic Beef Wellington Rossini, each plate is a testament to the culinary precision of Gordon Ramsay’s team. The Beef Wellington—a slice of MB7 Wagyu beef fillet, seared duck liver, mushroom and truffle duxelles; paired with creamy potatoes and a rich red wine jus—has been hailed as a culinary rock star. Just hear it sing: tender, flavorful Wagyu beef nestled inside a flaky, golden-brown puff pastry that crackles like a Les Paul power chord in every bite.
For traditionalists, the roasted turkey breast (accompanied by winter vegetables, cranberry sauce and turkey gravy) channels the warmth of a classic Christmas spread, with the halls decked accordingly.
Start with an Amuse-bouche of Lambert oyster, and savor options like the classic bouillabaisse or a Waldorf salad reimagined with crispy crab cakes and Oscietra caviar. Dessert doesn’t disappoint—the chocolate mousse dazzles with gold leaf and berry accents, while Gordon’s Iconic Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter Sauce is a time machine to British yuletide splendor. I can imagine having a plateful of these bad boys while watching the BBC’s A Ghost Story for Christmas (both the original and the Mark Gatiss incarnations), a marathon of Doctor Who Specials, or anything made by The League of Gentlemen alumni and the Muppets.
The Newport World Resorts executives tell us how the festive atmosphere will extend beyond the culinary. Carolers and a live band will serenade guests. They can also engage in a “Build Your Own Gingerbread House” activity. (Our friend, Giuseppe, took on the role for us during lunch, skillfully goin’ Frank Gehry with the pastry crib.)
I cannot rave enough about the crafted seasonal cocktails such as the Twinkle Bellini (strawberry-infused gin, watermelon basil, Prosecco) and a classic Eggnog (whiskey, dark rum, cream, spices, egg), which further underscore the celebratory theme. Our photographer that day was chuffed to bits by a shot of Jingle Bell Sour.
Marking its first holiday season in the Philippines, Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill embraces local culture while staying true to its British roots. The aim is to give diners a unique experience, blending the festive traditions of the UK with Filipino warmth. And during December, the team brings meticulous preparation to every detail, ensuring guests feel the hallmark quality of a Ramsay experience.
Imagine this: how the meals dreamed up by the mastermind behind Hell’s Kitchen could—in the right moment—be part of the core of a truly celestial Christmas. Dishes made with love and drizzles of butter sauce.
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Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill is at 2F Grand Wing, Newport Boulevard, Newport World Resorts, 1309 Pasay City.
