The Royce Hotel and Casino in Clark Pampanga has expanded its culinary offerings with the opening of Huwon by Kiwa, a fine dining Korean restaurant. Inspired by South Korea’s rich culture and heritage, Huwon draws inspiration from the traditional Korean secret garden of the Royal Imperial Palace, which was once exclusive to Joseon kings. The restaurant exudes elegance and exclusivity, reminiscent of the luxurious experience reserved only for royalty.
At the heart of Huwon’s menu is the philosophy of Korean cuisine, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients, fermented dishes, and balanced flavors. Korean cuisine is known for its health benefits, promoting longevity and wellness. The abundant use of vegetables, whole grains, heart-healthy fish, and premium meats, combined with fermented dishes like house-made kimchi at Huwon, supports digestion and boosts the immune system. Whether it’s the vibrant, vitamin-packed banchan (small side dishes of pickled or fermented vegetables served with main courses) or the nutrient-rich broths that form the base of many dishes, Huwon aims to provide a dining experience that nourishes both the body and soul. Additionally, Huwon offers a smokeless cooking system to eliminate the concern of smelling like barbecue smoke after dining.
At the recent launch, media participants were treated to a sampling of the restaurant’s diverse menu. The spread included Chadolbagi (pan-fried beef brisket salad), Korean pancakes, skewers of fish, pork, and beef, a surprising kimchi seafood pancake, the popular Japchae (pan-fried vegetables and glass noodles with beef), salmon sashimi, seasoned squid, shrimp tempura, and steam egg. The side dishes were equally impressive, featuring Geojori (fresh kimchi), spicy fermented kimchi, salted squid, fish cake stir fry, pickled vegetables, and delicious mashed potatoes that had us going for additional servings.
Dessert, of course, was Bingsu, that shaved ice concoction topped with sweet red beans or fruit. Drinks served were either Bori-cha(hot barley tea) or Measil-cha(cold plum tea) soda.
Huwon by Kiwas, rooted in Metro Manila, offers a contemporary take on Korean cuisine that is highly sought after for its healing and nutrient-rich qualities.
According to Dr. David Shim, the brand founder and one of the proponents, “Our Korean cuisine is a healthy alternative, offering quality meats and seafood marinated and served with a flavorful variety of fermented sauces and pastes. We also try to avoid frying, instead we grill or steam our dishes; and accompany our main courses with a selection of fermented vegetables.”
Shim also mentioned that most ingredients are imported from Korea, with the exception of pork, as he holds a high regard for Philippine pork.
“We are excited to present the culinary heritage of Seoul, adding a distinctive dimension to the rich and diverse gastronomy in Clark. Royce Hotel aims to contribute to putting Pampanga on the map as one of the premier dining destinations in the country,” stated Jayson Victorino of Royce Hotel.
The new addition to Clark’s culinary scene is expected to add worth on a trip to Clark, making the journey more palatable.
Private VIP rooms are also available for intimate gatherings and special occasions, ensuring a luxurious setting for every event.
Open daily from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. For reservations, guests can call (+63) 9544661067, (045) 598-5920 to 24, (02) 8538-1450 to 54 or email huwonbykiwareservations@gmail.com.
