A Homecoming of Flavors: Yugto Returns to Iloilo to Celebrate Filipino Culinary Heritage

By: Rhonna Rodales
Yugto continues its journey as more than just a regional tasting experience. According to the team behind it, the concept was born from shared nostalgia and a desire to revisit the food and service energy they grew up with early in their careers. Describing Yugto as a kind of culinary compilation of their lives as Filipino cooks, they said the project was shaped by their shared heritage, childhood memories, and more than 30 years of professional experience in the Philippine food industry.

The first iteration, Unang Yugto, launched in November 2025, and Ikalawang Yugto brought the experience to Iloilo. The choice of Iloilo was described as a natural homecoming, especially because it honors Chef Rudolf’s maternal roots and the kitchen he grew up in. For the team, the setting offered the right place to explore the soulful and nuanced flavors of Western Visayas.

When building the menu, the chefs describe the process as rooted in memory. As they explain, “Selecting the menu is a delicate balance between iconic and intimate. It always begins with a sit-down where we comb through our collective memories. What did we truly love to eat when we were younger?” The approach focuses on choosing dishes that define a region’s identity while drawing from personal memories and professional experience. As the chefs note, “The urge to innovate is always there, but our philosophy is to preserve the core flavors of indigenous ingredients out of respect for tradition.” Using their technical background to elevate textures and presentation, the goal is to create dishes that feel both familiar and new—“a plate that feels both deeply familiar and new.” 

The chefs behind Yugto also described their working dynamic as a natural synergy. Chef Rudolf focuses on pastry and desserts, while the other chef handles the hot kitchen and savory courses. Together, they collaborate closely to create a seamless menu flow, with occasional surprises through what they call a “wild card” preparation—something meant to create a moment of wonder while still staying true to Filipino flavors.

Looking ahead, Yugto is not stopping in Iloilo. The team said they are eager to explore more regions such as Ilocos, Bicol, Cebu, Pampanga, and Davao in future iterations. They also shared that hosting Yugto once a month or every other month gives them the space to fully pour their energy into each event. Beyond regional pop-ups, they are also considering private functions, a Mother’s Day offering, and even an all-dessert collaboration in the coming months.