6 Swiss Food to Enjoy at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu

What comes to mind when we think of Switzerland?

Vatican Swiss Guards, skiing at the Alps, Swiss Army knife, watchmaking, chocolates, cheeses, Roger Federer, and Banking, but there are more to the country than these.

In honor of Swiss National Day, Cafe Marco at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu has prepared a Culinary Journey across the different regions of Switzerland. French, German, and Italian influences dominate the Swiss food atmosphere.

Swissness from A to Z is available from July 30 to August 4. Lunch and Dinner Buffets will feature traditional Swiss dishes and specialties. Monday to Friday Lunch is at 880PHP and Dinner is at 1440PHP.

I've listed 6 Swiss foods that you can enjoy when you take advantage of the festivity. And I do recommend these dishes since I was able to try them during the opening of the Swiss festival last Sunday, July 30.

A word of caution to would be diners, there is an abundance of sweets, carbohydrates and dairy products in the buffet spread. You might want to prepare yourself so that you can indulge.

1. Aelplermagroren (Alpine Macaroni) is baked macaroni with meats. This was the first thing I had when I went to the buffet. It reminded me of Mac and Cheese but with sausages and ham in it. 

2. Spatzle with crispy onion, Gruyere cheese, and parsley. It's German in origin and can best be described as a pasta dish made with soft egg noodles. 

3. Cheese Fondue is all about dipping slices of food in a pot of hot melted cheese.

When preparing for the Fondue, you don't just stick to one variety of cheese. You normally would have 3 or even more types of cheeses in the pot.

This might be one of the greatest Swiss contributions to mankind.

4. Considered to be the national dish, Roesti Potato is a breakfast fritter which originated in Bern. It can be likened to a hash brown with more texture and full flavor. The Swiss like to pair the Roesti with other savory dishes.

5. If you're into smothering your plateful of food with gooey, stringy, and full-bodied melted cheese, you definitely should try the Raclette. There is a dedicated buffet station for this hot mess.

I like the Raclette with beef, potatoes or sausages.

6. The Zuger Kirschtorte is now my favorite Swiss dessert. I think it's a bit underrated because we always associate chocolates with Switzerland.

It's a layered cake with nut-meringue, sponge cake, and butter cream. There is also a hint of cherry brandy in its taste.

It was like eating Sans Rival but softer in texture. It also reminded me of Conti's Mango Bravo without the Mango. It was all about the meringue. That was the high point of the cake.

I think I ate about 4 pieces. In my defense, these were tiny slices.

For inquiries and reservations, you may call 63 32 253 1111 local 8249. 

You may also reach them via email at mpplaza@marcopolohotels.com. 

Like and follow them on their Facebook page (facebook.com/marcopolocebu) and Twitter (@5StarInCebu).