“Painit sa Kabilin”

CEBU, Philippines — Did you know that the Visayan word “sikwate” has its equivalent in the Ancient Aztec language, the word “sikwatel,” both words referring to a type of chocolate beverage?

Could it be that the Philippines takes its chocolate from all the way back to the Aztecs, albeit indirectly?

Informative bits on popular Cebuano delicacies like these were discussed in a talk held last September 9 at the “Kabilin Heritage Lounge” of Golden Prince Hotel & Suites.

Helmed by Louella Alix, the author of the coffee table book “Hikay: The Culinary Heritage of Cebu,” the talk was part of the launching highlights of the hotel’s new “Painit sa Kabilin” offering.

Drawing the spotlight on a number of popular Cebuano fare, the offering features Cebuano delicacies and beverages prepared with the invaluable inputs of Ms. Alix, like “Biko with Bukayo,” “Binagkal,” “Kutchinta,” “Palabok,” and more.

Served daily from 2 to 6 p.m. at the hotel’s “Kabilin Heritage Lounge,” “Painit sa Kabilin” sets the venue as a place where friends and family can spend afternoons together with good food and good conversation. (FREEMAN)