A humble cooking oil shop in 1950s Taiwan blossomed into a global phenomenon, and this month marks a decade of that legacy in the Philippines. Din Tai Fung, renowned for its delicate xiaolongbao, isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a testament to consistent quality and enduring appeal, drawing devoted crowds worldwide.
Bringing Din Tai Fung to the Philippines in 2015 was a bold move for The Moment Group, a company already making waves with homegrown favorites. It represented a unique step – embracing a single international brand amidst a portfolio of locally-born concepts like Manam and 8Cuts. The decision wasn’t taken lightly, but born from a deep respect for the Taiwanese institution.
A recent celebration offered a glimpse into Din Tai Fung’s evolution with a special “Birthday Basket.” This curated selection showcased both beloved classics and innovative creations, including a striking Pork Xiaolongbao with Nomad Caviar. Each dumpling was a miniature masterpiece, a burst of flavor encapsulated in a delicate wrapper.
Among the basket’s treasures, the Foie Gras and Chicken Xiaolongbao stood out – a truly exceptional experience. The rich, savory broth within was a revelation, a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that lingered long after the last bite. It was a reminder of the artistry at the heart of Din Tai Fung’s success.
Abba Napa, co-founder of The Moment Group, recalls the unanimous decision to pursue Din Tai Fung. It wasn’t a fleeting trend they were chasing, but a brand that embodied everything they admired in the restaurant world: longevity, consistency, and widespread acclaim. It was a brand built to last.
From its initial location in SM Megamall, Din Tai Fung has expanded to nine branches across the Philippines, with a tenth on the horizon in SM City Clark. This growth reflects not only the brand’s popularity but also The Moment Group’s commitment to bringing exceptional dining experiences to a wider audience.
The Moment Group’s philosophy centers on creating “evergreen” brands – concepts that transcend fleeting trends and remain consistently craveable. They aren’t focused on what’s popular *now*, but on crafting flavors and dishes that will resonate for years to come. Din Tai Fung perfectly embodies this vision.
The Moment Group’s impact extends beyond a single brand. They were early pioneers in a rapidly evolving Filipino dining scene, and their restaurants are now recognized on a global stage. Manam, their flagship brand, earned a place in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand selection, a testament to their culinary excellence.
However, Napa remains humble, emphasizing their focus on creating happiness for the Filipino diner. Their success isn’t about shaping the dining scene, but about understanding and catering to the tastes of their customers, wherever they may be.
That dedication extends beyond Philippine shores. The recent launch of hayop, a Manam spinoff in Singapore, demonstrates their ambition to introduce Filipino cuisine to a global audience. Remarkably, over half of hayop’s clientele are not Filipino, proving the universal appeal of these flavors.
hayop’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide Singapore’s “Singapore selection” further validates their success. The Moment Group envisions a future where Filipino flavors and hospitality are celebrated worldwide, bringing the warmth and vibrancy of the Philippines to new communities.
For The Moment Group, it’s not just about restaurants; it’s about sharing a piece of Filipino culture with the world, one delicious bite at a time. It’s a dream fueled by passion, dedication, and a deep love for the art of dining.
