KAURI (read as Ka-uri or kindred in Filipino) Taproom officially opened as it blended beloved, classic Filipino flavors into delectable craft beers, cocktails and dishes. At the grand opening, guests were treated to the unique taste of its craft beers and specialty cocktails, created in collaboration with top mixologists in the country. These sample flavors included Lager, a classic malt-forward favorite; Baguio Strawberry Lager, a fruity floral lift that promotes Baguio’s popular strawberry products; Mango Lager, a tropical and crisp with a fruity finish; Black Forest Lager, a unique blend dark chocolate taste; Duhat sour, a vibrant, local take on dart beers; Tsokolate stout, a combination of alcohol with rich, roasted cacao notes; Gumamela Dalandan Saison, a floral and citrus beer; and Sampaguita Orange Ale, a delicately fragrant and bright drink. Kauri Taproom also handed samplers of its unique, Filipino-infused dishes such as the Adobong Pusit (squid) Aburi, Squid topped in sushi rice; Bagnet Buro, Pampanga’s classic delicacy that is paired with Buro (fermented fish and rice); Chicken Inasal and Pork Tocino skewers, a fresh take on the classic Filipino barbecue but with new flavors; Chori Burger, a chorizo burger mixed with scrambled egg, vegetables, Sriracha mayonnaise and cheese; and the Laingetti, Bicol’s well-known Taro leaves, but cooked as pasta sauce with a dash of chicharon (fried pork rinds). More than a reimagined dining experience, Kauri Taproom is a cultural celebration of Filipino cuisine. It also embodies the spirit of spending time together, as Filipino celebratory culture does.

CHEERS FOR CULTURE Kauri Taproom founding team celebrates its opening with a ceremonial Partner’s Toast. PHOTO FROM KAURI TAPROOM