A land known for its rich heritage and culture, Iloilo City is actually so much more. People with a sweet tooth have a wide range of treats to choose from, such as their crunchy biscocho and tarts, meringues and butterscotch.

On top of these is a new food craze that is getting the sweet-toothed Ilonggos and visitors talking—the oversized, generously-topped ensaymada of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo.

Blending the perfect balance of soft bread, a layer of light butter cream, and a lavish topping of grated cheese, the classic Filipino baked goodie is an explosion of sweet, creamy flavors.

Whether plain or ube-flavored, Richmonde’s Ensaymada can be enjoyed with a hot cup of cocoa or espresso, both drinks served in the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, The Granary.

Natalie Lim, the hotel’s general manager, said the ensaymada is the most sought-after item on the menu.

“Since we opened over a month ago, guests have been coming over, looking for it. It has become famous,” she said. “Some guests enjoy the delectable treat as merienda or dessert, and others drop by to order boxes they could bring as pasalubong.”

Because of the strong demand, supply sometimes runs out, she added.

The special ensaymadas are actually a signature item from the Richmonde Eastwood and Ortigas branches. The hotel flew in its pastry chef from Manila to share the special recipe and those of other sumptuous pastries.

Soon, the hotel will have a quaint café and nifty gourmet corner serving decadent and freshly baked pastries which are already in demand in Manila.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, which had a soft opening last July, is the first of its kind in Iloilo City to provide discriminating travelers with service quality and facilities that can easily rival those of deluxe brands, but at more affordable rates.

It has a contemporary design by Getty’s, but with thoughtful references to Iloilo culture. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo has a distinct vibe that ultimately reflects the cheery and affectionate character of the Ilonggos.

The hotel in the 72-hectare Iloilo Business Park (IBP) township of real estate giant Megaworld will be in close proximity to Iloilo’s exciting developments in the next few years.

“The entry of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo completes IBP as a vibrant township that follows the revolutionary live-work-play lifestyle concept of Megaworld,” says Jennifer Ann Palmares-Fong, marketing head for Iloilo Business Park, Megaworld.

“We are hopeful that IBP will soon be the benchmark of constant progress in transforming the lifestyle landscape of Iloilo.”

Aside from Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, IBP will be home to the biggest multinational corporations, high-end commercial establishments, topnotch residential condominiums, other world-class hotels, as well as a government institution and an entertainment complex.