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ABOUT US
OUR STORY
For over a decade, Pauline and Xavier shaped El Nido’s hospitality scene, but their success highlighted a critical gap. They saw that the true, complex, and vibrant soul of the country's food was missing from the local landscape. They realized that their next venture must be a proper Filipino restaurant to finally tell that story.
The foundation for this new mission was complete with Chef Cheska. Though she had diverse international training, her deepest passion was rooted in the warmth of her family's culinary traditions. The team was now united around a singular, ambitious goal: to honor the nation's heritage and correct the global narrative.
That vision is Ugat, which means "root" in Tagalog.
Ugat is our promise to celebrate the very foundation of Filipino cuisine. To fulfill this, the Team traveled across the entire Philippines, learning directly from local communities, farmers, and home cooks to capture the most authentic techniques and flavors. Ugat is where we finally showcase the deep, rich story of Filipino flavor
OUR KITCHEN
Our kitchen is the true heart of Ugat—a place where passion, love, and creativity come alive.
It is here that we honor the past while embracing the future. Every plate tells a story of local farmers and age-old Filipino recipes, blending them seamlessly with modern techniques.
You will find classic dishes that we have perfected, alongside innovative fusion creations that showcase the rich regional diversity of the Philippines. At the very center of our space is a roaring BBQ, a cultural cornerstone that fills the air with its savory aroma.
For us, food is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to our roots, a vibrant celebration to be shared, and the joy of cooking with intention.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to show the world the true soul of Filipino cuisine. We are dedicated to honoring the diversity and richness of our heritage while bringing people together around the table.
Inspired by Chef Cheska’s journeys across the islands, we continuously explore local, indigenous ingredients and cooking methods. This ensures every dish we create reflects both authenticity and modern creativity.
Ultimately, we aim to be more than a restaurant; we seek to create food that nourishes the body and soul, invites curiosity, and sparks moments of joy. Sharing our deep-rooted heritage is at the heart of everything we do.
WE'RE NOT JUST A TEAM — WE'RE A FAMILY, CELEBRATING OUR CULTURE AND HISTORY TOGETHER!
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