Kauri Taproom officially held its press tasting event exclusive for key media people today, June 17, 2026. The gathering exemplified exceptional Filipino cuisine—also introducing locally brewed beers from Jade’s Temple Brewery, a culinary program inspired by Filipino heritage.
Located at 220-B Wilson, San Juan City, Metro Manila, Kauri has become a popular go-to place for liquor enthusiasts and food lovers who patronize the distinct, world-class, and Filipino-original dishes, flavors, and modern brewery. The restaurant has provided a safe haven for Filipinos with its unique set of menu and drinks—truly showcasing it as a home of Filipino hospitality.
The press tasting event officially was opened by first-ever Miss Tourism Worldwide and celebrity host, Zara Carbonell. In the opening remarks, the vision of founder and head brewer of Jade’s Temple Brewery, Dea Suyosa, was showcased, highlighting the emerging Philippine brewery potential while also making a mark with her unique philosophy that, “Every beer should tell a story.”
Carbonell also welcomed owner, Justin Filamor, who gave his introductory remarks to the media. When asked about how they came up with this event, he stated, “We wanted to focus on Filipino craftsmanship and highlight the talent of Filipinos.”
Filamor added that his cooperation with world-renowned Filipino artist, Mari Zhar, is specifically focusing on Filipino artists with their craft beers—giving a spotlight to their artistry. The artists in line with the craftsmanship include Mari Zhar, David Kaufman, Dante Enage, Pen Medina, and Angelo Roxas.
Mari Zhar also shared that she supported and guided the couple owners, Justin Filamor and Dea Suyosa, in building everything and making sure they establish Kauri as a household name in the world of Filipino cuisine.
Zhar adds that the plan is to tie up with Filipino and international artists and make it a sustainable name in the industry. Filamor seconded the ultimate goal of promoting Filipino talents and craft beers when it comes to promoting products that are truly from the Philippines.
Comparing themselves to Filipino dishes to describe themselves, Mari Zhar likens herself to the popular Filipino dessert, “Leche Flan”. She shares the Spanish touch of it as she herself is half Spanish, and describes it as adaptable like a crème brûlée—complementing her personality as a sweet person.
On the other hand, Justine shared that he could be comparable to the uniquely created “Laing-getti”, a pasta dish in Laing sauce which he describes as something unique, both friendly and funny. Filamor ended that its guilt-free content is a good substitute for a normal pesto.
Moreover, he adds, “Pwede pala talaga. Pinoy na pinoy with chicharon toppings.” The “Laing-getti” was popularly featured in the lineup of dishes as part of the press tasting event.
Another important part of the event is the introduction of Chef Tricia Ignacio, who gave significant remarks about local and international dishes. She specifically noted the importance of keeping the soul of traditional cooking. According to Chef Tricia, “Every experience should be memorable.”
Another important part of the event is the introduction of Chef Tricia Ignacio, who gave significant remarks about local and international dishes. She specifically noted the importance of keeping the soul of traditional cooking. According to Chef Tricia, “Every experience should be memorable.”
Speaking with Chef Tricia Ignacio, she shared that owner and brewery mastermind, Dea Suyosa, came up with the idea of the business as she is a former student of Chef Tricia from St. Paul, Pasig.
It was just last year when Chef Tricia got a message from Dea in their plan to open a business. Together, they helped in preparing the beer to be brewed and consulted everything they need for the craftsmanship of the unique flavors to be served. As of now, there are about eight distinct flavors and seasons like peppermint mocha and Duhat, and Honey Blossom—pairing them with the restaurant’s signature dishes.
To end the event, the media were given complimentary food vouchers, locally crafted liquor beverages, and signature meals from the restaurant. The restaurant is also co-partners with actress Kris Bernal and celebrity host, Zara Carbonell.
Written by: Renz Delim
Images taken by: Miles Alimangohan and Christian Gerona
Additional information :
True art is not merely seen; it is experienced, savored, and felt. With the Jade’s Temple Craft Beer Artist Series Collection, the canvas expands beyond the gallery wall and into the bottle itself, creating a symphony of flavor and visual mastery that is soon to be available nationwide.
This extraordinary collaboration transforms the ritual of a craft beer into a deep dive into the Filipino soul:
Dante Enage brings the traditions of Eastern Visayas to life, bridging regional identity with contemporary expression in the "Toasted Mallows" craft lager.
Mari Zhar explores the profound depths of womanhood and emotional endurance, turning the "Salted Caramel" craft lager into a vehicle for conversation and empowerment.
Angelo Roxas challenges the status quo, blending pop-cultural references and folklore within the "Aficionado de Gallos" IPA to spark social commentary.
David Kauffman demands that we recognize the humanity in the overlooked, infusing the "Peach Mango" craft lager with a resilient spirit.
Pen Medina offers the perspective of a seasoned storyteller, layering the "Peach Mango" craft lager with the complexity and drama of the performing arts.
Each bottle is crafted for those who savor the extraordinary. Prepare to taste the intersection of mythology, culture, and passion.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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