Royce Hotel and Casino’s New Dining Star: Huwon by Kiwa

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Pampanga Vice Governor Nanay Pineda

The newest addition to Royce Hotel & Casino, Huwon by Kiwa, officially opened its doors with a formal inauguration attended by distinguished guests. Among those present at the ribbon-cutting were Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, Dr. David Shim (Strategic Partner), Mr. Joshua Victorino (Secretary), Mr. Jayson Victorino (Board of Director), Ms. Annyka Channel Cayabyab (Treasurer), and Ms. Zoraida Camello (CDC Special Assistant to the President). The event marked another milestone for Royce as it expanded its dining selections with an establishment focused on traditional Korean cuisine in an upscale setting.

About Huwon by Kiwa’s History

Dr. David Shim
Ms. Poch Teves Zenarosa

During the opening program, Ms. Poch Teves Zenarosa, Marketing Head of Royce Hotel & Casino, welcomed guests and media, acknowledging those who traveled as far as from Metro Manila. She reflected on Royce Hotels’s growth from 203 deluxe rooms a decade ago and additional 297 premium rooms, along with a two-floor casino known for its dynamic gaming experience. She also highlighted how Huwon by Kiwa completes the current hotel’s nine restaurant outlets and counting, further solidifying its reputation for bringing international flavors to its guests.

Dr. David Shim, a key figure in the project, spoke about his decades of experience in the movie and entertainment industry and how his passion for high-quality dining, luxury, and authentic Korean architecture led to the creation of Huwon by Kiwa. He shared that the restaurant was conceptualized after years of planning and design refinements, ensuring that every detail—from the aesthetic placement of the grills to the smokeless cooking system—was carefully thought and carried out.

Food Tasting

Main Dining Hall Huwon by Kiwa

Restaurant inauguration always comes with food tasting and this edition is definitely more than a feast. Sir Melton Capati, Marketing Manager, explained briefly the menu we are about to try and I was astounded with the long list. Moreover, the Marketing team had set a brief yet meaningful meet-and-greet with Executive Chef Suzenne Ternate.

I have to cut your wait and here is the verdict of each dish they served. We downed these for almost 4 hours, by the way!

Side Dishes (Banchan)

Side dishes at Huwon by Kiwa
  • Kimchi (Traditional Kimchi) – Aged and fermented to perfection, featured a bold, tangy, and spicy
  • Geotjeori (Fresh Kimchi) – This is the crisper, brighter version with a sharper, less fermented taste. Top favorite!
  • Miyeokjulgi Bokkeum (Salted Seaweed Stem) – Slight briny and chewy in texture
  • Odeng Bokkeum (Fish Cake Stir Fry) – Lightly seasoned with a touch of the expected sweetness
  • Modum Jangajji (Assorted Pickled Vegetables) – Refreshing and slightly tart, my palate cleanser
  • Eukkaen (Mashed Potato) – Soft and creamy, with a mild sweetness that was gentle counterpoint to the stronger flavors.

Salad

  • Chadolbagi (Pan-fried Beef Brisket Salad) – Top favorite! Thin slices of tender beef brisket that is paired with crisp greens, delivering a balance of meaty and fresh flavors.

Appetizers

  • Haemul Kimchi Jeon (Kimchi Seafood Pancake) – Crisp on the outside and packed with seafood inside, with the kimchi adding layer of spiciness. I would love it more if toasted longer.
  • Salmon Sashimi Fresh – Buttery and clean paired with their light soy sauce. Top favorite!
  • Ojingo Muchim (Seasoned Squid) – Tender with a slight bite, seasoned in a tangy and moderately spicy sauce that lingered pleasantly.
  • Saeu-twigim (Shrimp Tempura) – Light, crisp batter encasing plump shrimp, fried to a golden perfection.
  • Dakgangjeong (Deep Fried Chicken with Sweet Sauce) – Crispy bites coated in a sticky, sweet glaze with just the right amount of heat. Top favorite!
  • Gyeran Jim (Steamed Egg) – Silky and comforting, with a delicate, savory depth of umami and the lovely layer of toasted sesame oil.
  • Juk (Porridge) – Smooth, warm, and may season based on your preference.
  • Dongchimi (Cold Radish Kimchi) – Refreshing and mildly tangy, another palate cleanser.

Main Course – Grill Meat Selection

  • Yangnyeom Galbi Beef (Beef Short Ribs Marinated in Sweet Special Sauce) – This arrived late but grilled to tender perfection, with the marinade caramelizing beautifully-worth the wait. You can have the option to grill at your table.
  • Dak BBQ (Chicken Spicy) – a satisfying level of spiciness that lingered. Another top favorite!
  • Samgyeopsal (Beef Belly) – looks crispy and tender. I don’t eat pork, by the way

Soups

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  • Galbitang (Beef Short Rib Soup with Glass Noodles and Fresh Ginseng) – Imagine a Korean version of bulalo with that deep, rich broth infused with ginseng, adding an earthy complexity to the super tender beef. Another top favorite!
  • Chadol Doenjang-jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew with Beef Brisket) – Hearty, tangy and comforting, withthe expected fermented soybean paste flavor.

Dessert and Drinks

Pat Bingsu, new found love dessert
  • Pat Bingsu (Shaved Ice with Sweet Red Beans and Cornflakes) – Light, refreshing, and not overly sweet, with the red beans adding a satisfying texture. Super favorite!
  • Bori-cha (Hot Barley Tea) – Nutty and soothing on my empty tummy that time.
  • Measil-cha (Cold Plum Tea) – Slightly tart and subtly sweet, serving as a refreshing contrast to the rich dishes.
  • Americano – Deep, smoky, and bold, providing the right amount of caffeine to cap off the dining experience.

Personal Thoughts

Signage at the Reception Area

Huwon by Kiwa certainly delivered the attention to Korean detail and taste quality. Its welcoming yet upscale interiors offers an instant From the premium and stylish grill setup that minimizes smoke (hope I could try soon) to the carefully curated menu, each element reflected their commitment to bringing premium Korean dining experience to Royce Hotel and Casino. With its doors now officially open, guests can experience dining that celebrates both Korean traditions and upscale refinements.

Royce Hotel and Casino Contact Details

READ MORE DINING EXPERIENCES AT ROYCE HOTEL AND CASINO

21 All Day Dining – a spacious and grand international buffet restaurant in Clark
Experience Cantonese Cuisine at Choi Garden Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant

#KoreanCulinaryExperience
#HuwonByKiwa

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