Hapag is not just a restaurant, it is a cultural experience that brings people together through the love of good food. For Chefs Nav and Thirdy, Hapag is more than just a place to eat; it is a symbol of the values that were instilled into them by their respective households. At Hapag, meals are not just about nourishment, they are a sacred time for bonding with people who matter most.
The word “hapag” is derived from the Filipino term “hapagkainan,” which refers to the traditional Filipino dining table—a low, short-legged table where Filipinos gather to share meals and stories. For many Filipinos, hapagkainan represents more than just a place to eat. It is a gathering place where people can share stories about their day, and bring joy and woes to the table, but still feel safe. A place where nothing else matters but this very moment every single day.
With Hapag, Chefs Nav and Thirdy take this opportunity to put Filipino cuisine on the world table. They do this by using local produce that lives and grows in the mountains, jungles, and seas of the Philippines. Nature’s bounty, given to Filipinos, is shared with the world through the culinary creations at Hapag.
The chefs’ passion for Filipino cuisine shines through in every dish they create. From the savoury flavours of adobo to the rich and comforting textures of kare-kare, Hapag offers a gastronomic adventure for the senses. The restaurant’s menu changes regularly to showcase the diversity of Filipino cuisine and the creativity of the chefs.
Through their love for food and Filipino culture, Chefs Nav and Thirdy have created an experience that is truly unique. Hapag is more than just a restaurant—it is a celebration of Filipino cuisine and the connections that food can create.