Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs – Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025—and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense!
Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary background.
Think uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pave — just some of the inventive dishes she crafted, alongside many other culinary creations.
Chef Luis Locsin (private dining star) – CIA-trained, with global stints from Jean Georges NYC to Bali, he now curates private dining. His charcuterie spread at the launch featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté. Proudly Negrense, globally trained.
Pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio Stracciatella, olive oil, and confit tomatoes
This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura—and it’s bringing with it the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must-experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss:
1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories
Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.
2 Handcrafted Home Finds
From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living spaces.
3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong
Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself.
Experience More at HIMBON
Beyond shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture. Sip on Don Papa rum and locally crafted wines as live acoustic music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality right to the city. Let the fair inspire your next adventure with showcases of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and food tours—each one an invitation to experience Negros firsthand. And of course, every artisan booth and styled corner is a story waiting for your feed, so don’t forget to capture your #HimbonMoments along the way.
At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that celebrates both tradition and modern creativity.
- Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura
- Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before.
