Mabuhay Philippine Cuisine is now Madison's first Filipino restaurant, open at 1272 S. Park St., in a space that was very briefly Smiley's II (our only Colombian restaurant). The method at Mabuhay is a 14-item buffet that features items such as red snapper, roast pig, spring rolls and a lot of unexplored territory for those unacquainted with the cuisine. Call 608-255-0515 to check the daily menu or see facebook.com/MabuhayPhilippineCuisine.
The International Fest is happening again at the Overture Center on Jan. 27. While the focus is clearly dance and music, do not forget the International Cafe. The Italian American Women's Club, the Italian Workmen's Club, Jamerica, Paciugo, the Nepali American Friendship Association, Spice Yatra and the Overture's catering service will all provide food. Menu items to look for will include Nepali dumplings from the Friendship Association, Italian beef from the Italian Workmen, jerk chicken from Jamerica, affogato (espresso with gelato) from Paciugo and kadai chicken from Spice Yatra, along with other favorites.