BACOLOD City – A chef from this city brought to Singapore his signature take on kansi — a hearty and soulful Negrense beef shank soup.
Chef Nico De Asis Millanes, a distinguished graduate of Enderun Colleges’ École Ducasse pioneer batch, was featured in the re-launch of the Southeast Asia Regional Hawker Series in celebration of the vibrant and diverse flavors of Southeast Asia by the prestigious Raffles Hotel Singapore, in collaboration with Makansutra’s K.F. Seetoh.
The week-long culinary event that will run until April 13 at the iconic Raffles Courtyard is part of Makansutra and Raffles Hotel’s shared vision to celebrate authentic Southeast Asian heritage food and hawker culture by presenting it on a global stage.
“I’m honored to bring kansi to an international audience,” said Chef Nico. “It’s a dish that speaks deeply of home — of warmth, resilience, and the rich culinary heritage of Negros Island. Kansi holds the heart of every Negrense household.”
Kansi is traditionally slow-cooked with jackfruit or langka and the uniquely tangy batwan, a fruit endemic to the Negros and Panay Islands.
Known for his refined technique and use of premium local ingredients, Chef Nico honed his craft under legendary French chef Alain Ducasse at La Cour Jardin at Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris, France.
He currently helms Portiko, a beloved restaurant and bar that has become a fixture in Bacolod’s vibrant culinary scene, celebrated for its modern take on Negrense flavors — including his signature kansi. He also owns and operates two other standout restaurants.
