On the Table: Chef Golda May Ranada

Chef Golda May Ranada

Watching family members cooking during lavish fiestas in Nueva Ecija, a young Golda imbibed the sensations and skills that would eventually lead her to a life long passion. Now the executive chef of the fine dining restaurant, Lemuria, Chef Golda-May Ranada busies herself with the day-to-day restaurant operations and creating customized tasting menus for a wine-appreciating clientele. As Lemuria expands beyond their intimate dining space into a full-fledged catering service, Chef Ranada enjoys the ever-challenging adrenaline rush. But on her off hours, it’s about balance–practicing yoga whenever her schedule allows.

Who in your life has influenced your cooking the most?

My mom. She always cooked from the heart.

Which book has had the biggest impact?

I would say this book made me dream about the wondrous ingredients which were not so available locally way back 1990's. The simplicity of provincial cooking which in itself a lifestyle. I read A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle and I guess it all started there.

What was your first job in the food business?

Pantry girl in Le Souffle (the one in Greenbelt), but I really craved the heat and speed of the hotline so I apprenticed as a saucier.

How did you get involved with Lemuria?

Klaus and Kitt Schroeder were in need of a chef/consultant and I fell in love with the setting of Lemuria.

What is your favorite item on the menu of Lemuria?

La Tomate et Citron, Braised Lamb Shank and Baked Halibut

Which restaurant meal (foreign or local) do you remember the most?

Lunch in Maison Pic, Valence, France, hawker's food in Singapore

Besides your own place, what's your favorite restaurant in Manila?

Casa Armas, Lolo Dad's, Hossein's.

What junk food do you love?

Clover Chips and Chocnut (ha ha ha)

Is there a food you just can't seem to enjoy?

I'm adventurous with food... so I will try anything.

Just between us, what are your future plans?

Next is to travel and eat in provincial Spain, have a baby, write my own cookbook soon.

Thank you to Erik Lacson for the photograph.

Lemuria
5 Julieta Circle
Horseshoe Village
Quezon City, Metro Manila
Telephone: (02) 724 5211, (02) 722 2185