From Manila to the Firehouse Grill – A Taste of the Philippines
To mark World Food Day (16 October), The Firehouse Bar & Grill in Enniskillen is turning up the heat with a limited-edition special running Thursday 16 October 2025 to Sunday 20 October 2025 — a dish that brings the bold, fiery flavours of the Philippines straight to the heart of Fermanagh.
Meet Chef Mark Dino Arias, whose passion for flavour and precision at the pass have made him a cornerstone of the Firehouse kitchen. For this celebration of food and culture, Mark has created something close to his heart — Bicol Express (£19.00).
The Story Behind the Flame
Born and raised in the Philippines, Mark’s love of food began at home.
“My father was a great cook,” he says. “Watching him in the kitchen made me want to follow in his footsteps.”
After years working in steakhouses and international kitchens, Mark now channels that experience into The Firehouse, bringing both skill and creativity to the grill.
“I’ve had the chance to learn so many different styles,” he explains. “Now I can share that here — helping the team create food that’s full of flavour and energy.”
Whether on the grill or at the pass, Mark thrives under pressure.
“I love working at the pass,” he adds. “It’s where everything comes together — fast-paced, high energy, and always rewarding.”
Introducing: Bicol Express
Named after the Bicol region of the Philippines — famous for its coconut-based dishes and love of chilli — Bicol Express is a recipe that perfectly balances heat, creaminess, and soul.
Mark’s version features crispy pork pieces cooked in a coconut cream sauce with shrimp paste, chilli oil, and fresh red chilli, served over a bed of steamed white rice and finished with a scattering of crispy onions for texture.
“Bicol Express reminds me of home,” says Mark. “It’s comfort food — spicy, creamy, and full of life.”
Price: £19.00
Available: Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 October only
Behind the Grill
When asked about his favourite Irish dish, Mark smiles:
“Bangers and mash — simple, comforting, and full of flavour.”
On The Firehouse menu, he’s partial to the Notorious Pig Pizza — smoky, indulgent, and just the kind of bold cooking he loves.
And when asked who he’d most love to cook for, Mark doesn’t think twice:
“My wife, Jeny,” he says with a smile. “She’s my biggest supporter — and the one I love cooking for most.”
Taste the Philippines at The Firehouse
Join us this Thursday to Sunday (16–19 October) to celebrate World Food Day with Chef Mark Dino Arias’s Filipino-inspired Bicol Express — creamy, spicy, and unforgettable.
Dish: Bicol Express – £19.00
Available: Thursday 16 October 2025 – Sunday 20 October 2025
Book your table now at thefirehouse.org.uk
