Perfect Simplicity of Northern Greek Cuisine

Words Tedrick Yau
Photos courtesy of Elaia by Cyma
March 3, 2025

Surrounded by lush greenery, the newly opened Elaia by Cyma provides a refreshing retreat where guests can enjoy fresh air, a laid back atmosphere, and a taste of Northern Greek cuisine.

Elaia, which directly translates to olive in Greek, showcases its founder Chef Robby Goco’s commitment to using only the finest extra virgin olive oil, infusing every dish with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Celebrating the deep connection to the land, the restaurant prides on locally sourced ingredients in its mission to respect the heritage of Greek cuisine. The philosophy is rooted in nature’s abundance, preserving the culinary wisdom of Greek cookery.

Asked how his affinity for Greek food began, he shared, “I needed a cuisine that I can present to the Philippines, something that they haven't had before.”

At that time, there were already French, Spanish, and Italian restaurants in Manila. During a trip abroad, he encountered a big Filipino community and asked if they knew anything about Greek food. They all said yes, sharing how they appreciate souvlaki, gyro, and many more.

Looking at the map, he realized that Greece and the Philippines are both archipelagic countries. With further research, he found out that the two countries share a lot of things in common. A crucial factor was his examination of the Zagat Survey to know the most popular cuisine in New York City.

He explains, “As you know, whatever is done in New York lands in the Philippines after a year or two. Greek was number 10 then and there was no Greek restaurant in the Philippines. That was 20 years ago and so I started my journey with Greek.”

Putting the spotlight on longevity eating this time around, Chef Robby shares the journey that led to the opening of this latest concept. He talked about his award winning burger joint and how unhealthy food took a toll on his health. The idea came with age as he wanted to also promote food to his customers that he can also digest himself. He believes that everybody needs to eat clean and healthy, with food that would promote sustainability and longevity.

He drew inspiration from the cooking traditions of Northern Greece, exploring the region’s time-honored approach to longevity and well-being. “I encountered this in Northern Greece where people live up to a hundred. So, why not do it in the Philippines? It’s something that I would also eat and enjoy myself, right?”

The menu draws inspiration from the bold and comforting cuisine that features hearty lamb dishes, savory pies, and vegetables cooked in extra virgin olive oil - simple, fresh, and packed with flavor. From grilled meats to charred vegetables, every dish embodies the tradition, craftsmanship, and passion that define the Greek kitchen. The Ladera dishes, locally sourced vegetables simmered in extra virgin olive oil, stay true to the Mediterranean way of eating that is both healthy and satisfying. Also embracing the low and slow cooking method, Elaia’s style allows the natural flavors of each ingredient to shine. This method creates layers of flavor that enables the dish to reach its peak perfection.

During a visit to Greece, he was warmly welcomed by his friend’s yia yia, Greek for grandmother, with a feast of traditional dishes. The chicken stew stood out as his favorite, embodying comfort, tradition, and love for home-cooking. As a tribute to that unforgettable experience, Yia Yia’s Chicken Stew, a dish cooked low and slow made with chicken, potatoes, carrots, green peas, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil is a cherished dish on the menu.

More than the dishes, a thoughtfully curated selection of signature cocktails and beverages were designed to enhance the dining experience. Cocktails are infused with olives, adding a rich and savory depth of flavor. A must try is The Elaia, a handcrafted crafted cocktail featuring olive-infused rum, tamarind, lime, sugar, milk, and Greek yogurt, creating a perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and smooth flavors.

Asked if there are plans to bring this new concept to other areas, Chef Robby shares, “Baguio is good, Antipolo is another one but we want to put it in a cooler setting.”

Elaia by Cyma is located at Buenavista Ave, Silang in Cavite.