Filipino Pride: Chef Nouel Catis Collaborates with Auro Chocolate to Launch Iconic Fix Bar in Manila
Remember those mesmerizing TikToks that absolutely flooded our feeds? You know the ones – someone cracking open a thick, artfully designed chocolate bar, revealing a cascade of creamy, dreamy filling that just oozes out? Yeah, we all do. That viral sensation, the #FixBar, captivated millions, and guess what, my loves? The brilliant mind behind it is none other than our very own, incredibly talented Filipino pastry chef, Nouel Catis! And now, his iconic creation, with a delightful Filipino twist, is finally within our reach right here in Manila, thanks to a mouth-watering collaboration with Auro Chocolate and his dessert shop, SNA’AP Manila.
A Sweet Symphony: The Auro Chocolate x SNA’AP Manila Partnership
It fills my heart with such immense Pinoy pride to witness Chef Nouel Catis’s journey. His Fix Bar in Dubai didn’t immediately soar after its 2021 launch. But like a perfectly crafted dessert, good things take time, and his dedication truly paid off when that single TikTok video propelled it into global stardom. Now, imagine that kind of international recognition, blended with our rich local flavors and ingredients. That’s exactly what this collaboration with Auro Chocolate brings to the table, quite literally!
This isn’t just any partnership; it’s Chef Catis’s first direct collaboration with a local chocolatier here in the Philippines. It’s a testament to his commitment to our homegrown talent and resources. Did you know he’s actually been a quiet supporter of Auro since 2017, even helping them develop recipes for Auro Chocolate Bahrain, which opened its doors in 2022? Talk about loyalty and vision! This collaboration isn’t just about selling chocolate; it’s about elevating Filipino craftsmanship on a global stage.
Unboxing the Magic: Dubai’s Iconic Crunch, Reimagined
So, what exactly are we getting our hands on? Two divine new chocolate bars, available exclusively at major Kultura stores in Metro Manila, Auro Cafés, and online! Each bar is a masterpiece, highlighting the textural magic that made the Fix Bar famous: kataifi, or shredded phyllo pastry. This little genius ingredient adds an addictive, crisp crunch that perfectly balances out the luxurious, creamy fillings. It’s like a party in your mouth, where every texture gets an invitation!
The Pistachio and Kunafa Bar: A Taste of Viral Dubai
First up, we have the Pistachio and Kunafa Bar, a loving nod to its Dubai viral hit predecessor. Don’t let its compact size fool you; this bar is thick and generously filled, decorated just like the iconic social media star. The moment you hold it, you know you’re about to experience something special. The ritual? You absolutely must crack it open right in the middle! While the filling might not ooze out quite as dramatically as some highly edited online videos suggest (let’s be real, TikTok magic is real!), its flavor profile is an absolute knockout. Prepare for a buttery explosion, where the rich nuttiness of roasted pistachio sings beautifully, layered with that glorious, unmistakable crunch of kunafa. It’s a sophisticated, satisfying bite that transports you straight to a luxurious Middle Eastern dessert parlor.
The Ube Baklava Bar: Our Homegrown Hero Shines Bright
Now, for the true Manila exclusive, and dare I say, the one that makes my Filipino heart swell the most: the Ube Baklava Bar! This variant is a powerful contender, a testament to Filipino ingenuity and our deep love for ube. Inside, the filling is pure bliss – it tastes incredibly real, like the ube jam lovingly prepared in our provincial kitchens, not the artificial, candy-like flavors you sometimes encounter. It’s earthy, sweet, and comforting, making this bar a proudly Filipino specialty through and through. There’s even a subtle, elegant nutty sesame flavor from the tahini paste, adding a depth that elevates the ube to an art form. It’s like a delicious embrace between Filipino warmth and Middle Eastern dessert tradition.
The Secret Ingredient: Auro’s Single-Origin Excellence & The Kataifi Crunch
What makes these bars truly sing? Beyond Chef Catis’s brilliant fillings and the ingenious kataifi, both chocolate bars are enrobed in Auro’s exquisite single-origin 42% Milk Chocolate. If you know Auro, you know their commitment to quality, ethical sourcing, and bringing out the best in Filipino cacao. This chocolate provides the perfect, smooth, and creamy canvas, allowing the unique textures and flavors of the fillings to truly shine. It’s not just chocolate; it’s a story of collaboration, quality, and passion, wrapped in one delightful package.
Get Yours Now! Where to Find These Indulgent Treats
Alright, I know what you’re thinking: “Where can I get my hands on these ASAP?!” Each bar costs P575, a small price to pay for a taste of viral fame and Filipino culinary genius! You can find them at:
- All major Kultura stores across Metro Manila.
- Auro Cafés.
- Auro’s official website.
- And for ultimate convenience, on LazMall!
So, what are you waiting for? Don’t just scroll through another viral video; go out and taste the phenomenon yourself!
My Sweet Verdict & Why You Need to Try Them!
These chocolate bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration. A celebration of Chef Nouel Catis’s resilience and talent, a celebration of Auro Chocolate’s dedication to world-class Filipino cacao, and a celebration of our ability to take global trends and infuse them with our unique, heartfelt flavors. Whether you’re a fan of the original Fix Bar, an ube enthusiast, or simply a lover of all things delicious, these bars are a must-try. They’re a reminder that Filipino excellence truly knows no bounds. Indulge, savor, and let that satisfying CRACK bring a smile to your face. You deserve this sweet escape!