Sunday, January 18, 2026

Celebrating Filipino Hospitality with a Win for 118 Kovenant Cafe Restaurant

Pooraka, South Australia – A taste of the Philippines has captured the hearts of South Australians, as 118 Kovenant Cafe Restaurant was recently awarded the title of Best Family Dining in Pooraka at the 2024 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence.

Owned and operated by the Velasquez family – Christian, Luz, and Cielo – the restaurant is a testament to the strong Filipino values of family and hospitality. The award recognises their commitment to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where families can gather and enjoy
delicious meals together.

This prestigious national recognition is a testament to the family’s unwavering commitment to Filipino hospitality and culinary traditions. From the warm welcome guests receive to the authentic flavours of their dishes, 118 Kovenant Cafe Restaurant embodies the essence of Filipino culture.

“We are overwhelmed with joy and gratitude,” said Christian Velasquez. “This award is not just for us; it is for the entire Filipino community. We hope to inspire others to celebrate their heritage and share their passion for food with the world.”

The restaurant’s success is a reflection of the strong family bond that drives their business. The Velasquez family works tirelessly to create a welcoming and memorable dining experience for every guest. Their dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques ensures that each dish is an authentic representation of Filipino cuisine.

118 Kovenant's menu features popular Filipino dishes such as kare-kare, sisig, and ube desserts.  CREDIT: 118 Kovenant
118 Kovenant’s menu features popular Filipino dishes such as kare-kare, sisig, and ube desserts. CREDIT: 118 Kovenant

Having been crowned the Best Family Dining establishment in SA, 118 Kovenant are now set to compete on a national level. The team remains grounded and focused, eager to showcase the best of Filipino heritage on family bonds through food to the nation.

“The family’s journey is an inspiring example of how passion, hard work, and a strong sense of community can lead to extraordinary achievements.” a group of patrons commented.

The community believes the family restaurant is poised to become a culinary destination, attracting food lovers from far and wide.

Michelle Ann Kenney
Michelle Ann Kenney
An Adelaide-based wedding photographer and storyteller from the Philippines, Michelle captures soulful, light-filled moments with a calm, tropical touch inspired by her homeland’s rich culture.

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