In a gathering of industry leaders and media, Chef Robby Goco, one of the country’s most respected chefs and restaurateurs, was officially introduced as the Philippines’ first-ever Lambassador. His mission: to bring Australian lamb to the heart of Filipino cuisine in bold and refreshing ways.
Handpicked by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), Chef Robby joins a global network of chefs under the Lambassador Program, an initiative supported by the Government of Victoria. The program offers top culinary talents an immersive experience in Australia, where they tour sustainable farms, learn butchery techniques, and explore new lamb preparations. The ultimate goal is to empower these chefs to inspire their home countries to embrace Australian lamb as a versatile, everyday protein.
After his immersion, Chef Robby has been busy reimagining lamb with both his culinary roots and creative flair. “I’ve always believed lamb deserves a place on the everyday Filipino table,” he said. “It’s not just for special occasions. With the right approach, it can be as comforting as adobo or as exciting as your next burger.”
At an exclusive tasting held at Souv in BGC, Chef Robby presented a masterfully curated five-course menu that showcased lamb in globally inspired yet locally grounded dishes:
- Cumin-Crusted Lamb Loin Chop: served with cucumber yogurt and a Greek spring salad.
- Lamb al Ajillo: tender porterhouse cuts echoing Spanish simplicity.
- Lamb Burger: stacked with fried halloumi, pickled beets, and creamy tzatziki on a brioche bun.
- Lamb Barbacoa: slow-cooked and served in corn tortillas with salsa verde and cilantro cream.
- Lamb Adobo: a soulful Filipino reinterpretation of the classic, paired with garlic rice and marinated eggs.
Each dish underscored his message: lamb can transcend cultural boundaries while still feeling familiar and comforting. “Filipino cuisine is expressive, emotional, and bold—just like lamb. The flavors match,” he noted. “My job is to show how we can make it approachable, sustainable, and exciting.”
Spencer Whitaker, MLA’s Business Manager for Southeast Asia, expressed enthusiasm for the program. “It’s not about exporting food—it’s about sharing values, techniques, and inspiration,” he said. “Chef Robby’s creativity reflects what this program is all about. As he showed today, lamb can be your next go-to comfort food.”
As Filipino diners continue to seek global flavors and elevated food experiences, Chef Robby’s lamb-forward creations make a strong case for redefining what belongs on the local plate. With his accessible recipes and culturally relevant approach, lamb is no longer just an occasional indulgence—it’s a flavorful staple ready for its moment in every Filipino kitchen.
I want to try the lamb adobo! Please post the recipe soon!
The Lamb al Ajillo looks fantastic. I will have to try it soon as I haven’t had one yet. Very innovative. Cheers, Chef Robby!
I’m not a big lamb eater but those photos look tempting. I want to personally try the lamb adobo and the vegan coconut ice cream.
Everything looks so delish! I want to try that lamb burger and thick cut fries. I have tried chicken adobo before but lamb adobo – not yet! Looks so yummy though!
woah foods looks tasty
Wow! This is my first time knowing this. I want to go there and eat it. I can’t wait to try their lamb, as I remember, it is so long time ago the last I tasted it.
I haven’t had lamb in years. I hope these dishes get the spotlight it deserves. Can’t wait to try all of it soon. Thanks for sharing!
PS: I miss your food blogs. Hope you can publish more again soon. Been an avid reader for 8 years now.
Mukhang masarap yung Lamb Barbacoa. I love tacos but I never had lamb on it. Usually beef or chicken. I should try it soon. Thanks for the recommendation hijo.
I like how lamb was given spotlight because it usually doesn’t get enough credit. Lamb is personally one of my favorite proteins so I’m happy that it was given justice. Kudos to Chef Robby! I have to try the lamb adobo for sure!
Ang sarap naman! I want to try it all especially the lamb adobo!
Oooh, I love Souv! Been there a few times but only been trying their salads and well, the Moussaka (I have a habit of sticking to one fave for a loong time, haha!). I’ve not tried lamb but are they serving it in Souv? It’ll be interesting to try and see how it matches up to pinoy comfort food.
Congratulations to him and I can see why. His food looks delicious especially the Lamb al Ajillo. Yum!!
I love the idea of lamb for everyday meals, not just fancy days. That lamb adobo and the lamb burger sound amazing. I’m excited to try lamb this way at home.