Despite the disruptions caused by Typhoon Kristine, which led to the suspension of offices and classes, Couscousi Mediterranean Grill remained resilient, offering diners a culinary escape in the heart of Clark. Unfazed by the storm, the restaurant proceeded with its much-anticipated relaunch, unveiling a vibrant menu that combined well-loved favorites with exciting new additions. With a steadfast commitment to quality and a rich Mediterranean heritage, Couscousi has further cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination, offering the warmth of Tunisian cuisine in any season, rain or shine.
The relaunch featured an array of appetizers, including a Mixed Arabic Platter, Hummus, Baba Ganoush (made with eggplant, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt), Falafel, and Brik Au Thon (a savory Tunisian pastry filled with canned tuna, creamy potatoes, fresh parsley, and egg, then pan-fried until warm and crispy), as well as Beet Root Salad. For the main courses, guests indulged in Chicken Roti and the signature Mediterranean Feast. The culinary experience was rounded out with unique drinks, such as Mango and Kiat-Kiat Marmalades, along with Tunisian Tea with Almonds and Baklava for dessert.
In revisting the July 2024 feature published on iOrbitNews titled “Mediterranean Soirée: Grill x Pilates Studio” also by this writer, it’s worth noting how the rains once again set the stage for Couscousi’s grand unveiling. This occasion marked a special fusion of culinary excellence and wellness, creating an experience that Clark had yet to see.
On July 19, 2024, Couscousi Mediterranean Grill, along with the launch of Core & Balance Pilates Studio at Clark Parade Grounds, introduced guests to a harmonious combination of flavorful cuisine and holistic fitness. Guests embarked on a culinary journey featuring grilled lamb, chicken, and beef, marinated with Mediterranean herbs like oregano and rosemary, alongside smoky grilled vegetables, creamy hummus, tzatziki, and fresh salads. The meal concluded with a traditional Baklava dessert, paired with fresh lemonade and marmalade drinks.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, if your palate leans toward Filipino, American, Mexican, Japanese, or Vietnamese cuisines, now is the time to indulge in the authentic Mediterranean flavors that Clark, as an emerging food mecca, has to offer.
Couscousi, owned by Aie Fajardo and Tarek Aouini, and led by Chef Oussama Trabelsi, with the dedicated and cheerful Alex Aquino, Cluster Assistant Director for PR & Marketing Communications at Widus and Swissotel, presents a rich blend of Mediterranean dishes, adding a uniquely refreshing dimension to Pampanga’s diverse culinary landscape.
Its emphasis on vibrant, fresh, locally sourced ingredients captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, providing a culinary experience that perfectly complements the wellness-centered philosophy of Core & Balance Pilates Studio.
Meanwhile, Core & Balance Pilates Studio offers a wide variety of classes, including balance reformer, core yoga, and private sessions aimed at improving strength, flexibility, and coordination. Designed for all ages, the studio also features a safe playground for kids and promotes the many benefits of Pilates, such as improved posture, enhanced stability, and injury prevention.
The grand opening, organized by Habibi Corporation, has set a new standard for dining and wellness in Clark, solidifying its place as a thriving lifestyle hub in what was once the largest American military facility outside the U.S. mainland.