About

hi there!

I'm Isabelle.

The home cook, recipe developer and food photographer behind Newel Tasting Table. I live in Brooklyn, New York but my roots are in Manila, Philippines.

The recipes you’ll find here are from my childhood in Manila, my French school education, my travels and the people I’ve met along the way.

Since I was a kid, my place has always been the gathering spot. Whether in Manila or now in Brooklyn, I’ve always loved creating spaces for connection, sharing meals and hosting with a purpose.

Hosting isn’t just about the food (though that’s a big part of it!); it’s about creating a space where people can connect, share stories and enjoy each other’s company long after the last plate is cleared.

Becoming a Certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner

After a decade in NYC's corporate world, I followed my passion for food and became a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner through the Nutritional Therapy Association.

Studying nutrition gave me a deeper understanding of ingredients and cooking, and you'll find my recipes range from nourishing dishes to indulgent desserts.

Through my training, I learned that "healthy" looks different for everyone - we're all unique, with different needs and bodies. So while some recipes here focus on whole foods and others are pure indulgence, I just share what I love and let you decide what works for you.

About Newel Tasting Table

At Newel Tasting Table my goal is simple: to help you host intentional gatherings and make meaningful connections through delicious yet approachable recipes. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a special occasion, I want to help you create an experience that feels like dining at your favorite restaurant—but in your own home.

I also do freelance work for food and media brands, where I get to combine my love of cooking and storytelling.

Through Newel Tasting Table I hope to inspire you to cook at home and host with intention. Every recipe I share has a story or memory behind it and I hope they inspire you to create your own!

Why the name Newel Tasting Table?

Why Newel? A newel is the central foundational pillar of a spiral staircase. It's also the name of my street. The name Newel reminds me of building a new foundation. I left the corporate world to pursue a career in food and nutrition, and this new venture is my new foundation.

Why Tasting? Taking a moment to be present and use your senses to taste and appreciate your food not only helps with digestion but will also make you feel more connected to what’s on your plate.

Why Table? A table implies sharing. Sharing a meal, a space, an idea with people you know or don’t. The recipes you find here are meant for a table to be shared with loved ones or entertaining new friends.