March 6-7, 2026

Welcome to GaleĂłn Part Two

We are so glad you’ve joined us for this special collaboration between Istorya and Gyu+. Tonight, we aren’t just serving dinner; we’re retracing a 250-year voyage.

You are about to experience six courses inspired by the Mexican chapter of Philippine history. This menu is a labor of love, born from our research team’s deep dive into the archives and the personal family memories held by our chefs. We’ve worked to bring these stories to life in a way that feels both familiar and entirely new.

This culinary narrative is brought to life by Chef Izzy Cabrera of Gyu+, alongside Istorya’s own Chef Dio Buan and Chef Justin Barnes.

Sit back, set sail, and let the flavors take you on a journey. We’re honored to share our istorya with you.

  • Tonight, we present a 6-course prix fixe menu crafted by Chefs Izzy, Dio, and Justin.

    Big thanks to Gyu+ Luis, Thomas, Arthur, Izzy, and Freddie for having us.

    For you connectivity convenience, please feel free to use the Wi-Fi:
    Name: Gyu+ Admin
    Password: Chinatown

  • Prepare for a culinary adventure through the Mexican chapter of Philippine history:

    • Introduction

    • Course Service

    • Storyteller & Dish Explanation

    This sequence repeats throughout the evening, offering a dining experience that fully immerses you in the culinary exchange of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon trade.

  • We love bringing people together through food and stories, and tonight is no different. To help spark conversation and connect with those around you, here are a few icebreaker questions to get things started:

    🥥 What’s a dish that reminds you of home?

    🍽️ What are you most excited for tonight? 

    🌏 If you could take a food trip anywhere in the world, where would you go?

    🧳 What’s a family tradition or cultural practice that you cherish?

    🔥 What’s the most memorable meal you’ve ever had and why?

    Feel free to share, listen, and enjoy the evening together—because food always tastes better with good company!

About the Chefs

Izzy Cabrera, Gyu+

Chef Izzy's passion for food was shaped by his upbringing in a family where meals brought everyone together. After moving to the U.S., he was inspired by the diversity of cultures and cuisines, leading him to pursue formal culinary training at the College of Southern Nevada. In 2007, he earned a coveted spot at Thomas Keller's Bouchon Las Vegas, where he worked his way up from busboy to sous chef over four years. He then joined Charlie Palmer Steakhouse at the Four Seasons, refining his skills as a sous chef while mastering various cooking techniques and leading kitchen operations from 2011 to 2017. With a decade of experience, he played a key role in launching Americana, now a beloved local restaurant, where he led the kitchen, oversaw operations, and curated innovative menus for five years.

Building on his success, Chef Izzy joined Elevate Hospitality Group, where he spearheaded the launch of GYU+, Italio, and Moignet Café, further showcasing his ability to blend culinary innovation with operational excellence. His expertise extends beyond the kitchen, as he has consulted for non-profits like Bon Appétit and contributed to culinary events at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys spending time with his son and staying active through soccer, his childhood sport.

Follow @chef_cabrera12 on IG.

Dio Buan, Istorya

Currently a Master Cook at Joël Robuchon Las Vegas, Chef Dio has trained under culinary leaders such as Bobby Flay and Thomas Keller, as well as under chefs who were directly mentored by the legendary Joël Robuchon, grounding his expertise in both modern American and classic French fine dining traditions.

While his early career focused on classical technique, his current work returns to the flavors of his upbringing in Manila. Through Istorya, he reimagines Filipino dishes with the precision of fine dining and the care of home cooking. His approach honors the traditions he grew up with while pushing them forward, one plate at a time.

Follow @dangerously_delicious702 on IG.

Justin Barnes, Istorya

Born in Orange County, and raised in Las Vegas, Justin Barnes is currently honing his skills in French cuisine as a Chef de Partie at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Bistro. Originally starting his culinary career at Full House BBQ, Justin draws his passion and love for Filipino food from his experiences there, and from his mother who taught him how to cook.

Extremely driven and a tenacious learner, Justin strives to be inventive, innovative and adaptable to any challenge. He aims to push the boundaries of Filipino food in a fine dining space, while reminding us of the nostalgia, and comfort that comes with it.

Follow @_grandmasterj on IG.