Chef MJ
Born in Valenzuela Metro Manila and raised in Obando Bulacan, Chef Micah James “MJ” Lituco spent his early years in places that are rich in culture and culinary heritage.
At age six, Chef MJ Lituco can identify some salt fish variety offered at the fish stall in their family owned business located in Farmers Cubao. He honed his knife skills not just when he was at school but when he would help out in fabricating (fillet, cut, de-boning and cleaning) fish at the fish stall.
Raised in a family who loves good food and family gatherings, Chef MJ always finds himself in the kitchen helping out and satisfying his curiosity of how dishes are made. Influenced by his sister Shelly, he decided to pursue his culinary dreams.
Straight from high school he joined Center for Culinary Arts Manila for an intensive culinary program under Culinary Arts and Technology Management track. He then realized his passion for Pastry Arts, half way through the culinary course. After class, he would head to the school’s culinary library to read and borrow some pastry and baking books. Putting his learning into practice; finally he offered his products to friends and relatives. From there, his contacts expanded to Metro Manila offering Celebration Cakes made with fondant. These Fondant Cakes are designed and made in collaboration with the client. As part of the school requirement, he joined several hotel and food establishments as an apprentice where his passion was tested. He encountered numerous scenarios wherein he questioned himself whether he truly belongs on this field. He held onto his faith, values and surrounded himself with family and friends whom have rekindled the passion. Chef MJ believes that education doesn’t end in school; so he joined numerous cooking demonstrations, seminars and food expos in his quest in expanding his knowledge in his chosen field.
Seven days before the commencement exercises, he got his first job offer as a pastry artist in Middle East however he decided to try his luck locally, applying here and there in an entry level. He came across a job posting as a Pastry Chef and pastry consultant in a bakery Café in Manila. Challenge with the demands and the pressures of the position, he took a leap of faith and applied for the job. After his debut project, he joined several companies exploring what’s in store for him in the food service industry. For a brief period of time, he joined Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie Salon de Restaurant under Bench Corporation as a Pastry Chef. He did not limit himself to Pastry; so he then joined Cravings Group as a Chef de Partie in one of its outlets. Finally, he came across Waterfront Properties and took another leap of faith.
After receiving a call from Cebu inviting him for a trade exam, armed with faith and passion for pastry arts, he went through the exam. After few days, he received a call and was informed that he ‘passed’ and qualified.
He believes in the quote saying “Other people may have more talent, education, or experience but God’s favor can cause you to go to places you cannot go on your own”. Chef Micah James Lituco joined Waterfront Airport Hotel & Casino last February 17, 2014 with the courage and determination that he will make a difference ….one dessert at a time.
“I like the fact that the hotel (Waterfront) aims to preserve the Filipino culture through gastronomic offerings”
According to him, they were trained in school (CCA) to feature Filipino Classic dishes and making it modern and world class. With his foundation and training, he sees himself offering pastries and desserts with classical roots but prepared, presented and showcased using modern techniques and approach. Chef MJ agrees with an American author, Ina Garten in her statement that “Food is not about impressing people. It’s about making them feel comfortable”. And to Chef MJ when asked of how he would describe his creation he said,” The flavors that one will experience in my creations will make one reminisce and go back to moments & feelings that had somewhat made him feel like being home again”
To experience Chef MJ’s delightsome pastry offerings, visit and dine at UNO at Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino. His creations for the month of August are the White Chocolate Ivory Cheesecake and the Exquisitely Pinoy – a modern twist on Filipino Merienda.
For more info call 340-4888 or log on to www.waterfronthotels.com.ph