“At the end of the day, it’s not about us. It’s about the joy our customers feel when they dine with us. That’s the legacy we want to create.”

When Marvin Agustin and Kevin Paolo Villarica joined forces, it was more than a partnership — it was a fusion of passion, creativity, and a shared vision to elevate Cochi. Known for his multifaceted career as a celebrated actor, chef, and entrepreneur, Marvin Agustin has long been a household name. Kevin Villarica, on the other hand, is a culinary innovator, known for his meticulous research and development in the kitchen. Together, they have transformed Cochi by Marvin Agustin.

A Serendipitous Partnership

Marvin recalls how their collaboration came to be: “We met through Chef Kevin. I actually know him by the name of Pao because Pao is the son of one of my very good friends. I met Pao when he was very young. Even then, I knew he was passionate about food.”

Their connection deepened over the years, culminating in an opportunity to work together during the pandemic. “The universe just aligned,” Marvin shared. “I needed someone to help me strengthen the concept of Cochi. Pao came in, and it was perfect timing. He was finding his way back, and I needed a younger perspective.”

For Kevin, the partnership was equally serendipitous: “It was a perfect alignment. I wanted to bring my experience and ideas to the table, and Ninong Marvin gave me the platform to do just that.”

When Tradition Meets Innovation

Cochi by Marvin started as a home-based business specializing in cochinillo — a Spanish-inspired roast suckling pig. With Kevin’s input, the concept evolved into a full-fledged restaurant, offering a menu that marries tradition with innovation.

“Our cochinillo is different,” Kevin explains. “While it originates from Spain with western spices, we’ve added a twist. It’s more aligned with the Filipino palate, making it distinct and memorable.”

Marvin emphasizes their mission to create a holistic dining experience: “We don’t want Cochi to be just a casual restaurant. It’s about creating an ambiance where people stay, enjoy the food, and savor the vibe. We want our guests to feel at home but also discover something new with every visit.”

Lessons in Collaboration

For both Marvin and Kevin, the partnership has been a learning experience. “It’s like marrying your partner,” Marvin notes. “You’re constantly exchanging ideas, pushing each other to improve. The right partner can pull you up and make you better.”

Kevin echoes this sentiment: “Always choose the right partner in business. You can’t do it all by yourself. Having someone you trust, who challenges you and adds value to your vision, is key.”

Their ability to combine their strengths while respecting each other’s perspectives has been a cornerstone of their success. As Marvin puts it, “The ego should be set aside. It’s not about who’s right — it’s about creating something that delights our customers.”

Vision for a Flavorful Future

Marvin and Kevin are focused on redefining how people experience Cochi. “We want to surprise ourselves and our guests,” Marvin shares. “It’s about creating thoughtful details that make the dining experience more special, without losing the familiar comfort of our food.”

Kevin adds, “Our goal is to make Cochi accessible to everyone — not just Filipinos but foreigners as well. We want to show the world how versatile and beautiful our cuisine can be.”

Beyond Cochi, both chefs are working on new concepts set to launch in 2025, further cementing their commitment to setting a new standard for Cochi-inspired dining.

Chemistry in the Kitchen

What sets their partnership apart is their chemistry — a synergy born out of trust and mutual respect. “When there’s trust and good communication, something magical happens,” Kevin reflects. “It’s about listening, accepting feedback, and building on each other’s ideas.”

Marvin agrees: “Every day, we learn from each other. We face challenges head-on, talk about them, and constantly improve. It’s a dynamic process, and that’s what makes it exciting.”

A Culinary Legacy

Through Cochi, Marvin and Kevin aim to leave a lasting impact on our dining scene. Their innovative approach to traditional cuisine, combined with their dedication to excellence, ensures that Cochi isn’t just a restaurant, but also a celebration of Filipino culture and creativity.

As Marvin puts it, “At the end of the day, it’s not about us. It’s about the joy our customers feel when they dine with us. That’s the legacy we want to create.”

Kevin adds, “Cochi has so much potential. We’re just scratching the surface, and I’m excited for what’s next.”

With their shared passion and vision, Marvin Agustin and Kevin Villarica are not just elevating Cochi — they’re inspiring a new generation of chefs and entrepreneurs to dream big and innovate boldly.

If you’re looking for something that’s both familiar and delightful, Cochi by Marvin Agustin is the place to be. Located at Verve Residences, Unit 1, Ground Floor, Verve Residences Tower 2, 27th Street corner 9th Avenue, Taguig, Cochi invites you to indulge in an elevated dining experience that celebrates the heart and soul of local cuisine.

Reserve your table today and see why Marvin Agustin and Kevin Villarica’s vision for innovating traditional flavors is something you truly don’t want to miss.

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