Dingdong Dantes returns to the table with MESA’s continued expansion
Kapuso actor Dingdong Dantes continues to showcase his passion for Filipino food as he renews his partnership with Mesa, a fast-growing homegrown restaurant chain.
A Stronger Bond with Mesa
On February 20, Dingdong signed a new contract as the official brand ambassador of Mesa in a ceremony held at Greenbelt 5 in Makati City. He was joined by his longtime talent manager Perry Lansigan, Mesa’s CEO Rikki Dee, COO Eric Dee, and VP for National Operations Raymond Federigan.
Dingdong has been the face of Mesa since 2019, helping the brand expand its reach and elevate Filipino dining experiences. With this renewed partnership, he remains a key supporter of Mesa’s “Road to 100” campaign, an initiative celebrating the restaurant’s steady growth, which now boasts 80 branches nationwide.
A Deeper Connection to the Brand
More than just another endorsement deal, this contract renewal marks a deeper, more personal connection with the brand for Dingdong.
“Mas espesyal ang signing na ito dahil it also signifies my inclusion sa history ng Mesa, sa brand, dahil napag-usapan namin a couple of years ago na kapag tama na ang opportunity bilang proud ambassador, kailangan meron talaga akong physical evidence na parte talaga ako ng Mesa. Gusto ko lang i-announce na I will soon be one of the proud partners of branch 88, which will be announced very soon kung saan ang location,” Dingdong shared during the event.
This milestone solidifies his involvement with Mesa, not just as an ambassador but also as a business partner.
Shared Values and Lasting Collaboration
When asked why he has remained loyal to Mesa for six years, Dingdong highlighted their aligned principles.
“Aligned ‘yung values sa umpisa pa lang, maraming mga bagay na in common sa amin pero siguro pinakamaganda doon, pareho kami na gusto makapag bigay ng quality dining experience especially when it comes to Filipino food. Kasi I’m a food lover and sila ay advocates of delicious food. Talagang nagtugma ang mga gusto namin and even beyond Mesa, natutuwa ako na na-develop ang friendship namin eventually.”
His connection with the brand goes beyond business—it’s a shared commitment to promoting high-quality Filipino cuisine.
The Impact of a Trusted Ambassador
Mesa’s COO, Eric Dee, emphasized the significance of having Dingdong as their representative.
“Our restaurant has been in the industry for more than 30 years now. It took us 10 years to decide whether or not to have an endorser and when Dingdong was on the table, we felt that he was the perfect person to represent the brand. We want someone wholesome, we want someone who’s a family man, we want someone humble and like I said, never ako nagka-problema dealing with Dingdong. He’s always a text away, he’s always a WhatsApp or phone call away. Sometimes nga siya pa ang tumatawag dito kapag walang sumasagot, eh. But it has become more than just a business relationship but more of a friendship. So, very happy to prolong this relationship with him and grow the brand with him.”
Mesa’s Growing Legacy
Since launching its first branch in Greenbelt 5, Makati, in 2009, Mesa has cemented its place in the Filipino dining scene. With 80 stores across the country and more on the way, the brand has gained recognition for its unique take on traditional dishes.
Mesa has received multiple accolades, including the “Best Binakol in the Philippines,” the “Best Crispchon in the World” from Taste Atlas, and a 12-year streak as one of the “Best Filipino Restaurants” in the Philippines by Philippine Tatler. It was also named “Best Retailer of the Year” by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Philippine Retailers Association.
As part of the Foodee Global Concepts family—known for bringing Michelin-starred restaurants like Tim Ho Wan and Hawker Chan to the country—Mesa continues to push the boundaries of Filipino cuisine while staying true to its roots.
With Dingdong Dantes at its side, the brand is set for even greater success.
