Dani Barretto, a social media personality and businesswoman, expressed her excitement at meeting actress-turned-chef Judy Ann Santos. The celebrity content creator shared a snapshot of their conversation during one of the actress’s Chef’s Nights at her restaurant in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, on Instagram.
Dani and her husband, Xavi Panlilio, were able to attend the Chef’s Nights that Judy Ann has been giving at her restaurant.
Dani took to Instagram to share a candid photo of their meeting, describing the experience as a special moment. In her post, she gushed over how warm and gracious Judy Ann was in person, calling her “one of my biggest inspirations, both as a mom and as a woman who balances passion and family so beautifully.”
Dani attended the intimate dinner with her husband Xavi Panlilio, joining other guests for the exclusive multi-course meal personally prepared by Judy Ann. The Chef’s Night series has become one of the most talked-about dining experiences in the south of Metro Manila, featuring the actress’s signature dishes and culinary creations that reflect her passion for cooking.
Judy Ann, who trained professionally in culinary arts after stepping back from full-time acting, has been hosting Chef’s Nights to personally cook for guests and experiment with seasonal menus. The events often sell out within days of announcement.
“Cooking is another form of storytelling for me,” Judy Ann said in a previous interview. “It’s how I express love and creativity now.”
Attendees, including Dani, praised not just the food but also the cozy, home-style ambiance that made the evening memorable.
Fans of both celebrities flooded Dani’s post with comments, expressing how they, too, would love to experience Judy Ann’s culinary creations. Some also admired Dani for her genuine appreciation of the actress, noting how her post reflected humility and admiration.
The encounter highlights how Judy Ann continues to inspire even fellow personalities in the entertainment industry—not just through her iconic acting career, but also her successful transition into the culinary world.
