Thursday, December 31, 2020

My Breastfeeding Journey

As a first time mom, I was clueless about so many things despite reading a ton of articles on raising a newborn. It was painful to see your child crying and not knowing what's wrong. I doubted myself and questioned if I was producing enough milk during the first few weeks postpartum. The sleepless nights didn't matter. What was more important was seeing Sam satisfied and full. And it was a struggle at first. But it's true what most moms say; it gets better. So hang in there, momma. 

I felt like a baby bird who got kicked out of the nest after getting discharged. With the aid of nurses and lactation consultants abruptly gone, I was back to being unsure about my every move. 

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

Roast 2020 with Kenny Rogers Roasters

2020 is not the favorite year of many. With several crazy things that happened, the Australia wildfire and the Taal Volcano eruption seemed so small for some. The global pandemic takes the top spot but we also cannot ignore the damages typhoons Rolly and Ulysses did to several cities a couple of months back. And while all of us are still struggling to cope with the new normal, others are still trying to stand on both feet after months of lockdown. 2020 is one year hard to forget (and perhaps get over with) and this is why Kenny Rogers created a space for everyone to roast the year and put it behind us, with fire! Literally.

Hello, Kenny Rogers Roasters.

Kenny Rogers thought of a creative way to let steam off by literally roasting the year in a delectable way. With meat shaped as 2020, it was roasted last December 29, live on Facebook, as people commented below their best roasts for 2020. 

Friday, December 18, 2020

A Celebration Must-Have: S.A.L.O. Lechon Belly Kitchen

Christmas is just around the corner, yet I could barely feel it. Sure, the breeze is a bit cooler than usual. But the lack of festive and colorful lights make it seem like galaxies away. The coronavirus coupled with damages caused by several typhoons has dampened our high spirits. But we should not let it stop us from celebrating this special occasion with our loved ones. And I'm so glad to discover the perfect Filipino spread that will surely tickle everyone's taste buds!

Hello, S.A.L.O. Lechon Belly Kitchen.

Its name says it all. S.A.L.O. is a food concept that specializes in Filipino dishes that are great for gatherings and potlucks. Its highlighted product, lechon belly, is a sure hit at any party with its perfectly crispy skin and succulent meat. 

Sunday, December 6, 2020

Quarantine Favorite: Motorino

I have a great fondness for Italian cuisine. Its practice of using the freshest ingredients never fails to give the most memorable dining experiences. And the best thing is that you don't even have to spend thousands to get it. Traveling to Italy made me realize that whether it's a Michelin-starred restaurant or a ready-made dish at the supermarket, everything was downright superb! I'm so glad that such quality is brought to Manila by Motorino.

Hello, Motorino.

Motorino has been around for years. It was one of the restaurants R and I had our early dates. I recall loving its gelato! This time around, I enjoyed a delicious feast composed of pizza, pasta, salad, and dessert. 

Thursday, November 26, 2020

My Birthing Story: I Gave Birth During A Global Pandemic

Expecting and giving birth during a global pandemic is one experience I'll never forget. I still remember the mixed feelings R and I had when we first found out that we're expecting. As much as we were thrilled to have a little one of our own, we couldn't help ourselves worry about the looming coronavirus. Everything became different now with the new normal. Medical checkups felt more like mission impossible or being at the setting of the movie Contagion. Baby shopping was all limited to online. And there was also a lack of social interactions with one's support group. The lack of trips outside also limited my physical activities that led to Sam's extended stay of 40 weeks and 4 days. And with no sign of her coming out, I had no choice but to be induced.

I was scheduled to be induced on Friday morning after my last prenatal checkup confirmed that I didn't dilate any further. Stuck at two to three centimeters, I had to head to the hospital (St. Luke's Medical City, Quezon City) that same afternoon.

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Love at First Bite: Cara Mia's Crème Brûlée Cake

Calling 2020 a crazy year is an understatement. It has been more than a roller coaster ride for many. But this year has also been filled with rays of sunshine--I got pregnant and gave birth to an adorable baby girl. I was also fortunate to score some work-related opportunities. And Cara Mia launching yet another delightful cake was a yummy cherry on top!

Hello, Cara Mia.

Cara Mia is one of my favorite dessert shops in Manila. I always go for its delectable Ube Cake, Strawberry Shortcake, and Mango Cream Pie whenever there's an occasion or when I feel like treating myself to something sweet. This time, they perfected the recipe for Crème Brûlée cake.

Monday, November 23, 2020

Postpartum Care: Ge Lai Dishes from Ahma Shirley

I was so excited for the day I get to meet Sam. I was looking forward to our first hug, kiss, and snuggle. But one thing I wasn't looking forward to was the pain of giving birth and the postpartum care I had to undergo for a month. Yes, I am talking about the Chinese postpartum practice called ge lai. I simply do not like the idea of not taking a bath for a month. But after a few days of indulging in ge lai dishes, I realized that it wasn't bad at all. I even like it. And it was a treat when Ahma Shirley PH offered to send some of their bestselling dishes my way.

Hello, Ahma Shirley.

Ahma Shirley specializes in traditional Chinese postpartum recovery dishes and conveniently deliver it straight to your doorstep. Its menu has been well received, not just by moms who recently gave birth, but also by those who enjoy feasting on the health benefits ge lai dishes offer.

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Food Delivery: Infinitea's Family Packs

The new normal has pushed several businesses to be innovative and bring the good ol' days' experience to their patrons' homes. We've seen bento boxes, DIY kits, and so much more. One of my favorites is how the milk tea industry delighted us with their take-home options. And Infinitea's ready to drink collapsible liter jugs sure made it to my top list.

Hello, Infinitea.

Infinitea has known in the market for its affordable milk teas and other beverages. I remember having it weekly back when I was still working for Summit Media. I'd often get its chocolate milk tea or classic milk tea. 

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Expecting During a Pandemic: Husbands Now Allowed Inside Delivery Room at St. Luke's

I missed out a lot while expecting during a pandemic. I didn't get to enjoy those fun baby fairs or experience a baby shower. I found myself extra paranoid every time I step out of the house. And getting the food I crave was, more often than not, a challenge. But the saddest thing this new normal changed for pregnant women is not having their husbands or partners beside them during labor and delivery. I wanted to share this precious moment with R. And luck was on our side when I found out that one companion during delivery is now allowed at St. Luke's! 

Two days to go before we meet Sam!

I was beyond thrilled when I accidentally found out that husbands or partners can now enter the delivery room. It was late at night when I was browsing through Glam-O-Mamas' Facebook community page when someone inquired about a swab test for her husband as he'll accompany her in the delivery room. She was asking fellow moms if paying PHP4,300 (walk-in) or PHP6,500 (drive-thru) is worth it given its short validity of five days for dads or dads-to-be (versus two weeks for moms). 

Monday, October 19, 2020

Takeout Picks: Black Scoop

Black Scoop is one of my go-to milk tea shops since 2018. With its delectable fruit teas and addictive milk teas, it's hard not to grab a few drinks whenever I pass by a branch. I know that they have savory meals too, but I only got to try some of its dishes during the community quarantine. And since I now know that they have good chicken poppers, I decided to grab some again after my OB appointment. 

Hello, Black Scoop.

For a milk tea shop, Black Scoop offers a good range of dishes to complement its sweet drinks. Its menu includes rice meals, sandwiches, pasta, and snacks. 

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Pregnancy Journey: Covid-19 Walk-In vs. Drive-Thru Swab Test Experience at St. Luke's Medical Center QC

Anticipation. This is probably the best word to describe the stage R and I are in these past two weeks. From a false labor scare to scheduling my swab test (a new normal protocol) a tad too early, we've reached the part where we're itching to see our little one. But Sam doesn't seem to be ready yet that I had to redo my swab test as the first result's validity already expired. And to shake things up, I decided to try its walk-in swab test instead of taking drive-thru twice.

Hello again, Swab Test!

One of the perks of giving birth at St. Luke's Medical Center Quezon City is that your required swab test before delivery is complimentary. You can even choose drive-thru without any additional cost. However, those who hit over two weeks and haven't delivered yet have to take another swab test. And this time, you have to pay for it. 

Scheduling an appointment for my swab test this time around was not as convenient as the first one. I felt less prioritized as I had to do things on my own. But it was still pretty straightforward and quick as everything was done via St. Luke's ehub portal. 

Monday, October 12, 2020

Underrated Drinks: Dakasi's Creme Avocado

With baby Sam's arrival getting nearer and nearer, I find myself wanting to indulge in cold treats every single day. From ice cream to frozen cake, I just want to have them all before I start ge lai. And I'm so happy to be able to try Dakasi before I give birth. 

Hello, Dakasi.

Dakasi has been named as one of the underrated milk tea brands in Manila. As one of the minor players in the milk tea industry, it's easy to forget Dakasi when asked for the top of mind boba brands.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Takeout Favorite: Ooma's Ebi and Soft Shell Crab Tempura Aburi Bake

It has been seven months since I last dined in and traveled. And as much as I tell myself that it's better to stay cooped up indoors, I can't help miss the "old" normal. Thankfully, many restaurants made it a lot bearable for us by making takeouts a bit more interesting, just like Ooma with its bento meals and its lip-smackingly good aburi bake!

Hello, Ooma.

Ooma is no stranger to those who love Japanese fusion dishes. Its wide array of maki and entrees guarantees that there's something for everyone. And for me, it has always been its soft shell crab taco maki and hanger steak.

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Motherhood Diaries: WaterWipes

From a distant future to nine months, then a few weeks, and now, days, I can't believe that I'll be seeing my little one soon. I have to be honest, I never saw myself as mommy material. But things changed as soon as I found out that I'm pregnant and that I'll be a mom. I became diligent in reading the ingredients list as well as familiarizing myself with the chemicals to avoid, a habit I only got to build after seeing two lines twice! I now think of my baby, who is solely dependent on me. Thankfully, several brands in the market meet my plan to stick with all-natural products. And a new addition to my baby bag is WaterWipes.

Hello, WaterWipes.

WaterWipes was born out of a father's passion for his daughter. 

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Food Delivery: The Pastry Puff's Portuguese Egg Tarts

I still remember my first bite of egg tart. It was when I was strolling along the busy streets of Binondo and spotted one of the famous egg tart brands in Manila. All it took was one bite for me to be addicted to this delectable Portuguese-style egg tarts. I tried several other brands after. But nothing came close to the one I had in Chinatown. That was until I got to try The Pastry Puff.

Hello, The Pastry Puff

I have never heard of The Pastry Puff till Jen of Hungry Apron PH introduced it to me.

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Pregnancy Journey: My Covid-19 Swab Test Experience at St. Luke's Medical Center QC

Being pregnant during a pandemic could be a blessing and a curse. Though I enjoyed the break I got from the two-month lockdown and skipping the grueling daily commute to and from the office, there are just too many changes and new normal to keep up with. From prenatal check-ups to giving birth, that makes the whole pregnancy journey became not as bright and happy, especially for first-time moms like me. And one of the things I dreaded the most is the hospital policy of pregnant women having swab test prior to giving birth. Hearing and reading about how stressful the experience could be made me worried. But to my surprise, it was actually not that bad thanks to the efficient team behind St. Luke's Medical Center Quezon City's drive-thru team. 

Hello, Covid-19 Swab Test!

My pregnancy journey has been relatively smooth throughout the whole 36 weeks. Though there were minor dizzy spells, weird cravings, and back pains, I never encountered anything serious or problematic. I'm so thankful too as the last thing I want to do is go to the hospital for a series of laboratory tests. My OB-GYNE visits (outside the hospital) alone was enough to make me paranoid. (I refuse to take the lift and climb up five flights of stairs every time I have an appointment.)

Monday, September 28, 2020

Quarantine Favorite: Hungry Apron PH's Hainanese Chicken

Time flies by so fast. I can't believe that I'll be giving birth in a few weeks. And as much as I dread it, I am considering to do ge lai as it is said to help post-partum. But I discovered a dish that I think would make me look forward to eating gingery food!

Hello, Hungry Apron PH

I love Hainanese chicken. Sadly, I seldom find good ones here in Manila. More often than not, I'd end up having dry or bland ones that are highly dependent on the ginger spring onion sauce. Thankfully, the brilliant people behind Matt's Waffles decided to share their amazing Hainanese chicken with us.

Sunday, September 27, 2020

Quarantine Favorite: Butter and Cheese Creations' Red Velvet Cheesecake

Being pregnant made me crave sweet food all the time. I developed an insatiable appetite for anything chocolate as soon as I hit the second trimester. And my OB-GYNE is not happy about it. I try my best to curb my desire for this sweet treat to no avail. Thankfully, some shops offer cakes and other desserts with less guilt. And one of my current obsessions now is Butter and Cheese Creations' Red Velvet Cheesecake. 

Hello, Butter and Cheese Creations.

Butter and Cheese Creations is an online cake shop owned by Christine Tan, a pilot mommy who has a knack at baking delectable cakes. She decided to pursue her passion for baking during the pandemic. Her current menu of cakes includes red velvet cheesecake, carrot cake, caramel custard cake, super fudge chocolate, mud cake, and ube cake.

Friday, September 25, 2020

Guilt-Free Snack: K-Radish Pickled Radish

I used to think that all kimchis are made and taste the same. My first ever bite of kimchi was beyond appalling that I refused to eat kimchi for almost a decade! Talk about the saying 'first impression lasts'. But after discovering how great ssambaps are, I became open to the idea of having kimchi with my Korean BBQ. I even fell in love with kimchi fried rice to the point of having it for breakfast at least once a week. And one of my favorite snacks now is Kimchi Radish by K-Radish.

Hello, K-Radish.

K-Radish is the brainchild of two doctors who know their way in the kitchen. Drs. Harris and Marie Co came up with the idea of offering pickled radish during the nationwide quarantine and thought that it would be a perfect snack to have while watching our favorite K-Dramas. 

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Quarantine Favorite: The Ordinary Sip's White Fungus Dessert

One of the best things we can do for ourselves during this global pandemic is to strengthen our immune system. We could do so by exercising or eating the right food. The first option is becoming too difficult for me when I enter my 9th month of pregnancy, so I try my best to eat nutritious food for me and my baby, Sam. And I'm so happy to discover a delectable treat that not only tastes so good but packed with health benefits perfect for expectant moms like me. 

Hello, The Ordinary Sip.

The Ordinary Sip is the newest brainchild of the talented girls behind Nacho Macho MNL. This time around, they came up with a not so usual dessert that R and I love. 

Saturday, September 19, 2020

When in Naples, Italy: Pompeii City

Italy has so much to offer in terms of culture, cuisine, and history. Every city has its charm. And we were so glad that our lack of itinerary led us to visit Naples. This southern city is about an hour away from the famous Pompeii, one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations.

Hello, Pompeii.

Pompeii is not like the posh Milan, busy Rome, or the picturesque Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre. It is an ancient city engulfed by beautiful yet deadly Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

My First Longboat Race Experience

One of the best perks of tagging along with R during his work trips is being able to have unique experiences. I've had my knees lit on fire as part of massage treatment, and I got to enjoy freshly harvested sugarcane while walking around a sugarcane field. But one of my favorites was my trip to Guagua in Pampanga where we got to witness a local longboat race and even got to ride it too!

Fast and the Furious, Guagua Edition!

Clark and Angeles are the top of mind places when Pampanga's mentioned. Guagua, though a first-class municipality under the same province, usually takes the back seat. But this town has some quirky happenings too!

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Preventive Care: Nude Handmade Essentials' CleanPro Antibacterial Products

It has been months since the global pandemic Covid-19 hit us, and we still know so little about it. One thing is for sure, observance of good hygiene helps lessen the chance of getting it. And one new brand I adore now is Nude Handmade Essentials' CleanPro line. 

Hello, Nude Handmade Essentials.

Nude Handmade Essentials has an ample selection of disinfectants and antibacterial solutions to help shield us from the deadly coronavirus. Its CleanPro line has affordable but quality products that are great for indoor and outdoor use.

Monday, September 14, 2020

Countdown to the Big Day: My Hospital Bag

Time sure flies fast! I can't believe that I'm now on my 8th month of pregnancy and that I'll see my little one in less than two months. I guess I'm too excited as I started packing my hospital bag when I hit my 28th week. It was slow progress as we completed our baby's necessities just recently. But now, it's finally ready!

Countdown to the big day: Our Hospital Bag

With the global pandemic in mind, I wanted to be prepared as much as possible and limit our exposure. I read that most moms who gave birth during the lockdown stayed in the hospital for two to three days maximum instead of the usual three to five days. Some were even discharged within 48 hours from giving birth. I guess this is the hospital's way of limiting the mom's and baby's exposure to coronavirus, and at the same time maximize the use of its rooms. 

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Best Sourdough in Manila: Otter Breads' Sourdough Noir

I have a weak spot for bread. I would often grab a loaf or two whenever I go to the supermarket or go crazy every time I pass by a bakeshop. And when Otter Breads offered for me to try its newest sourdough creation, I said yes in a heartbeat!

Hello again, Otter Breads.

I love how Otter Breads' dedication and support for local suppliers. It regularly comes up with new artisanal products made with the finest Filipino produce. And one of its latest creations is its Sourdough Noir.

Friday, September 4, 2020

Food Delivery Favorite: Snack in a Tub's Cheese and Cold Cuts

 I have a weak spot for cheese and cold cuts. I'd always go for some whenever I see a platter in a buffet or party. And thanks to Snack in a Tub, I can have my share of a colorful platter weekly!

Hello, Snack in a Tub.

Snack in a Tub is a local online food delivery that specializes in beautifully packed cheese and cold cuts in a tub. Don't be fooled by its luxurious look as this shop offers pocket-friendly tubs. 

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Beat the Heat and Flu with AICE's Milk & Eggs Ice Cream

Living in Manila is like getting used to being roasted daily. And I mean 'roasted' in a literal way as it hardly gets cold here. Hence, many crave cold treats such as halo-halo, bingsu, and other icy desserts almost 24/7. I'm so glad that ice cream is one of the most easily available heat relief products in the market, and it was made even better by AICE.

Hello, AICE.

With its appealing combination of affordable price points, a wide variety of flavors, and quality products, it was not surprising for Filipinos to go gaga over AICE since it launched in the Philippines back in 2018.

Saturday, August 29, 2020

Food Delivery Favorite: Gang Gang Boneless Fried Chicken

I have a weak spot for fried chicken. Just thinking about its crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside texture makes me drool. And I'm so happy that I get to enjoy lemon fried chicken anytime I want. But a new food discovery, Gang Gang Boneless Fried Chicken, made me realize that there are other flavors out there that deserve love. 

Hello, Gang Gang Boneless Fried Chicken.

Gang Gang Boneless Fried Chicken is yet another brainchild of the creative individuals behind Boa Kitchen + Socials and Buwan

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Love at First Bite: The Bright Bakers' Ube Cheese Rolls

Ube Cheese Pandesal is one of the hottest food trends this 2020. There must be over a hundred shops selling this Instagram-worthy product. I admit that I've had my fair share of this trend. Though delicious, I wasn't sold with the whole concept until I had Hi, Bear!'s ube pan. But it was just a start as I discovered something that blew me away even more. And that was with the Ube Cheese Rolls by The Bright Bakers.

Hello, The Bright Bakers.

The Bright Bakers is one of the newest food businesses born during the pandemic. Browsing through its social media feed would give you the impression that it's just another bakeshop selling pretty much the same items as any other shop. But it sells one of the fluffiest cheese rolls in town.

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Food Delivery Favorite: Dip't MNL's Candied Strawberries

This year is full of unexpected twists and turns. We were supposed to attend the Canton Fair in April and go around Korea in May. But we all know what happened these past months. Thankfully, many new businesses were born during these trying times and made us cope with the new normal a bit better. And Dip't MNL eased my disappointment for missing our much-awaited return trip to Korea. 

Hello, Dip't MNL.

Dip't MNL is one of the many new online businesses that opened this 2020. It specializes in candied strawberries, one of the popular street foods in Korea (and even in China and Taiwan).

Saturday, August 15, 2020

A Southern Gem: Hi Bear! Ube and Charcoal Pandesal

Don't you love how many new small businesses opened and flourished during the lockdown? I've virtually met several young entrepreneurs who open their shops and pursue their passions. Many even dabbled into offering the most raved dishes this 2020. And speaking of hypes, one of the food items people cannot seem to get over with is ube cheese pandesal. I've tried a handful, but one of my top picks is Hi Bear.

Hello, Hi Bear!

Hi Bear is the brainchild of Jace Velasco, a self-branded "wanna-be" baker. But one bite of her stuffed pandesal will make you think otherwise. 

Friday, August 14, 2020

Food Delivery: Busan Kitchen

I surprised my family with flight tickets to Korea. But I was in for a bigger surprise when Covid-19 put a halt on all international flights. And even if flights pushed through, it was just too risky for us; especially when I'm expecting. Thankfully, we have pretty good Korean restaurants in Manila. A new one that claims serve authentic Korean fare is Busan Kitchen.

Hello, Busan Kitchen.

Busan Kitchen is one of the newest Korean restaurants in town. Founded by Mr. Kim Dong Jun, a Korean national born and raised in Busan, he is committed to serving authentic Korean cuisine to the Manila market. 

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Your Health and Wellness Shopping Partner: weNOURISH

I'd always grab some chips, cookies and all those not so healthy treats whenever I do my grocery shopping. It has been a constant struggle to limit it as I grew up stuffing myself with all those snacks. But now that I'm expecting my first child, I want to be more mindful of the food I eat. And I am so that there is finally a shop that curates all the best healthy finds out in the market. 

Hello, weNOURISH.

I have a long list of products I wanted to try during ECQ. But I always get so turned off by the ridiculous shipping fees. More often than not, shipping would cost more than the products I want to buy. 

Friday, August 7, 2020

Not Just Another Hype: Nacho Macho MNL

Don't you just love how many new food concepts were born during the lockdown? From dalgona coffee to ube pandesal and sourdough bread, we now have things such as sushi bake and bibimbake. And one of the newest hypes I got to try was Nacho Macho MNL's Nacho Bake. 

Hello, Nacho Macho MNL.

Nacho Macho is the brainchild of two young entrepreneurs Kelsey and Kelshia Lopez. They started this business just last month. And it has already gained patrons within the metro. 

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Food Delivery Favorite: Serenitea's DIY Milk Tea Home Kits

Milk tea has been one of the drinks I've been craving since the lockdown. But the fact that I can't reheat it makes me worried. Yes, studies are saying that transmission through food is low to unlikely. But you can never say to a pregnant woman's face that she's a germaphobe when she has a little one to protect. Thankfully, Serenitea started offering DIY kits of its bestsellers. It made me feel more at ease as I get to make and enjoy my drinks in a space I'd consider safe. 

Hello, Serenitea.
Serenitea launched its DIY milk tea kits back in April. And it was an instant hit. Available in Okinawa and Taro variants, it also has sets that come in your favorite sinkers.

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Food Delivery: Old Swiss Inn Cheese Fondue Kit

It has been almost five months since I last dined in a restaurant. I miss the different ambiance, the background chatter, and being indecisive on which dishes to get. And with a stricter Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine back in place, it becomes harder once again to feel a bit of normalcy. I'm so happy though that there are a lot of creative minds in the food industry offering endless DIY kits for us to bring the whole dining experience a bit more engaging. This time, I tried a Cheese Fondue Kit from Old Swiss Inn. 

Hello, Old Swiss Inn.
The Old Swiss Inn has been a popular and favorite restaurant in Manila for decades. Established in 1946, this homey yet classy space has charmed locals and expatriates alike with its authentic Swiss and European dishes. And it has its founder Swiss national Emil Landert to thank for.

Thursday, July 30, 2020

Food Delivery: Choi Garden

The spike of Covid-19 cases in the Philippines is alarming. We have doubled the number of cases in just a month. Hence I am sticking with having my favorites delivered instead of me going out. And I don't feel like I'm missing out that much as most of my favorite establishments now offer takeout and delivery. One of my top picks last month was Choi Garden.

Hello, Choi Garden.

Choi Garden has been one of our go-to restaurants for Chinese food. We would usually have dinner there whenever we crave for roast duck or pork. And last Father's Day, R's dad requested that we get some of our favorites from this classic Chinese restaurant. 

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Restaurant Love: Nonna's

I am a big fan of truffles! I love anything with a strong kick of this fragrant ingredient. For one, Mama Lou's truffle pasta surely makes my top list of truffle dishes. And when I had a belated birthday celebration with my mom and sister, I made sure that we dine somewhere where I get my truffle fix. This time, we went with Nonna's in Robinsons Galleria.

Hello, Nonna's
Nonna's is the sister brand of Mama Lou's. You'd quickly notice it too once you check its menu. 

Monday, July 27, 2020

When in Bohol: Take a Trip to Anda

I fell in love with going to the not so touristy areas of different provinces. These hidden gems are what make me fall in love with my country. It has so much to offer. You just have to sometimes to head towards the unbeaten path. And last December, R and I went to Anda, Bohol for a quick vacation after a grueling journey in South Asia. 

Hello, Anda!
Anda is on the southeast side of Bohol. It is not a very popular tourist spot due to its far proximity from Panglao where most luxurious resorts are situated. In fact, from Panglao International Airport, you have to take a 30-minute ride to get to Tagbilaran and about three hours to get to Anda.

Sunday, July 26, 2020

Food Delivery: Salmon HQ's Sushi Bake

Sushi Bake is one of the hottest food trends that emerged during Manila's lockdown. Several shops started selling this sushi spin-off. From the classic California Maki-inspired sushi bake to fancier pans made with scallop and uni, there are a lot of options to choose from depending on your budget. And if you are more particular with quality over price, Salmon HQ is one brand you should consider.

Hello, Salmon HQ.
Salmon HQ is one of the many new businesses that opened during the Enhanced Community Quarantine. It originally focused on offering different kinds of fresh sashimi. But with the craze for Sushi Bake getting stronger and no sign of slowing down, Salmon HQ decided to join the hype. And it launched its Crunchy California Sushi Bake (PHP500, 6.75" x 5.75" pan | PHP1,000, 8" x 8" | PHP1,200, 8" x 10" pan) and Aburi Scallop, Salmon and Ebi Sushi Bake (PHP700, 6.75" x 5.75" pan | PHP1,400, 8" x 8" | PHP1,600, 8" x 10" pan) last June.

Friday, July 24, 2020

Black Scoop Launches its Pints-To-Go

Milk tea is one of the drinks I find hard to resist. I've been so used to gulping down at least one large cup a week. The lockdown changed all that as I barely had any sweet drink for months. To make up for all the milk tea I missed, I had a gallon of boba from Black Scoop and tried a few new items on its menu.

Hello, Black Scoop.
Black Scoop has been one of my favorite milk tea brands since 2018. I always get its classic boba flavors and fruit teas whenever I pass by. 

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

My Pregnancy Journey: First Edamama Shopping Experience

One of the struggles of expecting moms these days is ticking off items from our long shopping list. With several malls and stores not allowing pregnant women to enter, most of us have to rely on online stores to get our maternity and baby items. Thankfully, there are a handful of reliable shops to help us. One of which is Edamama. 

Hello, Edamama.
I was so excited when I discovered Edamama. It carries several brands I've been eying to buy for my baby and myself. And I made sure to check it out when it had a sale three weeks ago.

Monday, July 20, 2020

All Natural: Bloomglow Luxe Trio Set Review

Being pregnant during a pandemic is not easy. It was especially challenging during the Enhanced Community Quarantine when I didn't get to visit my OB-GYN for two months. Even with the more lenient quarantine guidelines, I'm still not comfortable going out. And all the stress and paranoia took a toll on my physical well being. Thankfully, Bloomglow got my back (or hair and skin to be more precise) and brought it back to life.

Hello, Bloomglow.
Bloomglow is the sister brand of Orange and Peach, a 100% local brand that offers quality products for breastfeeding moms, babies, and children. Bloomglow, on the other hand, focuses on moms and their physical needs. 

Friday, July 17, 2020

Food Delivery Favorite: Gab's Just Desserts

My trip to Italy was one of the most memorable adventures I've had to date. From getting lost in Siena to walking on the cobblestones of Rome and feasting on Naples's iconic Neopolitan pizza, I have wonderful experiences at each stop. One of the highlights of our Italy trip was indulging in Italy's amazing desserts. We went crazy with panna cotta and gelato. But one thing we missed was cannoli. Thankfully, there's Gab's Just Desserts.

Hello, Gab's Just Desserts.
Gab's Just Desserts is one of the few online shops that specialize in Italian desserts. The owners, having been based in Italy for three years, are very familiar with its sweet treats. And they figured that the boom of e-commerce is the perfect time to launch their dessert concept.

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

First Sip: Koomi

Yogurt isn't everyone's top pick when it comes to dessert. Filipinos prefer sweets over something tangy for a sweet ending. But we've noticed a shift in consumer behavior these past few years. With more consumers becoming health-conscious, yogurt brands started to become a great alternative to ice cream and even milk tea. And it was timely for Koomi to enter the Manila food scene. 

Hello, Koomi.
Koomi is a well-known Aussie yogurt-based drink brand with a wide array of equally healthy flavors. And to cater to the local market, Koomi offers two yogurt bases, Aussie, a blend with sharper and sourer flavor, and Filipino, which has a sweeter taste.

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Food Delivery: Go! Salads Smoothie Kits

Eating healthy has been a challenge for me for years. I grew up spoiled with chips, soda, chocolates, and everything one would consider far from nutritious. But the availability of fresh produce made me want to have a healthier lifestyle. And being pregnant made me more motivated to stick to it. Thankfully, Go! Salads got my back when it comes to power smoothies!

Hello, Go! Salads.
Go! Salads is known for their fresh and convenient salad bowls. With several mixes to choose from, it's hard to get bored with eating healthy. For an extra dose of fiber and vitamins, many indulge in its delicious smoothies. And you can now have these guilt-free drinks at home!

Monday, July 13, 2020

Food Delivery Favorite: Pizza X

I love brands that make their customers feel like master chefs! As a novice in the kitchen, I was so happy when several establishments came up with easy do-it-yourself dishes. I've tried a handful, and everything turned out great! And with my insatiable appetite for pizza, I was thrilled when I received a sampler pizza pack from Pizza X.

Hello, Pizza X.
Pizza X is one of the newest food concepts in town. It offers frozen thin-crust pizzas in solo sizes. 

Friday, July 10, 2020

My Pregnancy Journey: The First Trimester Medical Experience

Being a first-time mom made me so dependent on Google. I'd often find myself searching for pregnancy tips and check-up schedules. One thing I found out is that you have to book an appointment with an OB-GYN as soon as you find out that you're expecting. And here's my first trimester medical experience.

Hello, First Trimester.
The first trimester is said to be the most challenging period of pregnancy.  And this is also known to be the riskiest trimester. 

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Food Delivery: Overdoughs Crinkles

Pregnancy has turned me into a crinkle monster. My appetite for this baked treat seems to be insatiable. I always find myself drooling at the idea of having more. Thankfully, one of my favorite brands, Overdoughs, added it in its list of delectable offerings!

Hello, Overdoughs Crinkles.
Overdoughs is one of my top cookie brands. Aside from selling amazing cookies, its passion toward the deaf-mute community made this food group one of the best in my book. And I was thrilled when I found out that they're now offering crinkles!

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

First Bite: Yoshimeatsu's Sushi Bake and Tebasaki

Manila's community quarantine gave birth to many home bakers, chefs, and first-time entrepreneurs. Every day, our social media feeds get filled with photos of baked goods, handicrafts, and items for reselling. It felt like a trap as I couldn't help myself from trying a lot. Sushi bake was no exception. Just hearing my friends gush about it makes me drool. And I was happy to be able to try the one from Yoshimeatsu a few weeks back.

Hello, Yoshimeatsu
Yoshimeatsu is one of the popular Korean-Japanese restaurants in Manila. Known for its wide selection of Korean BBQ meats and Japanese staples, it grew to multiple branches in just a short period.