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. 

Dairy Queen's Holiday Treats this 2018

As Christmas decor start to fill the city and bring joy to many, Dairy Queen launched a product line that would make the holiday season even more festive. 

Hello, Dairy Queen. 

It has been a tradition of Dairy Queen to come up with Christmas flavors in celebration of the holiday season. For this year, it launches three drool-worthy flavors namely Hershey's Kisses Almonds Double Cocoa, Hershey's Kisses Mango Cookie and Hershey's Kisses Cookie Buttercrisp. 

Just in Time for Christmas: Midsummer Manila Christmas Creations Pop-Up Bazaar

Midsummer is back and just in time for the holiday! With over 50 merchants offering unique fashion pieces, scrumptious treats, striking statement pieces and about anything and everything for you and your loved ones, this is one bazaar you shouldn't miss.

Hello, Midsummer Manila.

I had the pleasure to attend its bazaar a few months ago held at Arya and my eyes feasted on the beautiful items brought by the wonderfully curated merchants of Midsummer Manila. Though it is not as big as bazaar giants, one of the things I love about Midsummer Manila is how it made shopping a lot easier by handpicking its merchants and just offering some of the best in town. 

Save November 20 and 21, 2018, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as Midsummer Manila has more in store for you in this season of gift giving!

Christmas Hack: Alternatives Food Corporation's Holiday Packages

Christmas shopping is one of the tasks I both love and hate to do. I love that I get to spoil the people special to me on this happy season but the insane holiday traffic makes shopping a daunting task. This is why I've decided to have some trusted suppliers for my Christmas gifts. Lately, I've been relying on Alternatives Food Corporation for my steak needs and I was thrilled when I found out that they offer Christmas packages perfect as gifts for fellow meat lovers. 

Hello, perfect Christmas gift!

I always find it hard to buy people gifts so I always end up buying the safest present... food. And when I found out that Alternatives Food Corporation now offers Christmas packages, the santa in me shouted "bingo"!

Love at First Bite: Hello Goodbites

I could never say no to cookies. I drool every time I get a whiff of freshly baked goodies and I hardly hesitate to click the like button whenever I see it in my feed. Lately, I'm in the hunt for cookies I could proudly give away for Christmas and I noticed a high school batch mate of mine offering her "rejects" for free. By rejects, I do not mean bad batch but more of it just came out the wrong size or cracked. Her strict quality control impressed me and piqued my interest. And a few days ago, I finally decided to comment on her post asking for the price list. 

Hi there, Hello Goodbites!

Hello Goodbites is a passion project by Loren Calo. What makes her cookie business a tough cookie to beat is that she ensures freshness in a different level. Your cookies are delivered as soon as it gets out of the oven! She bakes on weekdays and delivers it on the same day (or hour)! And if traffic cooperates, your order might reach your doorstep still warm. 

Midsummer Manila Trunk Show Finds

I used to be so addicted to bazaars that I mark each and every one in my calendar. And yes, it definitely drains the budget. I still remember how excited I was whenever the Rockwell or Noel bazaars will announce its dates and I make sure to block at least 2 of the three dates for shopping. But as I grew older, my priorities changed. I started to save more and smarter on where I spend my hard earned cash. Needless to say, I've grown more mature and learned when to splurge and save. But when I got invited to Midsummer Manila's trunk show a few weeks back, the shopaholic in me was back.

Hello, Midsummer Manila. 

Midsummer Manila is a bazaar and trunk show organizer that has been roaming around Manila specifically Makati and BGC with its curated concessionaires offering unique finds. 

I was invited to (I think) its second trunk show which took place in one of Arya Residences' function rooms and I was impressed with the selection. Hardly any can be considered mainstream. Most are beautifully hand crafted and worth every penny. 

Here's a rundown of my favorite finds:

Christmas Hacks: Mr. Cochinillo

With Christmas just around the corner, most of us are starting to get busy working on having a stress-free holiday. But with traffic becoming impossible as early as now, we have to plan smarter. And with holiday equating to endless feasts, one of the daunting tasks we have to face is to prepare food which means constant trips to the supermarket. Thankfully, there are a lot of places to get scrumptious ready to eat dishes and one of my top picks this year is Mr. Cochinillo. 

Hello, Mr. Cochinillo. 

Cochinillo is known as a popular delicacy in Spain with its tradition of slow-roasting the suckling pig over wood fire in brick ovens. The result is crisp, succulent and juicy pork that would make any gathering or festivity memorable.

Christmas Hacks: Barcino's Christmas Party Packages and Party Trays

Christmas is just around the corner and with relatives coming home for the holidays and potluck parties filling our calendars, I couldn't help myself from looking for some shortcuts. It is also the busiest time of the year for me so having a little help is very much appreciated. Thankfully, several establishments I patronize are embracing the holiday spirit and are saving most of us from slaving in the kitchen. And one of the newest addition to my list of saviors is Barcino. 

Hello, Barcino. 

I got an invite from D a few weeks ago inviting me to a tasting of its newest offerings. I thought that it would just be some new dishes in the menu. But I was surprised that it was actually party packages and party trays fit for any occasion. 

First Bite: Doux PH

With Christmas fast approaching, we get busier than ever finding the perfect gifts for our family and friends. I've been through a lot of holiday shopping mayhem to remember and there is only one thing I got from it-- plan ahead or suffer. And after years of practice, I'm proud to say that I managed to cross out my entire list after a short call. How do I do it? By having a trusty supplier to provide me with delectable treats to give out to everyone. But one new baker I discovered is making me think if I should order more (for myself). 

Hello, Doux.PH.

I got an email from Beah of Doux.PH one night asking if I would be open to try some of her cookies. As a person who does not say no to sweet, I gladly said yes. And a week later, she sent me an assorted box of cookies!

LeTAO Holiday Treats

LeTAO is one of the most talked about brands last year when it opened its first pop-up store in Uptown Bonifacio. Focusing on one product, Fromage Double Cheesecake, it successfully captured the local market's attention. Teased with gorgeous photos followed by mouthwatering write ups, foodies around the metro got curious. However, many took a step back after finding that one 6" cake costs PHP1,150. Fast forward to December 2017, LeTAO Philippines now offers more of the well-loved Japanese brand and it came just in time for Christmas. 

Hello, LeTAO. 

I was first acquainted with LeTAO during my trip to Taiwan. I got its famous Fromage Double Cheesecake at almost the same price in Manila. 

Freezer Burn's Holiday Specials

Nothing screams “Christmas is near” than the good ol’ bibingka and puto bumbong. These two holiday staples are slowly popping here and there again and it is not surprising that the innovative ice cream parlor Freezer Burn will incorporate it in its offerings sooner or later.

Hello, Freezer Burn!

I was lucky to be invited by High Street's favorite dessert shop to sample some of its limited edition Christmas flavors and I decided to go for Simbang Gabi (PHP225, solo | PHP295, regular) and Santa’s Fave (PHP225, solo | PHP295, regular). Too bad I couldn’t sample all as I was alone when I dropped by and I do not have the heart to waste awesome ice cream just to take photos and a few spoonfuls. 

First Bite: The Olive Treat

Ber months are definitely the season to be a fatty. With Christmas just around the corner, I could feel my pants getting tighter and my schedule starting to become a hot mess. I have always been away on weekends for events or dinner out and I was getting tired of being away from my bed or couch all the time. Hence, I was so happy when I finally got to stay at home once again on a Saturday. Staycation was something I needed to recharge. And it was made even more special with some delectable dishes from The Olive Treat.

Hello, The Olive Treat!

I got a sweet message from Mark of The Olive Treat asking if I would like to try their Sisig ni Olives (PHP300/half kilo | PHP500/kilo) after seeing my comment on Foodgrammerph’s post. I quickly said yes and inquired about its famous Stuffed Iberico Chicken (PHP550/whole chicken). To my surprise, Mark offered to give me a sample of his roasted chicken and Birthday Spaghetti (PHP900/pyrex) too. After a few more exchanges, we have finally set on a date for the delivery of the mouthwatering dishes. And true to his word, he got to my place on time. 

First Bite: Tagaytay Highlands Sports Center Veranda

I have lost count on how many times I visited Tagaytay last year. R and I head there whenever we need a quick getaway from the busy Manila life. Though it is sometimes traffic in Tagaytay, at least we get to enjoy the slightly cooler and fresher breeze. And last Christmas, my family opted to head there too and we decided to stay in Tagaytay Highlands for a much needed family bonding.

Hello, Tagaytay Highlands Sports Center Veranda!

Whenever R and I visit Highlands, we would head to The Highlander Steakhouse for some of its delectable prime ribs. But this time around, my family opted to try the restaurant in the Sports Center Veranda for some casual comfort dishes.

The menu is extensive and a mix of different cuisines. I went with Breaded Pork (PHP280) while my sister ordered Mac and Cheese (PHP280) and cheese quesadillas for my mom. I also ordered a glass of buko shake and a bowl of mango caramel ice cream for dessert.

Service was quite fast as food was served in less than 10 minutes. I guess it also helps as we were the only diners that time.

I didn’t get to taste my mom’s quesadillas but it was a bestseller with the kids. I guess it was really cheesy for kids to love it.

First Bite: Impressions

Unlimited foie gras. Those sweet words made me go "ooooh" longer than holding my breath to win the "happy birthdaaaaaaaay" contest. 

Hello, Impressions!

This classy buffet restaurant in Resorts World Manila is headed by celebrity chef Cyrille Soenen and its layout is meant to impress.

The slightly dim lit restaurant had a minimalist signage in front that also serves as the reception desk. 

As soon as you enter, you are greeted by several numbered tables with the first buffet bar on the right which serves the meats. 

We got table #18 reserved for us which was perfect as it was in front of the buffet table that prepares foie gras, scallops and lobsters. It was also near the sweet corner a.k.a. desserts and sashimi.

My first plate had a lot of salmon sashimi, a few maki and foie gras. 

The foie gras bits were bite size and it was... just okay. It wasn't spectacular but it wasn't bad. It had the usual slightly grainy texture of foie gras and the delectable oiliness per bite. But it lacked richness in flavor.

First Bite: Maisen

Last Christmas, I gave you my heart. But the very next day, you just made me fat. Yep, it was the season to get fatty two weeks ago and I have done nothing but munch, chew and munch some more. And when I was invited to tag along to visit this "most famous" katsu place (in Japan), I just couldn't say no. 

Hello, Maisen!

The place looks a lot classier than the other restaurants in SM Megamall. Not sure if it was the yellow lights but the ambiance sure was nicer.

There were a lot of katsu to choose from. R went with Maisen's bestseller Kurobuta Tenderloin Katsu Set (PHP630) while I ordered the Salmon Katsu Set (PHP550). Both comes with cabbage, rice, miso soup, pickle set and fruits. 

It took about 20 minutes or so to prepare our orders so I was quite famished when my dish arrived.

First one served was R's Kurobuta Tenderloin Katsu and it was perfectly golden brown. 

The set includes a katsu sauce specially paired with kurobuta. It was slightly thicker and lumpier than the sauce from other katsu places. 

Taking Gifting to the Next Level

Christmas is just around the corner. (Okay, a few more corners.) The trickling Christmas decors are all over the Metro and despite the intense heat, I still want to sing, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas." And with November halfway over, I started to think... what do I want to give my loved ones and myself this holiday season?

And so... here's my shopping list this Christmas. Let's start off with my parents.

I want to give them the gift of HEALTH.

With my parents not getting any younger, I want them to stay strong and mobile. Before, I was supportive of them learning how to use the new technology but I realized how much time they wasted in just sitting and staring at small screens. 

I plan to buy them something that will make them fit. Simple free weights and workout outfits would be a nice start for this. Let's throw in a few workout videos. (Or they could just search YouTube too for that. Yay for free workout videos!)

As for my sister who looks so frail, I want to give her a bucket of fat! (I kid.)

I want to give her the gift of SUCCESS.

We all heard it before. We are how we dress. If we dress poorly, then chances are, we won't make it up the ladder (which is usually true if you want to go corporate). There were also studies that show that those who dress smarter and wear make up to work are more often than not paid higher than others who dress not as sharp or do not groom themselves as well as their colleagues. 

Given this, I want to buy my sister a few sharp office outfits that are bound to impress and a few cosmetics to make her look lovelier. (Because she already thinks she's pretty.)

For R who makes my heart skip a beat every time, I want to give him the gift of HAPPINESS.

I know R is happy to some extent but no one can ever say that he or she is too happy. The nice thing about these gifts--health, success and happiness, is that it is limitless. I want him to experience a different kind of happiness through cooking. 

I love to bake and he likes sweets. I think that those two are perfect. A nice baking day would be a fun experience for us and a nice memory to keep (and hopefully yummy brownies to enjoy). 

Oh, let's also throw in a new pair of bedroom slippers as he had to give away the ones he recently bought. 

For myself, I want the gift of CREATIVITY.

Well, technically, you can't buy creativity (which I wish I could) but there are ways that could help me discover (if there is) and enhance my skills. 

I plan to buy some canvas to practice painting and hang on my empty wall my masterpiece no matter what it'll look like. I also intend to buy some oil pastel in case I fail with using real paint. Let's also add an apron for the artist feel. And if I surprisingly do well, I'll definitely give my love ones some artworks too!

Sale Alert: H&M Anniversary Month-Long Sale

Remember when there was a big crowd in front of SM Megamalllast October 17? Yes, it was a year ago when traffic madness happened because of the opening of H&M Philippines.

Forgot why there was a long line just to shop? Well, H&M was giving away several gift certificates for the first 100 or 200 customers and a lot were hopeful to get one. (Though others say that those people who lined up were paid to create buzz about the opening of the awaited retail fashion brand. But that's another story.)

To celebrate its first anniversary in the Philippines, H&M is treating its customers with a MONTH-LONG sale. Yes, a sale during the whole month of October! Shop and buy several OOTD at 50% off.

See you there!

H&M branches are in SM Mega Fashion Hall, SM Makati, SM City North EDSA, SM Fairview and Robinsons Manila.

SALE ALERT: Lego Warehouse Sale 2014

Calling all LEGO lovers!

Lego is having its warehouse sale on December 10 to 14 at Unit A23, 2^nd Floor, Topy Building IV, 3 Economia St., Bagumbayan, Quezon City.

 

Discount is up to 60% off so go get that Stormtrooper set now!

Take this opportunity to buy your kids, nephews and nieces Christmas gifts!

Image from OzBrickNation 

I do hope they have the Lego key chains on sale too!

-Gluttonshopper

Lego warehouse sale images are from Bricks Philippines

A Jolly Christmas Ahead?

Facebook has become my source of the latest news (and gossip). It never fails to give me interesting reads. Last week, one particular news that caught my attention was Jollibee's latest offering...

Jollibee's Dancing Doll.

Image from Jollibee's Facebook page

Okay, my initial reaction was, who would want that?! The doll looked creepy in so many ways. But I guess the picture did not give the doll justice as after watching the teaser, I want not one but three for myself!!!

Here's another video of a kid with her new toy. Apparently, it sings too! If you attended a birthday party at Jollibee, you'd recognize the song. It's the song Jollibee sings and dances to. *cute*

A Yummy way to start December

December literally is a day away! For some reason, I feel that 2012 is the fastest year ever! So many things happened and yet another yummy event is on its way to start the happiest month… 

Yummy, in partnership with Lady’s Choice, will hold a cooking demo this December 1, 2012 at Robinsons Supermarket, Galleria.

 

Learn how to whip up amazing, delicious and easy-to-do recipes with Yummy’s contributing food stylist Chef Katherine Jao. Chef Dianne dela Cruz of Unilever food solutions will also demonstrate delectable dishes using Lady’s Choice mayonnaise.

There are also exciting prizes for lucky participants from our sponsors so see you there! Don't forget, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on December 1, 2012 (Saturday) at Robinsons Supermarket, Galleria.

 

-Gluttonshopper