First Bite: Nikkei

With the restaurant industry packed with so many players, old and new establishments have to come up with something different to stand out and capture the ever growing discerning market. And by new, we definitely saw concepts and products that define "unique" and some "bizzare". We've also witnessed the growth of fusion restaurants. Though not all impressed the market, there are a handful of restaurants that live beyond the hype. One of which is Nikkei. 

Hello, Nikkei. 

Several foodies regard Nikkei as one of the gems of Salcedo worth braving the traffic for. With its mouthwatering tiradito, ceviche and sushi, it's no surprise why this restaurant grew to four branches in no time. 

Must Try: Samba's Sabado de Fiesta

Weekends are made for lazing around the house and recharging for another battle with reality come Monday. However, there are times when I find myself excited to wake up early on a Saturday despite a grueling Friday because good food awaits! And such is the case a few Saturdays ago. 

Hello, Samba!

Samba is one of my favorite Peruvian restaurants. As one of the few establishments that offer top notch fresh ceviche and to die for Arroz con Mariscos, I found myself visiting this place quite a number of times. 

Now Open: Cocina Peruvia at Podium Mall

Cocina Peruvia is no new name in the food scene. As one of the pioneers to bring Peruvian cuisine in Manila, it has been a familiar name in the foodie community. I have to admit though, I didn't exactly fall in love with this place. My first two visits left me underwhelmed and I wasn't very excited to try it again the third time around. But the idea of seeing some of my favorite foodies enticed me to brave the morning traffic and head to Podium where Cocina Peruvia opened its third branch.

Hello again, Cocina Peruvia.

Second Bite: Cocina Peruvia

Cocina Peruvia is no stranger to me. I've tried it last year in its BGC branch and it was not technically love at first bite. However, I loved its Galera de Chocolate and that was good enough reason for me to go back for more.

Hello, Cucina Peruvia.