First Bite: Franks Craft Beers Manila

We've seen the growth of gourmet burgers in Manila. There would be some that would charge as much as a grand for a thick and juicy patty and there would still be a market for it. But one category that seems to be not as saturated is gourmet hot dogs. Sure, we have the likes of Pink's which was well received when it opened in BGC but there are not a lot of establishments that offer fancy franks. And I was pleasantly surprised to discover a hidden gem tucked inside the casino of Resorts World Manila.

Hello, Franks!

Franks is one of the many signature restaurants of Resorts World Manila. Originally designed to cater to casino guests, it offers quick bites such as fries, nachos and hot dogs. But its delectable offerings were just too good to be bound inside the casino. Soon, patrons would drop by for some of their favorites to go and enjoy it with the whole family as they watch movies on the 4th floor or feast on it at home. 

First Full Bite: Scout's Honor

Scout's Honor is always a happy place for me. I'd usually swing by its store at Hole in the Wall for some yummy cookies and to-die-for flavored milk before heading home. And I was so thrilled to see its full restaurant which also serves other comfort food like all day breakfast meals and pasta dishes. However, I was hardly in Manila these past months that I only got a chance to visit Scout's Honor last week.

Hello, Scout's Honor. 

Scout's Honor is known for its artisan and create your own cookies. It has made a name for itself in the dessert category and it sure got a following too when it launched its savory dishes.

First Bite: Pompoms

I can never resist French fries. As much as I would love to lessen my carb intake, I could never find myself saying no to some of these crisp and heavenly goodness. And when I spotted Pompoms, a casual restaurant that serves twice-fried, thick-cut French fries, I giddily skipped my way towards its cute shop. 

Hello, Pompoms.

Located at the Ground Floor of Robinsons Place Manila, one could easily spot this fries haven if you frequent Pedro Gil wing.  

More than just Fried Chicken: BonChon's K-Fries

BonChon has been the top of mind brand when it comes to Korean fried chicken here in Manila. It came to our shores back in 2010 and it has continued to delight our taste buds with its perfectly fried chicken since then. And after the success of its favorite K-Style Chicken and Bibimbowl, BonChon expanded its menu that will make you come back for more. 

Hello, BonChon.

I usually drop by this popular Korean food chain whenever I crave for some Soy Garlic Chicken. Since I always have an order in mind, I never bothered to look at the menu. 

Since 1999: Brothers Burger

Do you still remember what you were doing in 1999? I sure don't but I know three brothers who clearly do. The Jose brothers started to revolutionize how burgers should be that year. The genius trio were tired of the usual burgers fast food chains offer and this triggered them to start their own burger joint--the first to make artisanal burgers. And Brothers Burger was born. Several years later, Brothers Burger is still a brand of choice for foodies particular with their patties. But on its 18th year, Brothers Burger has become more than just burgers. 

Burpday Celebration at Buffalo Wild Wings

It was my sister’s birthday last weekend and we originally planned to visit Annam to celebrate. But due to conflict in schedule with last minute events, I had to ask my mom and sister if we could move it to Buffalo Wild Wings so that I could also use my gift certificates for it. Thankfully, they agreed and were supportive of my food blogging activities. And so, we were set.

Hello, Buffalo Wild Wings. 

It was my first time to dine in this branch despite it being one of the first restaurants to open in Uptown Mall. I guess it was because I already visited its Estancia branch twice and because I’m not really a fan of wings. I’d usually order burger or flat bread here. 

I was an hour late for lunch because the event I attended ended late. To my surprise, my mom and sister were not upset at all. I guess I have to thank the Mozzarella Sticks (PHP325) and Chicken Caesar Salad (PHP465) for it. 

I managed to have a bite of the mozzarella sticks and chicken caesar salad; and both were good but not good enough for its price. The mozzarella was not as gooey and the marinara sauce was not as tangy. The breading though had that nice crunch that creates a lovely contrast against the soft mozzarella. 

The salad was your usual caesar salad with grilled chicken drizzled with parmesan garlic sauce and caesar dressing. The greens were crisp and the grilled chicken added flavor to the dish. Though the serving size seems generous, the price seemed to be still steep for salad. 

Gastro Park Kapitolyo Find #3: Surfries!!

It was a humid day when T and I visited Gastro Park and a drink was a must, especially to help push down our food finds. And then that was when I spotted...Surfries!!

Surfries!!

Were you surprised? Okay, okay, it is a terrible joke. But lame joke aside, I was surprised when the friendly server presented to me the size of the Raspberry Bowl (PHP85) when I asked if it is good for sharing.

The raspberry drink was served in a fishbowl! And for PHP85, it was a steal!!! 

It was not overly sweet and definitely a thirst quencher. This is the perfect drink to be shared with friends who are not "laway-conscious". (We estimated and this is probably 1.5L of raspberry drink.)

When I came back for dinner, I decided to try Kaboom! fries (PHP145). I also order another raspberry bowl to be shared with my friends. We had to wait for 15 minutes or so for the drink though as Surfries!! ran out of fishbowls. (That's how packed Gastro Park is on a Saturday Night!)

The small tray of fries was served in less than 10 minutes. I told the server that I could get the tray from him but he insisted to bring it to our table because... he had to blow torch the cheese. Oooooh. Fanceeeeh!

I liked this dish a lot! Each bite was cheesy and I liked the crunch of the spring onion bits. I didn't get to taste the smoked bacon though. I guess the cheese topping overpowered it. 

I'll definitely try the other fries next time. 

Surfries is located at Gastro Park, 1st Drive, Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City