First Sip: I'Milky

It's 2020 and I still feel that milk tea got me wrapped around its fingers, if it had any. I get so giddy to try new milk tea brands that I automatically free up tummy space even after a very heavy meal. For this week's treat, I tried I'Milky. 

Hello, I'Milky. 

I'Milky opened its first branch in Trinoma last September 2019. I was planning to try it sooner but I was rarely in Manila during the 'ber' months. It was a good thing too as the hype for this brand somehow dwindled when I visited. 

When in Kapitolyo: Epic Cafè

Kapitolyo used to be my neighborhood back when it was the hottest foodie spot in Manila. I'd go around the area on weekends and check out the newest shops. And more often than not, I'd be heading back home with a happy tummy and several new favorites. And one of which was Epic Cafè.

Hello, Epic Cafè. 

Epic Cafè has been around for years now and continue to serve good tasting beverages and comfort dishes. Its warm and inviting space also makes this coffee shop an ideal spot for catching up with friends or work. 

Rakuboss.ph: Bridging Freelancers to Clients Anywhere in the World

With Manila traffic getting worse and transportation becoming too expensive, it has never been so tempting to leave one's 9 to 5-day job and go freelance than today. Though it could be a bit daunting to be your own boss, the changes in society opened many opportunities for freelancers. And one platform made it easier for young bosses to market their skills--Rakuboss.

Hello, Rakuboss.

Rakuboss is a digital marketplace that helps freelancers from various industries in the Philippines match with potential local and international clients. 

Good Good: A Healthier Way to Enjoy Your Drinks

It's a new year and a new decade but the milk tea craze is here to stay. And with several brands opening here and there, there's no way for us to escape its sweet charm! But this 2020, I plan to stick to a healthier lifestyle and diet and it was timely that I discovered Good Good. 

Hello, Good Good!

This Taiwanese brand is no stranger to milk tea fanatics as it has been around for over 6 months now. With branches in Scout Tobias, Corinthian Executive Regency Shaw, Caltex Pioneer-Shaw and Sta. Maria Bulacan, many have already tried its adorable and colorful drinks. And this brand is celebrating the year with a bang as it opens its 5th branch along the foodie haven Banawe. 

Popeyes Philippines: Is it really as good as people say?

Popeyes Luisiana Kitchen's store opening was one of the most anticipated food events last year. The crazy queue, rain or shine, was enough to keep everyone curious. And it sure made me wonder too if Popeyes offers way better fried chicken compared to other fast food joints here in Manila. And after a few failed attempts, I finally got to visit its first store in Arcovia City. 

Hello, Popeyes!

I remember having Popeyes in California and it was pretty good. I'd drop by on Tuesdays to avail of its tempting price on its 2-piece dark or white meat chicken at $1.14 for thigh and leg; and $1.99 for breast and wing. However, it didn't really strike me as a superb dish worth lining up for hours. But I might be wrong given all the positive reviews I've read.

Estancia's New Bites: James & Daughters

Chef Jonas Ang's James & Daughters is like dining in a fancy version of home. With beautifully curated dishes based on Chef Jonas' family's favorite dishes, it was easy for me to fall in love with this restaurant. And its mix of different cuisines will surely delight everyone! 

Hello, James & Daughters.

I was so thrilled when James and Daughter by Le Jardin opened its first restaurant in BGC. It being just a few steps from me made it an ideal place for lunch or dinner. But it had to move out after 11 months due to the developer wanting its space back. Thankfully, its Estancia store is now open and it has a few new favorites waiting to be discovered. 

Avocadoria: One of the Biggest Food Trends of 2019

From mango float to avocado ice cream, fruity desserts was undeniably one of the biggest food trends last 2019. I had a terrible experience with the mango float craze though that it took me a long while before trying its avocado counterpart. And I'm glad to share that my Avocadoria experience was a lot better. 

Hello, Avocadoria. 

Avocadoria grew to be one of the hottest brands in 2019 when several media outlets and influencers took notice of this dessert kiosk. And it was not long after for the brand to expand to multiple branches with several copycats in tow. 

Estancia's New Bites: Sigekiya Ramen + Tsukemen

Estancia finally opened its newest wing and it looked really promising! I was so excited to check it out after seeing a few teasers from its Instagram page showcasing new dining concepts. And my first stop: Sigekiya Ramen + Tsukemen.

Hello, Sigekiya.

I usually do a bit of research before visiting a restaurant I'm not familiar. And Sigekiya's 'the ramen loved by Filipinos in Yokohama, Japan' description on its Instagram page sure made me curious. But it was its high 4.3 Zomato rating which convinced me to dine here.

Huangshan: The Most Beautiful Mountain in China

Huangshan is said to be the most beautiful mountain in all of China. Known for its striking sunrise and sunset and jaw dropping scenery, it's not surprising for this mountain to attract a lot of visitors. And when I found out that this was part of our itinerary last March, I was excited to step foot in what bested the other gorgeous mountains in the country. 

Hello, Huangshan. 

Huangshan or Yellow Mountain has been regarded by many as the prettiest mountain in China. In fact, it was tagged as a UNESCO Heritage Site. Such reputation definitely piqued my interest and made me excited for our quick trip in the area. 

Dumaguete Favorite: Lord Byron's Back Ribs

Did you know that Dumaguete ranked as one of the best places to retire around the world according to a 2014 Retire Overseas Index? I could definitely vouch that after my trip to the City of Gentle People. From its beautiful corals and fresh breeze to scrumptious and affordable food, I could picture having a wonderful life in Dumaguete. And the idea of feasting on Lord Byron's bang for the buck ribs on a weekly basis sounds great to me!

Hello, Lord Byron's Back Ribs.

Lord Byron's is one of the popular dining destinations in the city. With its falls-off-the-bones ribs paired with pocket friendly prices, it's not surprising for this place to be flocked by locals and tourists alike.

Me Time at Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care

The chaotic city life is sapping the remaining youth out of me. From getting stuck in traffic to being less productive due to lack of sleep, I always find myself needing a vacation. I don't even get to find time for a trip to the spa. It felt like eons ago when I last had my facial. Thankfully, my schedule cleared up just before Christmas and I got to visit Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care. 

Hello, Miss Esthe. 

Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care is a brand born in Tokyo, Japan. With 30 years of expertise to back it up, it grew from a humble 7 staff member business into a 150 store brand in Japan alone. It also has presence in South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, China, and France.