Monday, December 31, 2018

Paradise Dynasty is now in BGC

Paradise Dynasty is one of my happy places here in Manila. Stuffing myself with its mouthwatering xiao long bao never fails to put a big smile on my face. And don't even get me started with its to die for lettuce roll and glutinous dishes! The only thing that keeps me away from this foodie haven is traffic. But not for long. 

Hello, Paradise Dynasty.
I was beyond thrilled when I saw Paradise Dynasty's board up in SM Aura. Finally, a branch closer to home. 

Friday, December 28, 2018

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. 

Thursday, December 27, 2018

New Favorite: Taco Bell

Taco Bell has been in Manila for years now but it was only last year when I had its famous tacos. Though it may not be the best taco joint in town, its no frills straight forward Mexican fare does the job in keeping my tummy happy. And a month back, I discovered that Taco Bell also offers pretty good quesadillas

Hello, Taco Bell
I usually go for soft tacos whenever I visit Taco Bell and never gave trying its quesadillas any thought. The shop after all is called "Taco" Bell giving the impression that its best item in the menu would be, you got it, tacos. 

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

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

Monday, December 17, 2018

First Bite: The Community Kitchen

Nothing makes me happier more than finding an off the radar restaurant. And Christmas sure came in early when I got to try The Community Kitchen.

Hello, The Community Kitchen
The insane Manila traffic usually force me to pick just one place where I could do all the things I have to do--bank errands, grocery shopping and have a good meal. It's getting rarer and rarer for me to drive out of the way just for a meal. But I usually discover a gem worth finding whenever I do. And such was the case with The Community Kitchen. 

Friday, December 14, 2018

Northern Chronicles: Kiss the Tiramisu opens its second branch in Trinoma

I always look forward to December as it means cooler breeze and sweater weather. But I don't think it's happening this year as it's still scorching hot despite being only a few weeks away from Christmas. Thankfully, there are cold treats to keep me sane. And I was thrilled to find out that the famous Korean dessert shop Kiss the Tiramisu finally opened its second branch. This time, in Trinoma!

Hello, Kiss the Tiramisu.
Kiss the Tiramisu is a popular Korean dessert shop that was born from a simple idea of combining two sweet favorites-- ice cream and tiramisu. Served a bit more "extra" by having it on a plastic gold-rimmed goblet which you can bring home, it became an instant hit, not just in Korea but in several countries as well, including Canada and the Philippines!

Thursday, December 13, 2018

New Bites at The Corner Market Food Hall

With several food concepts and brands popping here and there, dining out has never been so complex. I'd often find myself presenting my friends several options whenever we eat out. And when someone isn't into any of the choices, I had to go back to the drawing board. Thankfully, there are food halls that make it easier for friends with different tastes in terms of food. Everyone gets to eat what they want without having someone compromise. And one of the popular food hall picks in the metro is The Corner Market Food Hall. 

Hello, The Corner Market Food Hall
This spacious foodie haven houses several concepts that would make you drool for days. Rounding up unique non-competing brands, you get to have more options to choose from. Made even better with its picturesque interiors and well-lit dining hall, this place is must visit for anyone who wants a few more snaps for their social media feed while making their bellies happy. 

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Grocery Find: Cheez Whiz Mild

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day but most of us usually skip this as we rush to the office (or school) to beat the unbelievable Manila traffic. Thankfully, there are a bunch of morning hacks we can use to avoid having to leave our homes with empty growling stomachs. One of which is making a fuss-free sandwich. And cheese is usually my go to spread. 

Hello, Cheez Whiz!
I still remember grabbing a jar of Cheez Whiz every afternoon to snack on when I was young. I'd have it on bread or snack on it as is while watching my favorite television show. I couldn't indulge in more than 2 tablespoon though with its strong flavor. But Cheez Whiz introduced a new variant that might make me finish half a jar in one sitting. 

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

When in Iloilo: Tytche Grill & Seafood Restaurant

Tagging along R's local trips are tiring and fun at the same time. I get to see the Philippines in a different light, seeing places that are not exactly what you'd consider touristy. And at the same time, I get to experience the local life and savor the different cities' rich flavors. One of my favorite places for seafood is Iloilo and a top contender for the best seafood restaurant is Tytche Grill & Seafood Restaurant in Dumangas. 

Hello, Tytche Grill & Seafood Restaurant
This restaurant is a bit far from the city center and definitely a place I wouldn't consider going if I was traveling Iloilo on my own. Situated near the Iloilo port, it would be hard to visit this place without a car as there are not much public transportation that pass and stop by this area. 

Thursday, December 6, 2018

When in Bacolod: Bilbao Cansi House

Bacolod is one of my favorite provinces in the Philippines. The City of Smiles is not just known for its hospitality or the anticipated Masskara Festival. It is also a popular destination for foodies. With every corner offering scrumptious and bang for the buck dishes, Bacolod is a haven for anyone who enjoys good food. And I always take note of the locals' recommendations. One of which is Bilbao's, a strong competitor of the famous Sharyn's Cansi House. Or so what our acquaintance told us. 

Hello, Bilbao's Cansi House
This cansi joint is located along the bustling Lacson street. With it being just a couple of blocks away from Robinsons Bacolod, I'd say that it has a better location than Sharyn's. 

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

New Bites: Ramen Bar's Longganisa Ramen

Watching Asian dramas never fail to make me crave for ramen. Is it just me or more often than not, there will be at least one scene where the lead character will joyfully slurp down a massive mouthful of piping hot noodles straight from the copper pot in a squat position? The low EQ foodie in me always make me want to grab a pack of noodles myself. But there are times when I want something better than instant noodles and that's when I brave Manila traffic for some good ol' made with love ramen. And this time, I went with Ramen Bar. 

Hello, Ramen Bar
This wasn't my first time in Ramen Bar. I remember I visited its first branch in Eastwood about a eight years ago with some friends. Ramen Bar is one of the first players in the ramen category 10 years ago. Sadly, it didn't stay relevant and was left in the shadows of ramen giants such as Ramen Nagi and Ippudo. But that does not mean that Ramen Bar offers mediocre food. In fact, its ramen are just as good as each and everyone's favorite! And there's one Ramen Bar variant that caught my eye-- Longganisa Ramen (PHP320). 

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

First Bite: Indulge Ice N Cream

Rain or shine, ice cream is a staple treat in Manila. With summer heat lingering year round, it won't be surprising to know a friend or two who can wolf down a tub of this cold treat in one sitting. I usually could not resist the urge of grabbing a scoop or two myself whenever I pass by an ice cream parlor. And when I dropped by Novotel Manila Araneta Center, Indulge enticed me to try a few of its flavors. 

Hello, Indulge
I was in a rush to head somewhere else after a quick errand at Novotel so I zeroed in on Indulge's grab and go Ice N Cream which offers a nice mix of classic and new flavors. 

Monday, December 3, 2018

Euro Trip 101: How to get a Schengen Visa

Bucket lists. Travel goals. Tourist destinations. Most of us have that inclination to travel and explore the world. To experience new things and indulge in local delicacies have been so hyped online and offline. And with Europe as one of the "goal" destinations by many, most try to squeeze in as many countries as possible when they get their Schengen visa. But before even planning your dream vacation, how do you get a Schengen visa? Is it true that it's way harder to get one compared to a U.S. visa? A few months back, I had to start from scratch and do research on how to make sure that I don't get a rejection letter along with my passport. 

So how do you get a Schengen visa? 
Just like any visa application, you have to secure an application form. Apply at the embassy of the country where you will be staying the longest or the first point of entry (if you are spending an equal number of days per country). Remember that this is crucial and that you cannot simply apply to any embassy you fancy as there is a high chance of your application getting rejected if your application does not coincide with your proposed itinerary. In my case, I applied at the Italian embassy. It was easier for me as I had no plans of visiting other European country that time. 

Requirements for the Schengen visa apply for all countries part of the Schengen region. Listed below are the documents you have to secure in both original and photocopy:

Friday, November 30, 2018

Northern Chronicles: Hawker Chan SM North Edsa is now open

Hawker Chan has been one of the most anticipated brand openings this year. It has received so much love since it opened its first store in SM Mall of Asia. Its winning and unbeatable bang for the buck Soya Chicken and the lovable Chef Chan Hong Meng have been just two of the main reasons why Hawker Chan became an instant hit with us. And for those from the North dreading to fight the Manila traffic just to get a bite of Hawker Chan's succulent chicken, this is for you... Hawker Chan is now open at SM North Edsa!

Hello again, Hawker Chan!
Hawker Chan finally opened its second branch at SM North Edsa Main Mall last November 29, 2018. 

Thursday, November 29, 2018

First Bite: Jin Joo Korean Grill

Korean BBQ is one of the hottest concepts in Manila to date. With several barbecue joints opening here and there, competition has been very tough that simply offering the classics won't do. Jin Joo knew this and brought its A game by offering not just one or two flavors of samgyupsal but eight which was something new in the Korean BBQ food scene, at least in Manila. And Jin Joo has a few more up its sleeves, or grill for that matter.

Hello, Jin Joo Korean Grill.
Jin Joo has been making buzz with its wide selection of Korean BBQ and 8 Flavors Samgyupsal which piqued the interest of many.

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

A Not So Typical Day: The Medium MNL

Living in Manila sometimes make me sad with its limited choices on things to do. With barely any park to consider, we usually spend our days strolling around the mall or catching the latest movie. Hence, I always get excited when something new comes along. And when an acquaintance offered me some tickets to watch The Medium, an opera written by Gian Carlo  Menotti, I quickly said yes. 
I read a bit about The Medium before heading to the Zobel de Ayala Recital Hall and was intrigued when it was described as an eerie tale of a woman who pretends to be a medium of the dead and eventually experienced something paranormal herself. As dark and rather horror themes are rarely used in plays, more so for opera, I was looking forward to the show.

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

A New Favorite at Greenwich

It's so hard to keep up with the number of new restaurants opening here and there. I find myself confused whenever I eat out as I get bombarded with ads and all sorts of hypes and gimmicks. And when I'm not in the mood to do a bit of research to know if the new restaurant that opened around the corner is worth my money, I stick with the classics. And one afternoon, I found myself craving for Greenwich Lasagna.

Hello, Greenwich.
It has been several months since I've visited Greenwich. It has been my go to place for simple, no frills lasagna and it never fails to delight my taste buds.

Monday, November 19, 2018

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!

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Restaurant Favorite: Mister Kabab

Mister Kabab has been one of my go to restaurants back in college. Its mouthwatering and affordable kebabs are just too good to resist. And when it became available via food panda, I regularly order some for dinner. But nothing beats dining in. 

Hello, Mister Kabab
I used to frequent its air conditioned Pearl Drive branch and order my favorite Chicken Kabab. But gone are the days when driving to my alma mater University of Asia and the Pacific would only take a few minutes.

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Staycation Chronicles: Crowne Plaza Galleria

Living in Manila could be very toxic. The insane city traffic, never ending heat and busy lifestyle could easily drive one nuts! I myself have been on the edge these past days due to tight deadlines, shoots and upcoming trip that needs a detailed itinerary. And a staycation at Crowne Plaza Galleria was just what I needed to de-stress. 

Hello, Crowne Plaza Galleria
Managed by the prestigious Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), Crowne Plaza Galleria is the hotel of choice of several business travelers. Its premiere location of being at the heart of Ortigas and right beside Robinsons Galleria gives it a strong advantage against its competitors in the area. 

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

First Sip: M&S Café

Marks & Spencer has been known as one of the major British multinational retailers offering quality garments, body care and snacks. But it was during my random hunt for a cold drink when I discovered that Marks & Spencer also has a café.

Hello, M&S Café.
I got excited when I found out that Marks & Spencer is no longer just a bakery but a café with a wide selection of beverages.

Thursday, November 8, 2018

My Cup of Tea: Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf's Tea Appreciation Workshop

I've attended a few wine pairing sessions but tea pairing is definitely something new to me. And when I got an invite to attend Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf's tea appreciation event with its Tea Master David de Candia, I quickly said yes.

Hello, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.
Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf has established itself as a brand that serves great selection of beverages and dishes making it an ideal place for a quick drink or meal. Though coffee tends to take center stage, CBTL's tea selection is also worth checking out. And I had a fantastic time learning which sweet treat would go best with different teas.

Wednesday, November 7, 2018

New Favorite: Kumori's Premium Cheese Loaf

Kumori is my default store when it comes to Hanjuku Cheese, dinner rolls and krones. The brand definitely lives to its tagline "bite into clouds" with its soft and fluffy baked goods. And its Premium Cheese Loaf was just as heavenly. 

Hello, Kumori
I find fluffy bread irresistible and Kumori's Premium Cheese Loaf (PHP160) is a dream come true. Each bite was indeed soft and flavorful with its buttery taste and cheese bits. 

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

New Bites at Tsuta

Christmas is fast approaching and its cool night breeze never fails to make me crave for a hot bowl of soup or ramen. And I sure am glad that Tsuta was our last stop for our FOODEE Crawl.

Hello again, Tsuta.
Tsuta has been one of the most talked about ramen joints since it opened last December. It was hard not to be curious about this place given it is the first ever ramen shop to earn a prestigious Michelin star. 

Friday, November 2, 2018

New Bites at Sunnies Café

Sunnies Café has been known to be one of the best places for Instagram-worthy snapshots. But more than those pastel colored pictures, its bang for the buck dishes will tickle you pink. And same is true for its new dishes.

Hello, Sunnies Café
I still remember the first time I visited Sunnies Café. It was during its opening day and the famous gals behind the successful brand Sunnies were there too for a shoot. Fast forward to two years later, Sunnies Café still remains as one of the favorite spots of millennials (and surprisingly titas of Manila as well). 

Thursday, November 1, 2018

New Favorites at Bench Café

Bench is one amazing brand. From a humble retail store, it has expanded to more than just selling clothes. Now seen as a lifestyle brand, it now has spin off brands like Bench Fix and one of its more recent ventures, Bench Café. Its festive and flavorful dishes were instant hit to the BGC market that even those not within the area brave the traffic just to have a taste of the famous Tinapa Cones, Sisig and to die for Halo-Halo. And its newest dishes charmed us as easy as counting 1-2-3. 

Hello again, Bench Café
Bench Café recently revamped its menu and added some stellar new favorites in its menu. Now offering more a la carte dishes perfect for sharing, Bench Café becomes a family destination. 

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

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"!

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Love at First Bite: Papas

POTATO. Think of Gru's minions saying this word and you'd get an idea on how crazy I am with anything made with potatoes. And when I spotted this kiosk that sells fresh fried potato chips, I just have to give it a try. 

Hello, Papas!
I was walking around the south side of SM Mall of Asia looking for something to snack on while waiting for a friend when I saw this unfamiliar kiosk. The first thing I noticed were the cone containers on the counter which I figured would be for some small bites. And to my delight, it was for potato chips! I love potato chips!

Monday, October 29, 2018

New Bites: Krispy Kreme's Halloween-Themed Doughnuts and Frozen Kreme Shakes

Halloween is one of the most celebrated events of the year. With kids and adults donning their favorite costumes and joining the merriment with sweet treats on hand, it isn't hard to love this day of the year. And to make things even more interesting, Krispy Kreme launched not just a couple of Halloween-themed doughnuts but nine creepily adorable ones!

Hello, Krispy Kreme!
Celebrating spooks fest with these adorable limited edition Halloween-themed doughnuts is one of the best ways to make one's party fun. 

Friday, October 26, 2018

A Colorful Night with Rémy Martin VSOP

You don't have to wait for Christmas or an occasion to take a sip of your favorite cognac. And with Rémy Martin's new look, we'd have more reason to celebrate.

Hello, Rémy Martin
Christmas just got even earlier with Rémy Martin's new limited edition bottle designed by world renowned artist, Matt W. Moore. 

Thursday, October 25, 2018

Two is Better than One: Max's Kabisera

With the local food scene getting crazier and crazier each day with the number of new brands and concepts opening in every corner, there are still classics that I go back to with Max's as one of my go to restaurants when it comes to Tofu Sisig, Pancit Canton and of course, fried chicken. And when it merged with my other favorite Filipino restaurant Kabisera, it felt like it was an early Christmas gift. 

Hello, Max's Kabisera.
Max's Kabisera came from the idea of merging two of Max's Group brands under one store to offer the best of both concepts resulting in a wide array of familiar dishes yet in a redefined dining experience and setting. 

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

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. 

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

La Lola Flies to Singapore!

La Lola has been spoiling us with its freshly made churros and its rich chocolate dip since December 2014. Now with 16 strong stores nationwide and offering a mix of sweet and savory bites and drinks, La Lola is ready to fly and spread happiness outside the Philippines.

La Lola Churreria flies to Singapore!
Yes, the brand that was conceptualize and grew in Manila is now on its way to Clarke Quay, Singapore. 

Monday, October 22, 2018

First Bite: Dokkebi Korean BBQ

The Korean food scene in Quezon City is insane. Maginhawa alone has Korean food joints left and right. Same is true in Banawe where the famous Samgyupsalamat has a branch and other players like Seoulgyupsal and Mokja can be found. Even Romantic Baboy is opening soon in the area. And one new player in town is Dokkebi Korean BBQ.

Hello, Dokkebi Korean BBQ
Located along N.S. Amoranto, you'd easily spot Dokkebi with its big signage and corner location. It is also on Waze so it won't be hard to find this new samgyupsal place. 

Friday, October 19, 2018

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:

Thursday, October 18, 2018

First Sip: Black Scoop Cafe

Manila has turned into a milk tea crazy city. Most, if not all, milk tea stores in malls are packed with customers. Coco, Gong Cha, Dakasi, Serenitea, Happy LemonYiFang, ChaTime, Macao Imperial, Dakasi, you name it, each one has a strong following. But one brand that was quite off the radar is Black Scoop. 

Hello, Black Scoop Cafe.
Black Scoop opened its first store along the foodie strip Maginhawa last July. It didn't really make much buzz when it opened and I wouldn't have heard about this place if Let's Eat Pare's founder, M didn't mention it during an event we both attended. 

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

First Bite: Muang Thai

I love Thai cuisine but it was my recent trip to Thailand that made me appreciate it in a whole new level. With its scrumptious and colorful food everywhere, I was tempted to go on a food crawl every day during my 2 week visit. Thankfully, we have a handful of reliable Thai restaurants in Manila to satisfy our Pad Thai, Tom Yum and Satay cravings. One establishment stood the test of time and has been delighting foodies for over two decades. 

Hello, Muang Thai
Tucked inside Teachers Village, Muang Thai has been serving scrumptious Thai dishes since 1996. Fast forward to 2018, it now has a new look but continues to offer classics that would tickle anyone's taste buds. 

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

New Look: McDonald's NXTGEN

I've always been so envious of how advanced other countries are. We have several Asian countries with awesome transit system and others have gone digital in pretty much everything. If you haven't heard of Apple Pay or WePay, then you must be living under the rock. I love it though that we are slowly embracing the digital age with the growth of several apps that make things a lot more convenient for us. And McDonald's has something new to enhance our dining experience!

Hello, McDonald's.
McDonald's played a big part in my childhood. I still remember how excited I was whenever my mom would surprise me with a Happy Meal. In fact, I still find myself collecting its toys and I'd drop by regularly for McNuggets and its world famous fries.

Monday, October 15, 2018

Ippudo Launches Zero Ramen

Ippudo has been one of my favorite ramen joints in town. It has the right balance of flavors--umami yet not overwhelming. And to celebrate Ippudo's 33rd year anniversary and 4th year in the Philippines, it goes back to its roots and features its base ramen--Zero. 

Hello, Ippudo.
I was invited to Ippudo's anniversary celebration not knowing what to expect. So it was a big treat to be able to sample the ramen that started it all. 

Friday, October 12, 2018

Restaurant Love: Paradise Dynasty and its 4 New Dishes

Paradise Dynasty has been one of my favorite places to dine in ever since I had my first bite of its delectable xiao long bao in 2017. The picturesque restaurant paired with scrumptious and pocket friendly feast is so easy to love that I continue to brave the distance just to get hold of more. Needless to say, my heart skipped a beat (and a flip too) when it opened its second store at Podium Mall. And its newest dishes sure kept me wanting more!

Hello, Paradise Dynasty
Known for its Specialty Dynasty Xiao Long Bao, Paradise Dynasty launched four new dishes that would tickle your taste buds with glee.

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Keep the Fire Burning: New Ways to Enjoy Samyang

You must be living under a rock if you haven't heard of Samyang or better known as the spicy noodle challenge. This popular Korean brand definitely piqued our interest after seeing several famous personalities giving it a go. But the hype eventually dwindled down as soon as the fire in one's mouth disappeared. This is not the last of Samyang though as it introduces new ways on how to make your pack of spicy noodles more interesting. 

Hello, Samyang.
This well-loved Korean brand has been around for quite some time delighting foodies, especially K-Drama fanatics. 

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

Fight of the Bulges: Stesso

Staying fit has been a challenging task for me ever since I've reached the stage when my metabolism started to slow down. What used to be a few days to lose a couple of pounds now take months paired with 100% dedication and effort. It is even harder now that I'm more active blogging about food and less active in being... well, active. I've considered availing of some slimming treatments and services but reading about how painful it could be and its adverse effects made me back out. It definitely took me a long time before going for it. 

Hello, Stesso.
Stesso has been in the market providing slimming and skin care services since 2012. Established by Lalaine Ambulo, M.D., the clinic gained popularity with its use of the latest non-invasive devices that do not just do the job but also make you feel good. 

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

First Bite: Katsu Sora

R's impeccable taste never fail me. Every single restaurant he mentioned to be great is indeed a haven for foodies. And when he mentioned that one of his favorite katsu restaurants is Katsu Sora, I was giddy to give it a try. But it felt like I have a curse with this place as all our planned visits to Katsu Sora gets cancelled. Then again, I guess 9th time's the charm. 

Hello, Katsu Sora
Known as a premium katsu restaurant offering four kinds of pork tonkatsu--Japanese Kurobuta, Spanish Shimofuri, Canadian Sakura Pork and Spanish Iberico, it has been a favorite by many. Unlike most katsu places that offer unlimited cabbage, Katsu Sora offers a bit more with its salad, soup and rice buffet bar filled with various kinds of greens, dressings, two types of miso soup and three kinds of rice. 

Monday, October 8, 2018

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.

Friday, October 5, 2018

Cruising Around: Star Cruises Superstar Virgo

To travel around the world is every wanderlust's dream. It is always fun to see new places and experience different cultures. But one thing I absolutely hate when traveling is going through airport security. It's a pain to queue and to keep having your bag screened for security, especially when you have a laptop in your luggage. Thankfully, Star Cruises occasionally dock in Manila which gives us an opportunity to travel to different parts of Asia without having to deal with airport mayhem. And the best part... no luggage weight restrictions!

Hello, Star Cruises Superstar Virgo!
Star Cruises Superstar Virgo was back in Manila last March and with Taiwan and Japan as its destinations, R and I figured that we give this cruise another try. We boarded this cruise ship back in 2015 where its port was in Hong Kong with Sanya, China and Ha Long Bay, Vietnam as its destinations. Though our experience then was mediocre to terrible, we gave it another shot after hearing that some of R's relatives booked as well. 

Thursday, October 4, 2018

First Bite: Manna & Golde

The crazy influx of new restaurants could be overwhelming for most of us. We'd often find it difficult to decide on which restaurant to try. And with most establishments heavily focusing on online marketing, those with more humble budgets are left to be discovered offline. One restaurant/café I've recently found was Manna & Golde. 

Hello, Manna & Golde.
Located along Kamuning Road, this café is rather away from the bustling streets packed with restaurants. However, one thing I loved right away here is that it has parking for guests.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

More Than Just Gelato: Morelli's Gelato Caffé,

Summer may be over but the intense Manila heat is here to stay, rain or shine. And with the scorching heat draining my energy and perhaps even my positive outlook in life, I need a cold treat on a daily basis. One of my favorites is gelato as its creamy texture never fail to make me smile from ear to ear. Hence, when I found out that Morelli's Gelato has something new in store for us, I had to know what's up. 

Hello, Morelli's Gelato Caffé.
Morelli's has been in Manila for about five years now with its first store at Shangri-La Plaza Mall's East Wing. A brand known for gelato, it actually has an interesting story behind each scoop sold and it could be traced all the way back to 1907. 

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

First Bite: Tendon Kohaku

Most of us probably had tempura as our first Japanese dish when we were younger. The beautifully battered shrimp or prawn dipped in the light sweet sauce mixed with shredded radish brings back so many childhood memories, including when I had to fight with my sister for the last piece. Though I've grown to love other Japanese dishes like sashimi, teppanyaki, sukiyaki and a lot more, tempura always has a special place in my heart, or tummy. And when I found out that there's a new tempura place in town, I just have to try it. 

Hello, Tendon Kohaku
Foodies who frequent or have visited Singapore might have noticed Tendon Kohaku and its long queues. 

Monday, October 1, 2018

First Bite: Slabbers

I am a big fan of Hole in the Wall and most of the concepts in the first ever upscale food hall in Manila. However, I hardly visit Century City Mall as its location's a bit off from where I live. I make sure though that I pass by this picturesque dining hall every time I find myself in the area. And for my latest visit, I tried one of its newest stalls, Slabbers. 

Hello, Slabbers
This new concept in Hole in the Wall opened last July and has been firing up some mean ribs and wings since then. With its prime location near the entrance, it would be hard to miss Slabbers. 

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Indulgence Redefined with Milkmaid

I am a fan of Chef Miko Aspiras, one of the most brilliant pastry chefs in Manila, and probably in Asia and the world. Known for his refreshing take in sweet treats, you might remember him with the quirky and quite revolutionary ice cream flavor ketchup and mayo. And this time around, Milkmaid, the premium condensed milk that we grew to love and perhaps get addicted to, has challenged the young innovative chef to come up with desserts that would redefine how we describe the word indulgence. 
Indulgence has always been defined as an excess of something and there's a saying that anything in excess is bad. But Chef Miko wanted to use the word to depict treating one's self to something good, or even great.