A Weekend Escape at Art-Enthused U Hotels

 

My eyes flickered as I felt that the day was calling out to me. I had such a long, deep slumber that a quiet part of me didn’t want to move just yet but the adventurer in me wanted to explore more of the many hidden gems of Poblacion. My body started expanding as I stretched like a cat on the comfortable bed.

 

 

 

It is how any other weekend is supposed to be. Except I’m billeted at the first art hotel in Poblacion, Makati – U Hotels. U Hotels Makati celebrates both culture and comfort as they bring together the luxuries of staying in a modern hotel, and the artistry of talented local artists, which mimics the vibrant street scene that Poblacion is known for.

 

 

 

Relaxed, peaceful and an escape from your usual day to day, U Hotels Manila stands fairly new in the hotel scene, but in the short span of time it has opened its doors to city dwellers looking for a respite and art-filled nest, it has brought in countless of reviews from satisfied clientele that keep rating them high on Tripadvisor.

 

 

The U Story

The U in U Hotels Makati also stands for the last names of the inspired minds behind this hotel destination. Alfredo Yu was a fixture in the hotel industry for several years. Together with his wife Elena, they ventured into purchasing real estate with the dream of building their own chain. Their children, Carter and Alex, shared the same aspirations and would later come up with a thriving budget hotel in the city of Manila. Fast forward to 2017, the siblings found themselves wanting to build another hotel, but this time they decided, it has to be something uncommon. Their objective was to draw travelers not just for the friendly accommodation rates, but more for the differentiator – which only U Hotels can offer.

 

 

 

The entrance to U Hotels, literally welcomes you with a greeting. The façade in the lobby shows the word “Welcome” in different languages – an idea suggested by one of the owners’ kids. Artist and calligrapher Avin Del Rosario, combined these greetings with illustrations of paper planes, as U Hotels welcomes varying clients, some local, but most are travelers from different parts of the world.

 

 

 

This same vibe reverberates in all corners of the lobby, with comfortable sofas, chairs, benches and tables that are available for guests to use for meetings or simply hanging out. Free flowing coffees and cookies accompany your fast internet connection provided by the hotel.

 

 

 

The comforting vibe continues upon stepping into my room. The room is fully equipped with accommodation necessities like a mini-bar, safety lock, business table, LCD TV, and luggage rack. I took notice of the carefully added details in the room.

 

 

 

Don’t rush into the morning but instead wake up to a peaceful setting. I headed to the ground floor where U Hotels offers a hearty breakfast together with your stay. The selections are made up of both traditional Filipino favorites, as well as other cuisines. This spread can be found daily at the lobby lounge. For the rest of the day, you can order from a menu of heirloom dishes that the hotel carefully curated for you to enjoy.

 

 

 

 

[Read more…]

Henann Lagoon Resort in Boracay

 

They say we travel not to escape life but for life not to escape us.  Instead of being trapped in the confines of every day routine, we must look to travel as far as we can, as much as we can, and for as long as we can.  Life is not meant to be lived in one place.  And I definitely don’t want to live it in one place when I have a home away from home at Henann Lagoon Resort.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

My sister and I welcomed March with open arms and we were welcomed with warmth as we stepped into the holding area in Caticlan port prior to boarding the private boat to Boracay Island.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

Even if it was only a 45min to 1hour plane ride from Manila to Kalibo, Henann Group of Resorts made everything seamless as soon as we landed, providing the coaster service from Kalibo to Caticlan, and welcoming us with refreshments and a shell necklace at the port.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

We’ve flown international a few times but first time together in Boracay.

Off the bat we felt we were on a vacation… far from any worries or burden.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

The boat men and respectful staff of Henann Group of Resorts quickly and carefully loaded our things on the boat and 15 minutes later, I’m stepping on the soft pristine white sand of Boracay… ready to be checked in.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

Henann Group of Resorts (formerly Boracay Regency Group) is committed to delivering world-class accommodation in their luxury resorts in premium locations, with personalized and quality customer service and high-value for money.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant listBoracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

Henann Lagoon Resort in Boracay boasts of 120 rooms, a beautiful al fresco restaurant overlooking a picturesque and sprawling swimming pool, one of the biggest on the island measuring up to 1,200 sqm.  The resort also offers numerous function rooms for corporate meetings or your banquet needs.

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

Boracay Island, best resort in Boracay, best travel review in Boracay, Boracay plans, Boracay best restaurants, Boracay Henann resort in alona beach, Henann Lagoon Resort, Henann Garden Resort, price, tripadvisor, trip review, hotel review, hotel resort review in Boracay, best accommodation, cheap, affordable, suite, Aklan, Boracay island, Henann Lagoon resort Lagoon Café, best dining places in Boracay, food review in Boracay, food bloggers, food blog, food blogger, betweenbites, between bites, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Henann Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Alona Beach, Christina’s, Cristina’s, Cristinas, breakfast in Boracay, Boracay island, party island, Henann, Hennan, Henann Lagoon Resort hotel stay, accommodation, hotel accommodation, great service, good service, panglao island, bohol, Henann Group of Resorts management, 2014, 2015, March 2015, summer, travel tips in Boracay, restaurant list

If Boracay Regency Beach Reosrt and Spa is full (which it always is unless you book very early since this is usually most people’s first choice), Henann Lagoon Resort is the next best place to be quartered in when in Boracay Island.  The resort provides a complimentary shuttle service to the beachfront of Boracay Regency and it’s a cinch to get to the beach, with no delay at all.  It can feel like you’re already staying beachfront.

[Read more…]

New Palate Gems at Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight

Their restaurant frontage can barely be seen in 2010 with the long queues outside that wait to get seated. Flocks of families and foodies have trooped to Crystal Jade for their famed Xiao Long Bao and authentic Chinese dishes. You cannot spell authentic any less with the Chinese expats that are rebased here to head and run the Crystal Jade kitchen to ensure quality standards.

Menu, Food review, Food blog, best food blog in Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino food blogger, best lifestyle blog, contact number, Between Bites, www.janedchua.com, photos, location, map, directions, price, discount, promos, deals, deal coupon, Crystal Jade, Metro Manila, Philippines, Filipino, Crystal Jade Shanghai Delights, renovation, renovated, new design, new menu, list, 2014 list of new restaurants, 2013 list of new restaurants, best restaurants in Manila, Crystal Jade Philippines branch, branches, Fort, Serendra, BGC, Crystal Jade menu, Crystal Jade fine dining, Crystal Jade food review, Feature, Crystal jade Shanghai Delights new menu, Crystal Jade owner, Crystal Jade photos, food photo, betweenbites, Crystal jade location, Crystal jade menu, Crystal Jade service, dinner, lunch, breakfast, phone number, operation hours, breakfast menu, cheap, affordable, Chinese, authentic, Cantonese, Shanghainese cusine, Chinese best, dishes, fried eel, crispy eel in wu xi sauce, bestsellers, specialty, xiao long bao,

Crystal Jade is one of the largest restaurant chains and is just about everywhere in Singapore. They have established a strong presence in San Francisco and across the Asia Pacific region –in Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Indonesia, Japan, Qingdao, Guangzhou among numerous places. The successful opening in Manila added to that portfolio, bringing in that passion of dishing out the finest delicacies served contemporarily.

Menu, Food review, Food blog, best food blog in Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino food blogger, best lifestyle blog, contact number, Between Bites, www.janedchua.com, photos, location, map, directions, price, discount, promos, deals, deal coupon, Crystal Jade, Metro Manila, Philippines, Filipino, Crystal Jade Shanghai Delights, renovation, renovated, new design, new menu, list, 2014 list of new restaurants, 2013 list of new restaurants, best restaurants in Manila, Crystal Jade Philippines branch, branches, Fort, Serendra, BGC, Crystal Jade menu, Crystal Jade fine dining, Crystal Jade food review, Feature, Crystal jade Shanghai Delights new menu, Crystal Jade owner, Crystal Jade photos, food photo, betweenbites, Crystal jade location, Crystal jade menu, Crystal Jade service, dinner, lunch, breakfast, phone number, operation hours, breakfast menu, cheap, affordable, Chinese, authentic, Cantonese, Shanghainese cusine, Chinese best, dishes, fried eel, crispy eel in wu xi sauce, bestsellers, specialty, xiao long bao,

We usually think of comfort food in the form of burgers, fries, and wings but when I want to eat a little more stylishly minus the grease and the common taste of diner items, I find my comfort at Crystal Jade.

Whenever I’m in the Greenhills area, there’s a magnetic pull to eat at Crystal Jade. I’ve been a long fan of their original Xiao Long Bao, Cantonese barbecue meats and noodles. In fact, I don’t order outside my usual of two orders of Xiao Long Bao, Noodle with Beef in Chili Oil (P228) and my all-time favorite Noodle with Dried Shrimp and Peanut in Spicy Sauce (P328 for sharing and P198 for snack portion).

Menu, Food review, Food blog, best food blog in Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino food blogger, best lifestyle blog, contact number, Between Bites, www.janedchua.com, photos, location, map, directions, price, discount, promos, deals, deal coupon, Crystal Jade, Metro Manila, Philippines, Filipino, Crystal Jade Shanghai Delights, renovation, renovated, new design, new menu, list, 2014 list of new restaurants, 2013 list of new restaurants, best restaurants in Manila, Crystal Jade Philippines branch, branches, Fort, Serendra, BGC, Crystal Jade menu, Crystal Jade fine dining, Crystal Jade food review, Feature, Crystal jade Shanghai Delights new menu, Crystal Jade owner, Crystal Jade photos, food photo, betweenbites, Crystal jade location, Crystal jade menu, Crystal Jade service, dinner, lunch, breakfast, phone number, operation hours, breakfast menu, cheap, affordable, Chinese, authentic, Cantonese, Shanghainese cusine, Chinese best, dishes, fried eel, crispy eel in wu xi sauce, bestsellers, specialty, xiao long bao,

I have visited again some weeks ago and noticed that they have renovated their interiors. It has maximized their seating capacity to serve more patrons and have shifted to vibrant welcoming hues of purples and pinks. I’m happy to report that their menu still retained their classic dishes and happier to tell that it has expanded to add more dishes that are surefire imminent bestsellers. Cuisine has delved into an authentic mix of Cantonese and Shanghai offerings that get your palate incessantly interested.

On the Table

Crispy Eel in “Wu Xi” Style P288

Prior to the recent visit, someone has made me try this before and it’s an appetizer that’s a staple on the table. It’s wonderfully crunchy that it cackles biting into it. The crispy eel has a dark sweet soy coating leaning towards a barbecue taste.

Menu, Food review, Food blog, best food blog in Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino food blogger, best lifestyle blog, contact number, Between Bites, www.janedchua.com, photos, location, map, directions, price, discount, promos, deals, deal coupon, Crystal Jade, Metro Manila, Philippines, Filipino, Crystal Jade Shanghai Delights, renovation, renovated, new design, new menu, list, 2014 list of new restaurants, 2013 list of new restaurants, best restaurants in Manila, Crystal Jade Philippines branch, branches, Fort, Serendra, BGC, Crystal Jade menu, Crystal Jade fine dining, Crystal Jade food review, Feature, Crystal jade Shanghai Delights new menu, Crystal Jade owner, Crystal Jade photos, food photo, betweenbites, Crystal jade location, Crystal jade menu, Crystal Jade service, dinner, lunch, breakfast, phone number, operation hours, breakfast menu, cheap, affordable, Chinese, authentic, Cantonese, Shanghainese cusine, Chinese best, dishes, fried eel, crispy eel in wu xi sauce, bestsellers, specialty, xiao long bao,

[Read more…]

The Beetle: An Icon is Back

Baby you can drive my car, beep beep’m beep beep yeah.  Of course, you would want to drive my car if I’m driving The People’s Car from Volkswagen!  Built as one of the most successful cars of all time, people from all generations and cultures were drawn to it.  Looking back at its beginning, it symbolized the democratization of mobility with 21.5 million cars sold since its first production in 1939 to 1997.

Nicknamed according to precisely what it looked like, a beetle, it is one of the first rear-engined cars longest running in a single design platform.  In 1998, a New Beetle arrived and brought with it Beetle Mania.  The Final Edition completed the New Beetle series in 2010 that had sold more than one million cars.  And now, looking forward, the future of the most famous car in the world begins now, in a completely new generation.

 Volkswagen, 2014 Volkswagen, Ayala, Mind Museum, The New Beetle, cult car, muscular tension, sports, dynamic, Volkswagen, Volkswagen beetle, review, car review, auto review, automanila, Volkswagen BGC showroom, 28th Street City Center, Bonifacio Global City, Operation Hours, Open, test drive, adress, bonnet, new design, photo, hollywood, actors, Philippines, Filipino, Zobel Ayala, specifications, model, betweenbites, Fort, between bites, car review, Pinoy car, The People’s Car, Germany, Filipino market, Philippine market, importer, distributor, Mr. JP Orbeta, president of Automobile Central Enterprise, Inc. (ACEI), 2014 Beetle, model, photos, event photos, Ayala Auto Holdings Corporation (AAHC), Fernando Zobel de Ayala his brother, Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, MRM Worldwide, agency, car showroom, most successful, fast selling, car of the year, 2014, 2013, awarded, award, sports car, 2014 VW Beetle, sporty, volkswagen Philippines, car shows, lineup, list, price list, car price list, cheap, affordable, payment plan, bank loan, car loan

Today, the third generation of the Volkswagen icon is officially back: The one and only Beetle.  The new Beetle displays impressive sports appeal – primarily in its extended bonnet, sharply swept-back windscreen and a longer wheelbase.

[Read more…]

Soakin’ Up Summer at Diamond Hotel

Summer is here and it’s the season to get some tan.  Soak up the sun and get ready for a fun summer family bonding!  Spend the day by the poolside or relax with the family in the luxurious confines of your room at Diamond Hotel Philippines.

 Diamond Hotel, hotel discount promos, Philippine hotel discount, Philippines hotels summer promo, rooms, room discount, sales, easter Sunday promo, Easter promo, promotions, promo rooms, promo accommodation, Makati Shangrila, Shangri-la, EDSA Shangrila, room accommodation, deluxe room, standard room, with breakfast promo, Diamond Hotel Corniche, Diamond Hotel pools, hotel pools, best hotels in Metro Manila, staycation, stay in vacation, staycation, best hotels for staycation, new hotels, 2014, 2014 hotel promos, buffet promos, family discounts, 2012, 2013, address, affordable, best, best buffet in Manila, best price, Between Bites, betweenbites, blogger, buffet promo, buffet spread, carving station, cheap,cold station, contact number, Corniche, Corniche Diamond Hotel, coupon deal, deal site, Filipino food review,food blog, food review, group rate, Indian station, lifestyle, list of new restaurants, lobster bisque, Lobster Buffet, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, lobster thermidore, Lobsters, location, Manila, Map, menu,Metro Manila, new, Philippines, photos, pictures, pinoy, price, Promo, reasonable, recipe, reservation, Roxas Boulevard, seafood buffet, value for money

Amp up your summer with Diamond Hotel’s Soakin’ Up Summer room package. For only Php 5,500 nett per night, get an overnight stay in a Deluxe room with buffet breakfast for 2 adults at Corniche, access to the swimming pool and Health Club and Spa, 3 hours free internet access per stay, discounts on massage and reflexology, discounts at the Poolside and Sky Lounge, and complimentary shuttle service to and from Mall of Asia or Robinson’s Place Manila.

Diamond Hotel, hotel discount promos, Philippine hotel discount, Philippines hotels summer promo, rooms, room discount, sales, easter Sunday promo, Easter promo, promotions, promo rooms, promo accommodation, Makati Shangrila, Shangri-la, EDSA Shangrila, room accommodation, deluxe room, standard room, with breakfast promo, Diamond Hotel Corniche, Diamond Hotel pools, hotel pools, best hotels in Metro Manila, staycation, stay in vacation, staycation, best hotels for staycation, new hotels, 2014, 2014 hotel promos, buffet promos, family discounts, 2012, 2013, address, affordable, best, best buffet in Manila, best price, Between Bites, betweenbites, blogger, buffet promo, buffet spread, carving station, cheap,cold station, contact number, Corniche, Corniche Diamond Hotel, coupon deal, deal site, Filipino food review,food blog, food review, group rate, Indian station, lifestyle, list of new restaurants, lobster bisque, Lobster Buffet, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, lobster thermidore, Lobsters, location, Manila, Map, menu,Metro Manila, new, Philippines, photos, pictures, pinoy, price, Promo, reasonable, recipe, reservation, Roxas Boulevard, seafood buffet, value for money

If you are swimming or lounging by the poolside on a weekend, treat the whole brood to flavorful barbecue specialties, ice cold drinks and signature ice cream concoctions.

[Read more…]

Vom Fass Artisan Specialty Store

Jars and canisters are some of the things I like purchasing, even the little versions of these as well.  Lately, I’ve been into airtight glass food storage jars that keep food fresh and mason jars that I can use for display, serving, vase or arts and crafts.  I love little jars particularly, especially when it stores artisanal products like aged balsamic vinegars or truffle oil.  For a foodie and trying hard to be a home cook like me, it’s like giving me a Tiffany box.

Sometime last year, I received a small 40ml jar that contains truffle oil.  I love anything truffle.

I asked where it came from and was told it was from Vom Fass.  Vom Fass recently opened at Shangri-la Plaza mall and offers an extraordinary line-up of single malt whiskeys, artisanal oils, vinegars, spirits, liqueurs, and other non-alcoholic specialties, all of which may be sampled ‘from the cask’ (which is what ‘Vom Fass’ means in English).

  Vom Fass Specialty Store, Vom Fass SM Aura, Vom Fass Philippines branches, list of branches, list of stores, where to get, balsamic vinegar, aged balsamic fig vinegar, Shangrila Plaza Mall, SM Aura Fort, Bonifacio Global City, between bites, betweenbites, foodie, gourmands, specialty store, where to buy, wines, European, cheap, affordable, from the cask, tasting, taste, foodie, Manila, Philippines, Filipino, Pinoy, Pinay, aged balsamic vinegars in the Philippines, imported items, Aceto Balsamico, sweet balsamic vinegar, recipe, Shangrila Plaza, East Wing, where, basement, Epicurious, olive oil, try and taste, bottles, jars, cask, Vom Fass kinds of oils, list of oils, dressing, salad dressings, diet, location, menu, where, how to, mall, shop, grocery, Santi’s, Santis, artisan, Vom Fass oils, pumpkin seed oil, wellness oil, best, foodie, best food blog, food review, oils, bottles, jars, canisters, mason jars, recipes

[Read more…]

Munchtown, Everything’s Waiting For You

 

Idle time is something I can’t stand.  I’d rather be eating than be idle.  That’s why I’m game, set and match to try any new activity, learn a new skill or pick up a new hobby.  The only time I can sit still is when I’m watching a movie.  And even then, I’d still be eating.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details,   Munchtown, comfort food, Greenhills, location, chef, San Juan  Munchtown menu, Munchtown Menu and price,  Munchtown photos, best comfort food, best comfort food, new restaurant in Manila, Chef Robby Goco, Chef Rob, Japanese, cuisine, best cinema food, theater, Promenade, Promenade new restaurants, Tampopo, Promenade 3 Greenhills, promenade cinema, atmos, Atmos cinema, digital sound, dolby digital, best cinema in Manila, theater, movies, movie theater, Munchtown price, Munchtown review, food review

Growing up exposed to all kinds of films available to me at my Tita’s video store, I became a movie fanatic.  In college, I would not let a week go by without watching at least one or two movies –if not, all that’s showing.  My boyfriend (MB) then also loved catching the latest flick.  Greenbelt 3 Cinema was our favorite for a number of reasons but firstly, the concessionaires can deliver food inside the theater.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details,   Munchtown, comfort food, Greenhills, location, chef, San Juan  Munchtown menu, Munchtown Menu and price,  Munchtown photos, best comfort food, best comfort food, new restaurant in Manila, Chef Robby Goco, Chef Rob, Japanese, cuisine, best cinema food, theater, Promenade, Promenade new restaurants, Tampopo, Promenade 3 Greenhills, promenade cinema, atmos, Atmos cinema, digital sound, dolby digital, best cinema in Manila, theater, movies, movie theater, Munchtown price, Munchtown review, food review

We’d get lemon grape juice and corn dog from Muscle Beach, some Wrapwich (which I think we’ve tried all variants), Wasabi popcorn and Wasabi Tofu Chips (and almost everything on their menu) from Taters, burgers from Sliders, and potato skins from Tender Bobs with cheese sauce and sour cream.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details,   Munchtown, comfort food, Greenhills, location, chef, San Juan  Munchtown menu, Munchtown Menu and price,  Munchtown photos, best comfort food, best comfort food, new restaurant in Manila, Chef Robby Goco, Chef Rob, Japanese, cuisine, best cinema food, theater, Promenade, Promenade new restaurants, Tampopo, Promenade 3 Greenhills, promenade cinema, atmos, Atmos cinema, digital sound, dolby digital, best cinema in Manila, theater, movies, movie theater, Munchtown price, Munchtown review, food review

He’d even walk to Segafredo just to get me my Margherita or Napoletana pizza with a request of a slightly toasted crust.  Yes, I eat pizza inside the cinema.  One whole box.  And yea, even rice sometimes.  I simply cannot let dimness get in the way.  Others follow their heart, I follow my craving.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details,   Munchtown, comfort food, Greenhills, location, chef, San Juan  Munchtown menu, Munchtown Menu and price,  Munchtown photos, best comfort food, best comfort food, new restaurant in Manila, Chef Robby Goco, Chef Rob, Japanese, cuisine, best cinema food, theater, Promenade, Promenade new restaurants, Tampopo, Promenade 3 Greenhills, promenade cinema, atmos, Atmos cinema, digital sound, dolby digital, best cinema in Manila, theater, movies, movie theater, Munchtown price, Munchtown review, food review

Munchtown opened at the Cinema level of Greenhills Promenade and I got pretty excited since a brilliant mind is behind it, Chef Robby Goco.  I can’t deny the fact that I’ve frequented (became my 2nd home) the restaurants that have opened with him at the helm.

RELATED POST:

Achiote, Rockwell

Green Pastures

 Charlie’s

See, Ma and I Love Cyma

Charlie’s Grind and Grill with Joyce

Charlie’s Grind and Grill

In My Restaurant List This Coming Quarter

Wet Your Appetite at Ristras

Addicted to Ristras

Thursday Club: Ristras 

On the Table

Munchtown Fries P195

Fresh Igorota Idaho potatoes with rock salt, black pepper, bacon bits, paprika, chili flakes, sour cream, dill and cream cheese

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details,   Munchtown, comfort food, Greenhills, location, chef, San Juan  Munchtown menu, Munchtown Menu and price,  Munchtown photos, best comfort food, best comfort food, new restaurant in Manila, Chef Robby Goco, Chef Rob, Japanese, cuisine, best cinema food, theater, Promenade, Promenade new restaurants, Tampopo, Promenade 3 Greenhills, promenade cinema, atmos, Atmos cinema, digital sound, dolby digital, best cinema in Manila, theater, movies, movie theater, Munchtown price, Munchtown review, food review

Love the fresh French fries where each is covered fairly with the wet ingredients.  The specks of red from the paprika and green from the dill add a bit of appeal while the meat candy, that is bacon bits, added the charm.

  [Read more…]

Sensei Sushi by Chef Bruce Ricketts

A tip off can lead to the arrest of a high-powered official or it could help the most venerated African nationalist leader be seized by agents of South African police special branch in 1962.  This valuable tip I got came from Sanju of Table for Three, Please.  The website is one of my top favorite reads when I need to enliven my passion for glorious food or writing.  Sanju is the same guy who had me seek out a restaurant specializing in octopus dishes and consume a moving, partially-live octopus in Korea.  That was quite an experience.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

While dining at Elbert’s Best of the Beast dinner in July 2013, Sanju and the rest of us prisoners of fantastic food exchanged notes on the latest in the Manila food scene.  And he talked enthusiastically about Sensei Sushi.  Eugene and I looked at each other and knew, we’d pay top bill to be there.  The three of us set a date and ended up with 2 more in tow.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

No undercover agent was placed in the inner circles of influential gatherings.  And no, this tip didn’t lead to any covert ops.  It piloted to a spectacular culinary journey.

RELATED POST:

Robot Restaurant and Lounge 

The Best of the Beast Dinner

 

Sensei Sushi is quite a drive for us Northerners but the 20-seater restaurant in BF is worth that early Saturday drive.  Our 6-man group reserved ahead and went for the Degustacion (P2,000 per head).

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

We arrived at the restaurant and got welcomed by Chef Bruce Ricketts.  I’ve met Chef Bruce very briefly during his stint at Robot in Makati and now, he has opened his own.  Sensei Sushi’s interiors are very simple with their ala carte menu written on a blackboard for the walk-ins.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

The degustation menu is omakase-style.  Omakase is a Japanese phrase that means “I’ll leave it to you” which also means to entrust.  Don’t you worry child, we are not talking about love.  On this front, everything about the degustation menu is left entirely to the chef who creates the dishes based on what is available fresh in the local market and on his culinary thrust or creativity that very moment.

On the Table

Tuna Soy, Pineapple with Kangkong Tempura

The dish came out looking like a garden patch freshly watered and kissed by the sun.  The tuna cuts seared on the sides with roasted brown sugar and pickled scallions are brimming with brightness, freshness, some nuttiness and a sweet citrus taste.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

The black sesame seeds make it reminiscent of Japanese cuisine but it’s not entirely pacific rim.  The kangkong tempura adds texture to the somewhat melting tuna with all the stark flavors sweating in your mouth.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

Salmon Belly Kushiyaki

The second dish was the salmon belly cubed, skewered and grilled skin side down, then finished with Jap mustard fusion and touch of truffle oil, garnished with bonito flakes that looked like wood shavings.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

I snatch a bite of the light-orange-pink salmon –delicately plump, juicy and moist, and the grilled skin almost peeling off of it –crispy, salty and smoky.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

Ebi with Flour Tortilla Aligue

Another beautiful looking plate and structural dish with two shrimp heads standing on guard while peeled shrimps balance on the tortilla bridge with a drizzle of aligue cream.  The shrimps were cooked in chili oil, infused in glaze with chili bean paste.  The shrimp, ever slightly undercooked, allows it to disappear almost instantly after a bit of munching, except when you use the tortilla as spoon, it gives you a textural crunch after the fragile shrimp.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

The shrimps’ curled up flesh is creamy yet scuffling with some heat.  I pursued that spark of intensity hunting it down the shrimps’ heads sucking what delicious fat I can.  Unrestrained, I bite off the soft parts of the head where all the superior flavors are – and scrape the caramelized glaze with my teeth until it’s cleared off it.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

Hokkaido Scallops

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, contact number, contact details, Sensei Sushi  BF, comfort food, Paranaque, location, chef, south,   Sensei Sushi menu, Sensei Sushi Menu and price,  Sensei Sushi photos, best comfort food, best breakfast, all day breakfast, new breakfast place, new breakfast restaurant in Manila, Chef Bruce Ricketts, Japanese, cuisine, best chef, sushi, French Laundry

[Read more…]

B&P Just Like Home

“Morning has broken, like the first morning.  Blackbird has spoken, like the first bird.”  I love that song but even Cat Stevens voice cannot make me wake up that early on a weekend.  I only do that for special people and, nothing else but, food.

Nats invited to have brunch and try newly opened B&P restaurant along Shaw Blvd.  B&P, Just Like Home, is a casual dining concept restaurant from Cravings Group that serves all day breakfast, mains and desserts.

I walked in and was delightfully surprised that instead of a one-on-one date, my Victory group actually set up a belated surprise birthday brunch for me and Val.

B&P has homey interiors with couches and wooden shelves displaying books and cutesy colorful accents.  The dining area, whether indoor or the al fresco veranda, is perfect for a Saturday brunch.  You get a good view of the compact kitchen from where we were seated.

 

Curious on what B&P stands for, Ria asked the wait staff and she told us that it stands for Bea and Pia, daughters of the brains behind B&P.

On the Table

Creole Style Eggs P290

Two poached eggs guarding a beef patty swimming in a spicy buttermilk cream sauce with melted Swiss cheese.  The velvety cream sauce is light, delicate yet invokes an attitude with the slightest tinge of spice.

It’s a great no-carb breakfast with mostly protein from the well-seasoned patty and delicious poached eggs.

[Read more…]

Food Bites: Wildflour’s Kimchi Rice with Braised Short Rib

Wiiiiiiiiiiiiiild.  I can never pull off my no-rice diet whenever I’m dining at Wildflour.  I love quite a number of items in their menu but there’s simply one dish that I cannot NOT order.  When it was just the Fort branch, its stage name was Steak and Egg.  Kitayama Flat Iron Steak is served all sliced evenly served atop kimchi rice and poached egg.  I got this thing with kimchi rice – fatal attraction.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars  Wild Flour, Wild Flour fort, Wild Flour branches, Wild Flour Podium, bakery, café, best, Wild Flour sticky buns, Wild Flour cronuts, Wild Flour Kimchi fried rice, Wild Flour menu, wildflour, wildflour review, New York, wildflour breakfast

I’ve visited Wild Flour constantly especially when it opened its branch at the Podium.  Like many other things (because I have been ridiculously busy), I have failed to blog about Wild Flour until this food bite.  Well, you know, for those who follow me on Instagram and Twitter, I’ve been ridiculously busy… eating.  22-lb gain, check!

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars  Wild Flour, Wild Flour fort, Wild Flour branches, Wild Flour Podium, bakery, café, best, Wild Flour sticky buns, Wild Flour cronuts, Wild Flour Kimchi fried rice, Wild Flour menu, wildflour, wildflour review, New York, wildflour breakfast

  [Read more…]

Gostoso Piri Piri Chicken

After a long work week, you just want to make Friday evening count and a simple dinner sometimes ought to do it… coupled with a good meaningful conversation or just ridiculously silly “it’ll keep you laughing until your dreams” banter.  Drove to Kapitolyo to hunt down Gostoso Piri Piri Chicken.  Peri Peri or Piri Piri or Pili Pili is the Swahili word for “pepper pepper” which is what is included in the marinade that wraps the chicken before grilling.  This pepper is African bird’s eye chili blended with garlic, lemon, herbs, paprika and brushed onto the meat.

 Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

Gostoso wasn’t so hard to spot as it is near the line of restaurants where Poco Deli, Lia Cakes are.  Same street as Charlie’s Grind and Grill.  The interior has a simple industrial but polished look, quirky and red.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

I made a beeline to the loo as soon as I entered since my water bag was held for what felt like an eternity in the car.  Their washroom has this funny sign which wouldn’t have been the least bit amusing if the door was locked when I turned it and someone was inside.  I would have kicked it open.  It was that kind of urgent.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

When I was more relaxed, I perused the menu on the LCD screen atop the counter where you place your order.  Time to tackle another pressing matter… hunger!

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

On the Table

Half and Half P750 (good for 2-3)

Instead of ordering ala carte meals, the shorter route was to not think and just eat so we got the half and half instead.  No, this is not what I order in Starbucks to use the rare times I drink coffee, which is half heavy cream and half whole milk.  Gostoso’s Half and Half is their 2-mains platter option that could either be Half Chicken or Slab of Pork or Shrimp Skewers.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars, 2014 restaurants  Portuguese, Portuguese restaurants in Manila, Peri Peri, Piri Piri chicken,   Gostosos, Gostosos menu, Gostosos price, best peri peri chicken place, best restaurant in Manila, Gostosos Pasig, grilled chicken, open flame grilled, Gostoso, Gostosos location, Gostosos photo

[Read more…]

Kimukatsu, Changing Your Katsu Experience

 

Ramen bars aside, Katsu restaurants have been opening left and right in the Metro.  One can easily drown into a void with all the places that can offer the fried pork cutlet set.  It can plainly become boring at some point, unless it is brought to a higher dining experience.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars

That’s what can set a Katsu place apart.  A unique proposition can effortlessly make foodies spot the difference.  After walking around shopping shoes and clothes in the new East Wing of Shangri-la Plaza Mall, Isis and I entered Kimukatsu beside Ikkorya Fukuoka.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars

Kimukatsu is one of the most famous pork cutlet restaurants in Japan, with multiple locations in Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, Sendai, among others.  It’s now in the Philippines, opening its branch in Shang last December.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars

Kimukatsu sets itself apart from the normal tonkatsu importing select pork loin from Japan, slicing it into 1mm sheet of pork and stacking it into 25 layers before encasing it in Japan-imported panko.

They take on a meticulous process before bringing out the dishes from their kitchen that can only ensure a juicy and tender 25-layered Mille-feuille-style Tonkatsu.

 

On the Table

Kimutaku P110

Kimukatsu offers different starters in their menu.  One of which is Kimutaku which is Japanese tako pickle mixed with Korean kimchi.  This was very tasty and I love the vinegary pickled vegetable with fermented spice.  The sesame seeds add the little nutty crunchiness.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars

Ebi Mayo P210

Breaded shrimps tossed in sweet mayo.  It had ample number of shrimps with a nice tinge of spice and sweetness.

Menu, Philippines, Pinoy, Filipino, Metro Manila, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Shangrila Plaza, Makati, branch, price, betweenbites, between bites, janedchua.com, food blog, foodie, food photo, food shots, food blogger, food review, restaurant, restaurant review, East Wing, List, menu price, bestseller, best, date places, dinner dates, budget date, budget, affordable, cheap, expensive, pricey, service, flavorful, steak, beef, meat, location, how to get there, place, rating, 2014, 2013, new restaurants, new list, new date places, bars

[Read more…]

Mangetsu

A gravitational force always pulls me to Mangetsu, even if I never get thrilled driving to Makati.  I discovered Mangetsu near the same time they relocated their restaurant along Jupiter Street sometime late 2011 or early 2012 and have been harboring a heavy crush (almost love) with the restaurant since then.  It’s amazing that with the amount of excitement I have for this Japanese restaurant, this is the first time I’m writing about them.

 best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

Contrary to their old place at Mile Long compound, Mangetsu now boasts of modern interiors with subdued lighting, rich woodwork, and Japanese elements that decorate the comfortable dining room.  Menu is extensive where regulars of sushi, sashimi and cooked Japanese delicacies are present but it also offers an inventive stroke in the other dishes they serve that are thoughtfully created and plated.

 best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

The kitchen is headed by a Japanese chef whose expertise is in “Ryotei,” a traditional Japanese way of exclusive dining –whatever that means.  Mangetsu imports handcrafted secret seasonings made in Japan and last September, I could not contain my hidden desire knowing too well how those will translate to actual grub.

On the Table

Marinated Sashimi with Wasabi Sea Urchin Sauce P390

best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

Sashimi marinated in light soy piggybacking some sea urchin that leaves a slight hint of wasabi.  The sashimi screams freshness while the sea urchin wraps the tongue with some cool velvety brininess.  This starter can whisk me away to a private island and I’ll go willingly.

Karaage Fried Chicken Thighs P380

best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

I weakly frowned when my dinner partner ordered this since it doesn’t excite me much and only few can do it very well.  My moping turns into a smile since Mangetsu’s karaage is crispy on the outside but retains moistness inside and is garnished with fried rice cracker on the side that I can nibble on for days like chips.  It’s served with 3 kinds of salt: pepper, green tea and chili flakes to keep monotony at bay.

Tofu Cheese Gratin P290

best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

I tried to stay cool when this was brought out but my fidgeting self conveyed the tension.  I locked eyes with the Tofu Cheese Gratin, in fact the only order I was truly, madly and deeply interested in.  It is tofu gratin, simple enough, fairly bathing in white sauce, smothered with cheese that’s scorched on top yet stretches gooey-wee! like in Pizza commercials.

 best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

You know how broken-hearted girls sit and sulk with a tub of ice cream?  I picture myself by the window with an iron-cast pan, hot yet hugging it against my chest, looking far away, and drowning myself with spoon after spoon of the tofu cheese gratin.

best, review, food review, top ten, top 10, list of Japanese places, top 3 best, top ten, food blog, food blogger, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, chef, Japan, Japanese, Filipino, Pinoy, recipe, gratin recipe, homemade, photo, picture, ramen daisho review, menu, Mangetsu menu, service, location, where, date place, price, between bites, betweenbites, janedchua, best date place, best proposal, Mangetsu Japanese, Mangetsu Jupiter, Mangetsu food review, food blog, Mangetsu what to order, where is Mangetsu

[Read more…]

Ramen Yushoken

It’s not every day that I drive to Alabang – okay, it’s probably not even every year, but since I wanted to support my friend Isis in her first bazaar at Cuenca for Soleful Manila (SoLa) shoes, Marco and I decided to head down south and show our love.

Ramen Yushoken, Yushoken menu, ramen, best ramen in Manila, Alabang, Metro Manila, Philippines, foodie, food, foodgasm, Ayala Alabang, Molito Lifestyle, list of new restaurants, 2013 restaurants, 2012 restaurants, Sunday family lunch, Ramen Yushoken, Elbert Cuenca, Adrian Cuenca, Elbert’s steak Room, Ramen restaurants, list of best ramen restaurants, top ten, top 10, menu, maze soba, maze ramen, shoyu ramen, miso ramen, Yushoken photo, food photo, price, date place, menu price, best tonkotsu broth, soup, pork broth, gyoza, Japanese, best, authentic, review, food review, food blog, between bites, janedchua.com, branch, new branch, Ramen God, Kazuo Yamagishi, Tokyo, sola, soleful manila

Priorities, priorities… love for food comes first.  Since Ramen Yushoken has been on my hit list for a long time, we stopped there first for our late lunch.  A waiting line didn’t discourage me and thankfully, less than ten minutes and we got seats at the bar.

Ramen Yushoken, Yushoken menu, ramen, best ramen in Manila, Alabang, Metro Manila, Philippines, foodie, food, foodgasm, Ayala Alabang, Molito Lifestyle, list of new restaurants, 2013 restaurants, 2012 restaurants, Sunday family lunch, Ramen Yushoken, Elbert Cuenca, Adrian Cuenca, Elbert’s steak Room, Ramen restaurants, list of best ramen restaurants, top ten, top 10, menu, maze soba, maze ramen, shoyu ramen, miso ramen, Yushoken photo, food photo, price, date place, menu price, best tonkotsu broth, soup, pork broth, gyoza, Japanese, best, authentic, review, food review, food blog, between bites, janedchua.com, branch, new branch, Ramen God, Kazuo Yamagishi, Tokyo

The usual suspects of shio, shoyu, miso and tantanmen are part of the menu but I wanted a dish that’s not in black and white… one that I ordered under my breath.

[Read more…]

Poco Deli, A Revisit

It’s been a while since I last ate at Poco Deli but I was able to visit again sometime mid-July.  Parking is still tough around this part of Kapitolyo but luckily, we were able to park right out front.  I walk in the familiar dining area with the display case and counter on the right and a huge shelf of wine at the far end.

READ MORE:

Take a Poke at Poco Deli

In Crumbs: Poco Deli 

 

[Read more…]

Tambay sa Kanto Freestyle

 

I was a street kid.  My mom used to scold me every time she found out I was out playing on the street the whole afternoon.  There’s just something about running around freely playing touch taya and pinoy dodge ball and the thrill of keeping a scraped knee hidden from her eyesight and taking it like a warrior princess.  That was then, nowadays I get scraped knee from playing Ultimate in an uneven field.  But it’s all worth it.

Kanto, Kanto Freestyle, Kanto Freestyle, cheap, gourmet, Manila, Mandaluyong, Philippines, Kanto restaurant, Kanto menu, Kanto prices, Kanto restaurant menu, Kanto Lime 88, Lime 88 restaurant, all day breakfast, all day breakfast dining, outdoor, Open 24/7, 24 hours restaurant, call center, eggs benedict, gourmet breakfasts, mixed berry pancakes, mixed berry berry, fried oreos, recipe, fried cloud 9, affordable, eats, yummy, delicious, cheap, cheapest, list, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Manila food reviews, recipe, Filipino, Pinoy, location, date places, best, best dinner dates, best date restaurants, restaurant reviews, Between Bites, betweenbites, food, foodie, food finds, location, menu, map, Fort, Quezon City, list, photo, Taguig, Ortigas, list of restaurant, photos, videos, www.janedchua.com, address, steak, beef, best, best dining spots, price, promo, discount, enjoy, bars, clubs, branches, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle blog, travel blog

Kanto, Kanto Freestyle, Kanto Freestyle, cheap, gourmet, Manila, Mandaluyong, Philippines, Kanto restaurant, Kanto menu, Kanto prices, Kanto restaurant menu, Kanto Lime 88, Lime 88 restaurant, all day breakfast, all day breakfast dining, outdoor, Open 24/7, 24 hours restaurant, call center, eggs benedict, gourmet breakfasts, mixed berry pancakes, mixed berry berry, fried oreos, recipe, fried cloud 9, affordable, eats, yummy, delicious, cheap, cheapest, list, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, Manila food reviews, recipe, Filipino, Pinoy, location, date places, best, best dinner dates, best date restaurants, restaurant reviews, Between Bites, betweenbites, food, foodie, food finds, location, menu, map, Fort, Quezon City, list, photo, Taguig, Ortigas, list of restaurant, photos, videos, www.janedchua.com, address, steak, beef, best, best dining spots, price, promo, discount, enjoy, bars, clubs, branches, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle blog, travel blog [Read more…]

Lady Satin Pillowcases

 

If you can afford many hours of sleep, it is life’s most simple relaxing pleasure.  We all wish for that uninterrupted deep sleep… and at times, sweet dreams to go with it.  For some of us, we are sleep deprived, nightcrawlers tossing and tumbling on our beds. 

lady satin pillowcases, review, satin, side effects, impact, benefit, expensive, cheap, how much, beddings, bed sheets, bedsheets, Lady Satin Pillowcases, website, where to buy, how much, duvet, comforter, Philippines, Manila, distributor, local, Filipino, Pinoy, retail, stores, available, Lady Satin Pillowcases, feature, Jemma Wong, Jem Wong, owner, lady satin, made, in china, price, Lady Satin Pillowcases color, orders

That is why it is good advice to keep any noisy and bright electronics like TV or computers outside our bedrooms and make that one area as serene and quiet as possible.  The bedroom is our refuge, where we surrender everything that went on the day and hopefully get a respite from many hours of movements. 

lady satin pillowcases, review, satin, side effects, impact, benefit, expensive, cheap, how much, beddings, bed sheets, bedsheets, Lady Satin Pillowcases, website, where to buy, how much, duvet, comforter, Philippines, Manila, distributor, local, Filipino, Pinoy, retail, stores, available, Lady Satin Pillowcases, feature, Jemma Wong, Jem Wong, owner, lady satin, made, in china, price, Lady Satin Pillowcases color, orders 

I’m very particular with beds and beddings.  I burn holes in my pocket investing on good bed sheets with very high thread count and quality material, pressure-less and conforming pillows, temp-adjusting duvets and anything that will ease me off to Zzzz-land like a magic carpet ride.    

 

RELATED POST

Tempur Pillows, Sleeps of Comfort that’s Pure 

[Read more…]

Lombardi’s, East Wing Shang – Eats Italian!

 

Running a bit on my heels in the spacious hallways of the East Wing of Shangri-la Mall, I made my way to the row of restaurants and stopped right in front of Lombardi’s.  A well-lighted casual dining area with modern industrial look has a bar counter designed with wood panels, a chalkboard for the specials and a wall of plate displays.  I could kick myself with my 3-inch pumps for being a tad bit late but what can a girl do, grocery duty was my first mission on that early Thursday evening.

Lombardi, Lombardis, Lombardi’s, authentic Italian, Italian restaurant, recipe, carpaccio di manzo, carpaccio di tonno, pasta, pizza, best, Manila, Philippines, Metro Manila, list, location, address, menu, price, Lombardi price, Lombardi’s restaurant, branch, Robinsons Magnolia restaurants, new, East Wing branch, East Wing restaurants, best, where to eat, review, food review, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle, steak, best steak, affordable, cheap 

I remember dining at Lombardi’s at their first branch in Robinson’s Magnolia sometime December last year with 5 other girlfriends.  One of my friends there was part of the team who did the interior design for the 1st restaurant.  Some months after, here I was at their second branch ready to devour some good Italian eats.

 Lombardi, Lombardis, Lombardi’s, authentic Italian, Italian restaurant, recipe, carpaccio di manzo, carpaccio di tonno, pasta, pizza, best, Manila, Philippines, Metro Manila, list, location, address, menu, price, Lombardi price, Lombardi’s restaurant, branch, Robinsons Magnolia restaurants, new, East Wing branch, East Wing restaurants, best, where to eat, review, food review, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle, steak, best steak, affordable, cheap

Italian cuisine is easily a top 3 favorite –I like its extreme simplicity with many dishes having only a handful of ingredients to complete it.  Italian cooking relies more on the quality of the ingredients than creating an elaborate way of cookery and prep.  Lombardi’s restaurant stays true to that tradition using only top quality, albeit sometimes seasonal, ingredients.

 Lombardi, Lombardis, Lombardi’s, authentic Italian, Italian restaurant, recipe, carpaccio di manzo, carpaccio di tonno, pasta, pizza, best, Manila, Philippines, Metro Manila, list, location, address, menu, price, Lombardi price, Lombardi’s restaurant, branch, Robinsons Magnolia restaurants, new, East Wing branch, East Wing restaurants, best, where to eat, review, food review, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle, steak, best steak, affordable, cheap

On the Table

Mozzarella in Carroza with Arrabbiata Sauce Php 230

It’s the Italian version of grilled cheese made richer with tangy sweet arrabbiata sauce tomato and garlic component.  Bite into the crusty outer layer of the loaf bread and enjoy the cheesy interior.  Balance it off with a bit of acidity from the arrabbiata sauce and pull the dish together with the side salad.

Lombardi, Lombardis, Lombardi’s, authentic Italian, Italian restaurant, recipe, carpaccio di manzo, carpaccio di tonno, pasta, pizza, best, Manila, Philippines, Metro Manila, list, location, address, menu, price, Lombardi price, Lombardi’s restaurant, branch, Robinsons Magnolia restaurants, new, East Wing branch, East Wing restaurants, best, where to eat, review, food review, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle, steak, best steak, affordable, cheap 

Carpaccio Di Manzo Php 460

Beef carpaccio marinated in lemon and olive oil then finished off with fresh Parmesan shavings.

Lombardi, Lombardis, Lombardi’s, authentic Italian, Italian restaurant, recipe, carpaccio di manzo, carpaccio di tonno, pasta, pizza, best, Manila, Philippines, Metro Manila, list, location, address, menu, price, Lombardi price, Lombardi’s restaurant, branch, Robinsons Magnolia restaurants, new, East Wing branch, East Wing restaurants, best, where to eat, review, food review, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle, steak, best steak, affordable, cheap 

Originally a Venice dish, thinly sliced beef dressed in olive oil and fresh squeeze of lemon juice.  Since I always pretend I am on a diet, this is the closest thing to not eating so much meat yet still enjoying my share of protein.  The incredibly thin cut allows the meat to almost dissolve instantaneously inside your mouth, only retaining that delightful beefy taste sharpened by the Parmesan shaves and balanced with hints of lemon and EVOO.

Lombardi, Lombardis, Lombardi’s, authentic Italian, Italian restaurant, recipe, carpaccio di manzo, carpaccio di tonno, pasta, pizza, best, Manila, Philippines, Metro Manila, list, location, address, menu, price, Lombardi price, Lombardi’s restaurant, branch, Robinsons Magnolia restaurants, new, East Wing branch, East Wing restaurants, best, where to eat, review, food review, food blog, food blogger, lifestyle, steak, best steak, affordable, cheap

[Read more…]

Lobster Buffet at Diamond Hotel’s Corniche

 

You and I have probably tried many diets, especially this summer season.  Lately, I’ve been on a seafood diet.  You know what’s a seafood diet?  I see food, I eat.  Har har.  That’s the best diet I’ve tried so far.  When I’m on that regimen, I’m always in the best mood. 🙂

Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate,  

Seriously, I love seafood.  When I was still with SIUTK (Somebody I Used to Know), I barely had any relationship with seafood.  I couldn’t order it since we usually share our dishes.  He’s obviously not a fan so I get so excited when friends invite to eat crustacean dishes but that’s still once in a blue moon. 

Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate,

And yes, let me repeat, I love seafood.  That’s why I was jumping in joy one Friday when I found myself at Corniche at Diamond Hotel enjoying their Lobster Buffet.

Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate,  

READ MORE:

Corniche Steak Nights at Diamond Hotel

 

If you’re familiar with Corniche’s buffet, it’s still pretty much the same but during Lobster Friday, they enhanced their offerings with more lobster dishes and fresh supply.

Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate, Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate,  

For starters, you can try their Lobster Pineapple Salad, which is lobster with pineapple on leaf salad, marinated vegetables, goat cheese and cocktail dressing.  It’s a light salad to whet your appetite and get some greens inside your system for balance.

Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate,

Lobster Buffet, Lobsters, cheap, price, menu, Corniche, seafood buffet, Philippines, Metro Manila, Manila, best price, best, reasonable, affordable, photos, pictures, lobster thermidore, recipe, food blog, food review, blogger, lifestyle, contact number, reservation, promo, buffet promo, deal site, coupon deal, lobster bisque, Corniche Diamond Hotel, Manila, Roxas Boulevard, map, location, 2013, new, list of new restaurants, between bites, betweenbites, lobster Friday, lobster grill, lobster tandoori, Indian station, carving station, cold station, buffet spread, best buffet in Manila, value for money, address, group rate,

  [Read more…]