dinner Archives - Between Bites - Bites of Food, Travel and Lifestyle

New Palate Gems at Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight

April 29, 2014 by Janey

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.

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.

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).

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.

Ramen Santouka Philippines

February 11, 2014 by Janey

After the last schedule of Victory Service two Sundays ago, we headed to Greenhills for a quick late dinner. We were initially targeting (with a capital T) a ramen place in the new Greenhills mall but our 2^nd visit still had us slightly shunned away AGAIN. They really have to get their host by the entrance area trained better –or at least have her pretend to be accommodating.

We found ourselves walking towards the Old Promenade and reaching the door of Ramen Santouka. Even if there’s a waiting line outside, reception was much better and more eager to receive us. In less than 10 minutes, we were ushered to our table.

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Ramen Santouka since it opened but when Eric and I visited mid last year at their Glorietta branch, it was incredibly jampacked and we had to find another place or my hunger pangs would have had me eating the menu.

Black Olive Cerveceria at Capitol Commons

November 7, 2013 by Janey

The two-level restaurant with an outdoor patio dining area only has its yellow signage as its spot of color. Stepping inside, the dimly lit dining room akin to a beer cellar is decorated in warm tones of beige and rich brown wood surrounded by glass walls. The long bar fronting the kitchen and the high ceiling add a dramatic touch to the interiors. Diners can enjoy cocktails or beers while waiting for a table or right before dinner –or vice versa.

After getting cooped up at home for 2 days due to fever and colds and working until 7pm last night, I was only glad to get a last minute invite to dinner. I was supposed to catch One Republic’s concert but ended up not going. Dinner alone wouldn’t have been what I wanted to do. Good thing Carol called and invited to check out a restaurant at Capitol Commons with Rizza and Rizza’s boyfriend Ken.

Exhausted from that day’s ongoings, I sunk into my seat perusing the menu. Something about the menu felt familiar and I asked the wait staff if my theory was correct. Menus sometimes feel like a chef’s penmanship and you tend to recognize the writing. In this case, Black Olive is another venture of Chef Carlo Miguel of Opus, Draft and Beso fame.

On the Table

Squid Ink, Battered Prawns with Jalapeno-Honey Aioli P390

The introduction to our dinner started with two hot small plates. We immediately dug in as soon as the first tapas was brought out. The prawns were covered in squid ink batter, slightly crispy, and served with a delicious jalapeno honey aioli dip on the side. Gone in 60 seconds.

Rekindled with Lolo Dads

August 23, 2013 by Janey

Somebody mentioned Lolo Dads during a table conversation and my friend Irene piped in, “hey, that’s Jane’s favorite restaurant.” I looked at her slightly bewildered like an illicit love affair was exposed. “How did you know?” I asked. She said, “Of course, I’m your friend. I know Lolo Dads is your favorite.”

That’s just how friends are… they know your heart and its desires. In this case, she has probably seen my photos of Lolo Dads dinners of past and likely has heard me say countless times that it’s my all-time favorite (when I don’t think about Antonio’s or vice versa –these two have an ongoing battle of who’s first inside my heart).

Take A New Flavor Turn

Of Mince and Men

Before the crazy month of August hit, like the universe conspired to bring back an old flame, I found myself back at Lolo Dads. Last time I visited was December but I didn’t realize how much longing was present until the first plate was brought out.

On the Table

Ahi Tuna Loin and Marinated Salmon, Grilled Watermelon with Soy Vinaigrette and Aioli P440 / P260

Whenever at Lolo Dads, I choose between a degustacion special of the month / season or just go ala carte. This specific dinner, we started with the All of the Above Appetizer Sampler (P1960), a tasting portion of all the starters, served family style. I think this is the best way to taste and share all the starters.

The ahi tuna loin tasted fresh and light. Tucked underneath is the marinated salmon stealing the scene from the tuna adding a richer aspect, its salmon meat creamy and continued towards the outer cover of the grilled watermelon. The watermelon block then bursts in the mouth with its juice almost erasing the slightest fish element.

Seared Duck Liver and Pate de Foie Gras, Pear Confit, Mesclun Salad, and Cranberry Compote P1320 / P795

Rich, buttery and delicate, the duck liver had a beautiful tan from its sear adding that layer of smokiness. The pear confit sheds a sheet of sweetness and helps cut through the sinful richness of the foie gras. [Read more…]

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Luzviminda Buffet at F1 Hotel

June 10, 2013 by Janey

F1 Hotel Manila kicks off a month-long Filipino food festival featuring a wide variety of Filipino recipes that originates from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. F1 Hotel has invited skillful, esteemed chefs to showcase delectable native dishes such as chefs Martin Jickain from Station Juan Café at the White House Boracay, Paul Sidney Uy and Karl Noel of Casa Verde Cebu fame and Ed Tuazon from Marco Polo Hotel Davao.

If that didn’t get your interest bubbling, you should know that resident chef now for F1 Hotel Manila is Chef Sau del Rosario, the culinary intellect spearheading F All Day Dining Restaurant, assisted by Chef Willie Ertez. Nothing but the very best of Philippine flavors should be expected with this team.

The LuzViMinda buffet at F1 Hotel runs from June 1 to June 30, 2013.

Think of your favorite Filipino dishes elevated into a broad range of unique dishes, with techniques influenced by foreign cuisines such as Japanese, Spanish and American. Exceptional Filipino taste reinvented in the Sisig Foie Gras. Your favorite crunchy bar chow made richer and luxurious with the presence of the goose liver.

Optimum Beauty and Wellness at Vietura, Aesthetic Lifestyle Center

June 5, 2013 by Janey

Early morning of May 13, Wendy and I trooped to our different precincts, casted our ballots and got our index finger inked. We made our votes count that day and we also made that day count by getting some needed RnR and lady love bonding. Parked our cars about the same time at Sofitel and walked towards Vietura, an acclaimed aesthetic medical institute with every bit and feel of a relaxing spa.

After layers of make-up and the harsh effects of camera lights while shooting until wee hours of the morning, Wendy looked forward to decongest the skin and I did too, my non-celebrity corporate slave work hard play (Frisbee) harder lifestyle casts me looking and feeling tired by the end of the week. Leading very active and dynamic lifestyles, it’s not startling that we get fatigue on full throttle.

Take a New Flavor Turn with Anchor Maple Butter

January 8, 2013 by Janey

Right before Christmas Day, exactly 5 nights prior, I was invited to a mystery dinner. Since it was December 20, Thursday going to a weekend, I anticipated Christmas traffic would be crazy and I almost begged off. I sure am glad I didn’t. Some mysteries are better left revealed.

Quietly tucked amidst the busy highway of Quirino Avenue, Lolo Dad’s was our destination. When the location of the restaurant was exposed, my nerves were jittering in excitement. The two times I have dined at Lolo Dad’s were exceptional. Every serious foodie in the Philippines has probably engaged in a dialogue about glorious unforgettable food of Lolo Dad’s. The original café serves as the ancestral house-cum-restaurant of the Ayuyaos and is run by the owner/manager, Christopher L. Ayuyao, and Carminia Ayuyao Manuel with her husband Chef Ariel I. Manuel.

The illustrious Chef Ariel Manuel distinguished as the most awarded chef in the country and one of the well-respected in the industry was the man that Anchor Butter challenged and partnered with to introduce their newest member of the family.

On the Table

Anchor Maple and Honey Glazed Duck Ham, Duck Liver Terrine and Confit of Cantaloupe Newly Popped Corn Salad

Brasas, Latin American Street Food

January 4, 2013 by Janey

Nothing can be sexier than a Latina’s sun-kissed skin, slender legs and strong sprightly attitude. They can really get heads turning. I’m way far from looking like a Latina but I know how to admire beauty. What gets MY head turning really is what they put inside their luscious lips… mouthwatering Latin American Street Food.

They have made their presence felt at Soderno Market. But their permanent location is now parked at the 5^th level of Podium. Brasas, which translates to ‘flaming coals’, lets you experience the finest of what plagues the streets of Columbia, Argentina, Chile and Cuba right here in Manila. It is over coals that orders are grilled to its delicious state.

The restaurant is bright and airy, untailored, ideal for casual dining ready for unique flavors. Their short menu brings to your table a line-up of grilled wraps, rice platters, salads, soups and regional Latin specialties.

On the Table

Patacones P140

Plantain chips fried and topped with smoked pulled pork, tomato salsa and melted Monterey Jack cheese.

Positively, the textures and flavors of the Patacones are first tasted here. Take one big bite of the tender fork-pulled pork, refreshing salsa and crispy plantain that it’s sitting on and taste a hint of smokiness from the meat and sharpness from the cheese. Strike while it’s hot.

Kristen Stewart and Rupert Sanders Affair Exclusive Photos, The Cheated Robert Pattinson

July 26, 2012 by Janey

It’s sad how a good movie like Snow White and the Huntsman gets overshadowed by a scandal or controversy instead of being remembered as one of the better Snow White movies ever made (sans Kristen Stewarts trademark “stuttering” meek damsel in distress acting). I totally loved Charlize Theron’s exquisite acting in her role as the “evil stepmother.”

When the news first broke out and source being US Weekly, I wasn’t sure what to believe. It’s a tabloid after all that can weave a whole web out of a small thread. They had the photos as proof, still a little sketchy but that “closeness” and the “kissing / necking in the car” photos are hard to deny. This scandal exploded with close to damning evidence on US Weekly issue. Must be painful for Robert Pattinson and he seems to be a great down-to-earth guy (yea like I can tell from watching one or two guestings on The Ellen Show… har har).

Via google images

Bottom line is Kirsten Stewart cheated on Pattinson and with a married man no less! Snow White and the Huntsman Director Rupert Sanders, who has a wife and 2 children, apparently already apologized to his family profusely regretting deeply hurting them.

A statement to People, Kristen said: “I’m deeply sorry for the hurt and embarrassment I’ve caused to those close to me and everyone this has affected. This momentary indiscretion has jeopardized the most important thing in my life, the person I love and respect the most, Rob. I love him, I love him, I’m so sorry.”

Sanders shortly came out with his own public apology / statement, “I am utterly distraught about the pain I have caused my family. My beautiful wife and heavenly children are all I have in this world. I love them with all my heart. I am praying that we can get through this together.”

The photographic evidence of Sanders, 41, and Stewarts, 22, steamy encounters has been exposed and there’s no denying it. Stewart also came out with a statement on People.com apologizing to Robert and those who have affected by the affair. There is no word yet from Robert Pattinson’s camp but a close source says he’s quite crushed.

Via google images

Wine Bar 1771, Where Good Food and Good Friends Meet

April 2, 2012 by Janey

Last March 13^th, my friends from my Poi group and I trooped to WineBar 1771 for dinner. We always see each other on Sundays during fire dance class at Valle Verde and it’s also a group who loves and appreciates good food every after each class scouring restaurants within the area. I’ve eaten at Café 1771 numerous times and enjoyed its quirky whimsy eclectic ambience perfect for Sunday brunches and days where you want the feel and calmness of a Sunday brunch.

READ MORE

Café 1771, Just Too Many Repeats

Invigorating Flavors and Interiors at Café 1771

Wine Bar 1771 has always been on my restaurant radar since it’s also part of the Chateau 1771 Group of Restaurants and it’s apparent in its top notch service and menu offerings. It’s my first time at Wine Bar 1771 that evening, I can’t count how many lunch and dinner meetings I’ve had in Café 1771 but WineBar 1771 looks like a good alternative too.

The bar-restaurant interiors are inspired by upscale bars in the SoHo area of NYC. It has that classy rich dark wood tones yet roughened up with faded brick walls for a rustic counterpart. Walls are embellished with Provencal paintings of Phyllis Zaballero while crystal chandeliers hang lavishly from the ceiling. They have function rooms on the sides of the big dining room for private functions or to hold intimate meetings with executives or gatherings.

Our group nestled cozily in the chairs while waiting for the appetizers to arrive. The chit chats started and soon stories are spitting out from our long table –which soon became buzzed with excited energy coming from tasting the initial dishes.

On the Table

Oyster Rockefeller PHP 550

8 Baked Aklan oysters topped with creamy spinach, bacon and cheese

Tagged as an aphrodisiac, there’s just something sexy about oysters. It’s smooth texture sliding down without much resistance. Whether served fresh with lemon on the side or as we had it that evening, baked Rockefeller style, oysters are great in starting the mood right.

Between Bites TOP 10 MUST BITES 2011

December 22, 2011 by Janey

I have scoffed, gobbled, munched, wolfed down different dishes in many, almost countless, restaurants that I have to really organize my food thoughts. That is the reason time and again I come up with these Between Bites Top 10 lists.

Between Bites TOP 10 Best Japanese Restaurants

BETWEEN BITES TOP 10 BEST DATE PLACES

BETWEEN BITES TOP 10 BEST FILIPINO EATS

BETWEEN BITES TOP 10 BEST PAELLA

BETWEEN BITES TOP 10 BEST Buffalo Wings

TOP 5 Sultry Strawberry Treats

Mercato Centrale, Where Food Lovers Meet, The TOP 10

Between Bites TOP 10 Things About Bali

And here we go again! This time I have dubbed my annual list as “MUST BITES” in line with the Between Bites “brand.” Yuck, brand daw oh. Haha.

10. Rub Ribs and Barbecue

A simple duplex with a red signage that spelled RUB stands in Tomas Morato. With more comfortable dining area on the 2^nd floor, the small space has quotable quotes in frames adorning the wall. Their menu offers wings, potato wedges, pastas, pork belly, among others but obviously, it is a no-nonsense restaurant devoted to the love of ribs and barbecue.

Mario’s Celebrates 40th Anniversary

November 15, 2011 by Janey

Several Thursdays ago, I had dinner again at Mario’s at Tomas Morato. I continue to hear a lot of wonderful stories about the dining experience in Mario’s from people who have patronized the restaurant for decades. I wasn’t born yet when Mario’s restaurant opened its doors in 1971 along Session Road in Baguio City. The tandem of Mario and Nenuca Benitez always dreamt of putting up their own restaurant. Mario handled managing the restaurant while Nenuca managed the dynamics in the kitchen.

Behind their clientele’s insistence and support on replicating the delicious food, likeable service and comfortable ambiance, the first Mario’s branch in the Metro was opened at Tomas Morato in 1974.

Pinoy Eats World of Perfect Italiano at a Mystery Dinner

March 15, 2011 by Janey

Two Fridays ago, I got an invite to a mystery dinner that was quite intriguing. The invite only had few details to go on: a masked person, an address, a meeting time and these significant “words,” Perfect Italiano, Pinoy Eats World and Mystery Dinner. I had to tweet/plurk and ask around what’s Pinoy Eats World and a lot of friends were able to provide info. My good friend Jayvee said that he attended a “Pinoy Eats World” dinner and it was in one word, “amazing.” Another good friend, Spanky, confirmed that they have very good food and good tours.

Pinoy Eats World is dedicated to culinary tours in and out of MMLA owned by the scions of Everybody’s Cafe, Poch and Namee, JJ Yulo a chef who writes for Rogue magazine, and Spanky’s cousin, Marfee.

I wondered if I would end up dining with a Perfect “Italian” that Friday evening. But some say, there is no such thing as the word “perfect” and man, whatever the nationality, in one sentence. Har-har. We shall see. Read further to see how that evening unfolded.

Arriving on time, we scoured San Antonio Plaza Arcade for a “masked man” who supposedly would take us to where the dinner venue is. After a small crowd already gathered, a lady in a Venice-inspired mask suddenly appeared and off we went to the destination. We were led to an undisclosed house inside Forbes Park. Upon entering the unmarked door, we gaped at the beautiful kitchen on the right and the elaborately-styled Venice-inspired table setting.

Photo Courtesy: Rowena of www.animetric.info

Jeff, Between Bites, Rowena, Bea and Richard

Pinoy Eats World team, who organizes food tours and thematic guerilla dinners, fronted by Chef JJ Yulo that night welcomed us warmly and introduced that evening’s dinner host, Perfect Italiano. Although I have never met a perfect Italian *snicker*, I have been quite acquainted with the brand Perfect Italiano. I’ve started using Perfect Italiano as far back as 2 years ago for cooking. I particularly liked Pizza Plus which I use specifically for my “Pizza Chip” recipe.

Photo Credit: Richard of www.talesfromthetummy.com

In a nutshell, pour over tomato garlic dip/salsa on Tostitos Tortilla Chips with Hint of Lime, sprinkle generously with Pizza Plus and chopped fresh basil then heat in microwave or oven. Viola! Perfect PIZZA CHIPS for snacking! It’s a favorite at home (and previously at the condo) during DVD nights.

What I love about Pizza Plus is the fact that it’s a convenient blend of Mozzarella, Cheddar and Parmesan all in one mixed bag of cheeses. There’s a combination of light, medium sharp flavors in Pizza Plus PLUS the desired stretch of Mozzarella on your pizza or hot snacks. No need to buy the cheeses separately.

Perfect Italiano’s roster of cheeses was used in all the 8 courses we had that night. We started off with hors d’oeuvres of little Italian toasts and toppings of Romano and Parmesan cheese dip partnered with honey and grapes.

On the Table:

Strawberry Fields

First plate brought out had mixed greens with slices of fresh strawberries and cubes of Romano cheese. I like how the name of the dish is already stimulating and same can be said regarding the presentation and taste. The Romano cheese opens a sharp flavor and counters the sweetness and acidity of the strawberry slices while the greens referee between the two.

Sweetart

The flaky pastry was served warm with a speckle of ham, bacon, sweet caramelized onions and cheese on its outer layer and ended with a garnish of alfalfa sprouts and arugula. It reminded me of a delicious Panizza flavored with meat and tomato sauce but in a puff pastry that’s pillowy soft and flaky.

It was so good I wanted a second serving so badly. After finishing my “Sweet-art,” I held my right hand under the table to keep it from snatching Jeff’s piece on his plate. *I try hard to look the other way*

Chiz Soup

Slightly heavy in taste, I appreciate the hearty potato and cheese soup that was a relaxing break in between bites.

Please Rise

I think I was the only one on our table who figured this one out. The dish was named Please Rise because it looked like the flag of Italy with cheese-stuffed red bell pepper and spring onion garnish evocative of Italian flag colors of red, white and green. I also enjoyed this tasty dish since I love bell peppers and the cheese offset the slight bitterness of bell peppers leaving it with just the sweetness.

Clam Up

Manila clams in light cream sauce peppered with minced Vigan longganisa and cheese. The sauce on its own was on the salty side, intensified more by the Vigan longganisa. The clams were cooked just right, still retaining its tenderness.

Pasta M

Pesto pasta with Mozzarella cheese named after Chef JJ’s grandmother

Baa Baa Baa

Oven roasted lamb meat served with artichokes and marble potatoes. I was excited about this dish since I like well-cooked lamb and this definitely exceeded expectations. The thin slices of meat were drizzled with a red wine sauce that tasted like it was blended with shrimp paste or garlic (I couldn’t determine) but it was scrumptious. And the starch that accompanied it was just perfect.

Going Bananas

A Nutella pudding served with caramelized bananas and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan brought out the Nutella flavor more and it was a dreamy balance of sweet and salty coupled with taste of banana. It was a delightful dessert to end the 8-course dinner.

The line-up of dishes that Chef JJ and Chef Namee came up with was simply extraordinary with the cheeses highlighting the strengths of each plate.

Although I didn’t get to have a dinner date with an actual Italian, my palate was gently stroked by Perfect Italiano and it was a pleasing melange of cheesy taste. I also appreciate Chef JJ’s affable persona that lighted the room during the whole experience.

If you want to be part of another mystery dinner, CHECK OUT Perfect Italiano’s Facebook page, “My Perfect Recipes.” You might also catch a good recipe or two there! 😉

Pinoy Eats World

Pinoy Eats World Facebook Page

Perfect Italiano

My Perfect Recipes Facebook Page

Pinoy Eats World Perfect Italiano Album

Photo Credit:

Richard of www.talesfromthetummy.com

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Café 1771, Just Too Many Repeats

February 25, 2011 by Janey

I’ve been to Café 1771 more than a few times. The quirky and modish interiors really come to mind when I look for a relaxing place to talk and enjoy hanging out. More than that, it’s their invigorating dishes that draw me in. Last February 1, 2011, that’s where I had my birthday lunch.

On the Table

Popcorn – Free

While waiting for your orders to be cooked, they serve you with lightly salted unbuttered popcorn to snack on.

Fried Squash Flowers PHP 280

Stuffed with anchovy and kesong puti and deep fried

I wanted to order the Pig Ears Pepperconcino but it was so elusive. Again, it wasn’t available. While we were perusing the menu on what appetizer to order, the wait staff highly recommended Fried Squash Flowers. I was quite intrigued and decided to go for it.

It was quite an interesting dish, amply original. It was the first time I tried squash flowers. It had a good partially crunchy texture that released the delicate and mild tasting kesong puti inside. There’s a faint saltiness that comes from the anchovy which gives flavor alongside the fresh tomato puree at the base of the dish.

The dish had a beautiful color of green, yellow and red and was appetizing visually and in the palate with its simple subdued taste. Definitely a must-try!

Lacquered Salmon PHP 680

Grilled Salmon steak painted with soy sauce honey reduction, smashed potatoes, with parmesan

Before a reader/commenter gave us a day of higher learning, informing us that salmon is high in fat, we thought we were doing ourselves a healthy justice by ordering the Lacquered Salmon. CW really enjoyed this dish and wiped his plate clean.

The tenderly forked salmon tasted fresh yet tasty with the savory sweet soy drips. The barbeque-like marinade tasted almost similar to how grilled unagi taste like. The smashed potato was not as mashed as we initially expected but it was still a good starchy accompaniment to the moist fish.

Pasta Chorizo PHP 390

Spaghetti tossed in chorizo sauce reduction and parmesan cheese

One of Cafe 1771’s signature dishes is the Pasta Chorizo. This is the second time I’ve ordered this and even if CW looked for more chorizo in the pasta, the chorizo taste in the sauce that well-coated the al dente pasta was enough for me.

Korean Ribs in Guava Glaze PHP 650

Tender cross-cut beef short ribs marinated in ginger, garlic and rice wine and finished off with a barbecue guava glaze

Every single time I dined at Café 1771, I never fail to order their Korean Ribs in Guava Glaze. This beef stew dish has good contrasts of sweet and salty and a rich flavor shines. The ribs were perfectly tender, almost removes any chewing on your part. It also had a good amount of fatty parts to enjoy.

Whenever eating this, I can only sigh in contentment… whether I partner it with white rice, or weirdly, Café 1771’s pizza.

Cafe 1771 has really etched a “comfort dish” space in my heart. At times though, I examine if the prices are a bit on the high side with the Korean ribs and salmon almost at a tag of PHP 700 each. Despite that, I cannot deny the fact that Cafe 1771 dishes tempt the palate.

Café 1771

El Pueblo compound, ADB Avenue,

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

(632) 631 7340

Café 1771 Album

Invigorating Flavors and Interiors at Café 1771

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Invigorating Flavors and Interiors at Café 1771

October 19, 2010 by Janey

Dee Boss treated her one-downs again for lunch and she assigned me to pick the restaurant. Karen piped in that she wanted to go Café 1771 which I was actually eyeing to try too since I read Richard entry about it and have made a mental note to order Pig Ears Pepperconcino. I’ve been here once but it was during the Intellipen event. I wanted to try it on a non-prescribed casual dining.

Café 1771, part of the Chateau 1771 Group of Restaurants, has one of the daintiest dining interiors in town. The dining area is divided into three sections. One is what they call The Lounge located on the left side as you enter the main door, that has a library slash living room vibe to it from the numerous shelves on the wall that are filled with books. The Lounge has an inner private room that can accommodate twenty people.

Towards the right side is the area they call The Whimsy which should be a stylish semi-self service deli-café that has a fancy counter that even sells Beansprout products (I got a shoe bag as a gift to my mom). Décor for The Whimsy is fun, charming and as the name suggests, whimsical.

I particularly like the oversized lamps over the dessert display. Tone is clean colors of white, pink and blue that exudes a happy relaxed ambience like how you wish all your Sundays would be. But there are other elements that make the place visually striking and elegant.

On the Table

Popcorn – Free

Others have breads but Café 1771 charmingly serves you with popcorn while you wait on your orders

Salad PHP

Dee Boss was deliberating to get the Tomato Cheese Fondue which is supposed to be one of Chateau 1771’s signature dishes. I was curious about their Raclette on the other hand. In the end, we opted for a healthier starter and went with the salad.

Pasta Chorizo PHP

Spaghetti pasta with bits of chorizo –simple yet the noodles themselves taste quite like the chorizo and I like it.

Korean Beef in Guava Sauce PHP

It’s similar to a Korean stew with a shade of sweetness. The meat is so tender, there’s barely any chewing left to do. I like that it had enough segments of fat that added such a sinful pleasure to it. This would be perfect with a steaming bowl of rice to soak in all the flavor from the stew. We didn’t have rice with this but we were content to consume it on its own.

Pizza PHP

Very thin crust pizza that has a nicely toasted crust. I would probably order this again next time and I’m sure Bubba would like!

Spanish Paprika Chicken with Tomato Rice PHP 320

This was my order and I was pretty happy with my choice of paprika chicken with tomato-flavored rice. The moist breast was appropriately flavored with piquant paprika and it’s perfectly paired with the tangy tomato rice and topped with soft baby asparagus that gives a crunch to the dish.

Chateau Signature Coffee Pie PHP

Not overwhelmingly strong taste of coffee but the essence of coffee flavor is there in this mousse type of pie.

Cheesecake PHP

Fluffy cheesecake that tastes light. The strawberry slices give a tart-y contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.

Service at Café 1771 is adequate and fast. Even when Dee Boss and I were eyeing the Beansprouts products at the counter, they readily answered questions and helped out with the purchase.

The Café 1771 lunch that Friday was quite a lovely break from the office monotony and charmingly opened up the weekend tone with delightful food, appealing interiors and shared conversations.

Café 1771

El Pueblo compound, ADB Avenue,

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

(631) 7340

Café 1771 Album

Thanks to Dee Boss for the lunch treat! 😉

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3 Comments Filed Under: Inside Dish: A BITE of Food Tagged With: 2010, address, Beansprouts products, best, blogger, Cafe 1771, Cafe 1771 review, Chateau 1771, Chateau 1771 Group of Companies, date, dinner, discount, event, food, food blog, food blogger, food review, how much, location, Lunch, Makati, Manila, Map, menu, Metro Manila, office, ortigas, Philippines, Photo, pinoy, price, Promo, restaurant, restaurant review, review, shoe bag, SKY, Sky Cable, spanish chicken paprika tomato rice, Taste Manila, where

A Weekend Getaway at Summit Ridge, Tagaytay

August 4, 2010 by Janey

Bubba and I drove to Tagaytay last Saturday and checked in at Summit Ridge Hotel around 3pm. Right before we reached Summit Ridge, we noticed the low lying clouds from the other side of the hills and the road started to be really foggy. Not long before I got worried about road visibility, Summit Ridge was within sight.

(from Summit Ridge website)

Robinsons Land Corporation opened the doors of Summit Ridge Hotel in June 2009 and guests who visit Tagaytay for its picturesque view of Taal Volcano and its refreshing surroundings and want the modern convenience of a hotel have been welcomed since. It perfectly sits atop Tagaytay Ridge that’s actually 2,000 feet above sea level –the very incentive to take a short drive to Tagaytay, cool climate.

Right beside the hotel is the Summit Ridge Promenade, which is a commercial complex that has quite a number of interesting restaurants that include both the new and the familiar. The roster of dining venues includes Classic Cuisine (C2), Giligan’s restaurant, The Sizzling Pepper Steak, Ted’s Oldtimer La Paz Batchoy (perfect for cold weather) and The Coffee Beanery. I was wondering where Sanctuario restaurant was since it wasn’t in its location near the Rotonda. I’m glad to see that it has moved to a better location at the Summit Ridge Promenade.

They also have a few stores for shopping and Fun Time amusement center for the kids or kids at heart. What’s wonderful about this hotel and promenade being owned and managed by the Robinsons group is the fact that they also built a Robinsons Supermarket right next to it, which makes it so convenient to buy necessities that you may need while traveling.

Hotel staff welcomes you by the drop-off point at the car lobby. Step into the sprawling hotel lobby of Summit Ridge that swiftly spells hotel elegance. If only the personnel by the reception is as welcoming and friendly as the ones that greet you by the door, EVEN with a warm smile from ME and a quick pip about the weather outside, I would have definitely felt right at ease. But no. I’ve had friendlier and more accommodating reception from two different lodging places in Tagaytay. I’m happy to note though that that was the only hiccup from our wonderful and relaxed stay at Summit Ridge last weekend.

Our room reservation for that day was for a Twin Classic but since that room specifically offers two single beds, we asked to be upgraded to King Classic that has one King size bed –which is more ideal for vacationing couples.

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The difference in the rates between a Twin Classic and the King is only PHP 600. You can also get 64sqm suites at PHP 12,000 – PHP 14,000 a night with two balconies, kitchen implements, dinnerware set-up, microwave oven for your leftover food and reheating needs and a built-in kitchen hub –a complete set-up for those who travel and want to play cook or house whichever is the case.

Room Rates:

Twin Classic – P6, 550

King Classic – P7, 150

Twin/ King De Luxe Room – P7, 550

Two-Bedroom Suite – P12,000

Summit Suite – P14,000

The 32sqm King Classic room looked bigger than its actual size. The room is suitably equipped with 32-inch LCD TV with cable including a channel guide, in-room coffee and tea facilities, a safety box, a spacious shower, telephone, personal fridge, and split-type AC! Best of all, which is really a come-on for folks like me who want to be connected online or do some work on the side, Summit Ridge hotel has in-room Wi-Fi Internet access! And connection is gooooood. *nods*

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Bubba enjoying the Wi Fi and plurking

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Squeaky clean bathroom with no moldy smells! 😀

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I like that they provisioned for a bag rack

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As mentioned, every room has a balcony overlooking the beautiful and scenic Taal Lake, which is especially lovely in the morning. Bubba spent a good time by the balcony Saturday afternoon as well as Sunday morning.

Another thing that rocks about Summit Ridge is the 24-hour gym!!! I actually brought gym clothes including my iPod and work-out gloves but incidentally, I left my new running shoes! Bubba brought everything from head to toe for workout but guess what, the bed was too cozy that he slept in and ignored his alarm the following morning. Folks who are gym buffs or those who have incorporated working out in their everyday lifestyle need not worry even if they stay out too late exploring Tagaytay –the gym is open anytime if you want to break out a sweat.

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View of the pool deck from our floor

During that weekend, I think there was a wedding ceremony in Tagaytay (probably Chapel on the Hill) and they decided to do the wedding reception at Summit Ridge. Bubba and I saw the wedding car at the parking lot and guests that were dressed in the nines. Summit Ridge also offers ballrooms for your birthday, wedding and other celebrations, as well as training and functions rooms for business seminars, conferences and team building sessions. What better way to throw a party or an event than in the cool and breezy Tagaytay City, a natural escape from the city.

(from Summit Ridge website)

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That evening, we were tempted to go to Antonio’s like last time but we decided to try something new. Bubba and I headed out to dine at Taj of Tagaytay (more on this on a separate post) and had a wonderful dinner of Mutton Biryani Rice and Chicken Vindaloo. After stuffing ourselves silly, the comfort of our room was suddenly heavily missed that we decided to head back right after dinner.

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Summit Ridge Promenade offers live acoustic nights every Saturdays in its open-air lifestyle center from 7pm to 12mn. We caught a bit of the music on our way back to the hotel. The Sky Lounge on the roof deck is also worth a look.

Wine and Coco Bella Chocolates 🙂

That evening, Bubba and I mused whether to read our own books while drinking wine or watch a movie on his laptop. As usual, the latter won and we were immersed with the movie, Uncertainty, starring Joseph Gordon Levitt (who I think is as deep of an actor as Heath Ledger, with deep penetrating eyes and facial expression) until midnight. Movie somehow reminded me of Gwyneth Paltrow’s Sliding Doors.

After a long prayer for both our families, sleep beckoned us and we were off to dreamland. A long satisfying, uninterrupted and restful sleep followed and we stretched out our arms to a beautiful sunny morning around 9am.

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Breakfast that gorgeous Sunday was spent at Annie’s/C2 at the ground floor of Summit Ridge Hotel. There was a lean breakfast buffet set-up awaiting the morning people such as us.

Bubba had a plateful helping of longganisa (local pork sausage), garlic rice, 2 sunny side-up eggs, ham, danggit/tuyo (dried fish) and a bowl of milk and cereals. I wasn’t in a big mood to eat so I had something light –omelet and 1 slice of wheat bread. Bubba had mango juice and hot chocolate while I had pineapple juice.

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After breakfast, we went to check out the pool area and still spent some quality time lounging in our room before heading out for lunch. Lunch was spent at the enchantingly charming Marcia Adam’s Tuscany (more on this on a separate entry).

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Having been to Tagaytay countless of times, I thought that I’ve already combed Tagaytay to the grits but there is still so much to discover in the city on the hills –even lofty accommodations in a hotel category such as Summit Ridge Hotel as well as fantastic restaurants around the bend. Tagaytay still never fails to exude that harmony of natural beauty with a bit of urban style. The Summit Ridge Hotel and Promenade is one of the best Tagaytay bets for any weekend warrior. Room accommodation is quite sufficient.

Summit Ridge

Km. 58, Maharlika West

Gen. Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City, Philippines

(632) 240 6888

(63) 922 852 6800

reservations@summitridgehotel.com

Summit Ridge Album

Marcia Adam’s Tuscany Album

How to get to Summit Ridge/Directions:

Via SLEX (South Luzon Expressway)

Take the Sta. Rosa exit and turn right after the tollgates. Keep following the path and you will see signposts along the road directing you to Summit Ridge.

Via Aguinaldo Highway

Go straight towards the Rotonda, then turn right towards the direction of PAGCOR Casino. The hotel is located in front of Josephine’s Restaurant beside Robinsons or Summit Ridge Promenade.

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6 Comments Filed Under: Walk the World: A BITE of Travel Tagged With: accommodation, activity, address, aircon, Antonio's, Antonio’s, Bar, Batangas, best accommodation, best bed and breakfast, best blog, best date place, best food, best hotels in Tagaytay, best restaurants in Tagaytay, best service, best travel, blogger, boutique hotels, Breakfast, cable, Calaruega, car, ceremony, cheap, cheapest accommodation, Church, City, climate, cold stone facial, cool climate, credit card accepted, day trip, dinner, discount, DVD player, DVDs, Filipino, food blog, food review, free, free body massage, garden restaurant, Good Service, government, hills, honeymoon suites, Hotel, hotel location, hotel review, how much, how to find, how to get there, king size bed, landmark, landmarks, LCD screen, live acoustic nights, location map, Lunch, Marcia Adam’s Tuscany, mayor, menu, Metro Manila, mountains, night cap, night life, ongoing, overlooking, parking lot, peak season, Philippines, Photo, photos, pictures, price, Promo, quick near Manila, rate, rates, reasonable price, reception, restaurant, Restaurants, road map, Robinsons Group, Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsonsland, romantic, romantic getaway, room accommodation, rooms, safe, service, SM, Summit Ridge Hotel, Summit Ridge Hotel and Promenade, Summit Ridge Promenade, Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Tagaytay, Tagaytay best restaurants, Tagaytay breeze, Tagaytay church, Tagaytay City, Tagaytay hotels, tagaytay map, Taj of Tagaytay restaurant, Taste Manila, the Promenade, travel, travel blog, trip, tripadvisor, Tuscany restaurant, TV, Vanilla Suites, Video, weather, wedding, weekend getaway, what to order, where to go, where to go in Tagaytay, with view of Taal Lake, zip line, ziplines, ziplining

A Delightful Toblerone “Thank You” to Your Blockbuster Friend

July 28, 2010 by Janey

There are days in a year that were specially made to thank fathers, mothers, and even teachers. But we shouldn’t stop to thank them only during those specific days. On the same breath, when was the last time you showed sweetness towards your friend who have pulled through for you through thick and thin? If you haven’t, maybe it’s about time that you did.

Show how thankful you are to your blockbuster friend for being there for you, every step of the way.

Our friends turn our tears into laughter, they tell us the truth even if it hurts and we know that they’d take a leave from work just to help us through tough times or go with us through life’s many adventures. They are bonded to us, not by blood or by virtue of work, but by common interests, goals, passions and simply by unconditional love. We all know that special friends like these come rarely in a lifetime, and while our best friends ask for nothing in return for everything they’ve done for us, we know that we need to let them know how much we appreciate their sacrifices, their care and their love. We know that they are there for us 24 hours a day, seven days a week—so it makes perfect sense that we also thank them for their friendship every single day.

Toblerone, the legendary triangular Swiss chocolate, urges you to say “thank you” to your very best friend everyday through simple things that show your appreciation. You can start showing how grateful you are by telling the world about the wonderful story of your friendship. Talk about how you met your epic friend, the adventures you’ve gone through together and especially why you are thankful for your relationship with him or her. All you have to do is to “Like” the Toblerone Fan Page on Facebook, upload a photo of you and your epic friend, tag yourselves and TobleronePilipinas and then post your answers in the Comments section of your photo. Make sure that you get your epic friend to “Like” the post as well!

Ten winners will be chosen based on the number of people who “Liked” your post as well as the feedback from the Toblerone team and a special panel of judges. Winners will be treated to Toblerone gift packs and a full day of fun and exciting bonding activities, featuring body care treatments at The Spa, with their epic friends. It’s a great and unique way to start saying “thank you” to your best friend! The contest will run from July 5, 2010 to August 11, 2010—so hurry and tell the world how grateful you are for your epic friend.

Gratitude, like friendship, shouldn’t just be a one-day deal. Let this opportunity from Toblerone inspire you to think of many different ways to show your friend how much you appreciate all she or he has done for you. After all, each day is always a good day to say “thank you.”

For more information, please log on to www.toblerone.ph.

2 Comments Filed Under: A Taste of Manila and Other Things Tagged With: 2009, best, best food, best food blog, best review, blockbuster friend, blogger, card, cards, Chocolate, competition, Contest, Creative, cupid, date, dinner, Epic Friend, event, Events, Facebook, Father's Day, Filipino, Filipinos, food blog, friend day, Geiser Maclang, gifts, GMCI, grateful, guideline, Kraft, Manila, mechanics, media, Metro Manila, Mother's Day, multiply, National Thank You Day, nougat, October, October 2010, peaks, performer, Philippines, photo competition, photo contest, photo entry, prize, prizes, promotion, readers, romance, romantic gifts, rules, Say it With Toblerone, Show, Spread the Gratitude on National Thank You Day 2009, spread the sweetness of gratitude, Spread the Sweetness with Toblerone, sweet gesture, Swiss chocolate, Teachers Day, Thank, Thank you, thank you day, Thank You Day 2010, Tickets, time, Tobleron Thank You, toblerone, Toblerone dark chocolate, Toblerone Dark Chocolate Mother's Day, Toblerone Philippines, Toblerone Pilipinas, Toblerone shows how to say thank you, Triangles, valentine ideas, Valentine's, what chocolates to give, what to write, when

Between Bites’ TOP 10 Food Highlights of 2010’s 1st Half: What a Mouthful!

June 23, 2010 by Janey

Between Bites TOP 10 Food Highlights (2010 -1st Half)

10. King One’s Shabu Shabu

That Sunday lunch at King One’s Shabu Shabu (PHP 529 per head) was a wonderful lunch where the food were abound and of good quality –prepared well I should say. I get turned off with restaurants that offer buffet sometimes because of the way the food is prepared… but in this case, King One’s staff handles the food properly. Service was friendly, prompt and inclined –more reason to enjoy your King One feast. Don’t forget to order fresh prawns, mozzarella balls, tao pao and lamb! Oh lamb!

King One Rotary Hot Pot

M2-A Lower Hobbies of Asia

#8 Macapagal Ave., Pasay City

(632) 556 1370

9. Sweet Revenge of Maitre Chocolatier

Sweet Revenge is Maitre Chocolatier’s Lindt Molten Lava Cake -dark chocolate molten lava cake made from Europe’s finest Lindt Excellence Dark 70%, filled with oozing sweet and vengefully spicy chocolate served with vanilla ice cream

Sweet Revenge was the unanimously favorite on the table with its gooey warm chocolate that ruptures from the moist cake that’s bittersweet dark and spiced with chili. Midway when the chocolate flavor sinks in, the chili essence abruptly creeps in creating a sweet heat inside your mouth. Cool off with the vanilla ice cream that soothes your taste buds to a calm reverie. Bubba, Zipster and I loved the yin yang taste of darkness and sweetness, as well as the heat and arctic feel.

The spunk of the chili in the luscious chocolate liquid inside and the vanilla ice cream bring it all together in sweet harmony.

Maitre Chocolatier Boutique Café

Maitre Chocolatier Boutique Cafe by Eva Wong

2A (Beside Starbucks), No. 28 Jupiter Street

Bel Air, Makati City, Philippines

(632) 897 8559

8. Minato’s Great Korean Barbecue

Other than the smorgasbord of side dishes that includes Kimchi, spiced green vegetables, peanuts, bean sprouts, marbled potatoes among a variety of other side accompaniments, it is really the barbecue that’s quite good at Minato. It has to be one of the best in town.

Kimchi Pancake

The Kimchi Pancake is oil-fried pancake with bits of beansprouts and cabbage flavored Kimchi-style. And I think it’s free.

So Kal Bi PHP 350

Marinated beef short ribs –has a shadow of sweetness, garlic and soy. It’s hard to restrain oneself from gnawing the large bones with charred meat.

Sam Gyeop Sal PHP 240

The plate had thick, fatty slices of pork belly (almost looks like uncured bacon) alternating meat and fat and then skin. Meat is left unseasoned and usually cooked on a grill at the diner’s table. In this case, the wait staff helped in cooking the pork belly slices. On the side, green onion leeks and lettuce are served in case you prefer to wrap your meat inside. Customize it and add different side dishes or Kimchi and dip in sesame oil with fine black pepper and salt for a perfect finish.

Minato Korean Restaurant

Escriva Road (between Furu Restaurant and Agua Vida)

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

#8 is a toss-up between Minato and Chic Boy

tied at the same number.

8. Tasty Lechon Liempo at Chic Boy

Great food doesn’t necessarily have to come at a price. There’s a new affordable (almost dare to say cheap) food discovery along Jupiter Street in Makati. Call on the Chic Boy. Chic-Boy is actually a play on the words Chicken and Baboy (pork) –the meats that are quite popular in the Filipino community particularly when it’s grilled.

Chic Boy is putting a whole new turn on chicken inasal, lechon manok and lechon liempo like you’ve never tasted before. They’ve taken a special secret recipe of tasty lechon manok and lechon liempo in Cebu and chicken inasal of Bacolod and put it all in one easy-breezy and affordable restaurant here in Manila.

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Must-orders include their Cebu Lechon Liempo and Salmon Sinigang (PHP 45). With those affordable prices and flavorsome and satisfying meals, how can anyone go wrong? 😀

READ MORE!

Tasty Lechon Liempo at Chic Boy

Chic Boy

Jupiter St., Makati City

7. 22 Prime’s Tomahawk Chop

Quick-fire thoughts:

I love the ample size of fat that adds a buttery texture

and heightens flavor of the meat

Peppercorn sauce bursts a bouncy flavor that goes perfectly with the chop

The salad is a good pause in between bites of meat as a cleanser to the palate

Side of baby vegetables had the right crisp and seasoning

–the lone brussel sprout was my favorite! Quite tasty!!!

Don’t miss out on ordering my FAVORITE Chef Rick’s Cheese Bread!

Chef Rick’s Cheese Bread PHP 140

Gooey warm cheese topped on three breads, soft and bursting with tantalizing flavors. Served with baby greens in a mild citrus dressing sparkled with pink peppercorn. Sun dried tomato and broiled four cheese together? It’s an exercise in indulgence.

Premium Night at 22 Prime

22 Prime

22^nd Level, Discovery Suites

25 ADB Avenue

Ortigas Avenue, Ortigas Center

Pasig City, Metro Manila

(632) 719 8888/ (632) 719 6821

6. Ya Kun Kaya Toast –Ortigas

Want a great breakfast that lifts you up at any time of the day? Head over at Ya Kun Kaya! 🙂

Kaya Toast (Half PHP 115, Set Menu PHP 140)

2 slices of delicious Kaya toast with butter –has the right lightly toasted crunch of the bread, slathered with butter and just enough green sweet coconut spread. Satisfies when washed down with Ya Kun’s famous coffee tarik or the traditionally pulled coffee. It’s not on their menu, but you can change your coffee to Yin Yang, which is this delicious half-coffee and half-tea drink.

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Noticeably, the Ya Kun eggs were cooked perfectly, which other Kaya stores can’t quite get, where the eggs usually come out with still some raw uncooked parts. My little spoon broke into that fountain of yolk and I was soaked in sunshine delight. There’s no brighter day than eating wet and perfectly prepared eggs with the crunch of your toast.

READ MORE!

Ya Kun Kaya -Ortigas

In Crumbs: Ya Kun Kaya, Taverna Verde and Taal View Heights

Ya Kun Kaya Toast

G/F AYK Bldg., Escriva Drive (Right beside Astoria Plaza)

San Antonio Village, Ortigas, Pasig City

(632) 470 4285

7AM-11PM

5. Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice

Suffused in its natural chicken juice/broth, the chicken meat was very tender and delectable –quite tasty for what can be considered a “healthy food.” The exquisite and juicy flesh of the steamed chicken is finely balanced with the fragrant rice sprinkled with green onions. Add a splotch of color and taste by blending in the ginger in sesame oil, chili and sweetened soy sauce.

Ooh, the appetizing smell and pleasant gingerly-sesame light taste mixed with a touch of soy and red spice… makes you definitely bite off more than you can chew.

Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice: Bite Off More Than You Can Chew

Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice (For pick-up orders only)

21 Libra St. Bel Air,

Makati City

(0906) 508 4155

4. Legend of India

Next to my favorite cuisine, I think Indian cuisine is one of the most interesting and flavorful fares in the world. Indian cuisine uses various spices, herbs, and vegetables and fruits sometimes grown only in India. It also has a wide assortment of cooking techniques.

Kadai Paneer PHP 260

Cottage cheese cooked in a traditional kadai masala paste

Rogan Josh PHP 450

Rogan Josh is an aromatic curry meat dish cooked with a mixture of strong Indian spices where the fat of the meat is usually roasted first in yogurt marinade. Legend of India tamed their version for our group, which mean it wasn’t intensely hot, but it was still intensely enjoyable paired with the vegetable biryani or the naan.

Sweet Lassi PHP 110

It was my first time to actually drink a whole glass of sweet Lassi. I’ve tried it before in other Indian restaurants but found the others’ version too sour for my taste. Lassi is a popular and traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. I tremendously enjoyed Legend of India’s sweet lassi since it has a perfect blend of yogurt, milk and sweetener. There’s a bit of tangy taste to it but it mellows down with a frothy sweet milky flavor. It fully relaxes your taste buds from the spices.

READ MORE!

Legend of India is Legend of Taste

Legend of India

114-B Jupiter St.,

Bel-Air II, Makati City

(632) 836 4232

3. Tsumura’s Wagyu Beef Usuyaki

Other than the sushi and sashimi…

It’s the Wagyu Beef Usuyaki that’s memorable at Tsumura! 🙂

Wagyu Beef Usuyaki PHP 600

Supple mushrooms wrapped in thinly sliced Wagyu beef –very tender, flavorful that it’s mighty impressive. The mushrooms were very light, in mellow contrast of the excellent beef. It is simply an indulgence in fine food. The taste is divine.

Tsumura

2^nd Level 88 Corporate Plaza

Sedeno corner Valero Streets,

Salcedo Village, Makati City

(632) 887 4848/ (632) 4850

#3 is actually a toss-up between Tsumura and Serenitea

tied at the same number.

3. Serenitea’s Okkinawa or Hokkaido Milk Tea

Serenitea is your one-stop shop for all things serene about tea. They have different variants of tea that will help boost a definite change of drinking lifestyle. It is the healthy alternative to colas, coffee and sugar-loaded smoothies. We visit 3 to 4 times a week to get our “Serenitea fix,” which is usually their Okkinawa milk tea drink with nata or pearls (depending on what topping you want) or Hokkaido with pearls.

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A Sunday Afternoon Picnic

2. Frazzled Cook’s Paella

In terms of taste and price, I consider Frazzled Cook’s Seafood Paella as the best in my book so far.

Seafood Paella PHP 550

For those diners who love their seafood paella with the full generous portions of mussels, squid rings, shrimps, chorizo and egg, this is their best bet for paella and huge value for money. I love the fact that they serve it on the paellera since I enjoy most my paella with the burnt crispy part at the bottom.

For other recommended orders, below are some dishes worthwhile to try:

Wagyu Salpicao PHP 550

When the serving arrives on your table, initial thought would be, “this dish is pricey.” If you’re being served with quality Wagyu that certainly softens in your mouth in a buttery texture without any effort, then your money is good. Have no qualms being served only a few flavorful cubes of beef drenched in its sautéed oil with lightly fried chips of garlic and slices of button mushrooms. Superb.

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Peruvian Hot Pot PHP 400

The Peruvian Hot Pot is their version of spicy lamb stew. This was Bubba’s favorite as the spicy invigorating flavors all come together from the lamb, olives, bell peppers and wine –great flavor and unbelievable rich sauce. The lamb meat had no gamey aftertaste that will surely convert those non-lamb eaters.

The Frazzled Cook

#916 Luna Mencias Street, Baranggay Additional Hills,

Mandaluyong City

(632) 782 5980

1. La Tienda Steak

Chuleton PHP 2,150 (PHP 425/100 grams)

It was the steak that was the highlight of this dinner date for me (okay, plus Bubba’s adoring chinky eyes). One of the best steaks I’ve tasted in Manila is not found on a focused steakhouse. It’s at a Spanish restaurant called La Tienda. I was pleasantly surprised how the steak gratified my meaty cravings. I think we had it cooked in medium doneness. The delicious steak was quite tender –glistening with appropriate grease and seemingly lightly salted while being cooked.

READ MORE!

La Tienda

43 Polaris St. Bel-Air

Makati City, Philippines

(632) 890 4123

Because I love food so much, I have #11-#20 but I’ll save it for another post. Watch out for that soon! 😉

For the meantime, here’s looking forward to the wonderful eats and gastronomic experiences for the next half of the year! Food Highlights from July-December 2010 –2^nd half version! And finally, by the end of the year, TOP 10 of 2010!!! 😉 I’m so giddy with excitement! CHEERS!

THANK YOU Ming for this photo! 😉

LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE and EAT!!! 😉

Photo Credit:

Carlos Palma of Foodie Manila

www.FoodieManila.com

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Between Bites Meets Big Better Burgers (BB Meets BBB)

June 21, 2010 by Janey

Big Better Burgers is a new fast casual restaurant, serving freshly grilled premium burgers. Together with the Foodie Club, Wednesday was set as our BBB dinner meet. We were introduced to Eric Teotico, a former director of TV commercials, who has translated his passion for directing TVC to passion for directing taste in food. Their first shop opened on October 2008 at the mezzanine floor of Victoria Towers corner Timog and Panay in Quezon City. Since then, they have launched three more branches at SM North EDSA, SM Fairview and SM Cubao.

Big Better Burgers are made from fresh, one-third pound, pure beef burger patties, specially infused with their own crafted seasoning, grilled and smoked to juicy perfection.

On the Table

Wedges PHP 55

The wedge-cut potato fries were pretty big. I like the cheddar cheese and dill mayo that were served with it.

Bacon Barbecue Burger PHP 150

1/3 lb. grilled burger, bacon, grilled onion, barbecue sauce

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Hahalapeño Burger PHP 147

1/3 lb. grilled burger, jalapeno salsa, cheese, lettuce, ketchup. This was what I was eyeing but since Peter already ordered it, I went for variety and ordered something else. Next time I’m at BBB, BB will definitely order the Hahalapeño Burger… 😉

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3 Cheese Explosion PHP 165

1/3 lb. grilled burger, mozzarella, quezoloco, cheddar cheese -Bubba enjoyed this a whole lot.

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Mushroom Loco PHP 147

1/3 lb. grilled burger, lettuce, quezoloco, button mushrooms in burgundy sauce -perfect for people who love mushrooms

Good news for Green Archers because Big Better Burgers is opening a branch at La Salle Taft University Mall on August 1, 2010 while for the southerners, a franchise branch has opened at Northgate, Filinvest Alabang last June 18. Get a taste of quality American burgers at Big Better Burgers! 😉

Thanks to Tita Jane (Tukayo) for arranging this dinner and Eric and Chiqui Teotico for inviting us over.

Big Better Burgers

Ground Floor, SM Cubao

(632) 709 3021

Big Better Burgers Album

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In Crumbs: Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice, Clawdaddy Crab House, Cibo

June 11, 2010 by Janey

2 Sets of Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice Aren’t Enough

May 30, 2010 –2 weeks ago, we ordered Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice yet again. This time, scared to run out of it, we ordered two sets (plus an extra cup of ginger, as usual). It was the highlight of Sunday family lunch at Bubba’s place. We learned that Sundays are usually the busiest day for Stevie since a lot of people call in for orders during this family day. That specific Sunday, there were 8 orders called in for pick-up in Bel-Air, including 2 that were ours.

Bored of the usual lunches in the office? Order Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice, pick it up, and share a great lunch at work. That’s what we did in April. Karen was stuck somewhere so the HCR lunch was shared with our COO and my boss. I’m glad they both loved it. Karen followed afterwards and ate a hefty share as well. I had three helpings myself.

I had more than three helpings 2 Sundays ago… 😉

Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice (For pick-up orders only)

21 Libra St. Bel Air,

Makati City

(0906) 508 4155

Venting out on Food @ Clawdaddy Crab House and American Grill

May 31, 2010 –My make-up was lost one day and replaced the next day (Monday). And that brought a string of good luck with it in the weeks that followed.

But that Monday night, I can’t help but do a vent-out dinner (where I eat my heart out literally –I choose the restaurant and not look at the price tag when ordering and just eat what I want). I treated Bubba at ClawDaddy Crab House and American Grill. We rarely eat at seafood restaurants (Bubba is not a shellfish fan) but this time, I just wanted to get my hands messy with crabs and ribs.

Crab Maritess PHP 120/100 Grams (I think our crab was at 900grams so that was about PHP 1,080)

Crab sautéed in olive oil, white wine, garlic and chilies

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What I do every time I visit is order Crab Maritess and requests for the sweet and spicy Sze Chuan sauce on the side

Smoked Baby Back Ribs (Half) PHP 398

Smoked, slow-cooked, and char grilled baby back ribs basted with ClawDaddy’s BBQ sauce –with 2 side orders of dirty rice

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Rustic Mashed Potato PHP

ClawDaddy Crab House and American Grill

6^th Level, The Ledge, Shangri-la Plaza Mall

EDSA Cor. Shaw Blvd. Mandaluyong City, MM.

(632) 636-5679

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ClawDaddy Crab Buffet

ClawDaddy Crab

Meann’s Birthla at Cibo

June 3, 2010 –It was Meann’s birthday. I surprised her at the office with some Machiavelli chocolates and a banner with the Happy Birthday sign. Lunchtime, we headed out to Shangri-la Plaza for Meann’s birthday lunch treat from dee boss (CGS). It was a toss between Agave or Cibo. We ended up in Cibo.

We bumped into Pebs (AFC’s Senior Sales Affiliates Manager) and Michelle (wife of Chef Bruce of Tablescape) at the restaurant. Pebs used to be my religious supplier of Royce chocolates from Singapore back when she was still based there for work. And Pebs also used to work for SKY as airtimes sales head. She’s now with Asian Food Channel. I’ve met Michelle once when we dined at Chef’s Table.

Pebbles briefly shares that a good friend of hers and her husband’s suggested a place to dine at and when he sent the link of the place –it was my Between Bites site’s link he sent. She laughed a bit because we knew each other. What a small world after all. They tried Frazzled Cook and were really happy about it. I flushed a bit when Pebs said that I got many readers. I delight in the honor of being read… but alongside it is the “invisible” pressure of improving my writing and making good recommendations –those that are deserved.

We ordered one appetizer and a pizza to share among the four of us. As usual, I had my favorite, Pasta dela Terra. Meann asked me what’s good to order and I suggested either Pasta Dela Terra or Pasta Al Telefono. She got the latter while CGS and Karen got two other pasta plates I wasn’t able to note.

Pasta Dela Terra PHP230

Mushroom trifolati, stewed tomato, goat cheese, Parmesan, cream