Between Bites - Bites of Food, Travel and Lifestyle
An appetite for the good life!
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.
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When the month of February comes around, the good vibes are definitely up. For most people, it’s due to the celebration of Heart’s Day that’s around the corner. For me, the first of February is very special since this is the day I first saw the light of the world. February 10 is also a memorable date for me since this is the day I said “YES” to Chris in 2007.
One other favorite date during Valentine’s month is the 3rd of February. It’s my soul sister Maddie’s birthday. Yes, we’re almost twins, except that her birthday is 2 days later and 1 year apart. Please don’t ask who is older (I’ll knock you down –I just sounded so guilty). I used to dub Madz as my “sole” sister since she bought the same boots she liked on me. Little did we know that “sole” will turn into “soul” after a few years in friendship and sisterhood.
Madz has been such a great friend and I didn’t want this year to pass up without honoring her life and the day she was born so I thought of throwing her a surprise party for her 28th. I had a “Maddie 101 Game” projected where each group of friends had to guess the right answer from multiple of possible answers.
They had cards of A, B, C, D on the table to which they put their choice up for a specific question. For the 2nd part, we also played charades but instead of the usual words, I prepared “word” cards that are related to Madz.
We had photo walls where we displayed Madz’ most treasured photos, from her “modeling” days to travel to photos with friends.
A scrapbook with photos was passed around for guests to write their messages to Madz and share a memory or two of the photos in the scrapbook.
The party served 4 kinds of pizzas from 2 different pizza parlors, 4 kinds of pastas, pork barbecue, pichi-pichi with cheese, 3 kinds of cakes… people came back for seconds… some for thirds.
Of course, what’s a good party without the booze? Since it was a one-man-team that day prepping since the morning, I didn’t have the muscles to carry kegs or cases of beers. I decided on bringing wines and hard liquor instead. Forget about downing bottles of beers, vodka mixed drinks are the way to go… especially for a party filled with women. Yes, men drink vodkas, straight up, on the rocks, etc. but a lady can hold her drink too.
Cue in “Party like a Rockstar” song right here!
“As soon as i came out the womb my momma knew a star was born now i’m on the golf course trippin’ wit da Osbournes i seen da show w/travis barker rockstar mentality i’m jumpin in the crowd just to see if they would carry me…”
Other than dirty, apple, chocolate martinis and rum cokes, vodka is one of my favorite poison picks. This Russian liquor is embraced by people all over the world because of its versatility to mix with almost anything. In Manila, it’s usually mixed with white-based cola beverage. Check out a new discovery of mine in Antonov Vodka Mixed Drink.
ANTONOV VODKA
Made from high-graded alcohol, Antonov undergoes double distillation and charcoal filtration. It has a neutral taste and aroma, making it great to drink combined with flavors. or mixed.
ANTONOV VODKA MIXED DRINK
Your Antonov Vodka is now available in 3 deliciously infused flavors ready-to-drink in ready to drink bottles. It delivers a smooth & refreshing taste in an easy-open cap at a very affordable price.
Comes in sensational apple, delightfully tangy mandarin orange and cool blue ice!
Planning parties are fun and I always enjoy surprising my friends, whether big or small surprises. I know you have a few ideas in that head of yours. PLAN A PARTY and get a chance to win free drinks from Antonov Vodka Mixed Drink. All you have to do is access the Party Express app, plot your party on the map, tell us the details about your party, and invite friends to come! (Note: You can only invite a maximum of 10 friends per day so make sure to come back the succeeding days to invite more friends!) At the end of each week, the “party” with the most number of attendees will win 6 bottles of assorted Antonov Vodka Mixed Drink and an Antonov inflatable bucket!!
If that’s too mouthy for you or you had one drink too many, check out further details on Antonov Vodka’s Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/AntonovVodka and if you got it straight up, go ahead and VISIT the app page at http://www.facebook.com/AntonovVodka?sk=app_11546206520050
Now that vodka is truly the spirit of choice when it comes to cocktail drinks. It’s fantastic to know that Antonov Vodka is pretty accessible and it doesn’t break your bank if you’re throwing a party or some get-togethers at home. With an easy to open pull and pop bottle cap, and its ready mix flavor, now you can enjoy vodka anytime and anywhere you want. Antonov Vodka Mixed Drink is the drink that perfectly fits your on-the-go lifestyle.
You’ve probably seen Solenn Heusaff in ads of Antonov Vodka. She is obviously this year’s “it” girl and being the woman of the hour, Solenn is always on-the-go. Now that she has tried Antonov Vodka Mixed Drink, she can finally indulge in her favorite vodka flavors in between shoots, traveling between venues, or just a quick cocktail in the car to relax (as long as she is NOT the one behind the wheel).
Share this news to your friends! Join to get a chance to have an awesome party with free drinks from Antonov Vodka Mixed Drink! 😉
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.
READ MORE:
Between Bites TOP 10 Food Highlights of 2010 (1st Half)
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 2nd 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.
This is probably a Christmas gift that will make the giver truly stand out. The Cookie Jar features delectable cookie mixes, with perfectly measured ingredients layered attractively in a see-through jar. Fresh ingredients that make up cookie flavors are arranged beautifully and the aesthetic is a welcoming invite for the recipient to slip on the baking apron and whip out the mixing bowl.
The Cookie Jar is meant to make baking cookies a breeze. The Cookie Jar (TCJ) provides the mix and all you need to do is add butter, eggs and vanilla… three ingredients you can easily get off the grocery shelf or your very own pantry and you’ll get soft and chewy cookies that you can instantly savor with your loved ones.
The Cookie Jar offers innovative variants such as Cranberry Walnut and Crispy Chocolate, as well as the beloved classics—Chocolate Chip, Triple Chocolate and Oatmeal Chocolate Chip. Without the pressure of measuring different ingredients and getting the perfect mix, become a weekend baker and offer your family some heart warming chews of cookies.
Those who prefer getting their cookies already baked and prepared can opt to order homemade cookies in stylish packaging.
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The Cookie Jar’s Price List
Cookie Mix (makes 24-30 cookies) / Homemade cookies (10 pieces)
Cranberry Walnut P260.00 / P195.00
Perfect combination of dried cranberries, oats, white chocolate chips, and walnuts
Crispy Chocolate P220.00 / P155.00
Crunchy bite of rice crispies and walnuts, complemented by coconut and semi-sweet chocolate chips
Triple Chocolate P220.00 / P155.00
White and semi-sweet chocolate chips in chocolate batter
Chocolate Chip P220.00 / P155.00
Semi-sweet chocolate chips in a classic dough
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip P220.00 / P155.00
Classic oatmeal cookie with semi-sweet chocolate chips
Holiday Promotions 2010
TCJ will give a free Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix for every order of any nine (9) products.
TCJ can also arrange goods into elegant gift baskets perfect as corporate giveaways or group presents, for orders worth P1,000 and above.
Delivery and pick-up
Free delivery within Loyola Heights, La Vista, and Loyola Grand Villas
Pick-up points: SM Marikina, Eastwood, SM Megamall, Gateway Mall, and Glorietta
For orders and inquiries:
The Cookie Jar
(632) 964 3947/ (0917) 830 1965
http://thecookiejarph.multiply.com
Email: thecookiejarph@yahoo.com
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If a macaroon tastes the same to you like the rest that’s out there in the market, then you haven’t tried Gigi’s Custaroons. I have mentioned Gigi’s Custaroons in my Parvati post since it is also available there but Gigi’s creamy and smooth macaroons are also available via direct order at (0918) 828 2929. And orders can be placed too through delivery at 87878.
PRICE LIST
Custaroons ORIGINAL
Box of 4: P150.00
Box of 6: P170.00
Box of 12: P300.00
Box of 24: P550.00
Melt-in-your-mouth macaroons are as creamy and delectable as custards –extra smooth with mellowed sweetness and topped with a sheer sugar crust. It’s similar to macaroons but with a smoother core that’s as luscious as custard.
Custaroons ORIGINAL Bite Size
Box of 15: P180.00
Box of 30: P260.00
Box of 60: P500.00
Box of 120: P900.00
This is the bite size version and it’s so pleasantly addicting. The flavor is more concentrated in each custaroon.
CHEESE or ASSORTED
Box of 4: P170.00
Box of 6: P200.00
Box of 12: P350.00
Box of 24: P600.00
Box of 15: P200.00
Box of 30: P300.00
Box of 60: P580.00
Box of 120: P1000.00
POPPERS
Flavors include original and cheese
Tub of 22: P200.00
As mentioned previously, these are bite-sized custaroon balls coated with a premium chocolate powder concoction. Think chocolate balls or chocolate items with champagne, almond, wafer, marshmallows, or other nuts inside but in Gigi’s baking case, it’s her famous custaroons inside.
The poppers give you an initial welcome of semi-sweet and muted chocolate then a burst of the buttery custaroons and then a mix of both flavors.
Green Tea (Matcha) – NEW! FRESH FROM THE OVEN!
Tub of 22: P320.00
Gigi’s Custaroons get a lot of orders for Christmas giveaways. Better place in your order early. They have a special edition of their packaging only for the Yuletide season! 🙂
Gigi’s Custaroons
For orders and inquiries: (0918) 828 2929
Many thanks to Abet for sending over some samples!
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Fran handed the Club boxes of Dragonfly Desserts last Friday. What wonderful timing since I’ve been looking for ideas for Christmas giveaways to feature on the site.
Three’s a Charm 😉
The Dragonfly Desserts boxes are quite spiffy with their lovely logo in front and minimal classy lines of yellow and edged out in brown-colored sides. It’s also secured in place with a gold band on parallel corners. Inside are neatly packed dessert goodies.
Wicked Bites PHP 265 (Box of 18)
Wicked bites are essentially chocolate chili bites. Almost melting chocolate that has a nice surprise of spiciness or kick on your tongue, nothing to be alarmed, heat level is quite tolerable even for non-spicy lovers. The chocolate cups are like fudge mixtures with only a bit of crumbly texture. I love how it quickly softens in your tongue and your mouth soaks up all the rich chocolate goodness.
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This is my favorite with its deep chocolate flavor and spicy kick from the chili.
The Almond Cappuccino Bars PHP 195 (Per Half Box, approx. 10 pieces)
These coffee-flavored square bars have a top layer liberally covered with chocolate chips and almond flakes. It has a good crunch on the outer layer but deliciously chewy inside with clear hint of cappuccino taste.
My mom absolutely fell in love with these almond cappuccino bars. She’s been eating it for days, before or after meals. It agreed with her discriminating taste buds since she didn’t find it overly sweet but with just enough sweet tune peppered with coffee essence that appealed to her.
Carrot Cake (Price to follow)
Highly flavored with sweet carrots, the cake is light, moist and the perfect sweetness.
I will feature more Christmas giveaway ideas in the coming weeks. Stay tuned. For the meantime, why not call Dragonfly Desserts for a taste of their dessert offerings –If I were you, I’d surely get the wicked bites in my order list.
If you like the Dragonfly Desserts products, your friends/families/family friends might like it too and that means, Christmas Giveaway Idea #2 is checked.
Dragonfly Desserts
For orders and inquiries:
Cheryl Ann Lim
(632) 415 8003/ (63) 415 8003
(63) 917 878 0001/ (63) 909 888 8802
Many thanks to Franny for the Dragonfly Desserts! XO
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I know you’ve probably gotten whiff of the news that there’s a new Charlie’s Grind and Grill branch somewhere in Ortigas Avenue. There is!!!
Charlie’s Grind and Grill
RONAC Building,
Ortigas Avenue, San Juan.
Don’t miss out to order:
Buffalo Wings (one of my favorites!)
Black Angus Burger with Fries PHP 175
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Clam Chowder PHP 150
Panko Crusted Deep Fried Cheese Stuffed Portabello Mushroom Black Angus PHP 350
Filly Cheesesteak Hungry Size PHP 220
Fish and Chips PHP 180
Have you paid the new branch a visit? 😉
And if Charlie’s is full or if you want a new taste other than burgers, CHECK OUT B&T Mexican Kitchen which is 2 minutes away from Charlie’s.
B&T Mexican Kitchen Chicken Mole
Read More:
Charlie’s Grind and Grill with Joyce
In My Restaurant List This Coming Quarter
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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!
READ MORE!
Foodie Club Series: The Shabu Shabu Fit for a King
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.
READ MORE!
Exquisitely Choco Loco at Maitre Chocolatier Boutique Café
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.
READ MORE!
Foodie Club Series: Great Korean Barbecue at Minato
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.
READ MORE!
22 Prime’s Tomahawk Chop is a Prime Mover
22 Prime
22nd 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!
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.
READ MORE!
In Crumbs: Stevie’s Hainanese Rice, Clawdaddy and Cibo
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.
READ MORE!
The Way a Sushi Should Be at Tsumura
Tsumura
2nd 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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READ MORE!
Different Tea Assortments to Love at Serenitea
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.
READ MORE!
The Frazzled Cook and His Dazzling Dishes
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 –2nd 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
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Bubba invited out to lunch and I can only be a happy beaver to get out of the office environment and enjoy a slow lunch with him. Away from the tall buildings of Ortigas Center, we found ourselves at a small deli near Charlie’s Burger (our usual for lunch dates on weekdays).
Poco Deli, situated unassumingly along East Capitol Drive in Pasig City, has only 5-6 tables including those outside. Upon entering, you’d notice Dave’s Natural Yogurt stand near the counter, display cases of cheeses and other deli products like sausages, and wine display at the end of the dining area.
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Their menu consists of pasta, pizza and sandwiches as well as cheese boards and cold cuts of Mickey Deli’s products. Dave’s Frozen Yogurt for dessert and a list of wines are also available.
On the Table
Pomodoro PHP 155
The pasta pomodoro arrived 5-8 minutes after ordering. It had that sweet light tomato base on angel hair pasta.
Pizza Margherita PHP 280
The pizza took approx. 20-25 minutes before it arrived that Bubba and I only had a slice each before we had it wrapped.
Glass of Wine PHP 140
Pistachio Yogurt PHP 80
I’d probably do a repeat once there’s another lunch out invite, especially if I wanted to stay off the crowded areas like Charlie’s Burger (unless I’m craving for Charlie’s!).
21 East Capitol Drive,
Barrio Kapitolyo, Pasig City, Philippines
(632) 664 0519
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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 that’s already making waves with the folks that work around the area. 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 restaurant is another venture of Pier One Bar and Grill Holdings Corporation, the company behind the very successful Pier One Bar and Grill restaurant chain in the Philippines. There has been a surge of chicken inasal restaurants in the Metro with the increasing demand of the market for inasal, which Bacolod popularized. Heck, even a well-liked fastfood chain included “inasal” or barbecued chicken in their offerings.
Likewise, lechon manok and lechon baboy’s market never diminished and it continues to be present on the table at every occasion.
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.
On the Table
Chibog Busog Meal Lechon Liempo PHP 99
Individual meal of lechon liempo
Chibog Busog Meal Inahaw na Liempo PHP 99
Order this if you want the classic inihaw na liempo
Lechon Manok PHP 210
If you want to order one whole Lechon Manok, it’s available for a very affordable price of PHP 210. I think it’s more bang for your buck if you order one whole chicken instead of the meal package. I’m sure you’d finish it off anyway.
Lechon Liempo
Chic Boy’s Lechon Liempo is the highlight of the whole dinner for Bubba and me. It really stole the show. Both lechon manok and lechon liempo are marinated and stuffed with herb and spices and charcoil broiled to juicy and tasty perfection. The liempo are really quite flavorful on its own!!! It’s like eating lechon Cebu with crispy “liempo” style fat and skin.
Tuna Sisig PHP 75
Inihaw na Talong with Bagoong PHP 25
Balance out with some vegetable on the side
Salmon Sinigang PHP 49
WOW! I did a double take when I saw the price. PHP 49 bucks for Salmon Sinigang??? Get out! 😉 Where else can you see that kind of price in Makati? And the best part about it is, it tastes good!!! It’s one soup bowl of sinigang with some strips of salmon 🙂 I was expecting just one piece. This is really a steal. Bubba and I both liked the “creamy” sour soup with the delicious salmon meat.
Add to the list of things to like at Chic Boy the fact that they have different sauces on the table available for your dipping preference. Other than the usual sauces for the chicken inasal, lechon sauce and special vinegar sauce are offered with your “already-tasty” lechon. Get this –toasted garlic and chicken oil are available too. Put as many as you’d like on your rice! And if you think cheap price and great tasting food aren’t enough, Chic Boy is open 24 hours!!!
Looking for easy on the pocket meals? Why not head over at Chic Boy restaurant along Jupiter St. in Makati? 😉 Let me know what you think!
Thanks Spanx and Cat Juan for the invite! 🙂
Chic Boy
Jupiter St., Makati City
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What do we need from a good mate? 😉
SUPPORT.
That’s exactly what Inti-Mate does! Bolster up falling bra straps with Inti-Mate bra converter. It holds the bra straps in an “x” across your back. Be more comfortable to wear your racer-back tops without the fashion blunder of displaying your underwear straps. I know I’ve been guilty of that tacky fashion crime several times.
What’s great about the Inti-Mate Bra is the fact that you’re not limited to use it with only undergarments. I’ve actually used it to secure the loose straps of my blue dress. Other than giving you an added support with your bra –effects of a push up bra –instant support, cleavage and confidence, you can also use it with your dresses or tops with loose-fitting straps. Some straps wear out overtime. Inti-Mate Bra Converter easily resolves that dilemma.
The best part is, that “x” in fact gives you an added sexy look.
Don’t forget to grab yourself an Inti-Mate Bra Converter pack (PHP 250) that includes 3 clips: 1 black, 1 nude and 1 clear clip. It’s also a perfect gift to give to your girlfriends!
Tiendesitas
Shopsui at the Fashion Village
Backstage at Serendra
2C-18 2/F Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
For Inquiries: Telephone: 915-2741
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For order and inquiries:
Inti-Mate Bra Converter
http://myintimate.multiply.com/
0922 802 1494
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Photo Credit:
Azrael Coladilla
http://azraelsmerryland.blogspot.com
Johnson’s Body Care launched their line of body care products that will surely address women’s desire for the most beautiful and softest summer skin. The leading brand in body lotion tied up with female fashion retail brand, Bayo to launch the “Soft Look Collection.” The collection showcases the limited edition collection of specialty designed summer ensembles that highlight women’s soft and beautiful skin.
Metro Manila’s top fashion and beauty personalities graced the exclusive multimedia fashion show event Tuesday night as the runway at Encore Club featured 17 pieces of the collection, all inspired by a woman’s soft skin, made possible with Johnson’s Body Care.
With the onset of the summer season, the hotter temperature ups the ante for perspiration and increases skin dehydration. This heightens the need to keep the skin moisturized and healthy. Luckily, women need not worry about this because with the superior moisturizing properties of Johnson’s Body Care’s 24 Hour Lasting Moisture Body Lotion and Wash, skin is kept soft and hydrated the whole day. It is enriched with the amazing power of the Dual Moisture Bond, which seals in the skin’s natural moisture and gives it an added moisture boost.
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Lizz, Lauren and Tita Noemi
I love the Bayo pieces that were paraded last night that have made me schedule a mall visit this weekend. Bayo’s collection includes off-white eyelets, silhouettes, little blush colors, lace fabrics that really do enhance a woman’s soft skin.
Mary Grace Magcamit, Bayo’s Merchandiser, explained, “The silhouettes are meticulously defined with a gorgeous variety of tops, dresses and bottoms in styles ideal for the summer season. Halters, tunics and strapless pieces with a soft, flowing feel, show off more skin to soak up the summer sun.”
According to Magcamit, wearing the right cut in the right color is a great way to flaunt soft, beautiful skin this summer. Johnson’s Body Care’s partnership with Bayo is definitely the hottest tandem this season.
More Event Photos:
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Unwavering Asian Pose
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Special freebies and discounts also await women up to June 15, 2010. By purchasing any item from the Johnson’s Body Care Soft Look Collection in participating Bayo outlets, women will get a free 100ml Johnson’s Body Care Lotion and a 20% discount coupon for a succeeding purchase of a 200ml or 400ml lotion or wash at Watsons. Alternately, when women buy 200ml or 400 ml Johnson’s Body Care Lotion or Wash at Watsons, they will get 10% off on any item from the Soft Look Collection.
The Johnson’s Body Care body lotions and washes come in three variants, namely: Johnson’s Body Care 24 Hour Lasting Moisture, Melt Away Stress, and Naturally White. The Johnson’s Body Care 24 Hour Lasting Moisture will give women long-lasting silky smooth skin. Skin will bask in moisture and help prevent dullness, flakiness and tightness caused by dryness, from sunrise to sundown. The Johnson’s Body Care Melt Away Stress with calming properties helps melt away stress and refreshes the skin. The Johnson’s Body Care Naturally White provides daily care that helps maintain skin’s brightness for a naturally soft and fair glow.
With Shen
http://www.shensaddiction.com/
(she’s my DLSU blockmate Ron’s one and only! What a small world!)
Johnson’s Body Care lotions and washes are available at all leading beauty and personal care stores, department stores and supermarkets nationwide. The Soft Look Collection is retailed in the following Bayo branches: Ayala Center Cebu, Eastwood City, Gateway Mall, Greenbelt 5, Greenhills Shopping Center, Market! Market!, Robinson’s Galleria, Shangri-la Plaza Mall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, and Trinoma.
For more information about Johnson’s Body Care and the Soft Look Collection, simply log on to Facebook and become a fan of Johnson’s Body Care at http://www.facebook.com/bodycareph.
Fashionable looks and trends this summer need to be accompanied by remarkable soft skin. So flaunt your best asset this summer –soft touchable skin from Johnson’s Body Care Lotion and partner with the best summer outfits from Bayo’s Soft Look Collection.
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Not your usual themes of Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, kids, Italian. I had this bright idea of having a green-themed potluck dinner. We had a special guest on the table that evening.
No, it’s not Oscar the Grouch. 😀
I sent out the message to the group and got a flood of responses.
“Green as in vegetables?”
“Do you follow no-meat Fridays?”
“Like all green food?”
“What meatless Fridays are you talking about?”
I said green would depend on their creativity or excuse. Green-themed foods can vary anywhere from wasabi-flavored mashed potato, green leafy vegetables, green curry, only-in-DLSU-bought food (school color is green), wasabi-flavored ice cream, nori-wrapped sushi or food, Japanese green chicken, random food served on a green plate, stuffed green chilies, guacamole, avocado salad… there are actually a lot.
I was feeling under the weather Friday morning, March 12 and told the group that I might not be able to make it. I felt a bit better after work and made it to dinner. Thing is, half strayed off from the green theme while the other half was still on the plan. Andrew, who hosted us that evening, actually cooked 3-cheese baked prawns but whipped up a green salad with Japanese dressing (when he knew I was coming) to veer back to the green-theme.
I walked to the door and caught Eric’s eye and exchanged knowing smiles. He thought I wasn’t going to make it. Buch, Mari, and Jim were already there when we arrived. Ann and Andrew were still busy in the kitchen. Alex and Nico were pretty late because Nico’s meeting took a long time. There’s a space beside Eric that should be occupied by Made, who was missing in action because she had to attend something.
On the Table
Andrew and Ann’s Green Salad with Kani and Japanese Dressing
Pasto Crostini, Chicken Liver Pate, Salsa, and Spinach Gorgonzola Dip
Bubba and I brought Spinach-gorgonzola dip and crostini chips from Pasto. Excuse my being sick at that time, I wasn’t able to think of a more creative “green” anymore. I actually planned to bring wasabi-mashed potato from Ninyo but due to time and travel constraints, decided to forego that idea.
Baked Prawns with Three Cheese
Andrew loves prawns and shrimps and I’m glad because Bubba doesn’t eat those so I don’t usually order them when we eat out and when it’s served at home, we usually dine out.
Fish Dish with Vegetables (I forget the name)
Beef Dish with Vegetables (I forget the name)
Jim said that he particularly asked the dishes to be served with vegetables (in this case, cabbage) to still be within the green theme. Eric brought sisig sampler with three kinds of sisig.
Somebody brought this but I also forget now what dish this was. Told you I wasn’t on my element that night.
Alex’s Pasta Puttanesca
Alex and Nico brought yummy Pasta Puttanesca with green noodles! Yay!
To add to the whole green-feel, Andrew brought out his favorite Schweppes Ginger Ale.
Amidst all the good food, the special guest on the table (literally) occupied the spotlight of the night. Wild Bite green tea products!!!
Get into the bite
We did a round robin on the items and catch is, you can describe the item with only a word or a phrase/statement. Nobody else can use the descriptive words already mentioned. Quite tough but a bit of fun. Since I was busy taking down notes, I forgot to track who made the most mistakes -so no consequence. 🙂
Wild Bite Clusters
Wild Bite Clusters is a bunch of thin cornflakes coated in white chocolate and green tea. There’s an earthy taste (probably the green tea) to it that’s very calming. It has the right crunch on the outside and enough softness to enjoy snacking on these in delight! It was the clear favorite on the table and the group kept looking for more.
Wild Bite Chocolate
It’s white chocolate that strikes familiarity (a local chocolate you probably tried in childhood) but not quite because of the green tea taste. People who don’t like overly sweet chocolate, like me, might go for this. Packaging was pretty nice, perfect as a gift idea for folks who are into green tea or basically will try anything chocolate. I wonder how dark chocolate will fare blended with green tea. I love dark chocolates.
Wild Bite Cookies
The group found the Wild Bite Cookies quite the enigma. The mild taste of green tea is there –which was just right for me because too much green tea flavor might be overwhelming. As one describes it, the cookie had an identity crisis –some parts were like soft-batch cookies while the other parts were tough like it’s been aired out in the open for too long.
Wild Bite Crisps
It reminded the group of buttery Danish cookies –to some, it had a hint of green tea flavor, to others, GT flavor wasn’t that evident. Crumbly texture dusted with sugar crystals. Both Alex and Nico liked it a lot and tagged it at the top of their list. Alex enjoyed its toasty taste –similar to burnt flavor (I suspect the light bitter flavor comes from the green tea leaves) when you bite into it and then there’s sweetness it releases when you get to the inside.
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The Wild Bite Green Tea items were welcomed on the table with different levels of interest. Big thanks to Chris Chan for letting us try his Wild Bite product line, which started only as a surprise gift for his girlfriend.
Wild Bite offers a variety of green tea products to suit your craving for green tea confections. For order inquiries, contact Chris Chan of Wild Bite at +63917 3276559.
Wild Bite
(63) 917 3276559
After dinner, we headed to Andrew’s attic where their audio/video room is located. Of course, another Rockband session happened until past midnight.
After Rockband, Eric and Andrew taught Alex, Nico, Bubba and I how to play mahjong. It’s quite interesting but I’m yet to get the hang of it. I already know the basics though, yay!!!
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Red Ribbon recently launched its Roses and Kisses cake –that puts two Valentine iconic items in one delicious chocolate pound cake. This chocolate fudge and chip filled pound cake is decorated with beautiful sugar roses on top and creamy Hershey’s Milk Chocolate (PHP 330, Junior size) –what other Valentine gift can say “you’re special and sweet” at the same time? And it’s edible too! 😉
Wait, there’s more!!! You can also personalize your cake with your name and the name of your loved one. Simply place your order before February 9, 2010.
I love chocolates. I used to be so addicted to dark chocolates. I’m so glad that MS Word now reads chocoholic like it’s been included in the language since Wordstar.
I used to love Royce chocolates back in 2005, when it was still not that popular in Manila, but when friends started giving me this continually (particularly Pebbles from AFC), my Royce chocolate collection started building up in the fridge and I began looking for something else.
My favorite chocolate for 2 years now –Lindt Swiss Thins in Dark Chocolate.
Red Ribbon’s latest offering raises the bar high when it comes to delivering the best chocolate cake. Chocolate Heaven (PHP 500 – regular, PHP 335 – junior size) is everything the name promises to be –it’s all the favorite chocolate components rolled into one. Brownie, mousse, icing, and curls, is there room for more? It’s the most chocolate-y ever!
The chocolate is not overly sugary sweet, which I really like because too much sweetness just doesn’t cut it out for me. Taste the lip-smacking chocolate flavor in different levels. 4 kinds of chocolate goodness in one cake! Pair your Chocolate Heaven with Red Ribbon’s choices for hot brews –and get the right bitter and semi-sweet combination.
Ooh, sweet dreams are made of this! Let’s just see if Bubba gets me one, he knows how high I can get with chocolates – the uncontrollable giddy-ness starts!!! …and he gulps 😉
Both cakes are available in selected Red Ribbon stores beginning February 7, 2010 and nationwide beginning February 9.
*Big thanks to Jonel of NomNom Club and Let’s Go Sago for the invite to the launch! 🙂
X-tras:
Photo Contest
Check the Red Ribbon photo contest at NomNomClub site
http://nomnomclub.com/red-ribbon-chocolate-heaven-photo-contest/
Submit your entries here =>
Please read full mechanics here =>
Fan Page
Join Chocolate heaven’s Facebook Fan Page 🙂 =>
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Ribbon-Chocolate-Heaven-Cake/290916372887
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Aren’t these the cutest munchkins? They’re also very yummy! 😉
Mini-chocolate and butter cupcakes in Christmas fashion
Even if the Christmas season is over, these are perfect dessert treats for parties of different occasions –as well as wedding or party giveaways! For orders and inquiries, contact Alex Gregorius, the very pretty Weekend Baker.
The Weekend Baker
0917 826 2539
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Don’t ask me why Berks. It’s just is and the name stuck 😉
Flashback: Berks Christmas Dinner December 27, 2007
Although I was forced to file a leave for December 21 and my last day of work was supposed to be Dec 18, I was still working until Dec 23, Wednesday. I wanted to cook for the Christmas dinner but I didn’t find the time because I was still in the office until 6pm. Bubba and I just ordered food for the potluck. Made looked for my pasta (*meblush* tee-hee).
What makes this Christmas different is, the group was complete! Alex has moved back to Manila after a long career stint in Singapore.
As customary, dinner was potluck and the table was filled with so many delicious food! There were just too many dishes on the round table that it was hard to find space to put everything in. Alex brought 3-way duck from Luk Foo and it was delish. I don’t remember who brought Nathaniel’s Buko Pandan but it was also a hit with the group.
Andrew brought Tequila Rose to which I chided Anne to drink the first shot. Anne is pregnant with their second baby so she couldn’t go anywhere near the alcohol. Hee-hee!
After dinner, we all gathered near Eric’s beautiful Christmas tree for our exchange gifts. This year was a bit funny because most got each other gift certificates! Er-hem, I didn’t start the fire 😉
We’re thinking of doing 2 themes next year, one is White Elephant while the other is the regular exchange gift. That should be fun.
Year Ender Photos!
Toast to Friendship and a Happy Christmas!
Cheers! 🙂
Related Post
Potluck Dinner and Poker Night 4/14/09
One Fun Saturday Night: Dice Game
Turning Two: Being Young and Lovely
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Other than Monday, midweek is usually the busiest time of the week. But you just got to make time for dinner when you get an invite from Arpee to meet the Greenwich brand and PR execs –the folks who got us laughing watching the “sobrang cheesy” advertisements. Smiling at the thought of Bubba giving his “sobrang cheesy!!!” remark with that cheesy facial expression of his 🙂
(Azrael of www.azraelsmerryland.blogspot.com with Lace of www.styleandrelax.blogspot.com)
Now, the Greenwich team is back with more power and more supremacy. The country’s favorite pizza chain, Greenwich, who gives the most scrumptious blend of delicious and exciting pizza (remember Sisig pizza? I was a fan!) and pasta innovations, recently launched the new Ultimate Hawaiian Overload –declaring it to be the best Hawaiian pizza in the country today! Why? Because it has double the Hawaiian toppings you love –double the flavor, double the fun! Definitely, nag-level up na sa sarap!
Other Greenwich favorites!
We got an exclusive (hot off the “editing room”) viewing of their new campaign. See local movie stalwart John Lloyd Cruz like you’ve never tasted seen him before! Ibang level talaga! 😉
The New Ultimate Hawaiian Overload is available at close to 250 Greenwich stores nationwide. Metro Manila Delivery hotline is 5-55-55.
Dine in/ Take out prices:
Rolled Edge double, family P265, P419
Thin & Crispy double, family P225, P379
Party Square P455
Even their pizza boxes leveled-up!!!! Check out the design from Team Manila! 😉
Photo from Azrael: http://azraelsmerryland.blogspot.com
Your regular pizza flavor is not so standard anymore –so upgrade your bud’s expectation and level-up your taste to the Ultimate Hawaiian Overload!!!
Related Post
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When I woke up, Kate was already at the desk clicking on her laptop. She was hard at it, working fervently at a career she loves. She used to be based in Singapore for work but she realized that there’s no place like home and eventually left the Singaporean company to go back to the Philippines. A few months later, the Singaporean company hired her back –this time, she is working home-based in the Philippines and the emails are her attendance at work. What a really great break! 🙂
She was almost done and she asked me my plans for the day. I said I had no plans and was thinking of a trouble-free last day in Singapore. She said she was going to IKEA and invited if I would like to join her. She wants to buy some stuff from IKEA and meet friends she made in Singapore. I was suddenly ecstatic!!! 😀
You see, I wanted to go to IKEA that I was harping about it the night before in the cab on the way home with Chrissy, Ivy and Jonel. Since I had no one familiar with the city to go with, I decided against it. I heard it was a bit far from Link Hotel. Thank goodness for an angel like Kate, my beloved roomie, and suddenly my Sunday was looking less bleak.
Another thing I like being bunked with Kate is, without having to speak, our movements are in such great tango with each other. She had her space and I had mine and timing in the bathroom between us was seamless –both productive and relaxed.
What made this departure day different though is I usually have my luggage packed the night before and clothes to wear and everything else ready. But after a fun night with the group much laughing and walking, I plunk-ed on my unmade bed with my water bottle. I wasn’t able to pack at all –a first in my book actually.
Good thing I was able to make haste and packed in 20 minutes (I usually take a leisure hour), just in time Kate finished packing too. We checked out and placed our luggage in the lobby. We were crossing the street when I checked my phone and saw Jen’s text message. I replied and said we were on the way out but will wait for her if she’s ready. She was all set and 5 minutes later the three of us were on a bus going to our IKEA date.
IKEA
IKEA was a good 30 minutes from our starting point. It wasn’t so difficult to get there by commuter bus since Kate was familiar with Singapore. At one point, it took a while to figure where the express shuttle is but both Jen and I were still at ease with Kate at the front. We took a train, 2 buses and we were finally at IKEA.
IKEA was like an enormous warehouse that offers a wide range of well-designed functional home furnishing products at prices so reasonable, both Jen and I did quite some shopping. We only had an hour before we meet up with Kate again so we really maximized our time –checking only items that really caught our interests and consulting with each other on the price and usability.
$1 Breakfast
I bought a few items (lamps, rags, photo frame, 1kg Swiss meatballs, chocolates, etc), while Jen’s big purchase was two white fur shrugs for her favorite chair at home. I ran out of Singapore dollars and my only complaint about IKEA is that they don’t accept US dollars. Jen and Kate had to lend me some SG money for my purchase.
It was time to relax when we had lunch at the huge IKEA cafeteria. Of course, both Jen and I tried the meatballs everyone was raving about. We also bonded with Kate’s friends from Singapore and asked them about life in the cosmopolitan country.
Going back was so much easier although we were running out of time because we were supposed to reach the hotel lobby by 3pm. Stopped by quickly at a money changer shop, had my US changed and paid my dues. We had a good 20 minutes to spare and since Kate knows I wanted to try Ya Kun Kaya, we looked for it at a nearby mall. Time is gold and I decided to just concede to trying Singapore’s Toastbox at the ground floor. Both Jen and I ordered food to go.
I also appreciate how easy I got along with Jen. I’ve been reading her Sexy Nomad site and like her steady positivism and travel spirit as well even before meeting and working briefly on a film project together. Just the day before, we bonded over breakfast and waiting time at Selangor.
We hailed a cab and finally reached the lobby on time. We were one of the early ones there. The bus actually left an hour later. No complaints since Jen, Kate and I had to repack our luggage and hand carry bags to fit in what we just purchased.
After repacking, we still had 30 minutes to enjoy leisurely the soft-boiled eggs and kaya toast combination we bought. Yummy!!! It wasn’t Ya Kun but it satisfied my kaya and egg craving!!! 😉
All aboard the bus, we hit our airport destination. Because of the items I bought from IKEA, I was over the limit weight by 7lbs! First time it happened to me too but since we were in a big group, I wasn’t too worried. Not until the ground officer said we couldn’t do a big group check-in, which was a bit weird. I was getting really concerned… Being quite independent, I was timid to ask people if I could share their weight limit 🙁 I checked how much it would cost me to just take in the extra weight -PHP 7,000! Gosh, I didn’t want to pay an extra 7 Grand for “pasalubongs.”
After much scurrying, (big thanks to Alodia, Ashley, and Jonel as well as Frances and Fran who tried to help out), Jonel shared my luggage weight and checked in my bag under his name. *BIG HUG to Jonel*
Whew, trouble-free huh 😉
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Charlie’s Grind and Grill is a stone throw away from the office that that has been the perpetual excuse to have lunch breaks there. It’s always at least half full –full when we dine there.
Bubba invited out for lunch that Wednesday, which is a QC holiday (he still went to work though), and by 12nn was already at the lobby area to pick me up. I got in the car and after a few seconds of dead air, a hooded person sitting at the back surprised me that made me shriek out loud. It was my sister Joyce. Bubba went to pick her up since QC schools were also on holiday.
On the Table
Black Angus Burger with Fries (2) PHP 175
Bubba and Joyce both got a burger set each. Juicy meaty hamburger patties that make you want to come back for more –grilled to perfection. Get it with fries and you add only PHP 20. Burgers can’t get any better than this especially when priced only this much.
Clam Chowder PHP 150
I had a heavy breakfast (Read: probably almost 2 cups of rice) so I decided to get something light. Clam chowder served in a bread bowl was creamy and tasted fresh –had generous amount of clams.
Key Lime Pie PHP 200
It was too sour for my taste that I didn’t get to finish even half.
This was also the time Bubba surprised me with the Nokia N95 Soul of Manila Wireless Adventure Race Part 1 televised video! 2007, Moi was fatty fat then but yay!
Even if it was a holiday, Bubba wanted to go back to ABS to work so I brought Joyce to my office instead after lunch. She had her own space, table and desk. She was so behaved and cute!!! Karen loved her and gave her many items to tinker with.
Other stuff to try at Charlie’s (ordered in previous visits):
Panko Crusted Deep Fried Cheese Stuffed Portabello Mushroom Black Angus PHP 350
We ordered this the last time we were at Charlie’s. That’s a mouthful of a description! And indeed it was. The cheese stuffed portabello mushroom was deliciously stunning in appearance and taste. You get a bite of layering flavors and textures leaving you hankering for more. The burger’s name is a mouthful but the taste can leave you mouthwateringly speechless.
Filly Cheesesteak Hungry Size PHP 220
The white bread was topped with local sirloin meat and charged with loads of tasty caramelized onions and green bell peppers. It was as good as the Black Angus burger –it will be quite difficult to make one a favorite over the other.
Fish and Chips PHP 180
Generous serving of dory fried to a golden crisp. Add malt vinegar.
Next on my list are the Meatballs Marinara and the Pulled Pork Sandwich. I can just hear my stomach grumble in anticipation. Executive Chef Rob Goco really knows how to tickle our fancy with great food from Cyma, Ristras to Charlie’s.
And if Charlie’s is full or if you want a new taste other than burgers, CHECK OUT B&T Mexican Kitchen along Ortigas Avenue.
B&T Mexican Kitchen Chicken Mole
Charlie’s Grind and Grill
16 East Kapitolyo Drive,
Pasig City.
(632) 635 4857
Charlie’s Panko Crusted Portabello Album
Charlie’s Fish and Chips Album
Related Post
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Between Bites is a FOOD, TRAVEL, and LIFESTYLE BLOG that AWAKENS an appetite for the GOOD LIFE.
LIVE a HAPPY, VIBRANT, POSITIVE LIFESTYLE!
GET a BITE of FOOD, TRAVEL, gadgets, ADVENTURE, culture, hip trends, music, movie, sports, poker, reading, FASHION, and EVENTS happening in and out of the Philippines.
Eating is a continuous event but in the spaces in between, my time is spent taking photos, traveling, dancing, hitting my drums, having fun, tinkering with the latest gadgets, conversing, writing, boxing, LOVING the people around me, LEARNING a thing or two, and PEDDLING HAPPY DREAMS.
I am…
Animated.
A glam ghost and the biggest dork
A ghetto queen, a jack of all trades
A revival, a reinvention, a rarity, a simplicity and complexity
I am a lover of JESUS!, food, dance, music, rain...
I have my own concoctions you can’t resist
–Magellan needed to discover
I LOVE the heat of the sun on my skin
And the wind blowing my hair
I LOVE wild laughter.
I LOVE making adventures out of the routine
I LOVE the lowest and highest points of my life
I want to build gardens of sunrise and sunsets
I move to the beat of rhythms and base. RnB.
I move to the beat of LIFE.
I move to the beat of LOVE.
I’m every inch human.
READ the 411 on Jane, the Peddler of Dreams, the Biter of Adventures, the Insatiable Traveler! Click HERE.
POP ME AN EMAIL! EMAIL: betweenbites@gmail.com
Majestic Angkor Wat in Cambodia
ME finding roots at Ta Prohm, Cambodia
SKY JUMP, Macau Tower.
Milan, Italy
Colloseo in Rome
Parasailing in Manukan Island, MALAYSIA
Recent Table Guest