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

 

 

The Singapore trip last month was a revelation of how really good Singaporeans make their Hainanese Chicken Rice.  There’s a whole gamut of which restaurants to go to for the best one.  Even if you eat HCR from a hawker stall, it’s almost as good as any –only an irrelevant degree of difference in taste (plus the contention on preparation, hygiene, and venue ambience). 

 

Boon Tong Kee

 

Loy Kee Best Chicken Rice

 

Tian Tian Chicken Rice

 

 

Where to get the best is still up for a big debate whether it’s from a simple chicken rice hawker or from a fancy restaurant.  Makansutra rates Tian Tian Chicken Rice as their number 1 but other names also come on top -Loy Kee Best Chicken Rice, Wee Nam Kee, Boon Tong Kee… I tried all of the mentioned except for Wee Nam Kee.  It’s really hard to pick a favorite.

 

 

In Singapore, it is.  In Manila, there’s one name that’s on the top of my head when asked for the best Hainanese Chicken Rice.  Stevie Villacin.

 

On the Table

 

Stevie’s Hainanese Chicken Rice Set (P950/set, with olive rice P1,100/set)

There’s been a buzz around town about Stevie’s Hainanese style of steamed chicken served with chicken stock flavored rice.  He sells it for P950 a set that can serve a hungry bunch of 3-4 people.  The set comes with the foiled tray of steamed chicken, a smaller foiled tray of flagrant rice and the usual trio of condiments: semi-thick sweetened soy sauce, chili and minced ginger sauce. 

 

 

Wait, there’s more.  Stevie also provides an additional topping sauce in case you have leftovers (which I seriously doubt) or plans to reheat the chicken.  He also gives you a detailed instruction on how to reheat the chicken meat.  The “topping sauce” keeps it moist while reheating but you have to be careful not to overheat it because it will result to dry and tough chicken. 

 

My attempt on “quick plating”

 

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 (For pick-up orders only)

21 Libra St. Bel Air,

Makati City

(0906) 508 4155

 

Stevie’s Chicken Rice Album

 

 

John Mayer Concert in Manila Postponed! –Battle Studies World Tour!

 

***UPDATE as of April 22, 2010*** 

John Mayer Concert in Manila is supposedly moved to October 1, 2010.  I wonder why it’s postponed to later this year?

 

“Due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts, the concert being held at SM MOA in Manila on May 16th, 2010 is being rescheduled to October 1st. All original tickets will be honored then. Our deepest apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.”

 

—————

 

John Mayer is coming to Manila for his Battle Studies World Tour on May 16, 2010.  It’s going to be his first show ever in the Philippines.

 

Ticketworld and Channel V are selling tickets.

 

John Mayer Live in Manila

May 16, 2010, Sunday, 8PM

MOA Concert Grounds

 

Ticket Prices:

EARLY-BIRD (From March 20, 2010 to April 15, 2010)

Silver
Bronze
General Admission
PhP 4,224.00
PhP 1,689.60
-No early-bird offer-
Reserved Seating
With seats (First come, first served)
Standing

REGULAR (After April 15, 2010)

Silver
Bronze
General Admission
PhP 5,280.00
PhP 2,112.00
PhP 633.60
Reserved Seating
With seats (First come, first served)
Standing

 

For Premium seats, you can contact the Channel V Philippines office at (632) 929-2151.  The Early Bird Promo Rate is valid until April 15 only, so start securing your seats!

 

One thing I like about this concert is… it has actual seats (and reserved seating from Silver section and up)!!!  I still prefer though that it’s not in open grounds but heck, I guess that’s the trend now of concerts.

 

Ticketing Hotline: (+63 2) 891-9999

Email:tickets@ticketworld.com.ph
Fax: (+63 2) 891-5634
Hotlines: GLOBE +63-916-340-3919
               SMART +63-0921-564-2108

Mailing Address:
TICKETWORLD, Inc.
6793 Ayala Avenue, 701 V. Madrigal Bldg.,
Makati City 1226, Philippines

 

John Mayer’s website (www.johnmayer.com) confirms that he will have a Tokyo and Manila show.

 

Tokyo – May 13th, 2010


Tickets will go on sale to the general public beginning on April 10th. For information on ticketing links and times, please visit our Tour page.

 

Manila – May 16th, 2010 

 

Tickets for the show at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds will go on sale to the general public Monday, March 29 at 8am Manila time, here. More information can be found on our TOUR page.

 

 

 

X-tras:

 

Timbaland feat. Justin Timberlake and Jojo Post-Concert Review:

How did you guys like the Timbaland concert?  🙂  It supposedly started at 10PM to make way for the Earth Hour?  I heard a lot of people were disappointed that JT didn’t really dance that much and production was only so-so?  How true is that?  Would love to hear your feedback!

POV -it’s still fantastic to see JT and Timbaland and Jojo no matter what! 😉

Cheers!

Pate of Least Resistance

 

Something I’m going to try very soon. 😉

 

Chicken Inasal is grilled chicken popularized in Bacolod.  I like Chicken Inasal and I wonder how it would taste as a pate.  I’ve tried chicken liver pate but this is really interesting.

 

 

Have you tried Chicken Inasal Pate with Cocktail Piayitos?

 

Casa Carmela

www.casacarmelakitchen.com

6334-435-4460

 

Brittany Murphy’s Husband Simon Monjack Found Dead –Brittany Murphy Dies at Age 32

 

UPDATE as of May 25, 2010  -Britanny Murphy’s husband and director Simon Monjack was found dead at his home.

 

From Associated Press:

The husband of Brittany Murphy was found dead by his mother-in-law late Sunday at the Los Angeles home he shared with the late actress, the coroner’s office said. Simon Monjack’s death was reported as a possible heart attack and appeared to be from natural causes, Los Angeles County Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter said. Monjack was 39.

 

“He was discovered by Brittany’s mom as being unresponsive” in the master bedroom of the Hollywood Hills home at about 9:40 p.m. Sunday, Winter said. Sharon Murphy called paramedics, who pronounced him dead.

 

 

There were no signs of foul play or physical injury to his body, Winter said.

 

Prescription medications belonging to Monjack were found in his bedroom, but there was no immediate indication that he overdosed, Winter said.

 

An autopsy was planned Tuesday, but a final cause of death would await results of planned toxicology tests, Winter said.

 

Murphy died last Dec. 20 after collapsing in the home.

 

At his wife’s funeral, a visibly emotional Monjack talked about their relationship and called her his best friend and soul mate. The two married in 2007. He had said they were planning a family and contemplating a move to New York.

 

 

—-

Brittany Murphy Dies at Age 32

 

I was just watching Brittany Murphy in the movie “Ramen Girl” a few weeks back and now the news that she died at a young age of 32 is a complete shocker.  Murphy was the chubby girl in “Clueless” and the love opposite of Eminem in his first full movie “8 Mile.”  I loved her in “Just Married” with Ashton Kutcher and “Uptown Girls” with Dakota Fanning.  She also gave voice to character “Gloria” in the 2006 animated feature, “Happy Feet.”

 

 

I haven’t seen her in movies in recent times except when I caught “Ramen Girl” on Star Movies.  It was reported that she died in Los Angeles over the weekend with no determined cause of death.  Los Angeles County coroner’s official however said that it appears to be of natural causes.

 

Murphy apparently collapsed in the bathroom, and somebody placed a 911 call.  The Los Angeles Fire Department was first to respond at 8 am at her house in Hollywood Hills.  Murphy was pronounced dead at 10:04 a.m. at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, but it appears that she might have died instantaneously.  She was married to British screenwriter Simon Monjack.  Murphy’s husband, wearing pajama bottoms and no shoes, appeared “dazed” as firefighters tried to save her.

 

 

Authorities are currently looking into her medical history.  An autopsy will be conducted for Monday or Tuesday.  Winter said Murphy’s family was cooperating with the coroner’s investigation. Funeral arrangements have not been announced.

 

She dated Ashton Kutcher, who costarred with Murphy in 2003’s romantic comedy “Just Married.”

 

 

Kutcher sent a message on Twitter Sunday morning about Murphy’s death: “2day the world lost a little piece of sunshine,” Kutcher wrote. “My deepest condolences go out 2 Brittany’s family, her husband, & her amazing mother Sharon.”

 

 

Manila News Today: Sept. 4, 2009

 

 

Presidential Race to the Altar?

 

Senator Manuel Roxas II has sacrificed his presidential bid for 2010 to give way to fellow Liberal Party member, Senator Benigno “Noy Noy” Aquino III, who is currently away in Zamboanga to seek spiritual guidance.  He will be back on Monday but will probably reveal his decision on whether or not to run for president after September 9, the 40th mourning day of his mother, former President Cory Aquino.

 

 

During his speech at Club Filipino, the same venue where President Cory Aquino took her oath as the first woman president, he urged people to pray with him to assess people’s readiness to accompany him in this fight. 

 

Meanwhile, Noy Noy’s sister, celebrity host Kris Aquino said in her show, Showbix News Ngayon, that she is giving 100 percent support to her brother in case he decides to run a presidential campaign.  She further declared on Wednesday night that she requested Noy Noy to remain single for the meantime since he already has enough big decisions on his plate as it is.

 

 

People tend to speculate that Kris might have reservations about the current girlfriend of Noy Noy, Shalani Soledad, a councilor of Valenzuela’s 2nd district.

 

Kris retracts her statement Thursday evening on SNN and apologized for meddling in her brother’s love life.  She again promised not to talk about Noy Noy’s affairs of the heart.

 

(Photo Source: http://www.liberalparty.ph)

What Bob Blumer Wrote

 

Surreal Surprise with Bob Blumer

July 17, 2009

Rockwell Tent

 

 

Bob Blumer is brilliant in many ways beyond cooking.  His brilliance shows in his creativity and humor.

 

He signed off his photo with Bubba with “best dishes” playing on the pun of “best wishes.”  That “D” in “dishes” was supposed to be “W.”

 

 

Cute.

 

What could he have penned that set me off like this…

 

 

 

Just between you and me… 

(Reveal)

 

 

 

 

I think that “L” was supposed to be “C.”  He missed the curve.

 

He definitely wasn’t served Alphabet soup growing up.  Or Alphabet crackers.

 

Laughter is brightest where food is best.

 

 

Events This Weekend Album

 

 

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RP5 Banks a Win Against Kuwait

 

The RP Nationals won against Kuwait, 85-71 to claim another game victory in the 25th FIBA Asia Championship at the Tianjin Gym in Tianjin, China.  Powerade-Team Pilipinas was leading throughout the game with a comfortable 19 points lead in the 4th quarter stretch.

If China clinched a win against Jordan at 7pm today, the RP5 will avoid a possible confrontation with the Chinese. Then the Jordanians square off with the Philippines in a knockout quarterfinal match.

 

 

Cyrus Baguio led the RP team with 14 points while Asi Taulava finished in double figures with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

 

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Ateneo Faces La Salle in Round 2 This Sunday

 

 

Mo Twister Got Something Juicy

 

What’s so juicy you just can’t keep your mouth shut?

 

Tune in to my show, Good Times with Mo, at Magic 89.9 from 6 to 9 AM, Mondays to Thursdays and if Mo likes what you say, you’ll get a chance to win FREE Delifrance French Dip Roast Beef Sandwiches for your entire office, school, or organization! What are you waiting for? Trade with Mo something Juicy for Juicy Roast Beef!

 

 

Call 6310899 or SMS Magic<space>899<space><Your Message> to 2968.

Email at goodtimeswithmo@yahoo.com  

 

 

Manila News Today: August 11, 2009

 

PGMA’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities (SAL)

 

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s declared net worth doubled from P66.8 million in 2001 to P143.54 million in 2008, which means 114% growth.  In comparison to the other presidents, that growth rate is quite massive.  The late President Corazon Aquino’s declared net worth grew by only 4.8% from 1989 to 1992.  Fidel Ramos’ was 34.2% during his term while Joseph Estrada’s was 7.2% from 1998 to 1999.

 

 

The President’s allies said that the growth in assets must have come from real estate and stock earnings.  

Malacañang claims that there are no irregularities in Pres. Arroyo’s wealth and denies that amassed wealth is from the government.

Note that the Statement of Assets and Liabilities is DECLARED.  Who checks the undeclared?

 

25th FIBA Asia Men’s Championship Update

 

Powerade-Team Pilipinas clinched its 77-70 victory against Chinese-Taipei yesterday after Willie Miller sunked a huge three-point shot.  The win is a good motivation going to a game versus defending champion Iran today.  In order to qualify for the knockout quarterfinals, Team Philippines must achieve at least one victory in its two remaining elimination round games.

 

 

Guiao is positive with the team’s chance against Iran if they continue the morale and shooting percentage from yesterday’s game.  Team Pilipinas sealed 15 of 30 three pointers with James Yap burying six triples, 3 in succession during the 3rd quarter, while Miller contributed five.  Another key element was RP team’s defense strategy that only allowed the Taiwanese shooters only one 3-point conversion in 15 attempts.

 

Games on Tuesday (Tianjin gym)
9 a.m. – UAE vs Kazakhstan
11 a.m. – Iran vs RP
2 p.m. – Kuwait vs Japan
4 p.m. – Chinese-Taipei vs Korea
7 p.m. – Lebanon vs China
9 p.m. – Jordan vs Qatar

The game versus Kuwait is scheduled on Wednesday.

 

RP 77 – Yap 23, Miller 17, Thoss 8, Pennisi 8, Baguio 6, Helterbrand 6, Raymundo 5, Dillinger 3, Taulava 2, Norwood 2, Aguilar 0, Santos 0.

 

Taipei 70 – Tseng 21, Lee 8, Chang 8, Lin 7, Wu 6, Chang TH 6, Tien 6, Wang 4, Su 2, Yang 2, Chen 0, Wu CL 0.
Quarters: 16-21, 33-35, 62-54, 77-70.

 

 

Pinoys Go Gaga Over the Lady

 

Tonight is the much-anticipated concert of Lady Gaga staged at Araneta Coliseum.  The tickets are supposedly sold out!  The concert produced by Ovation Productions is expected to seize an electrifying performance from Lady Gaga.  I’m not a big fan but if there’s one song that Lady Gaga can make me dance to, it’s “Just Dance.”  I loved it on the movie “Make it Happen” and it’s a cheer-upper when I hear it on the radio.

 

 

Lady Gaga Official Website

 

 

New P500 Bill Design

 

22-year old Revo Naval designed a P500 bill that features two democracy heroes, the late former senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and the late former president Corazon Aquino.  The design was first posted on his site www.peaceloveandrevolution.com and soon newspapers caught up the bit.

 

Image Source: PeaceLoveandRevolution.com

Image Source: PeaceLoveandRevolution.com

 

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said they are now considering the possible design of a new P500 bill that might have the same concept, recognizing the contributions of the couple to national unity.  Lay-outs might be ready by October and if approved, the first batch of P500 bills with Cory and Ninoy’s images will be out early 2010. 

 

Meanwhile, Noy Noy Aquino, only son of the Aquinos, is open to running for a higher office if the need should arise.

 

 

 

 

Manila News Today: August 10, 2009

 

$20,000 Gone in New York Minute

 

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and her entourage allegedly dined at Le Cirque in Manhattan, a prestigious French restaurant in New York City during her recent US trip, New York Post online’s “Page Six” wrote,

“Philippines President Maria Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was at Le Cirque the other night with a large entourage enjoying the good life… Macapagal-Arroyo ordered several bottles of very expensive wine, pushing the dinner tab up to $20,000.”

 Theoretical Breakdown of the Bill

Image Source: Spot.ph

Image Source: Spot.ph

 

 

Renato Reyes, secretary general of the militant group, Bayan, said that it is inappropriate for a Third World country president to wine and dine in such lavish manner given that the rest of the country is in the midst of a crisis. He asserts that the NY dinner certainly leaves a bad taste in the mouth, at least for the rest of the Filipino people. The $20,000 is equivalent to almost 1 million pesos, an amount that can probably supply one township a year’s supply of rice or nourishment. 

 

PGMA’s camp claims that the report was exaggerated and that no taxpayer’s money was used.

 

Flash Your Age at HEAT

 

This is the celebration that won’t break your bank or catch the ire of Bayan group.

Birthday celebrants can enjoy great discounts at HEAT during their special day. Enjoy a dining discount equivalent to your birthday age during HEAT’s “Flash Your Age” promotion. It’s valid only on the exact date of the celebrant’s birthdate and will run from August 1, 2009 to September 30, 2009. A total of eight persons will be entitled to the dining discount. The celebrant must present a valid ID (i.e. Driver’s License, Passport, SSS ID only) with the birth date clearly shown to avail of the discount. This promo is not valid on public holidays and in conjunction with other promotions and privileges including Club Edsa, credit card discounts, rewards redemption vouchers, complimentary dining vouchers and special promotions. Prior reservations are required.

 

Image Source: Shangrila website

Image Source: Shangrila website

HEAT is also throwing in a complimentary birthday cake to the occasion. Share this privilege with family and friends. After all, what is a birthday without them? Flash It! Flaunt It! Age is no longer meant to be kept a secret at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila.

 

Vilma Santos Plays Cory in FilmBio, MMK Features Cory’s Bodyguard

 

Batangas Governor Vilma Santos, the Star for all Seasons, is being eyed to portray the role of former President Cory Aquino. Vilma is running for reelection and is not allowed to have a movie shown or appear on TV longer than the permitted time setforth by the COMELEC. The launch of the movie would probably start after the elections next year if Vilma were tapped to play the role.

 

Image Source: Abante.com

Image Source: Abante.com

 

Maalala Mo Kaya, hosted by ABS-CBN’s President, Charo Santos-Concio, will do an episode on one of the two bodyguards of Tita Cory. The bodyguard, who delivered a touching eulogy during the necrological services at the Manila Cathedral, will have his story in the long running drama anthology.

 

 

 

Meeting a Woman of Faith

 

It was a Thursday, which means a workday.  I remember that I almost begged off joining because I’ve already max-ed out my leaves because I took a 1-month leave for the study tour in Japan.

 

I was with someone else (SE) in 2006.  He said that I should take the opportunity to meet her because “it’s not everyday that we get invited to a trip like this.”

 

We arrived at her house in Times Street, Quezon City early in the morning.

 

I think it was Tita Ballsy who welcomed us initially and directed us to the kitchen where she was.

 

I see a yellow figure turn to greet us.  I am nervous.  I am awkward.  I am excited.

 

She first turns her attention to Tita (SE’s mom).   Then she greets SE fondly.  Tita introduces me.  I nervously return her bright smile.

 

It was the first time I met former President Aquino. 

 

She seemed to be always formal on TV. 

 

Serious. 

 

Tackling national issues are considerable matters after all. 

 

But that morning, she was like any ordinary person, simply offering us breakfast on the table and welcoming us to their home.

 

Genuine.

 

Her earnest personality transcends beyond television.  You can feel the sincerity in her eyes and smile.

 

She made cream cheese with caviar, a concoction she made herself.  We had it with some bread and it was really luscious.

 

She was cheerful and as sunny as her yellow ensemble.  I was feeling really timid being in the same presence of such prominence.  But the atmosphere around her was very light and easy.  With all that she has been through, it was an aura I didn’t expect.

 

 

Soon all of us load inside the van and we begin our travel.

 

She, Tita and Tita Ballsy talk all the way to the province of Tarlac.  Once a while, she turns to SE or me.  She asks me where I was working and I fumble in my answer.  Incredibly, I stammer even with the word, “Yes.”  She has that calming presence but I felt really humbled to be face to face with a democracy stalwart. 

 

As we reach the town proper, they familiarize us with the surroundings.  We had a quick stopover for lunch at Max’s.  Her being there equally astounded the wait staff but anyone can spot the Filipino pride in their eyes as they look at her.  She relentsto a reporter’s request for a short interview and some photos while SE and I look around.

 

We arrived at Hacienda Luisita and was greeted by Noy Noy, who personally toured us around the Ninoy Aquino museum.

 

 

At the end of the tour, we went to the mini-theater and watched in full screen a documentary about Ninoy Aquino and the hardships the family and the country had gone through to restore democracy.  The Aquino family’s sacrifice alongside the country’s support and unity rekindled my nationalistic pride and instilled appreciation for being a free country.  At the end of the short film were words of Teodoro Benigno (SE’s dad), former Press Secretary of President Aquino.  Tears fell remembering Tito.

 

I took a lot from that day –a monumental piece of Philippine history was left implanted in my mind while the national unity displayed was left valued in my heart.  How inspiring that despite what she has gone through, Tita Cory remained very simple and sensible.  At any given day, she can pass like any ordinary loving mother or Tita or lola.  When the country is in crisis, she was also our go-to-person for moral ascendance.  She was a source of strength for every Filipino.

 

August 1, 2009

 

Corazon Aquino, the Philippine’s first woman president who led the Filipino people toward democracy, died in the quite morning of August 1, 2009.  She succumbed to colon cancer at the age of 76.

 

I mourn not only for the loss of someone I was privileged to meet once in my life but my heart deeply cries for losing the woman who symbolizes hope for this country.  She was an icon of democracy, nationalism and motherhood.

 

She was a woman of courage and faith. 

 

It’s now time for every Filipino to carry the cross of the country for her.  It is in each one of us.

 

There’s still a good fight ahead. 

 

 

A Day with the President Album

 

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Michael Jackson’s Doctor Investigated

 

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents and LAPD detectives searched the residence and office of Conrad Murray, each location a week apart.  Murray is Michael Jackson’s doctor who is believed to have given Jackson a lethal dose of anesthetic Propofol.

 

Propofol is used to induce unconsciousness in patients ahead of major surgery.  In hospitals, only a trained anesthesiologist is allowed to administer the drug under strict monitoring conditions.

 

TMZ.com reported that Murray had told police in an interview he gave Jackson Propofol via an intravenous drip.  The website reported police believe Murray may have fallen asleep while the drug was being administered, and awoke to find the singer already dead.

 

If Murray did inject Jackson with Propofol negligently, he can be charged with homicide.

 

The federal agents and police came to his office a week earlier with a search warrant seeking evidence for the “offense of manslaughter”

 

The LA Coroner’s office reported that the toxicology result is due by the end of this week.

 

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Surreal Surprise Dinner with Bob Blumer

 

Surreal Gourmet’s Bob Blumer visited Manila and whipped up a dinner for me.

 

It was a raining Friday last January 17 and most offices have allowed their employees to go home early (by 1PM, some companies have canceled work due to heavy rains and probable flash flood.  While the rest of Manila was eager to pack their stuff, I, on the other hand, was standing comfortable and dry in our boardroom in front of a panel presenting our project).  Although there was worry about the heavy rain causing flashflood and crazy Manila traffic on a weekend, many couldn’t pass up the chance to meet Bob Blumer.

 

 

The show must go on. 

 

In his show, Glutton for Punishment (now going on its third season), Bob goes to different cities and challenges himself to extreme gastronome adventures against the locals.  Among his attainments are living on nothing but Guinness for one whole week in Dublin, chile-pepper eating contest in Mexico, and many other daunting feats.  As they say, no guts, no glutton!

 

The Rockwell Tent was the venue for the Discovery Travel and Living event and Giata Fores was at the forefront of the catering service.  Joey Mead hosted the event and couldn’t go tongue fencing with the very funny Bob Blumer.  It seems like she was out of her element but despite the ho-hum hosting skills of Joey, Bob Blumer endeared himself to the enthusiastic crowd especially when he tried our local unfermented egg, “balut.”

 

 

On the Table

 

(Apologies for the poor photos)

 

Flower Pot Salad

The salad was served on a rectangular tin can representing a flowerpot.  Even if I have tasted flowers on salads (the first experience at Kinabuhayan Café) before, this salad didn’t enthuse much.  It tasted overly flowery making the greens taste a bit on the bitter side.

 

Beef Cheek Cupcake

Shredded beef balled into a cupcake with a raspberry or beet mashed potato as its “icing”.  It was served unpredictably cold that probably caused parts of the beef to be chewy.  They used the local vegetable “sigarilyas” as a siding that added quite the crunch and texture to the whole dish.  The side dish was more enjoyable than the cold beef.

 

Existential Eggs

This was the highlight of the meal for me.  The third course arrived looking like Cleopatra, lonely but gallant on top of a wanton carriage.  The fried noodle was weaved together to look like a nest while the slightly cracked egg rest on it.  It was regal in both presentation and taste.  A mélange of flavors rest on your tongue with the creamy goodness of this semi-sweet delicate dessert.  This is the dessert I’d definitely want to be punished repeatedly just to get another serving.

 

 

The food, though not as exotic as it sounds and I hoped for, was still worth trying.  All three piqued the gourmet senses despite some elements that were lacking.  The beef was probably affected by the cold weather while it was resting.  The existential egg was worth sitting through the entire course.

 

There’s always an extreme danger lurking in Bob’s epicurean adventures.  Catch Bob as he takes on exciting culinary challenges in the new season of Glutton for Punishment, only on Discovery Travel and Living.

 

For more info on how to subscribe to the channel, please call Sky Cable Customer Service Hotline at 631-0000 or visit the Sky Cable website.

 

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False Reports on Cory Aquino

 

The Aquino and Cojuangco families are already stricken with intense worry over former President Corazon Aquino’s health and definitely have no room for any additional worry particularly rumors that their loved one and the nation’s democracy icon has passed away.

 

The British Embassy in Manila sent to reporters a statement from Foreign Office Minister Lord Malloch Brown extending his deepest condolences to the family, which is undoubtedly careless and irresponsible.  This brought a text pandemonium saying that the President had indeed died.

 

 

Even if the British Embassy in Manila gave another statement sending their apology for such “pre-mature information,” it is utterly inexcusable that such scenario happened.  The families together with the whole nation are gripped with fear of losing a brave democratic stalwart to colon cancer.  It is reprehensible to diffuse hopes with a mistake like that.

 

The nation still continues to pray for the ailing leader’s condition as well as for the families to not waver in their faith no matter how trying this time is.

 

I love Cory and I admire her love for this nation.  She has irrefutable faith that carried on the strength for nation building.  It is time that we be strong in our faith for her -faith in her health, faith in God’s will and faith in this country.

 

 

 

 

Big Bite Match at 7-Eleven

Saturday morning saw Bubba and me at Rockwell Tent attending the biggest competitive eating launch. 

 

Filipinos love to eat and we can see that from the wide range of restaurants that flock Metro Manila –both local and international fares.  Pinoys from all walks of life have a natural affinity for food… and what better way to showcase the strength of their gut literally than by a sport that is rapidly gaining a worldwide popularity.

 

7-Eleven Philippines has recently unveiled one of Philippines’ biggest competitive eating events…  Big Bite ® Match hotdog eating contest, the most competitive gastronomic competition ever assembled nationwide!

 

 

 

7-Eleven Philippines flew in internationally renowned competitive eater Tom “Goose” Gilbert to serve as an inspiration to aspiring Filipino gurgitators.  Tom Goose made one of competitive eating’s most memorable debut performances when he defeated several veteran professional eaters at the 2nd annual World Italian Sausage Eating Championship in 2006. Currently, he is the world record holder in chicken wings eating and has other titles under his belt.  I saw him in action last Saturday and my jaw literally dropped seeing him eat 10 hotdogs in 3 minutes!!!

 

 

 

 

This competitive eating battlefield is open to all 7-Eleven Filipino patrons particularly hotdog lovers

 

This is nothing short of a digestive grandstanding.  Up until August 15, Mondays to Saturdays, Filipino eating machines can prove their ingestion prowess by going to the nearest 7-Eleven outlets and finishing 5 hotdogs in the shortest time possible. The fastest eaters from 7-Eleven stores nationwide will compete in the culminating event.  And in the final Big Bite Match, the champion gurgitator will receive Php 500, 000 in cold cash.

 

 

 

 

Who Will Emerge as the Ultimate Filipino Eating Machine?  Between Bites has a big appetite and ready to gobble at 7-Eleven’s Big Bite Challenge.  Best other people’s eating time at the nearest 7-Eleven outlet!

 

7-Eleven is celebrating its 25th year of being the largest convenience store chain in the Philippines. For inquiries about franchising, please contact the Customer Hotline at 724-10-31 or the Mobile Hotline at 0920-945-2036. Big Bite ® Match is the biggest competitive eating event in the Philippines

 

Visit www.eatingmachinesphilippines.com for more information.

 

This Weekend in Events Album

 

Celebrate 6 Dozen Years with Krispy Kreme

Guess who’s celebrating its 72nd birthday this July 13?  Krispy Kreme!

 

Krispy Kreme is an international retailer of premium-quality sweet treats, including its signature hot Original Glazed® doughnut. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C., the company has offered the highest-quality doughnuts and great-tasting coffee since it was founded in 1937. Today, Krispy Kreme can be found in approximately 525 locations around the world.

 

To commemorate Krispy Kreme’s 72 years in the business, International Krispy Kreme Day will start on the week of July 13 at Krispy Kreme stores around the world.  For six dozen years Krispy Kreme has provided unique menu offerings that help create unforgettable experiences that not only warm hearts, but bring smiles to faces in different countries.  On Monday, July 13, in honor of its 72nd birthday, participating Krispy Kreme stores worldwide will celebrate International Krispy Kreme Day with special offers for loyal customers. That same day, Krispy Kreme will also announce a special promotion to celebrate and thank international fans for their passion and support.

 

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Philippines is one not to be left behind.

 

To celebrate International Krispy Kreme Day in the Philippines, Krispy Kreme fans are encouraged to:

 

Share this news with their friends and family so they can join in on this special offer.

Go to their local participating Krispy Kreme Philippines store on July 13 for a special offer – get a free Original Glazed doughnut with any purchase.

Try one of the Company’s great-tasting iced beverages and inquire about the special promotion that will be announced that day.

Take photos of friends and family enjoying a special Krispy Kreme moment and share those pictures with loved ones and favorite social networking sites.

Join the Philippines “Friends of Krispy Kreme” on www.krispykreme.com.ph and find out first about other exciting promotions.

 

For updates on special promotions, exclusive offers and local events, join the Philippines “Friends of Krispy Kreme” by visiting www.krispykreme.com.ph.

 

Krispy Kreme Website

 

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Refined Taste at Sala

 

 

Elegant with simple handsome décor, a well-established restaurant, Sala offers exceptional food and service in the city of Makati.

 

Romantic, quaint, comfortable and classy best describe the mood in Sala.  One can have a leisurely meal and never feel rushed.  The owners can pride themselves on creating a fashionable atmosphere of fine dining and professional service.  The wait staff anticipates the patrons needs and are as accommodating as possible.  Perfectly knows how to waltz in and out of your sight without any sense of being intrusive.

 

 

Sala’s menu although a bit limiting, offers something for everyone.  Try their Degustation Menu (PHP 1,880++) that presents five lovely courses.  Seafood lovers will enjoy their salad of tuna carpaccio (PHP 460) with fennel, herbs, peppers, quail egg and olive tapenade as well as the roast grouper fillet (PHP 890) with truffled tapenade on sautéed cabbage, sweet onion, parsley and bacon.

 

On the Table

 

The meal begins with complimentary freshly baked assortment of breads served by the waiter on a silver tray and an amuse bouche shooter of spiced eggplant and tomato and chicken and feta cota -a superb glance at what’s to come.

 

 

Portabello Mushroom, Ricotta and Thyme Ravioli with Parmesan and White Truffle Oil PHP 460

The pasta was cooked al dented with chock full of thyme and minced Portabello mushrooms that is savory in every bite.  Sheer Parmesan shaves on top of the ravioli add a shade of saltiness to the dish while the white truffle oil enhances the overall taste with alluring and appetizing truffle fragrance. 

 

 

 

The soft skin of the ravioli pastry erupts with a burst of different flavors in your mouth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roast Lamb Short Loin and Lamb Short Ribs Confit with Root Vegetable Pave and Shallot Jus PHP 980

Succulent lamb meat that almost melts in your mouth with its flavorful tenderness served with these slender green stalks.  What to love about the short loin is the layering of flavor where you get a taste of the meat then a bit of fat and lastly the crispy skin.  Wonderful play of palatable texture

 

 

 

 

Despite the hefty price, Sala is one of those fancier restaurants that leave a fantastic memory of the creative dishes served and excellent service.

 

Spotted: Eric Quizon, Nanette Medved

 

Sala

Podium Level, Locsin Building

6752 Ayala Ave. Cor. Makati Ave., Makati City

+632 750 1555

+632 893 0242

www.salabistro.com

 

Sala Album

 

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