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Flavors of Catbalogan: Comforting Cuisine at City Grill

April 27, 2017, 10:43 am
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The flavors of Eastern Visayas continue to amaze and surprise at the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour, with each stop offering yet more insights into the rich culinary heritage of Samar. And now it's the turn of Catbalogan...



After a sumptuous early morning breakfast and mid-morning snack in Calbayog (see my earlier posts, Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Calbayog on that epic breakfast and Flavors of Calbayog: Chillin' at Rebelito's Refreshments for their classic Halo-Halo) and roughly an hour and half drive, we arrived at the city of Catbalogan, the provincial capital of Samar. Known as the "Gateway to Samar Region," the capital city has its own unique culinary heritage, and my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour continues with a taste of Catbalogan at City Grill. Seafood plays an important role in Samar's economy and tradition, and City Grill's Kinilaw, with fresh fish in coconut milk, green tomatoes, and red onions is the perfect way to start your taste of Catbalogan...


Hosted by the Catbalogan City Tourism Office, my first lunch at the capital city of Samar showcased the best of the region's seafood, including these Crispy Baby Squid. And once you start munching, you just can't stop. With an abundant supply of the freshest seafood caught off the coast of Samar, you'll never run out of seafood options at Catbalogan.


The Camaron Rellenado, a stuffed prawn dish with Chinese origins is a popular dish at City Grill. Plump prawns coated with juicy pork and chunks of pork fat, carrots, and spring onions combine for rich flavors, with the lighly crisp deep-fried outer layer adding textural contrast. Served with a sweet and sour dip, it's a comforting dish that typifies the style of cuisine at City Grill. 


A vegetable dish with pork and seafood...


...and a whole Grilled Fish adds to the festive vibe at City Grill. The leisurely drive from Calbayog to Catbalogan does build up an appetite, despite the heavy breakfast and snack earlier, and you may surprise yourself as you go for seconds and thirds at City Grill. And the team from the Catbalogan City Tourism Office made sure you had a taste of each dish. In between bites, the staff explained the city's various tourism projects with its popular natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and beaches. And with summer in full swing, it's been a busy month for the staff at the Calbayog City Tourism Office.  


And if you're still hungry, City Grill's Pork Ribs should do the trick, draped in a sweet and smoky glaze. Up ahead, a short tour of the city and more good eats from the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour (more on on the city's iconic sights soon on my travel blog, Solo Expeditions).


And thanks to the friendly team from the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office, the second part of my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour was off to another great start. 


On the way to the hotel, we passed by some of the city's iconic landmarks, including the Rizal Monument across Catbalogan City Hall sculpted by one of Catbalogan's native sons, Miguel Alcazar. The monument depicts the bust of Dr. Jose P. Rizal on his two novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, serving as a base held up by three men representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the country's three main island groups.


The Samar Provincial Capitol, with its gleaming white facade stands out against the grey skies before the rains...


...with its iconic Obelisk Tower overlooking the square. But there's so much more to discover, experience, and taste in #CaptivatingCatbalogan, stay tuned for my next post...

City Grill is located at Del Rosario Street, Catbalogan City Proper, Catbalogan. You can also visit their FB Page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/City-Grill-Catbalogan for more information.

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Flavors of Catbalogan: Cooling Down with the Locals at Tina's Garden

April 27, 2017, 10:12 pm
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Chillin' with the locals at a favorite spot not only gives you a better understanding and appreciation of the local culture, it's quite refreshing too...


After a hearty breakfast of traditional dishes and snacks at the city of Calbayog (see my earlier posts, Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Calbayog and Flavors of Calbayog: Chillin' at Rebelito's Refreshments) and a sumptuous lunch at Catbalogan (Flavors of Catbalogan: Comforting Cuisine at City Grill), the second part of my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour with the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office continued with a stop at the Capital City of Samar's favorite establishment. Time to cool down with some classic Halo-Halo at Tina's Garden...

By mid-afternoon during a short city tour of Catbalogan, the scorching summer heat leaves you parched but thankfully, the locals of Catbalogan have sure-fire remedy. Locals always make a stop at Tina's Garden for a refreshing serving of their signature halo-halo and tasty bites to recharge and meet up with other locals.


Start with their popular Banana Fritters, with sweet bananas draped in soft dough and deep-fried to a golden crispness. The texture and flavors just takes you back to countless childhood summers, nostalgic and comforting bites that add yet another layer of flavor to a flavor-filled Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour.


The sweet and soft Cassava Cake, made from the local variety of indigenous root crops abundant in Samar, is another popular favorite at Tina's Garden. The dense and chewy texture delivers a nutty sweetness that's not excessively sweet. These little bites can be very filling, but I can't blame you if you go for just one more piece...


Like all provinces in the country, rice remains the staple crop, and the wide variety of rice in Samar is used to prepare different kinds of steamed rice cakes cooked with coconut milk. The colors of the rice cakes give a clue on the type of rice used, like these Puto Kalinayan from Tina's Garden.


From bold, dark tones to light earthy shades, the variety of rice cakes in Samar reflect the diversity and richness of the land. The weight of each steamed rice cake is immediately noticeable, densely packed yet soft with a light and airy texture. A delicate caramel-like sweetness comes with each chewy bite, and just like many of the steamed rice cakes in Samar, it isn't overwhelmingly sweet. 


After a few minutes, the signature Halo-Halo (P 38) arrived, with the glass revealing generous amounts of fruits and preserves carefully topped with shaved ice and evaporated milk. What makes Tina's Garden's halo-halo different from the usual halo-halo is the inclusion of sweet and tart pineapples in the mix. Each spoonful combines both sweet and sour notes, consistent with the region's love for contrasting flavors.


The love for contrasting flavors is also evident with the way locals enjoy their halo-halo, paired with a savory Pork Sandwich. Sweet and sour, sweet and savory, the pairing of different flavors are a recurring thread in my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour, yet the distinct flavors blend seamlessly like it was meant to be, and surprisingly, it does work. It's these subtle nuances that make culinary journeys in the country's varied regional cuisines so richly rewarding and insightful. And if you still can't get enough of Tina's Garden's halo-halo, they also offer other shaved ice desserts, including Maiz con Hielo (P 39), Mongo con Hielo (P 37), Crushed Pineapple (P 37), Peach con Hielo (P 39) and Fruit Cocktail con Hielo (P 39), all topped with finely shaved ice and evaporated milk. 


Later that afternoon, I get a glimpse and a feel of the city's vibrant pulse, as locals prepare for a Marian Procession from San Bartolome Church, named after the Catbalogan's patron saint, St. Bartholomew (more on the Catbalogan city tour soon on my travel blog, Solo Expeditions). It's been a trip of many flavorful discoveries, and there's still more to come..

Tina's Garden is located at San Francisco Street, Catbalogan City Proper, Catbalogan City, Samar. 

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Flavors of Catbalogan: A Tasty Encounter with The Tamalo at Orlando's Grill

April 28, 2017, 12:30 am
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"You have to try Tamalo." I've been told quite a number of times since I arrived at Samar for the Department of Tourism's Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour not to miss this unique dish. And I'm glad I did...


If there's one dish that distinguishes the local cuisine of Catbalogan and Samar, it's the iconic Tamalo. Tracing its roots back to the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade during Spanish colonial times, the Tamalo is the unique and savory local version of Mexican tamales, with slabs of fork tender pork belly slathered with rich peanut sauce on a soft rice flour base, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed for hours. Pampanga, Batangas, and Bulacan have their versions of the tamales, but Samar's tamalo is in a class of its own. It's one of many memorable and tasty encounters during my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour with the Department of Tourism and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office, and it remains one of my lasting impressions in #CaptivatingCatbalogan...

Located high above the city proper along the new Diversion Road, Orlando's Grill offers breathtaking views of the city and Maqueda Bay. Time your visit during magic hour, and wait for the sunset. And you'll be glad you did. Have a refreshing beverage or a cold beer and enjoy one of nature's daily shows overlooking the bay...


An early and hearty breakfast of traditional local dishes and a refreshing snack at Calbayog kicked off my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour (see my earlier posts, Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Calbayog and Flavors of Calbayog: Chillin' at Rebelitos Refreshments), followed by a sumptuous and comforting lunch and a cool break at Catbalogan (check out my previous posts, Flavors of Catbalogan: Comforting Cuisine at City Grill and Flavors of Catbalogan: Cooling Down with the Locals at Tina's Garden), but the day was far from over. The Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office prepared yet another feast featuring Samar's famous Tamalo. And they picked the perfect spot. High up the new Diversion Road overlooking the city's seaport and panoramic Maqueda Bay, Orlando's Grill offers local cuisine with grilled dishes as their specialty. But for tonight's dinner, Samar's very own Tamalo is on the menu. 


Our sunset dinner began with Orlando Grill's Kinilaw, with fresh fish marinated in coconut milk, local lime and chili topped with red onions and tomatoes. Samar's bountiful marine resources makes it one of the country's leading fish exporting regions, and seafood plays a vital role in the province's economy, culture, and culinary heritage. You don't have to complicate the day's freshest catch, and the kinilaw is the best way to enjoy the natural briny sweetness of seafood with its pure and clean flavors. The delicate notes of the fish are kicked up by the coconut lining your palate with its creamy texture, punctuated by the sharp flavors of the local lime and chili. Just perfect. 


The traditional Queseo was also served, a creamy local cottage cheese or kesong puti made from carabao's milk mixed with local vinegar for a creamy sourness. Often paired with bread, the queseo is also great as is with some slices of fresh tomatoes.


The local Pancit adds a celebratory vibe to our feast at Orlando's Grill, with noodles cooked in soy sauce topped with vegetables, seafood and pork. Filipino cuisine is a melting pot of diverse cultures and influences, evolving and integrating its unique flavors in the local mainstream.


But you can't have enough of Samar's fresh seafood, and Orlando Grill served up one of their signature specialties. The Grilled Malasugi, fresh and succulent local blue marlin, perfectly grilled. Tender and juicy with a light charred outer layer for that smoky hint, the grilled malasugi's delicate flavors are followed by a subtle sweet hint. This is pure freshness on a plate. 


Orlando's Grill's Pork Sisig, with tender pork mask and cheeks, is indulgently rich, with the egg adding yet another layer of richness. Pure pork love.


Next, a trifecta of pork dishes were served, starting with Catbalogan's version of the Pork Humba, tender pork cooked in a dark and rich soy-based sauce with quail eggs, peanuts, and tausi. The savory richness of the pork is layered by both sweet and salty notes that's just perfect with steamed white rice. The region's distinct pairing of contrasting flavors once again becomes apparent with the pork humba, and a second serving of steamed white rice is always a sure thing with this dish.


And here she is, Samar's very own Tamalo. A fragrant aroma rises along with the steam as you unwrap the banana leaves. The thick peanut sauce glistens revealing slabs of pork belly and slivers of pork fat underneath laid on soft rice flour. The dark and creamy peanut sauce delivers a refreshing sweetness capped by a soothing heat from the chili, so flavorful almost like a traditional kare-kare. But its the fork tender pork belly and pork fat that just makes this dish special. The blend of savory pork and the equally rich peanut sauce is a perfect match, with the soft rice completing the dish. It's comforting and satisfying, a meal in itself. And you can only find this in Samar. It's the perfect ending to cap my first day of the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour with the Department of Tourism and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office. But there's more, tomorrow is a whole new day to discover even more regional flavors in #CaptivatingCatbalogan...

Orlando's Grill is located along the new Diversion Road, Catbalogan City Proper, Catbalogan City, Samar. 

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Flavors of Catbalogan: Breakfast at King Bean Cafe

April 28, 2017, 2:29 am
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Early morning, time for some breakfast...


The second day of my Secret Kitchens Of Samar Kulinarya Tour began with a light breakfast at King Bean Cafe, a local and homegrown concept from Samar. With a wide range of signature coffee blends, pastries, cakes and even full meals, King Bean Cafe is Catbalogan's place to meet and unwind before another flavorful day of gastronomic delights in the Gateway City of Samar.

Located along the busy street of Del Rosario within the city proper, King Bean Cafe is an oasis, and the perfect spot for some freshly brewed coffee. And a light meal or snack. The modern and spacious interiors make King Bean Cafe popular among locals and families. Having recently celebrated its first year anniversary, things are looking up.


Perfect starts mean a large soothing cup of Caffe Macchiato and some soft and fluffy pancakes...


King Bean Cafe's Pancakes (P 120) are just what you need to start the day right...


...but if you're really hungry, there's the King Bean Burger (P 190)...


...and meals like the Grilled Fish with Mango Salsa (P 220) to satisfy any appetite.


King Bean Cafe's set meals includes free Brewed Coffee or Iced Tea, now that's a cool deal. The culinary landscape in Samar is on the upswing, with modern flavors alongside local and traditional cuisine.


Coffee in Catbalogan? Make it King Bean Cafe. After breakfast, it was time to head off to another culinary adventure with the team from the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office...

King Bean Cafe is located along the Del Rosario Street, Catbalogan City Proper, Catbalogan City, Samar.You can also check out their FB Page at https://www.facebook.com/Kingbeancafecatb/

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Catbalogan

April 29, 2017, 2:21 am
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A mid-morning seafood breakfast with a view of Maqueda Bay. It just keeps getting better and better at the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour...


My second day for the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour by the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and Catbalogan City Tourism Office highlighted even more traditional flavors with a sumptuous mid-morning breakfast spread, including fresh seafood and native steamed rice cakes at one of the city's picturesque spots with an amazing view of the bay. It's just another day at #CaptivatingCatbalogan...


After an early morning light breakfast at King Bean Cafe (see my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: Breakfast at King Bean Cafe), the Catbalogan City Tourism Office pulled all the stops and prepared an impressive feast of homemade dishes using the day's freshest catch. The abundant harvests from the land and seas play a vital role in Samar's economy and cultural heritage, and the feast prepared by the Catbalogan City Tourism Office reflects this richness and diversity. Al fresco dining with a view like this, it does get better and better every single day in Eastern Visayas.


That morning, native delicacies were laid on a banana leaf including Puto Ligong made from rice and another variety from black rice, Linupak Nga Pinipig, Linupak Nga Bilanghoy or cassava, Suman Latik, Puto Conserva, Pinato with pinipig and peanuts, and Kurukod, a sweet suman made from cassava filled with creamy coconut. The variety of steamed rice cakes is indicative of the vibrant culinary culture of Samar, celebrating the very essence of "Karasa," which means "delicious" in the native dialect. Each bite reveals yet another flavorful side of Samar, a testament to the richness of the land.


And there's more, as Samar's famed seafood delicacies were laid on the table. Tasty Tahong Chips, deep-fried Crispy Squid, and the traditional Bulad adds both color and flavor to the feast, representing yet another pillar in Samar's economy and culinary tradition. It's never a complete Eastern Visayas experience without fresh seafood. And we had the best of Samar elaborately decked out on the table.


Perfectly crunchy Crispy Squid deep-fried just a few minutes earlier...


...and the famous Tahong Chips from the municipality of Jiabong was also served with a fresh tomato salsa. Made from fresh mussels, the crisp chips have a natural palate-pleasing briny flavor, and once you start, you just can't stop.  


Prepared from cherished family recipes, the homestyle Lapu-Lapu with Tausi is pure freshness on a plate. The fresh grouper is delicately steamed with black beans and spring onions adding depth and flavor to the subtle sweetness of the fish.  Back in Manila, this is something you would serve only on special occasions. Not in Samar. "This is everyday fare here in Samar," said my host beaming with pride. A visit to the local market in Catbalogan would feature an assortment of fresh catch, landed just a few hours earlier that day. A few found their way to our mid-morning breakfast spread just a few hours later...


...like these Chili Crabs cooked with loads of garlic, ginger, and pepper topped with fresh spring onions. Surrounded by the bountiful waters of the Philippine Sea to its east and north, the San Bernardino Straight separating it from Southeastern Luzon, the Camotes and Visayas Seas to the west, and the Bohol Sea and Surigao Straight to the south, Samar is blessed with an abundance of marine resources. The seas remain a vital element in Samar's economy, and its impact is immediately felt and experienced in its rich culinary heritage. With easy access to fresh seafood, Samar's local cuisine always includes fresh seafood as a daily staple.


Samar's iconic Bulad, or dried fish, is another customary dish in the province and a typical breakfast favorite. "Bulad," which literally translates to "sun-dried," is a traditional process of preserving fish, where fresh fish are gutted and salted before being dried under the sun. The sharp notes of the salt used during the drying process hits the palate with its bold and upfront flavors, followed by a whisper of sweetness from the fish. Simple, clean and rustic flavors, good food doesn't always have to be overly complicated.


Fresh Scallops stewed in soy sauce and pepper is another homestyle dish that's pretty common in many households in Samar. Having a bowl of scallops all to yourself back in Manila may cost an arm and a leg, but this is Samar, and you can have all the scallops you want. So go ahead, have another bowl... 


Many dishes in the Visayas include the use of the Batuan, a sour fruit common to the region. The tart sourness adds a unique flavor profile to many of the local dishes, and is even used as a local pickle. My host even shared their family's version of pickled batuan, and it's the perfect palate cleanser between dishes. The wide assortment of homemade dishes, with my hosts sharing a tasty piece of their home, made this mid-morning breakfast even more special. A few more bites and you soon realize that the secret kitchens of Samar can be found in each and every home, with their own cherished family recipes handed down for generations. The flavors are fresh and clean, real and honest. 


After a satisfying breakfast of fresh seafood, my hosts then served a variety of local delicacies made from the abundant harvests of the land, including popular varieties using rice, coconut, peanuts, and cassava as the main ingredients.


The nutty sweetness of the native delicacies capped yet another flavorful experience in my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour...


...and one more bite of the local puto...


...and the Suman Latik with its thick and sweet coconut sauce, made an already memorable trip to Samar so much more special. It's traditional flavors like these, preserved and maintained for generations, that weaves rich layers to the social fabric that defines any local culture. In two full days of culinary discovery, I've experienced "karasa," that sincere expression of delight with the varied and diverse flavors of Samar.


My thanks to the entire team of the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the Catbalogan City Tourism Office for letting me experience and discover the Secret Kitchens of Samar. From the first bite all the way to the last, it was a culinary journey like no other. And I can't wait to be back again...

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Flavors of Catbalogan: Going Native at Rutchel's Eatery

April 29, 2017, 10:52 pm
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It's been an amazing two days of continuous culinary delights, but my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour had one more tasty surprise to round off my visit...


One last lunch on the way to Tacloban revealed yet another side to Samar's rich culinary heritage, with a tasty stop at Rutchel's Eatery, home of the famous Chicken Tinola. Using only native organic and free-range chickens for its signature tinola, Rutchel's Eatery is another establishment loved by locals for generations. Since the early sixties, Rutchel's Eatery has been serving their rustic Chicken Tinola in exactly the same way with no alterations and modifications. It's a testament to the enduring resilience of simple local cuisine, with real and honest flavors. From day one, my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour with the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the City Tourism Offices of Calbayog and Catbalogan showcased traditional and regional cuisine, lovingly preserved by restaurateurs and families that defined the distinct culinary heritage of Samar. And here's one more taste of a local favorite before the flight back to Manila...at Rutchel's Eatery.


Two days of culinary adventures, kicked off by an early breakfast at Calbayog with traditional dishes at the City Tourism Office (see my post here at Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Catbalogan), followed by a refreshing snack at a local favorite (view my earlier post here at Flavors of Calbayog: Chillin' at Rebelitos Refreshments) led to even more tasty discoveries at Catbalogan with a comforting lunch (more on that first lunch at Catbalogan on my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: Comforting Cuisine at City Grill), another refreshing snack at a local hang-out (check out my post here at Flavors of Catbalogan: Cooling Down with the Locals at Tina's Garden), a tasty encounter with the iconic Tamalo (more on the Tamalo on my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: A Tasty Encounter with Tamalo at Orlando's Grill), a light breakfast at a homegrown coffee shop (more on King Bean Cafe on my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: Breakfast at King Bean Cafe), and an epic mid-morning seafood breakfast with a view (see my post, Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Catbalogan), each one a memorable experience in my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour. On the road to Tacloban for the flight back home, a stop at roadside stalls along the way revealed once more the abundant harvests of Samar's fertile lands, from sweet bananas...


...to luyang dilaw, the local variety of turmeric...


...and peanuts, a visual cue to the bountiful crops of Samar. It truly is a blessed region, reaping the benefits of abundance from both the land and seas, the same richness and diversity that shaped Samar's culinary heritage.

The vendors showed off their their fresh offerings, and a sweet pineapple would be a good idea for dessert after lunch. With everything you need provided by the fertile lands, my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour takes on another facet to the many culinary attractions of the province.


My previous posts detailed the countless rice varieties of Samar, used in a wide assortment of native and local delicacies like steamed rice cakes, puto, and suman...


...including the dark-hued Brown, Red, and Black Rice, an indigenous type of local rice also used in various local delicacies. 


At the many roadside stalls, you'll find another local delicacy of Samar, the Binagol, an intricate layered dessert with sticky rice topped with finely ground taro and crushed peanuts steamed with coconut milk in a half coconut shell, which also gives it a unique and distinctive shape, and delicately wrapped in banana leaves. The center is filled with a sweet surprise, with taro, coconut milk, and condensed milk. It's always a good idea to bring a couple home to relive your Samar experience, and share it with friends and family.


Down the road is Rutchel's Eatery, and home to what many locals consider as the best native chicken tinola in the whole of Samar. A sip of the signature broth immediately coats your palate with the rich yet delicate notes of the native chicken, followed by hints of ginger for contrasting yet balanced flavors.


The organic native chicken has a firm bite, releasing full and rounded flavors you won't find in the usual processed chicken. Organic and free-range chicken, slowly simmered in a rich soup stock with ginger, fresh papaya leaves, a pinch of salt and perhaps some pepper and nothing else, it's a dish that is comforting from the very first sip down to the last bite of the native chicken. The deceptively simple dish is served exactly the same way as it was served more than fifty years ago, and little has changed since then. Rutchel's Eatery may be slightly bigger and a lot more spacious than the first establishment, but the chicken tinola remains the same, just the way the owners intended it to be, hearty and nourishing without any frills.


A typical meal with Rutchel's Eatery's signature native chicken tinola is paired with the local red rice, with its own distinct nutty notes that play well with the native chicken and tasty broth. The grains of rice absorb the flavors of the broth, releasing its richness with each spoonful.


During the tragic aftermath of Yolanda, Rutchel's Eatery answered the call for assistance by offering free meals to refugees and victims of calamity. A simple of bowl of chicken soup definitely goes a long, long way...


All too soon, it was time to say goodbly to Samar, as we headed to Tacloban for the flight back home. On the way, we passed through the famed San Juanico Bridge, the country's longest bridge spanning 2.16 kilometers or 1.34 miles over the San Juanico Straight connecting Samar with Leyte. The elegant and graceful serpentine structure leaves you with lingering views of Samar, and a fitting ending to an eye-opening Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour and a rediscovery of regional flavors. The flavors and the warmth of the people will definitely be missed, and thoughts of returning continue to pop up in my head just a few days after. As we neared the end of the San Juanico Bridge, the province of Leyte loomed ahead with the capital city of Tacloban offering another perspective of Eastern Visayas. The site of the famous landing of General Douglas MacArthur and his return to the Philippines during the final phases of World War II and the tragic Yolanda calamity, Leyte shares a common culinary heritage with Samar, with a few tasty surprises of its own. But Samar will always remain special. Thank you Samar for a unique "karasa" experience, and in the words of the great General MacArthur, "I shall return"...soon.

Rutchel's Eatery is located in Cabiga, roughly an hour's drive from Catbalogan City Proper, Samar.

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Flavors of Tacloban: Sweet Indulgence at Miyara Patisserie, Tacloban's Sweet Spot.

April 30, 2017, 6:07 pm
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The vibrant city of Tacloban is home to a unique regional cuisine steeped in tradition. But a new generation of talented chefs, bakers, and food entrepreneurs are slowly changing the culinary landscape. One of them is Tacloban's very own Miyara Patisserie...


Miyara Patisserie specializes in indulgent desserts, custom-designed cakes and dessert buffets for all occasions, serving Illy Coffee to pair with their sinful and decadent offerings. When a sudden craving for Banoffee Pie or Chocolate Ganache Cake hits you while in Tacloban, there's only one place guaranteed to satisfy this craving...you can get your Banoffee Pie and Chocolate Ganache Cake fix at Miyara Patisserie.


After two days of culinary delights at Samar with the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour by the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and City Tourism Offices of Calbayog and Catbalogan, a road trip to Tacloban for the flight home takes me to another landmark, the famed San Juanico Bridge connecting Samar and Leyte over the San Juanico Straight. The elegant and graceful span, the longest in the country, is over two kilometers in length with its serpentine form highlighted by a majestic arch-shaped truss design. Leaving Samar via the San Juanico Bridge was a fitting finale to a culinary adventure that showcased the best regional and local traditional flavors of the province (scroll below for links to my posts on the Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour).


On the coastal areas leading to Tacloban, remnants of Yolanda dot the roads. A sea vessel pushed up along the coastal roads by Yolanda's powerful storm surge is immortalized as a monument.


But the resilient city of Tacloban stands proud, with the gleaming white Leyte Provincial Capitol Building reflecting the hopes and aspirations of a resurgent city.


And just in case you have a sudden craving for Banoffee Pie and Chocolate Ganache Cake, you're in the sweet spot right here at Tacloban...


Miyara Patisserie is a homegrown concept from Tacloban serving classic desserts. A new generation is weaving its own flavorful layer to the richness of the region's culinary fabric, and Miyara Patisserie is homegrown concept that's leading the way. Miyara Patisserie's signature Banoffee Pie (P 120), an indulgent layered dessert with sweet bananas, cream, and toffee topped with shards of chocolate, is just too good to pass up. Each ingredient has its own distinct notes, blending seamlessly with each decadent bite.


For chocoholics, Miyara Patisserie offers a slice of pure chocolate bliss...


The Chocolate Ganache Cake (P 95) is a chocoholic's dream, with soft and moist chocolate cake draped in a rich chocolate ganache for a double dose of chocolate love. This one's a personal favorite. Other must-try cakes and pastries at Miyara Patisserie include the Black Forest, Ube, Red Velvet, Mango Coulis Cake, Sugar-Free Chocolate Cake, Brownie ala Mode, Creamy Leche Flan, and Chunky Chocolate Cookies. If Tacloban has a sweet spot, it's definitely Miyara Patisserie.


Pair your dessert with a soothing beverage, like (clockwise from top left) the Mochacchino (P 150), the Hazelnut Haven (P 150), Very Strawberry (P 145), and Caramel Macchiato (P 99 Regular/P 130 Large) to complete your cheat day feast at Miyara Patisserie. Miyara Patisseries offers a wide selection of Hot and Iced Coffee, Iced Non-Coffee, Hot Non-Coffee, Blended Frappes, and other drinks, including sandwiches and light meals.

The highly-driven and creative owner behind Miyara Patisserie obviously has a passion for baking, and this is seen in her wide selection of pastry creations and customized cakes. Located in the same mall is Happy Baking, another expression for her love of baking, offering baking, packaging, and party supplies.


My final taste of Samar and Leyte is a sweet one, capping an already memorable trip with the Secret Kitchens of Samar by the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas, at Miyara Patisserie.


Traditional dishes and modern cuisine come together in a tasty culinary journey of Eastern Visayas. My Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour with the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas and the City Tourism Offices of Calbayog and Catbalogan remain one of my more memorable experiences down south. An early breakfast at Calbayog with traditional dishes at the City Tourism Office kicked off my culinary journey of regional flavors (see my post here at Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Catbalogan), followed by a refreshing snack at a local favorite (view my earlier post here at Flavors of Calbayog: Chillin' at Rebelitos Refreshments) that led to even more tasty discoveries at Catbalogan with a comforting lunch (more on that first lunch at Catbalogan on my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: Comforting Cuisine at City Grill), another refreshing snack at a local hang-out (check out my post here at Flavors of Catbalogan: Cooling Down with the Locals at Tina's Garden), a tasty encounter with the iconic Tamalo (more on the Tamalo on my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: A Tasty Encounter with Tamalo at Orlando's Grill), a light breakfast at a homegrown coffee shop (more on King Bean Cafe on my post, Flavors of Catbalogan: Breakfast at King Bean Cafe), an epic mid-morning seafood breakfast with a view (see my post, Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour: Flavors of Catbalogan), and a taste of native chicken tinola (check out my earlier post, Flavors of Catbalogan: Going Native at Rutchel's Eatery), each one a memorable experience in my Secret Kitchens of Samar Kulinarya Tour. And thanks to the City of Catbalogan Tourism Office and the Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas, I get to take home a taste of Samar with a variety of local delicacies. But there's so much more to experience and discover, with more tasty surprises to be savored on your visit to Samar and Eastern Visayas. And the chapter on the unique culinary heritage of Samar continues to be written...

Miyara Patisserie is located at Level 1, Abbex Building, Robinsons Place, Tacloban City. You can also check out their FB Page at https://www.facebook.com/MiyaraPatisserie/.

For more information on Eastern Visayas, visit the Department of Tourism's cool FB Page for Eastern Visayas at https://www.facebook.com/easternvisayas/.

Dude for Food is now on Facebook and Instagram, check out the FB Page and IG Feed for regular updates on good eats. Better yet. click "Like" and "Follow" and enjoy the ride...just look for the FB and IG widgets on the right sidebar.
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Lifestyle Dining + Unrivaled Entertainment at Ibiza Beach Club BGC

May 2, 2017, 6:53 am
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Take your dining experience to the next level...at Ibiza Beach Club.


Cebu's hippest and hottest dining experience comes to Manila with the opening of Ibiza Beach Club at the heart of Bonifacio Global City. Combining the innovative concepts of lifestyle dining with unrivaled entertainment, Ibiza Beach Club offers a unique dining experience that reflects the brand's DNA where diners can immerse themselves in that cool signature beach club vibe. The elegant space, stylized interiors, impeccable service, and the cuisine come together in a seamless blend for an immersive experience you can only find at Ibiza Beach Club. And the sumptuous Balearic-inspired 15-Course Grill with premium meat and fresh seafood is one more reason to visit Ibiza Beach Club...


Conceived by Manuel H. Osmena, more popularly known as Manny O., award-winning vintner, entrepreneur, and prominent tourism player and chairman of the Manny O. Group, Ibiza Beach Club reflects a duality of contrasts in a delicate balance, with its youthful and dynamic energy tempered by a graceful elegance, loose yet refined, capped by a subdued sophistication and style that has become the brand's signature trademark. Plush seats, private lounges, a massive center stage equipped with state-of-the-art sound equipment by D & B Autotechnik, an elegant dining section and al fresco areas with magnificent views of the city weave different layers to thread your experience at Ibiza Beach Club. It's this distinct vibe, laid-back yet stylishly sophisticated and classy, that sets Ibiza Beach Club apart. The courteous staff, in their impeccable and pristine whites, welcome you with their warm smiles to kick off your experience at Ibiza Beach Club...

The elegant use of space greets guests as they enter Ibiza Beach Club, with its predominantly crisp white shades accentuated by vibrant splashes of color reflecting that distinct cool and sophisticated vibe. The wide-open interiors boasts of well over 4,000 square meters to comfortably accommodate 1,000 guests with ease...

The graceful lines of the interiorsand the elegant Ibiza line of furniture adds another layer of flair and style consistent with the standards set by the very first Ibiza Beach Club in Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, with a jacuzzi to complete the vibe (L). Your dining experience begins with a stop at Ibiza Beach Club's Salad Bar (R)...


Guests can indulge in a variety of garden-fresh greens, vegetables and mixed salads at Ibiza Beach Club's Salad Bar, along with a wide selection of dressings and toppings. Creating your own salad is part of the experience at Ibiza Beach Club, and the perfect starter before the mains...


Enjoy a refreshing beverage to pair with your salad, or go for a classic cocktail like my favorite, the Old-Fashioned, for a perfect tipple before a meal. A few more sips gets you in the groove with the casual beach club vibe in no time.


Ibiza Beach Club's very own Ibiza Sour is also a recommended cocktail, with its refreshing tart notes opening the palate for the feast to come...


Ibiza Beach Club's signature Balearic 15-Course Grill is an impressive feast with unlimited servings of Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon, Parrot Fish in House Rub, Angus Ribeye Steak, Baby Back Ribs, Ostrich meat, New Zealand Lamb, Salmon, Tiger Prawns, Cuttlefish, Chicken, Crispy Pork Belly, and Beef Short Ribs with many others for an epic and one-of-a-kind dining experience. Ibiza Beach Grill adds its own spin to the traditional Brazilian churrasco with meats and seafood marinated in Balearic-style sauces including unique Asian twists from their very own secret sauces. The Balearic 15-Course Grill is offered at an introductory price of P 2,500++, and if you want some wine with it, simply add P 600++ for round after round of award-winning Manny O. wines. Each diner is then served a plate with grilled vegetables, buttered corn-on-the-cob, and a choice of garlic rice or mashed potatoes, and your Balearic 15-Course Grill is about to be served...

The grilled meats and seafood are served one by one, fresh from the kitchen's fiery grills and presented by the chefs in large skewers. Each skewer is individually carved, sliced, and served to each diner according to their own preference. Have it in thin slices or carved extra thick, it's your call.


The Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon is perfectly grilled, with the savory richness of the fork-tender beef tempered by the sharp and smoky notes of the bacon. Steak and bacon, just can't get better than that...


Your epic feast with Ibiza Beach Club's Balearic 15-Course Grill continues with a serving of Parrot Fish in House Rub, with the delicate notes of the white fish punctuated by the bold spice blend. All the grilled courses are served ala minute, so you get it hot and fresh from the grills with its rich notes at its flavorful peak...


...followed by a tender and juicy grilled Chicken Thigh, richly seasoned with spices and a flavorful marinade. I have to admit, I never even gave the chicken a second look, but after one bite, this has to be one of Ibiza Beach Club's many tasty surprises.


The next round featured Ibiza Beach Club's grilled Cuttlefish and Tiger Prawns, perfectly grilled succulent seafood with clean notes and a rich briny sweetness, a sure sign of freshness. The cuttlefish is tender, and the prawns deliver a fresh snap with each bite. 


More grilled meats were served in quick succession, including the Crispy Pork Belly, the Beef Short Ribs, and Baby Back Ribs, along with a requested second serving of the Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon. The variety of flavors, with different meats and seafood, make Ibiza Beach Club's Balearic 15-Course Grill an experience in itself, and there's still more to come...


And here's the beef. The Angus Ribeye Steak is then served, carved just the way you like it. The massive slab of premium Angus Ribeye is impressive, and it tastes every bit as good as it looks.


Fork-tender with a juicy pink center, you'll want another slice. And another.


And here's something new and different. I've tried Ostrich meat before, but this one is far better with its tender texture without a hint of the gamey notes. Juicy and meaty, almost like beef, it's another tasty surprise from Ibiza Beach Club's Balearic 15-Course Grill.


And here come the Chops...


Grilled New Zealand Lamb Chops add even more meaty flavors to your Balearic 15-Course Grill experience at Ibiza beach Club, with rich and savory notes capped by a subtle whisper of smokiness from the grill. One more chop? Yes, please...


A few slices of creamy and buttery premium Salmon capped my sumptuous Balearic 15-Course Grill at Ibiza Beach Club, and one of my more memorable dining experiences at BGC. The Balearic 15-Course Grill is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, and the Ibiza Beach Club is the perfect place to savor the entire 15-course menu with its casual yet refined vibe.

But save room for dessert. Ibiza Beach Grill's own original creation, the Signature Queen Pina is served for dessert, with slices of grilled pineapples glazed with cinnamon sugar laid on a plate drizzled with honey and a dollop of fresh yogurt topped with fresh nuts. It's the perfect ending to a hearty Balearic 15-Course Grill feast.
 

Not to be missed is Ibiza Beach Club's selection of Movenpick Ice Ceam from Switzerland, just what you need to beat the summer heat.


Using only the finest and freshest Swiss cream, Movenpick gives you an indulgent taste of traditional Swiss ice cream craftsmanship, and you can find it here at Ibiza Beach Club BGC. Pistachio, Chocolate or Vanilla (P 350/scoop), take your pick. Just ask the servers at Ibiza Beach Club for the latest flavors. I hear the Movenpick Hazelnut, Creme Brulee, Maple Walnut, and Vanilla & Brownie are must-try flavors too. Ibiza Beach Club also offers an Ala Carte and Tapas Menu including house-prepared Charcuterie, Bruschetta, Jamon Serrano, Gambas, imported cheeses, salads and starters plus their signature Eivissa Paella, Seafood Marinara, a variety of premium steaks...


...and the Manny O. Signature Wagyu Burger (P 1,520) with a juicy 250g premium Wagyu beef patty on a fresh-baked ciabatta bun with lettuce and onion topped with a sunny side-up.


Served with fries and coleslaw, it's an indulgent burger with that trademark Manny O. stamp.


If your busy schedule doesn't allow enough time to enjoy the full Balearic 15-Course Grill, go for a power lunch with Ibiza Beach Club's Executive Lunch Specials. Options include a three or four-course menu (P 1,000 net-3 Courses/P 1,100 net-4 Course Menu) and is available Mondays to Saturdays starting 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.  


The Executive Lunch Specials include the Soup of the Day, Salad Bar, and a Plated Main Course served with mashed potatoes or garlic rice, grilled vegetables and corn with your choice of US Angus Ribeye with Sesame, US Angus Filet Mignon wrapped with Bacon, New Zealand Lamb Chops marinated in Rosemary, Garlic, and Herbs; Salmon Steak with Olive Oil and Garlic, Jumbo Prawn with Paprika, Calamari marinated in Wine, Garlic, and Paprika; or the Canadian Beef Ribs draped with House Tropical Fruit BBQ Sauce. Cap your Executive Lunch Special with Ibiza Beach Club's Signature Queen Pina.


You can also opt for Ibiza Beach Club's Early and Late Seating Lunch Special with three or four-course menu options (P 500 net-3 Courses/P 600 net-4 Course Menu) from Mondays to Saturdays between 11:00 am and 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 2:00 pm. The special menu includes Soup of the Day, Salad Bar, and a Plated Main Course with a choice of Pork Baby Back Ribs, Crispy Pork Belly or Lechon Kawali, and Fish of the Day, with the Signature Queen Pina for dessert. The Balearic 15-Course Grill, Executive Lunch Specials, Early and Late Seating Lunch Special, Ala Carte Menu and Tapas, plus Movenpick Ice Ice Cream, Ibiza Beach Club has everything covered. At night, Ibiza Beach Club takes on an entirely new vibe, with nightly performances by the Ibiza Beach Club Team. Dinner show themes like Latin Night, At The Movies, Retro Disco, and Retro Pop adds to the lifestyle dining experiences, followed by live performances by featured showbands, artists, and DJs. Cocktails, dinner, and entertainment, it's what lifestyle dining is all about.


Escape the frenzied pace of BGC and enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner in a relaxed yet refined sanctuary of coolness. See you at Ibiza Beach Club...

Ibiza Beach Club is located at the 6th Level of the new W City Centre along 7th Avenue corner 30th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City or call +63 2 755 1777 or email guestservices.bgc@ibizabeachclub.global for inquiries and reservations.

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MOMents: Celebrate Mom's Day at King Chef Seafood Restaurant

May 2, 2017, 9:44 pm
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Treat your mom to a royal Chinese feast by the chef of kings and the king of chefs...at King Chef Seafood Restaurant.


For the whole month of May, King Chef Seafood Restaurant celebrates Mother's Day with a pair of lavish Mother's Day Set Menus fit for royalty. And for moms everywhere, they deserve nothing less...

Located along Banawe Street in Quezon City, King ChefSeafood Restaurant has long been known for its elegant Chinese cuisine using the finest ingredients and the freshest seafood. Now with four locations, King Chef Seafood Restaurant continues to make its mark in the local culinary landscape with its exquisite cuisine and service.


Inside King Chef Seafood Restaurant, the spacious interiors offer various seating options for an intimate meal or large gatherings, the perfect setting for a special Mom's Day feast.


Start your feast with King Chef Seafood Restaurant's refreshing Summer Chillers, five special iced beverages blended with real fruits, like the Boracay Sunrise (P 120) with strawberry and mango, the Island Escape (P 120) with spinach and banana, Under the Sun (P 120) with strawberry and cucumber, On the Beach (P 120) with melon and carrots...


...and their popular bestseller, the Plum Blossoms (P 120) with plums, apples, and mint leaves. The sweetness of the plums adds depth capped by the refreshingly clean notes of the apples and mint leaves. It's the perfect beverage to open up your palate with the royal feast about to be served...


King Chef Seafood Restaurant offers two options for its special Mother's Day Set Menus (P 3,888 good for six persons), with Set A starting your feast with King Chef's tasty 4 Kinds Cold Cuts Platter. The appetizing platter includes assorted roasts like beef, chicken and pork with slices of century egg and a cold sweet and spicy jellyfish salad, tasty bites that build up your appetite.


After quick work on the 4 Kinds Cold Cuts Platter, our second course in King Chef Seafood Restaurant's Mother's Day Set A Menu was served, the King's Special Crabroe Soup. Thick, rich and creamy with the infusion of crab roe adding a layer of briny notes, the King's Special Crabroe Soup is tasty and comforting, pure freshness in a bowl.


Then, the mains were served, starting with the Braised Beef Brisket with Tendon in Pot, a savory dish with tender beef in a dark and thick gravy. The fork-tender beef adds rich, bold, and beefy flavors to the dish, with the tendon melting in your mouth with every bite. You'll want some extra rice with this one...


...and King Chef Seafood Restaurant's signature Yang Chow Fried Rice is the perfect pair. The distinct notes of the different ingredients, from pork, seafood and vegetables, add layers of flavor the dish.


A pair of fresh seafood dishes round out your royal feast with King Chef Seafood Restaurant's Mother's Day Set A Menu, with the elegantly plated Seafood with Broccoli...


...and the Steamed Pompano in Dried Salted Beans or Tauso, with the delicate flavors of the fish enhanced by the sharp notes of the dried salted beans for bold yet balanced flavors. Like all of King Chef's signature dishes, only the freshest ingredients are used for pure and clean flavors.


Cap your royal feast at King Chef Seafood Restaurant with their Dessert of the Day, a refreshing dessert with mangoes, watermelon, and apples for that perfect sweet ending.


And just in case you're curious, King Chef Seafood Restaurant's special Mother's Day Set B Menu includes a sumptuous Peking Duck adding a celebratory vibe to any mother's day celebration, carved and wrapped in tasty pancakes with leeks and hoisin sauce. The crisp skin with its thin layer of fat adds savory flavors perfectly tempered by the sharpness of the hoisin sauce and leeks, coating your palate with its richness.


King Chef Seafood Restaurant's special Mother's Day Set B Menu also includes a comforting soup, the Seafood with Spinach Soup, with the vivid hues of spinach adding a rich green tone and its subtle flavors to the soup.


For the mains, King Chef Seafood Restaurant's lavish Mother's Day Set B Menu includes Spareribs in A-1 Sauce, a flavorful dish with mildly sweet, tart and smoky notes...


...and the Minced Duck with Lettuce, a traditional dish using fresh and crisp greens for a refreshing lettuce wrap.


King Chef Seafood Restaurant's Steamed Pompano in Chili Taosi caps your Mother's Day feast with the special Set B Menu, followed by their Salted Fish Fried Rice and Dessert of the Day. It's a royal feast, and moms deserve nothing less.


As an added treat, diners who avail of the special Mother's Day Set Menus will also enjoy King Chef's signature Suahe with Salted Egg for FREE. Now that's a cool deal. The crisp shrimps coated in salted egg deliver rich briny notes with a delicate sweetness. And go ahead, eat it whole with no need to remove the shells for even more flavors. Extra rice? Absolutely.


During the preview of King Chef Seafood Restaurant's special Mother's Day Set menus, we also sampled their new signature dishes, the Chef's Recommendations for the months of May to July. The inventive and elegant dishes reflect the bold use of fresh flavor pairings with a variety of ingredients, like the sweet and tart Mango Prawns Salad, combining the briny notes of plump prawns with the sweet and mildly sour fresh mangoes for complex yet delicately balanced flavors...


...and the Sauteed Seafood & Apple in X. O. Sauce, another elegantly plated dish pairing fresh and succulent seafood with the sweetness of apples draped in a special sauce for another rich medley of flavors.


Fruits and seafood are highlighted in another new dish, the refreshing Avocado Seafood Salad, with the fresh flavors of seafood pairing well with the sweet and creamy avocado. King Chef is known for their innovative spin on traditional seafood dishes, and these three new creations reflect this bold pairing of rich flavors.  


King Chef Seafood Restaurant's Crispy Chicken in Mango Plum Sauce rounds out the new dishes with another delectable creation with fresh flavors, masterfully executed by the king of chefs and chef of kings. This Mother's Day, treat your moms to a sumptuous royal feast fit for kings. And queens. At King Chef Seafood Restaurant...

King Chef Seafood Restaurant is located at 987-989 Banawe Street, Brgy. Manresa, Quezon City or call 352-7534, 361-0571, and 0942-297-3071 for inquiries and more information.

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Epic on a Plate: The #EpicLasagnaSupreme by Greenwich

May 4, 2017, 3:12 am
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Round up the barkada for next epic summer adventure, and bring along some flavorful epic-ness to fuel the fun...


Greenwich offers its most epic pasta to-date, the new Lasagna Supreme, just perfect for your next exciting adventure with your barkada. A trip to the beach down south or a chill staycation at a friend's house down the road, add a flavorful punch to your cool adventure with the gang with the new Lasagna Supreme by Greenwich.


The loaded layers of soft pasta sheets, meat, sauce, and loads of cheese offers rich and comforting flavors for an unforgettable treat with the barkada. Simply epic on a plate, the new Lasagna Supreme by Greenwich is cooked to perfection, offering a savory blend of distinct and different flavors weaving seamlessly with each bite for an epic experience for the whole barkada. Also ideal for take-out, the Lasagna Supreme is a tasty treat on-the-go. And check out how Greenwich also made Summer 2017 more epic with Yassi Pressman, Teen Dance Royalty Julian Trono, and top dance group G-Force on the Greenwich Facebook Page with an epic number featuring one of the country's epic songs.


Layered perfection, that's what the new Lasagna Supreme offers, adding even more epic-ness to your barkada's next adventure. Visit your favorite Greenwich pizzeria and get a taste of epic on a plate...

Visit your nearest Greenwich pizzeria or call Greenwich Delivery by pressing # then 5-55-55 and get epic-ness delivered straight to your door. 

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Tea with a French Accent: The Royal Afternoon Tea Series Featuring Marie Antoinette at Writers Bar

May 5, 2017, 7:20 pm
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"Let them eat cake..."


Words that have resonated long after the French Revolution. But did Marie Antoinette really say it, or was it just a journalistic cliche? Historians have debated for decades regarding this notorious utterance perfectly describing class conflict and western aristocracy. Accounts detailed a flawed translation, referring to brioche and not cake, but whether Marie Antoinette did say these infamous words remains an open-ended discussion. Historians have traced the famous quote to an anecdote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau about a "great princess" well before Marie Antoinette arrived in France. But Marie Antoinette's place in history has already been firmly established, mythologized in local lore after that turbulent chapter in French history. It's interesting trivia like this that lead to colorful conversations at tea time. And you can have your cake. And a soothing cup of tea...at Raffles Hotel. Writers Bar introduces its Royal Afternoon Tea Series drawing inspiration from history's icons, and starting May 1 to July 31, 2017, you can indulge in a lavish selection of sweet and savory creations inspired by Marie Antoinette paired with select premium teas. Read on for a peek at afternoon tea with a French accent...


The elegant displays of fresh flowers, ornate feathers, and fine china from Wedgwood add that touch of lavish extravagance taking you back to the royal courts of Marie Antoinette. Writers Bar takes Afternoon Tea to a whole new level with a uniquely French flair, just one of many thematic inspired experiences conceptualized by Raffles Hotel in a continuing series (more on Writers Bar's previous afternoon tea on my post, Afternoon Tea with a New York Twist at Writers Bar with Kate Spade and their Breakfast at Tiffany's themed afternoon tea on my post, Breakfast at Tiffany's? Make That Afternoon Tea at Tiffany's. At Writers Bar...).


It's creative spins like these that make afternoon tea so special at Writers Bar. So let them eat cake...


...and I'll go for savory tea sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and decadent sweets. Delicate Lavender Macarons, Chocolate Orange Financier, and Rose and White Chocolate Religieuse are just some of the indulgent bites you can enjoy at The Royal Afternoon Tea Series (P 1,500 for two persons) by Writers Bar.

The impeccable service, a signature of Raffles Hotel, is just one layer that threads the afternoon tea experience. A pot of tea of your choice is served by the staff at Writers Bar as the soothing notes of the pianist completes the casual vibe. The fruity aroma of freshly brewed tea lingers, as you excitedly take your first sip...


But it's best to enjoy your tea at a slow and leisurely pace. I've always enjoyed the Sweet Paris Tea of Writers Bar, but it was time to try something new. The White Vanilla Grapefruit and Mango Fruit Tea combined the bold notes of fruit with the deep, rounded and earthy notes of the premium tea, rich flavors Marie Antoinette would approve. After adding a cube of sugar, stir your tea gently, one must not swirl, and delicately place your spoon on the right hand side under the handle. Learning the rules of afternoon tea is, after all, part of the experience.

Make your afternoon tea even more special with a glass of Champagne, simply add P 900 for a bubbly French note to your experience. Rumor has it that the saucer-shaped coupe champagne glass was modeled after the breasts of Marie Antoinette. Then again, it adds another interesting topic for tea time...


The golden hues of the effervescent champagne in the elegant flute glass transforms the stately afternoon tea into a royal affair. As you take another sip, you can ponder on the fact that there are approximately 58 million bubbles in a bottle of champagne...


There are strict rules and protocols for afternoon tea, and one of them is the iconic three-tier stand enjoyed in the order of savory tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and indulgent sweets.


The top tier offers a variety of decadent sweets, from pairs of  Lavender Macaron, Chocolate Orange Financiers, Strawberry Pavlova, Mini-Eclairs, and tasty bite-sized Apple and Almond Tarts. You'll have to resist the urge to start with the sweets...


...and do it right by starting with something savory. The middle tier includes a selection of savory bites, including French-themed tea sandwiches like the Brioche topped with Quail Egg and Black Truffle, Foie Gras Terrine served on Hazelnut Bread, Nicoise on Pain de Campagne a la Tomate, and flaky Onion Tartlets with Herbs. Small bites that's big on flavor, each savory piece is perfectly capped by a sip of tea.


Pour yourself another cup of tea for the next round. The bottom tier includes traditional Scones served with Clotted Cream and Strawberry Jam. This is what defines traditional afternoon tea, the classic single-serve bread made with wheat and barley. The dense bread is the perfect base for rich clotted cream and jam, transforming your tea time into a proper afternoon tea.

And there's a proper way of enjoying scones. It's said that the nobility would tear the scones open, not slice. And then you can do it Cornish-Style by adding the jam first, or Devon-style by adding the clotted cream before the jam, your call. Or just pour yourself another cup of tea and enjoy it your way...


Experience The Royal Afternoon Tea Series at The Writers Bar for only P 1,500 for two persons, available daily from 2:00pm to 5:00pm. Add some French Flair to The Royal Afternoon Tea experience with a sparkling glass of Champagne for an additional P 900 to complete the vibe. Legendary fine china and tableware maker Wedgwood will also be showcasing their Butterfly Bloom Collection at Writers Bar, and guests can avail of the special discount should you wish to purchase these classic pieces. Experience afternoon tea with a French accent, with The Royal Afternoon Tea Series at Writers Bar inspired by Marie Antoinette. So let them eat cake...and raise a refreshing toast with tea to one of history's most colorful, notorious, extravagant and tragic icons at Writers Bar.

The Writers Bar is located at Raffles Hotel, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati or call Restaurant Reservations at 795-1840 or email dining.makati@raffles.com for more information and reservations.

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Treat Mom Like a Queen at Gerry's Grill with the Queen's Meal

May 11, 2017, 6:27 am
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After all these years, you'd still rather be at Gerry's...


...this Mother's Day. Starting May 12 to 14, 2017, Gerry's Grill offers their Queen's Meal for a festive and sumptuous Mother's Day feast. Each Queen's Meal Set is good for five persons, with two meal options to choose from featuring Gerry's Grill's all-time favorites. Treat mom this weekend with a feast of comforting flavors...at Gerry's Grill.


For twenty years, Gerry's Grill has been an integral part of the metro's culinary landscape, the go-to place for celebrations and casual gatherings with family and friends. Since I started my blog, I've featured Gerry's Grill quite a number of times (see my earlier posts, An All-Seafood Lunch at Gerry's Grill and Sisig On My Mind), and it's great to be back. Since the opening of its very first branch along Tomas Morato twenty years ago, Gerry's Grill now has over 75 branches nationwide with restaurants in Singapore, the United States, and Quatar. And this Mother's Day weekend, Gerry's Grill gives you another reason to visit with their hearty Queen's Meal sets. And you get to bring home a jar of Gerry's Bagoong too. Now that's a cool deal...


And here's a sneak peek at the special Queen's Meals from Gerry's Grill, with the Queen's Meal 2 (P 1,900 per set good for five, or P 380 per person), which includes five refreshing glasses of Iced Tea...


...paired with some of Gerry's popular bestsellers, like Inihaw na Pusit, Gerry's Fried Chicken, Sinigang na Hipon, Chopsuey, Plain Rice, and Buko Pandan for dessert. It's a feast with all your favorites in one set for a special Mother's Day celebration.


Tender and juicy with a perfectly crisp outer layer, Gerry's Fried Chicken served with crisp fries and ketchup is just downright comforting with fresh and clean flavors. Uncomplicated and familiar yet bursting with rich flavors with every bite, it's a dish that makes Mother's Day special. You've always enjoyed Mom's fried chicken, this time treat her to Gerry's Fried Chicken. Extra rice? Absolutely.


And it gets better. The refreshing Chopsuey balances the feast with fresh vegetables, pork, and seafood. The natural crispness of the garden-fresh vegetables, with its subtle sweetness, adds even more flavors to a special Mother's Day celebration at Gerry's Grill.

The special Mother's Day Queen's Meal at Gerry's Grill also includes Sinigang na Hipon, with plump shrimps and its briny sweetness in a light yet flavorful sour and tart broth with vegetables. The large serving makes it ideal for sharing, perfect for a royal Mother's Day celebration with that signature casual vibe at Gerry's Grill.


I chose Queen's Meal 2 because of this dish, the popular Inihaw na Pusit, perfectly grilled tender squid glazed with that special marinade and its unique sweet and smoky notes. A personal favorite, this is one of the many dishes at Gerry's Grill that keeps me coming back time and again. And it still tastes as good as the first time I tried it so many years back. Twenty years later, it's good to know that Gerry's Grill still serves it in that classic and familiar way.


No meal at Gerry's Grill is complete without their iconic Sizzling Sisig (P 207), so why not have a side order to complement your Mother's Day feast and go all-out. After all, it's Mother's Day and a little pork love just makes it even more special.


Cap your feast on a sweet note with Buko Pandan, a creamy dessert to end a perfect Mother's Day feast at Gerry's Grill. A complete set with all your favorites with great value to boot, Gerry's Queen Meals makes any family gathering special. And it's a royal treat for moms on Mother's Day. You can also opt for the Queen's Meal 1 (P 1,900/set good for 5 or P 380/person) which includes their signature Crispy Pata (Regular), Beef Kare-Kare, Bangus Sisig, Pinakbet, Plain Rice, Buko Pandan, and Iced Tea. Whether you go for Gerry'sQueen's Meal 1 or 2, you have a winning feast of comforting flavors paired with excellent value too. Each set includes one jar of Gerry's Bagoong as an added treat. The special Queen's Meal Sets for Mother's Day is available at Gerry's Grill branches nationwide (for a listing of participating stores, visit http://www.gerrysgrill.com/ph/mothers_day.php) on May 12 to 14, 2017. Avoid the rush and long lines by jumpstarting your Mother's Day celebration early at Gerry's Grill.


Comforting dishes, excellent value, the relaxed and casual vibe and courteous service, here's to another twenty years and more at Gerry's Grill. And this Mother's Day, you'd still rather be at Gerry's...

Gerry's Grill is located at #24 Eugenio Lopez Street corner Tomas Morato Street, South Triangle, Quezon City or call 415-9514 for details.

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One Night Only: The Saga Beef Sake Dinner at The Fireplace

May 11, 2017, 8:49 pm
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Japan's best beef paired with the finest sake, in one special evening...


...at The Fireplace. Six courses highlighting the world-renowned Saga Beef, each paired with a curated selection of premium Sake from the same prefecture combine for a memorable dining experience. Located on the southern Kyushu Island, Saga Prefecture is known for its world-class beef and is one of Japan's best quality sake-rice producing regions. The indulgent richness and flavors from the best of Saga Prefecture come together for one unforgettable evening at The Fireplace. Read on for a peek of Japan's best...

After the successful launch of Saga Beef last February (see my post, Made in Saga: The World's Best Comes to New World Manila Bay Hotel...), New World Manila Bay Hotel's Executive Chef James Williams and Guest Chef Shimoyama team up for a special one night only Saga Beef Sake Dinner at The Fireplace.

Known for their premium signature steaks, The Fireplace at New World Manila Bay Hotel (for more on The Fireplace, check out my post, What's New at The Fireplace...) is the perfect stage for the legendary Saga Beef of Japan for an epic one time only dinner, paired with the finest Japanese Sake for an experience like no other.


The Saga Prefecture is blessed with clean and abundant water sources known for its purity and mineral content, and even selected as part of Japan's 100 Top Water Sources. The waters and terroir of Saga Prefecture combine for the rich yet mellow notes of its famous sake, complementing the traditional heavier cuisine of southern Japan. Sake is a fermented beverage made from rice, yeast, water, and the distinct Koji mold, with its price and quality influenced by three crucial factors: type of rice, milling, and labor (i.e., handmade vs machine). The degree of milling, or polishing, of rice grains represented as a percentage, also defines the taste profile of the sake. The curated selection of the very best sake from the famed Saga Prefecture presents a wide and varied range of distinct notes, each one pairing well with the masterful Saga Beef creations of Guest Chef Shimoyama. 

The memorable dinner began with a delicate first course prepared by Guest Chef Shimoyama, the Saga Beef Tofu "Ginza Kira Style," paired with the fruity Nabeshima by Fukuchiyo made from Omachi rice, the oldest pure sake rice variety in sake production today. The light and frothy head of the Saga Beef dish delivers hints of savory richness...

...followed by the bold, beefy and luxurious flavors of the sukiyaki-cut Saga Beef and nutty notes of silky tofu. The richness of the dish is perfectly balanced by the crisp and clean, mildly sweet notes of the Nabeshima, cleansing the palate as you go for another sip. Then, Guest Chef Shimoyama prepared the next Saga Beef course...


The Asian Steak Tartar, with its tart and vibrant notes capped by the savory richness of Saga Beef is perfectly complemented by the Amabuki from Daiginjo made with local Yamadanishiki rice. The distinct fragrant nose with subtle hints of sweet melon and pear is followed by an elegant and velvety smooth finish, matching the tartness of the dressing and the richness of the Saga Beef.

A light yet flavorful Beef Soup "Shabu-Shabu Style," with its paper-thin slices of Wagyu beef and firm noodles in a light broth paired well with the Manrei by Komatsu Shuzo. The dual blend of Yamadanishiki and Miyamanishiki rice, polished beyond the 50% guideline, delivered subtle notes of fragrant ginger... 

...with a whisper of spice-like hints tempering the savory flavors of the Shabu-Shabu. Despite the bold flavors of the dishes served, Guest Chef Shimoyama weaves a delicate balance throughout the epic dinner, with each note complementing the other. Then, fresh from the oven, the next dish was presented...


A fragrant aroma is released along with the rising steam as the baked crust is carved, revealing a perfectly roasted slab of Saga Beef. The Roast Saga Beef in Baked Pie Wrap tastes as good as it looks, this is serious beef. The beautifully marbled Saga Beef just melts in your mouth, coating your palate with a buttery richness. Served with fondant potatoes and onion soubise, the dish is paired with the Manrei by Komatsu Shuzo. The full-bodied notes of the Manrei handles the savory flavors of the dish perfectly, leaving a lingering sweetness after every sip.

And there's more. Guest Chef Shimoyama's Saga Beefsteak with Norisotto "a la bottura" is paired with the Shichida by Tenzan, another balanced combination. The cloudy hues of the Shichida deliver notes of sweetness and tartness, with hints of honey and green apples pairing well with the savory dish.


And when you have one of the world's finest beef, how can you go wrong? Guests can enjoy the legendary Saga Beef at New World Manila Bay Hotel's Market Cafe with their Build-Your-Own Teppanyaki using Saga Beef and stir-fry vegetables at their Japanese station during the lunch buffet every Saturday (more on Market Cafe on my previous post, Back at Market Cafe...). 


The epic dinner ends with an elegant dessert, the Tonka Bean Panna Cotta Sakura topped with flowers and matched with the fragrant Nogomi. The decadent notes of the dessert are tempered by the vibrant apple and aniseed hints of the Nogomi without overpowering the dessert. It's another perfect pairing in an all too perfect one-time only dinner.


Sweet indulgent bites of Japanese-style Nama chocolate rounds out our memorable dinner at The Fireplace. In one evening, Guest Chef Shimoyama highlighted the versatilty of Saga Beef, paired with the different nuances of sake. The best of Saga Prefecture in one night...only at The Fireplace.

New World Manila Bay Hotel is located at 1588 Pedro Gil corner M. H. Del Pilar, Manila or call +63 252-6888 or email dining.manilabay@newworldhotels.com for reservations.

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Wholesome Eats & Sweets: Marriott Manila's Vegan Offerings for a Healthier Lifestyle

May 12, 2017, 9:12 am
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No longer just a passing trend, seeking a healthier lifestyle has gone beyond just being a mere fad, it's definitely here to stay. For committed vegans and those who are simply curious about healthy cuisine, Marriott Manila is your new vegan go-to-place...


Marriott Manila adds a healthy twist to its culinary offerings with healthy vegan options at Cru Steakhouse and Marriott Cafe Bakery. And if you're thinking of pursuing a healthier lifestyle, Marriott Manila is a great place to start...

Marriott Manila's Executive Chef Meik Brammer and his team (L) collaborate with Felchlin Switzerland, makers of fine Swiss chocolate, with their Corporate Pastry Chef, Anil Rohira (R) in creating indulgent desserts without the guilt for a healthier lifestyle. Who says you can't have your cake and eat it too? 


And when you can enjoy a healthy lifestyle with chocolate, count me in. And this is where Felchlin Switzerland comes in. Since 1923, Felchlin Switzerland has been producing fine Swiss chocolate guided by the principles of sustainability and fair trade, sourcing premium cacao from all over the world. Natural cacao is known to have countless health benefits, including improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure, raises HDL and protects LDL against oxidation, aid in reducing the risks of cardiovascular disease, and it's a rich source of anti-oxidants among other things. And when you have the best quality chocolate as your base, you're on your way to a healthier lifestyle... 

Felchlin Switzerland offers a wide array of institutional premium chocolate, glazes, fillings, aroma pastes, baking and decorating products. The Lacta 38% Finest Swiss Couverture with Lactose-Free Milk and No Added Sugar (L) and theSupremo 62% Finest Swiss Dark Couverture, Sugar Free (R) are just some of their fine products.


Using the finest chocolate, leave it to Felchlin Switzerland's Corporate Pastry Chef Anil Rohira and Marriott Manila's Executive Pastry Chef Fil Afable in creating pure chocolate indulgence, like these decadent Chocola, a rich chocolate mousse sable tart draped with a satin chocolate glaze...


...the sinful Tropique, a sweet fruit compote of exotic fruit cremeux and almond meringue sponge...


...the nutty Hazelnut Crunch Caramel Choc, with crunchy hazelnuts, almond glaze, and chocolate chantilly...

...and delicate bites of Chocolate Marshmallow Raspberry Gelee, Duna Date Maracaibo Chocolate, Apricot and Raspberry Pralines, and Coconut Mango Squares. The rich notes of the chocolate more than make up for the absence of sugar, and a healthier lifestyle with chocolate just opens up so many possibilities...


At the launch of Marriott Manila's vegan offerings, Executive Chef Meik Brammer laid out an all seafood feast for guests with the day's freshest catch...

...including a variety of fresh sushi, rolls, sashimi and garden-fresh salads. And no, I didn't miss the carving station. I was actually enjoying a sumptuous meal without craving for beef. Maybe a healthier lifestyle can actually work for me. About time, too. And Marriott Manila is leading the way...


Freshness on a plate. Then, the special Three-Course Vegan Menu from Cru Steakhouse was served. Now you can go vegan at Cru Steakhouse...


...and feel good about it too. For the first course, a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer, the Mediterranean Summer with Chickpea Falafels laid on lemon-artichoke puree topped with grape relish and drizzled with cilantro oil is a masterfully executed play on fresh and clean flavors, with the rich notes of the lemon artichoke puree weaving seamlessly with the falafels, punctuated by the vibrant flavors of the grape relish. Healthy food, and vegan dishes, don't have to be bland. Not at Cru Steakhouse. And this is just one of the many flavorful surprises from the vegan menu of Cru Steakhouse...


For the main course, the wittingly named A Walk in the Forest with Grilled Forest Mushrooms and Leeks was served, with basil gremolata, crushed garlic, and baby potatoes on a tart tomato reduction. The deep, earthy, and nutty notes of the grilled mushrooms delivered a savory richness capped by subtle smoky hints, with the tomato reduction adding just the right amount of tartness for a flavorful punch. One more bite and the thought of going vegan at least a couple of times in a month isn't such a bad idea after all. Not with dishes like these that just changes the way you look, and taste, vegan cuisine. Rich and bold flavors, and refreshingly satisfying without feeling heavy, it's a welcome addition to the many culinary options at Marriott Manila. 

I've always enjoyed the steaks at Cru Steakhouse, and now I'm even more impressed with their vegan offerings. And Cru Steakhouse has one more surprise to complete your vegan feast. The chefs begin plating the third course, and with clockwork precision, dessert is served. 


For dessert, the refreshing Chocolate Mojito Ice Pops capped a light yet satisfying vegan feast, with a white chocolate bar topped with caramelized almonds, coconut mojito parfait, and toasted dessicated coconut. You can enjoy the special Three-Course Vegan Menu at Cru Steakhouse for only P 1,300 (for more on Marriott Manila's Cru Steakhouse, see my earlier post, The Meat of the Matter...at Cru Steakhouse). Going vegan at Cru Steakhouse? Why not. And it's good for you too.

Chef Anil Rohira then shared some of Felchlin Switzerland's fine chocolate products, allowing guests to discover the subtle nuances of cacao from South America and Africa, distinct notes that add specific flavor profiles to chocolate desserts.

Chef Anil Rohira then demonstrated how to prepare an indulgent chocolate dessert using Felchlin Switzerland's fine chocolates. The velvety smooth chocolate is expertly handled by Chef Anil, and with a series of quick movements, the chocolate is tempered and ready...


Nuts and dried fruits complete the chocolate dessert, and with all-natural ingredients, a healthier lifestyle with chocolate is the way to go. And you can find healthy decadence right here at Marriott Manila. Like the Vegan Bars (P 450/200g) from the Marriott Cafe Bakery. Dark and white chocolate made from Felchlin Switzerland's premium Swiss chocolates topped with salted pumpkin seeds provide all the energy you need on-the-go, and perfect too for gifts. But if you want your cake without the guilt, Marriott Cafe Bakery has that covered too...


Marriott Manila, led by Executive Pastry Chef Fil Afable, lets you have your cake and eat it too with a range of innovative cakes that's low on sugar. Perfect for weight-watchers and diabetics, indulge without the guilt with Marriott Cafe Bakery's Chocolate Sensation, a sable Breton with dark chocolate ornaments and white chocolate shard for chocoholics...


...the Chocolate Brownie made with bourbon vanilla bean and filled with hazelnut and pecans...


...and the Mango Almond Cake, a soft sponge cake with mango gelee and mousse. The special made-to-order cakes are available in 6-inch (P 950), 8-inch (P 1,800), and 10-inch (P 2,200) sizes. Contemplating a healthier lifestyle is always a step in the right direction. Discover the possibilities at Marriott Manila, and you'll be glad you did.

Cru Steakhouse is located at Marriott Hotel Manila's Ground Floor, and is open from 6pm to 10:30pm on Sundays to Thursdays and 6pm to 11:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Marriott Cafe Bakery is located at the Ground Floor and is open from 6am to 10:30pm. For inquiries, call (02) 9889999 or visit manilamariott.com. For more updates, follow @marriottmanila at Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat and @manilamarriott on Instagram.

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Double the Flavor: The Lechon Gallena by Leonardo's Lechon....

May 14, 2017, 6:22 am
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At the heart of every celebration is the traditional Lechon, a whole roasted pig that adds a distinctly Filipino vibe to any gathering. And for over 70 years, Leonardo's Lechon has been at the center of countless feasts for generations.


And here's a closer look at one of their popular variants, the Lechon Gallena, stuffed with whole chickens, potatoes, spices and herbs for a unique take on a classic. Read on and drool...


Pit roasted for hours on fiery hot charcoal, there's just no other way to prepare a traditional Filipino lechon, and Leonardo's Lechon has been doing it the same way since 1947 (for more on Leonardo's Lechon, see my previous post, Just Another Day at Leonardo's Lechon and their innovative spins on the traditional Lechon Tagalog, including the Carnivore Lechon at A Family Affair: Leonardo's Lechon at Heirloom Kitchen and the new Drunken Lechon at Meet The Drunken Lechon by Leonardo's Lechon and Pedro Brewcrafters...). A new generation led by Nard Aquino intends to keep it that way, preserving a cherished family tradition. The Lechon Tagalog continues to be their core product, the one that started it all. But something magical happens when you stuff whole chickens inside the lechon. Meet the Lechon Gallena by Leonardo's Lechon... 

It may look like the traditional Lechon Tagalog, the signature lechon of Leonardo's. The vibrant colors, the crisp crackling lined with a paper-thin layer of fat, and the tender and juicy pork are exactly what you would expect from Leonardo's Lechon...

...but as Mang July, one of Leonardo's long time employees, carves up the lechon, you just know there's something different. A loud and audible crisp crackle is amplified as Mang July masterfully carves the lechon, revealing a flavorful surprise...


The fragrant aroma of succulent pork enriched with the savory notes of roast chicken is a combination like no other, infusing the pork with its flavor as the chicken absorbs an added layer of richness. It's a double dose of pure happiness. Seriously.


Depending on the size, each lechon is stuffed with one or two whole chickens along with potatoes, spices and herbs. It's the secret blend of proprietary spices and herbs that give this lechon a flavorful kick for an innovative spin on the traditional Lechon Tagalog.


And it really does work. Both the pork and chicken have their own natural, distinct, and delicate yet rich notes, but together, it's a whole new lechon experience.


The crackling is perfectly crisp, and the pork is juicier than the usual lechon as the roast chicken adds its own rich drippings. The lechon is paired with the traditional liver sauce, but this one's good on its own.


In between bites of lechon, have a piece of the fall-off-the-bone roast chicken, tender and juicy after hours of slow-roasting inside the lechon. The herbs and spice add that final layer of flavor for depth to complete another masterpiece from Leonardo's Lechon. 


And yes, time for some steaming hot white rice to make it a real and hearty feast.


And don't forget to grab some potatoes too, bursting with rich notes from the pork, chicken, spices, and herbs with each and every bite. And like many traditional Filipino feasts, Leonardo's Lechon is once again at the heart of every celebration. Prices for the classic Lechon Gallena range from P 5,300 (De Leche good for 10-15) to P 11,600 (Large good for 80+), and Leonardo's Lechon has the right lechon for your needs and budget from De Leche (3-4 kg), Small (5-8 kg), Medium (30-60 kg), and Large (60-100 kg). 


Each order of lechon from Leonardo's Lechon comes with their signature Dinuguan, a savory stew made with the rest of the pig simmered in a gravy of pork blood, garlic, chili, and vinegar. When you order from Leonardo's Lechon, you get the whole hog, noste-to-tail and everything in between. Extra rice? Yes, please...

Leonardo's Lechon is located at 89 J. Basa Street, San Juan, Metro Manila or call 724-3068, 726-9828, 744-5172, 725-6071, 725-8618 qnd 0917-883-3391 for inquiries and orders. You can also visit their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/leonardoslechon for more information.

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Modern Elegance and Little Touches: Mom's Day Weekend at Midas Hotel & Casino

May 15, 2017, 12:51 am
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Mother's Day becomes even more special with a staycation at Midas Hotel & Casino...


Modern, vibrant, with an upbeat feel balanced by a stately charm and elegance, Midas Hotel & Casino combines glamor, contemporary style, and a sleek cutting-edge culture for a unique and memorable Mother's Day staycation. It's that blend of stylish elegance, dynamic urban vibe, fresh interpretation of modern hospitality and graceful design that makes your visit to Midas Hotel & Casino special. Read on and take a peek at a memorable Mother's Day staycation at the famed city by the bay, and the little touches and unexpected surprises that made it special...at Midas Hotel & Casino.

Surprisingly Unexpected...

I first visited Midas Hotel and Casino almost three years ago for lunch, and I still can't help but admire its clean and modern lines and elegant spaces highlighted by a sleek and contemporary style (for more on Midas Hotel & Casino's elegant design themes, see my post, Midas Hotel & Casino: Something New at Every Turn)...


...with each visit revealing yet even more surprisingly unexpected elements that weave a rich tapestry of experiences to thread your stay at Midas Hotel & Casino. From the bright orange boxes that adorn the lobby, the dramatic high ceilings, and the elegant modern European furnishings, Midas Hotel & Casino had that element of style that made a lasting impression. On the 9th Floor, our Executive Room was the perfect sanctuary, high above the city. The all-natural fabrics, velvety smooth sheets and plush pillows will leave you wishing you could just stay in bed just a little while longer. Each room is equipped with an LCD TV with cable programming, in-room safety deposit box, coffee and tea-making facilities, mini-bar and complimentary high speed WiFi so you could stay connected with the rest of the world during your stay. In true Midas Hotel & Casino style, you also have your very own Min Ming Chair designed by noted French industrial designer Philippe Starck. And you'll find more of Philippe Starck's innovative designs as well as Poltrona Frau's elegant furniture throughout the hotel. I've visited the hotel before, but this was my first time to spend a leisurely weekend at Midas Hotel & Casino. And everything seemed to point toward a memorable staycation, with so many unexpected surprises and little touches to complete the experience. 

The newly renovated and refurbished Executive Rooms at the 9th Floor offers all the modern amenities you need for that perfect staycation in that signature style of Midas Hotel & Casino. The thoughtfully designed space is your own private cocoon with that trademark design flair, comfort and luxury defining their unique DNA.

Inside the spacious Executive Room of Midas Hotel & Casino, a soothing minimalist design redefines a modern take on classic royal elegance, just what you need to get away from it all in your own exclusive and comforting sanctuary. Fresh fruits and flowers add that finishing touch to kick off your staycation.

Elegant Touches and More Surpises


It's the little touches, like the premium toiletries from L'Occitane...


...and Bulgari gift boxes that add to your experience at Midas Hotel & Cafe. Midas Hotel & Casino is quite an expert when it comes to these elegant little touches, but more flavorful and unexpected surprises await, starting with a sumptuous lunch at Midas Hotel & Casino's signature Yanagi Japanese Cuisine...

Turning Japanese at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine

And just like my very first time at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine almost three years ago, walking inside the elegant space remains as impressive as that first memorable visit (see my post on my first time at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine from three years back, Inspired Japanese Cuisine at Yanagi Japanese Restaurant). 


You can go a la carte, or go all out with their impressive buffet spread, your call. Every Thursday to Sunday, Yanagi Japanese Cuisine offers an impressive Lunch and Dinner Buffet featuring a wide variety of authentic Japanese dishes for only P 1,600 net per person, including a selection of premium seafood and fresh sashimi...


...to tasty Japanese appetizers guaranteed to satisfy any appetite. And you can come back for seconds and thirds too.

At the fresh seafood station of Yanagi Japanese Cuisine, you'll find so many options, so pick up a plate and load up on freshly prepared sushi, maki, and rice rolls wrapped in nori. The freshness of the seafood deliver clean and natural flavors with a subtle briny sweetness to set you up with even more fresh flavors...

...like the inventive maki creations offering delightful combinations of textures and flavors and the tasty Japanese-Style Carpaccio (R), with thinly sliced tuna and salmon draped in a rich carpaccio sauce. But there's more. Much more.


The crisp and flavorful Tempura Rolls is another tempting dish at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine, drizzled with a rich sauce for a new flavor experience.


California Maki and other intricate rice rolls add to your many options at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine. Take your time to sample each and every dish with the easy to navigate linear design format of the buffet spread, and come back for more.

For the mains, the buffet spread at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine featured a savory Niku Curry (L) with fork-tender beef in a thick sauce enriched with a flavorful curry spice blend, and the hearty Yaki Udon (R), with pan-fried yaki noodles and vegetables.

You'll find live stations preparing Japanese dishes ala minute,  including everyone's favorite Takoyaki fresh from the takoyaki grill. Customize your takoyaki with a wide selection of fillings, sauces and toppings.

The Sukiyaki Station offers the classic Japanese dish with premium beef, noodles, and vegetables prepared as you order, so you get to enjoy it steaming hot at the very peak of its flavor. And you can have the station chef prepare your bowl to your specifications for that perfect bowl of sukiyaki.


Yanagi Japanese Cuisine's Dessert Station offers an indulgent selection of sinful bites for that sweet ending, including fresh fruits in season. But Midas Hotel & Casino had one more tasty surprise for us...

Signature Flavors at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine

Inside the private dining room, a feast of their signature a la carte dishes were about to be served for another taste of Midas Hotel & Casino's popular Japanese restaurant. Have a refreshing Coolest Cucumber Mocktail (P 255) with mint and soda or the Monte Carlo Bay (P 295) with vodka and curacao for a light tipple...

...perfect when paired with Yanagi Japanese Cuisine's inventive Otoshi, or appetizers. The unique appetizers are an inspired blend of flavors and textures, from the subtle flavors of fresh vegetables (L) to the intricate creations of seafood, vegetables, and deep-fried noodles resembling a sea urchin. And that's just for starters...


The tasty appetizers are just one of the many flavorful and unexpected surprises during my stay at Midas Hotel & Casino. Our feast of signature dishes at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine began with the light yet flavorful Sake Nanban Zuke, marinated deep-fried salmon and leeks with delicate yet creamy flavors tempered by the mildly sharp notes of the leeks. It's a dish with masterfully balanced flavors, with each distinct note complementing the other.


The signature Kaki Papaya Yaki, grilled Japanese oyster in papaya with miso sauce, was served next. This has always been a personal favorite at Yanagi Japanese Cuicine, and one bite reminded me once again why I loved this dish. The succulent oysters with its fresh and briny notes pair so well with the natural sweetness of the papaya. The light whisper of smoky notes from the grill adds another layer to the mix to complete the dish. This one's definitely still a favorite.


In between courses, a colorful salad was served next. The Yanagi Salad, with assorted garden-fresh greens and vegetables drizzled with nutty miso dressing, cleans the palate with its fresh notes. The natural crispness of the greens adds texture to the dish. 


The Aburi Sushi, another of Yanagi Japanese Cuisine's specialties, is served. The colorful lightly torched assorted seafood draped in the rich and creamy aburi sauce is impressive, feeding first the eyes before the palate.


The equally impressive Tempura Maki, with plump and succulent prawn tempura wrapped in thick rolls and topped with a variety of colorful fish roe on creamy sauce is another must-try dish at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine. And take it in one big bite so you can enjoy all the different components of the maki.


The comforting Kaninabe, a refreshing assortment of seafood and vegetables boiled in a special paper fan,is another unexpected surprise, a visual feast that tastes as good as it looks. A gentle flame below the paper fan keeps the soup warm. The use of the paper fan adds to the presentation of the dish. Simple, fresh and clean flavors, the freshness of the seafood is complemented by the light broth.

The Ebi Tempura (L), fresh prawns coated in a light and crisp batter, and the US Sirloin Steak (R) served with vegetables and a flavorful onion source round up our sumptuous feast at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine. Time for some ice cream...


Cap your Japanese feast at Yanagi Japanese Cuisine with their selection of homemade ice cream in Red Bean, Green Tea, and Black Bean flavors...


...but don't pass up on the unique flavors of the Wasabi Ice Cream, a velvety smooth ice cream creation with the familiar bite of wasabi for that flavorful punch.

Cocktails, a Sunset, and Stunning Views at Sunset Lounge

On the 9th Floor, guests can enjoy the sunset with a cocktail or two at the Sunset Lounge. Exclusive for the hotel's Executive Room guests also located on the 9th Floor, the Sunset Lounge is the perfect spot to catch the famed sunset along Roxas Boulevard. And there's no better to enjoy the sunset than with a few cocktails... 


Start your tipple with the Boulevard Sunset (P 295), the featured Drink of the Month, with dark rum, Malibu and pineapple juice with the sweet hints of coconut for a refreshing tropical vibe.


Or go for the classic 007 Martini (P 295), with a bold double dose of Tanqueray Gin and Absolut Vodka capped by refreshing hints of Grand Marnier. A few more sips gets you in that dapper groove in no time.


If it's a mocktail you want, the Sunset Lounge has that too. The playfully inventive Ginger Mango Tango (P 255) with house sour, ginger bread syrup, and mango puree combine for a refreshingly sweet mocktail.


Pair your cocktails with the best of Sunset Lounge's dishes with the Combo Platter featuring twister fries, crispy calamari, crunchy pork belly and buffalo wings. Refreshing cocktails and tasty bites, a visit to Sunset Lounge adds yet another unexpected surprise to your staycation at Midas Hotel & Casino (for more on the Sunset Lounge, see my post from three years back, Midas Hotel & Casino: Something New at Every Turn).


After a few more rounds, one is rewarded with a magnificent view of the city by the bay. The view, the service, the variety of flavors, and unexpected surprises, you'd like to come back again and again. And if you stay loyal, you can stay royale with the Midas Royale Club, a membership program offering a variety of rewards, perks, and benefits to make your next visit at Midas Hotel & Casino even more memorable (more on the Midas Royale Club on their website at http://www.midashotelandcasino.com/ or call +632 902-0100 local 1232 or email membership@midashotelandcasino.com).

Global Flavors at Midas Cafe


Then, it was time for dinner. Heading back to my Executive Room after cocktails, I find my mom enjoying a platter of chocolate, nuts and dried fruits, just one more surprise from Midas Hotel & Casino. Little touches...before dinner at Midas Cafe.

As we head down to Midas Cafe, the warm smiles from the staff was prelude to another memorable dining experience  (for more on Midas Cafe, see my posts, Sabroso! A Filipino Culinary Festival at Midas Cafe on their Filipino Food Festival and Trying Something Different at Midas Cafe on an intimate lunch buffet).

For the whole month of May, Midas Cafe takes you on a flavorful culinary journey with its Cafe Fiesta at Midas featuring iconic and most celebrated local and regional dishes from all over the Philippines. For only P 1,600 net per person, it's another cool deal at Midas Hotel & Casino.

Alongside the featured local dishes are Midas Cafe's selection of popular buffet favorites, including a wide array of sushi, maki, and rice rolls and a Mongolian Grill Station (R) with fresh seafood, beef, pork, chicken, vegetables, and sauces prepared ala minute by the station chefs. 


At the Asian Noodle Station, you can have the chefs prepare a comforting bowl of noodles with a variety of fresh seafood and vegetables, while you choose the ingredients.

At the Grill Station, diners can choose from a selection of skewered pork, beef and seafood, ready for grilling. Simply pick up a plate and top it with your skewers, and the station chefs will take care of the rest as you explore the other offerings at Midas Cafe. 


Your plate is then served, fresh from the grill. Perfect.


At the Fresh Seafood Station, enjoy the day's freshest catch and have it grilled, baked or sauteed in butter and garlic. The stations are replenished regularly, so need to rush.


For the mains, Midas Cafe offered a tempting line-up of savory dishes, including the Lamb Curry, a personal favorite...


...the Pan-Seared Fish with Water Spinach...


...and the classic Pork Sisig as one of many featured local dishes for the month-long Cafe Fiesta at Midas, with so many more dishes at the different stations.


And here's the beef. At the Midas Cafe's Carving Station, a hefty slab of US Prime Rib seemed to be another popular station among diners that evening, as the station chef carved the impressive premium beef all night long.


But save room for dessert. From decadent pastries and cakes to elegant desserts, Midas Cafe has it covered. 

One other live station not to be missed is Midas Cafe's popular Crepes Station, where the station chef prepares your very own crepes ala minute and just the way you like it with a variety of fresh ingredients and toppings. Bananas, mangos, chocolate syrup, ice cream and pistachios? Yes, please.


Cap your feast at Midas Cafe with an indulgent Halo-Halo at their Halo-Halo Station and create your own do-it-yourself Halo-Halo for an epic sweet ending (for more on Midas Cafe's signature Halo-Halo and Crepes, see my post from three years ago, Trying Something Different at Midas Cafe).

Flowers and Breakfast 


After a restful night's sleep, a bowl of fresh flowers and breakfast delivered by the staff of Midas Hotel & Casino kicks off the second day of my staycation. Nothing quite like enjoying your breakfast in the comfort and privacy of your Executive Room, adding yet another unexpected surprise in a memorable staycation. It's these little touches that made my staycation special. And there's nothing quite like bacon for breakfast. Midas Cafe's American Breakfast (P 640) includes a choice of seasonal Fresh Fruit Juice, a selection from their Baker's Basket including White Toast Bread, Soft Rolls, Danish Pastries, Croissant or Pan de Sal; a choice of Plain or Fruit Yogurt or Assorted Cereals, two Organic Farm Fresh Eggs prepared the way you like it, choice of Bacon, Ham, or Breaded Fish Fillet, and served with Hash Browns, Grilled Tomatoes, Fried Mushrooms, Butter and Jam, and Freshly Brewed Coffee or Hot Milk Chocolate. And it just can't get any better than that...


My mom goes for the Filipino Breakfast (P 630), with a choice of Seasonal Fresh Fruit Juice, a selection from their Baker's Basket like White Toast Bread, Soft Rolls, and Pan de Sal, two Organic Farm Fresh Eggs prepared any style, choice of Beef Tapa, Chicken Tocino, Longganisa, Broiled Lapu-Lapu Fillet, or Daing Na Bangus and served with Plain or Garlic Fried Rice, Freshly Brewed Coffee, Hot Milk or Tsokolate Tablea.  


With no need to wake up early to avoid the usual crowds at the breakfast buffet, the in-room breakfast capped a perfect Mother's Day staycation at Midas Hotel & Casino.


A few more hours of sleep after breakfast and it was time to check out. All too soon, a special mom's day staycation comes to an end. And after extending our thanks to Midas Hotel & Casino's friendly staff, I say goodbye to an old buddy who first greeted me at the lobby of the hotel, Butch, the friendly beagle tasked with security and sniffing out luggage. I'll definitely see you again soon...


On the way home, the fragrance from a fresh bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates lingers capping another memorable experience at Midas Hotel & Casino. Little touches, and one many layers in a continuous chain of memorable experiences for a perfect mom's day staycation....at Midas Hotel & Casino.

Midas Hotel & Casino is located along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, call +632 902-0100 or visit their website at http://www.midashotelandcasino.com/ for more information.

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Old Favorites. And New Favorites. At Trellis...

May 16, 2017, 9:22 pm
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There are few names in the local culinary landscape that have stood the test of time, one of them is Trellis...


Since 1980, Trellis has been serving classic local cuisine that has endeared it to generations of loyal diners. Each time you go back and each time you take a bite, a simple meal becomes a memorable and nostalgic culinary journey back in time...


There are old favorites at Trellis that always makes it to the table each time I visit for a comforting meal, like the Burong Hipon "Balo-Balo" (P 95) served with grilled eggplant and mustasa, a traditional Capampangan dish of fermented rice, shrimps, and tomatoes. It's one of those dishes that take you back to countless childhood summers, and the version at Trellis is so spot on and authentic (for more on Trellis, see my earlier post, Old School Still Rules at Trellis). The sharp salty notes of the fermented shrimps and rice deliver bold flavors, perfect when paired with the nutty and smoky grilled eggplant and the minty notes of the fresh mustard greens (for more on the traditional buro, see my earlier post, What's In The Fridge...Burong Hipon).


The classic Capampangan Sisig (P 215), the dish that made Trellis, is almost mandatory to complete your dining experience. Like they say, no meal at Trellis is complete without the signature Sisig, served on a sizzling hot cast iron plate. Squeeze the calamansi and let it sizzle, as it releases a fragrant aroma to whet your appetite. The contrasting textures of soft and chewy pork cheeks with the light crispness of the charred pork combine for that authentic and distinctly original Capampangan dish, punctuated by the sharp notes of the calamansi to temper the savory richness of the pork. Best enjoyed as is with an ice-cold bottle of beer or with steamed white rice, the Sisig at Trellis never fails to satisfy and bring back so many fond memories.


Make it a real feast with the comforting Sinigang na Hipon (P 415), with fresh and plump, succulent shrimps in a lightly sour and tart broth with vegetables. The tartness of the broth coupled with the briny sweetness of the shrimps cleanses the palate with each sip and bite to balance the savory notes of the Sisig, and you're ready for another round.


When in season, go for the Bangus Sardines (P 205), a new favorite at Trellis. The mildly sweet notes of the local milkfish get a flavorful kick with the Spanish-style tomato sauce, weaving distinct notes in a seamless blend. It's a light and satisfying option yet comfortingly familiar, just one of many dishes that will keep you coming back to Trellis again and again.


The iconic Kare-Kare (P 520), a tender beef, ox-tail, and tripe stew simmered in a thick sauce enriched with ground rice and peanuts and served with a side of bagoong adds that celebratory vibe to your feast. Trellis goes back to its traditional roots, preparing the dish in the old-school way. Tedious and labor-intensive, the traditional kare-kare is classic slow food, simmering for hours until all the flavors mesh together that can only come from doing it the old-fashioned way. Old school still rules at Trellis. And since 1980, Trellis continues to serve its popular signature dishes in the same way, with absolutely no short cuts. Like many culinary institutions that have stood the test of time, Trellis continues to preserve authentic, local, and regional cuisine, keeping it relevant for future generations to experience and rediscover. Old and new favorites, you'll find it here at Trellis...

Trellis is located at 140 Matalino Street corner Kalayaan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City or call 924-1056 to 56 for inquiries.

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Ramen Innovation: Ippudo's New Clam Chowder Ramen

May 18, 2017, 12:45 am
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Drawing inspiration from local and regional ramen variations from Japan, Ippudo constantly innovates by offering a variety of ramen creations. This time, the inspiration takes on an All-American classic with a unique spin from Ippudo for another unique flavor experience...


Inventive, imaginative, daring. It's what keeps Ippudo at the forefront of ramen innovation, constantly engaging its loyal diners with new expressions of ramen creativity. Leave it to the ramen masters of Ippudo to add a flavorful twist to an iconic American classic with their new Clam Chowder Ramen...


The new Clam Chowder Ramen (P 520, add a slab of crispy bacon for only P 20) from Ippudo is the latest ramen innovation following the recent releases of their previous limited edition ramen creations (for more on Ippudo's innovative ramen creations, see my previous posts on their Yokohama Iekei Ramen, Hakata-Style Nikusoba Ramen, Gyokai Tonkotsu Ramen, Hakata-Style Tsukemen, and the Limited Edition Spicy Black Ramen), and it's definitely different. Who would've thought that the classic clam chowder would work perfectly, reinvented in a bowl of ramen?  The comfortingly familiar rich creamy texture of clam chowder is recreated with the signature pork tonkotsu broth in a bold east-west fusion.


Along with the new Clam Chowder Ramen, Ippudo also served two of their newest side dishes...

...to pair with their latest ramen creation. Salmon and chicken are given new flavorful twists in that unique Ippudo style, something you can always expect at Ippudo. Imaginative and tasty, these new side dishes are sure bets for Ippudo's growing list of popular dishes.  


The Torched Salmon Roll (P 295) features their take on a popular global favorite, with lightly torched salmon topped with creamy mentaiko mayo and fish roe for added texture and flavor. The lightly charred outer layer of the creamy salmon lends a distinct flavor to the butter-like notes of the salmon, capped by the equally creamy mentaiko mayo and perfectly finished by the vibrant briny notes of the fish roe. It's a light yet flavorful starter that pairs well with Ippudo's signature ramen, including their new Clam Chowder Ramen.


The Teba Gyoza (P 230) combines the distinct flavors of chicken wings and gyoza in one unique dish, with deep-fried chicken wings stuffed with savory and meaty gyoza filling and served with gyoza sauce. The light crispness of the chicken wings, the juicy and savory notes of the gyoza meat filling, and the bold flavors of the sharp gyoza sauce come together in a seamless blend for another tasty starter at Ippudo. Now you're ready for the new Clam Chowder Ramen by Ippudo...


Described as a "soulful fusion" by Ippudo, the new Clam Chowder Ramen brings the best of global flavors in a bowl of comforting noodles. The new Clam Chowder comes with thick and firm noodles seasoned with black pepper and served in a thick and creamy broth, a combination of Ippudo's signature pork tonkotsu broth enriched with bechamel sauce and truffle oil for its unique umami flavors. The bowl of ramen is then topped with fresh clams and Parmesan cheese, potatoes, onions and aji tamago to complete the flavors. But it gets better with a slab of crispy bacon...

The broth is unlike any other I've tried, with the flavorful tonkotsu broth kicked up even more with the infusion of bechamel and truffle oil. The briny notes of the clams add fresh notes, capped by the sharp flavors of the Parmesan, followed by the thick noodles with subtle hints of black pepper.


The potatoes and onions, along with the aji tamago, weave in more flavors for a unique ramen experience. And it definitely gets better with bacon. You can break up the crisp bacon and top it on your bowl of ramen, or use it like a breadstick to soak up the richness of the broth, your call. The bacon really adds that perfect finishing touch to the dish. Different, innovative, unique, it's another must-try Limited Edition ramen from Ippudo not to be missed. New ramen, new side dishes, so what are you waiting for? Head on down to your nearest Ippudo branch and discover new flavorful spins that can only come from Ippudo's ramen masters... 

Ippudo is located at the 3rd Floor of Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong, or call 470-1837 for inquiries.

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Chicken From Around The World at Poultry Stack

May 18, 2017, 7:14 pm
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Comforting chicken dinners take on a flavorful global spin at Poultry Stack...


Poultry Stack takes you on a culinary journey around the world with its signature chicken dishes, drawing inspiration from South American, Japanese, Thai and Filipino flavors. And if you're looking for a winning chicken dinner, or lunch, Poultry Stack is definitely the place...

Located along Scout Tuazon near Tomas Morato, it's hard to miss Poultry Stack. The bright and spacious interiors exude a playful and youthful casual bistro vibe, the perfect spot for a comforting meal. With Chefs Gene and Gino Gonzalez as consultants, Poultry Stack takes our love for chicken to a whole new and flavorful level...


From starters to mains and desserts, Poultry Stack is the total package, recreating familiar flavors with a new and inventive spin.


The Poultry Stack Bucheron (P 199), crispy deep-fried chicken crop tossed in Poultry Stack's signature seasoned salt served with the special house sinamak is the perfect starter before your mains, great with an ice-cold beer. The chicken crop, a muscular pouch located at the chicken's lower neck, is perfectly crisp delivering rich flavors with a tasty crunch. Dip it into the sinamak, a local Visayan spiced vinegar to temper the richness, and you're ready for another bite. And another.


If you loved the Poultry Stack Bucheron, you'll love the Salted Egg Bucheron (P 229), with its flavorful spin tossed in homemade salted egg sauce. The richness of the chicken crop is perfectly complemented by the salted egg sauce and you just can't stop munching on these crispy bites. 


In between bites, enjoy the fresh and clean flavors of Poultry Stack's Tuna Ceviche (P 239), with fresh tuna tossed in a light citrus dressing with fresh herbs. The subtle sweetness of the tuna is a sign of its freshness, rounded out by the citrus notes and fresh herbs.


At Poultry Stack, you can discover new ways of enjoying chicken, like the Chicken Skin Longganisa (P 195) with a savory chicken and pork filling wrapped in crispy chicken skin. The savory notes of the chicken and pork stuffing is capped by the richness of the crispy chicken skin for a unique flavor experience. It's innovative dishes like this that makes Poultry Stack special, with its own spin on comfort food.


Pasta cravings satisfied with Poultry Stack's refreshing take on the classic pasta dish with rich cream sauce, the Poultry Stack Carbonara (P 225) draped with extra rich cream and loads of cheese topped with a sous vide egg is another comforting option. The rich rustic flavors of the dish add to the homestyle vibe of Poultry Stack, hearty and uncomplicated, just pure and honest flavors.


For the mains, let Poultry Stack take you on a culinary journey around the world, starting with the Peri-Peri Chicken with Dried Coconut Sambal (P 235-Quarter Chicken with Rice & Side/P 360-Half Chicken with 2 Sides), a Latin-inspired chicken dish dusted with Poultry Stack's very own homemade aromatic coconut sambal sprinkle served with chimichurri, turmeric rice, and coleslaw or your rice and side of choice. The tender and juicy chicken, with its subtle and delicate notes, are kicked up by the nutty hints of the coconut sambal, with the chimichurri, coleslaw and turmeric rice completing the rich layers of flavors. The set features perfectly paired sides and rice, but you can also opt to customize your meal with Poultry Stack's wide variety of sides. Poultry Stack offers Cilantro Rice, Plain Rice, Turmeric Rice, Pineapple Fried Rice, Java Rice, Inasal Rice, Japanese Fried Rice, and Garlic Rice. The selection of tasty sides include Coleslaw, Sunny Side-Up Eggs, Tomato Salsa, Red Egg Salsa, Kani Sarada, Thai Papaya Salad, Atcharang Mangga, Pineapple Relish, and PS Fries. 


Poultry Stack then draws inspiration from Japanese flavors with their Chicken Teriyaki (P 235-Quarter Chicken with Rice & Side/P 360-Half Chicken with 2 Sides), with fire-roasted chicken draped with the sweet and salty Japanese teriyaki glaze served with Japanese Fried Rice and Kani Crab Salad or your rice and siding of your choice.  The flavors are bold and fresh, complemented by the Japanese Fried Rice and sweet Kani Crab Salad for a complete meal.


The Thai BBQ Chicken (P 235-Quarter Chicken with Rice & Side/P 360-Half Chicken with 2 Sides), with tender and juicy chicken marinated in Thai herbs and spices served with Poultry Stack's special housemade Thai sauce, Pineapple Rice and Papaya Salad or your choice of rice and siding, is another flavorful option with Southeast Asian notes. The Thai herbs and spices add rich layers of flavors to the dish, pairing well with the sweet and tart Pineapple Rice and Papaya Salad. Chicken with a Thai spin, and it works.


Poultry Stack also offers familiar homegrown flavors. The Pinoy BBQ Chicken (P 235-Quarter Chicken with Rice & Side/P 360-Half Chicken with 2 Sides) with fire-grilled chicken glazed with the comfortingly recognizable sweet, sour and smoky notes served with Java Rice and Pinoy-style Pickled Mangoes is another sure bet at Poultry Stack. Homey and with a touch of nostalgia, the dish just brings back fond memories of special family chicken dinners from childhood. The Java Rice and sweet Pickled Mangoes complete the dish.


Make it a real chicken dinner with the Poultry Stack Garlic Overload Chicken (P 490), tender and juicy chicken marinated in curry, herbs, and spices, deep-fried to crispy perfection and finally tossed with aromatic lime leaf, crispy onions, spices, and lots of garlic, served with Thai sauce and two sides or rice. Perfect for sharing, the richly seasoned and marinated chicken delivers complex flavors, capped by the nutty notes of garlic. Other tasty chicken dishes include their take on the regional classic, the Chicken Inasal (P 235-Quarter Chicken with Rice & Side/P 360-Half Chicken with 2 Sides), and the inventive Pinoy Sate Chicken (P 199). Or you can go with Poultry Stack's other signature dishes, like the Crackling Pork Belly with Cilantro Rice (P 235), Crispy Beef Hay with Garlic Rice (P 269), and Garlic Overload Bangus (P 219).


Save room for dessert with Poultry Stack's indulgent selection of sinful temptations, like this Salted Caramel creation with marshmallows and cookies...


...and Poultry Stack's Dulce de Leche Creme Brulee (P 69), a rustic caramelized sweetened milk custard capped with a layer of caramelized sugar to cap a satisfying meal.


The Coconut Pandan Pannacotta (P 59), a creamy panna cotta served in a shot glass topped with pandan syrup; and the Calamansi Cheesecake (P 149), with a rich and creamy brown butter cheesecake with just a hint of calamansi, combine for a perfect and indulgent pair. 


The Banana Tatin with Vanilla Ice Cream (P 178) is another decadent option, elegantly plated drizzled with caramel and chocolate. Poultry Stack's desserts are impressive, best paired with a freshly brewed cup of coffee.


The PS Brookie, a double dose of pure chocolate love with layers of freshly baked chocolate cookie and brownie drizzled with caramel and topped with vanilla ice cream served on a cast iron skillet is another winner. Moist, chewy, and decadent, it has everything you want for a cool chocolate fix. From starters to mains and desserts, Poultry Stack has it covered. Hungry? Check out Poultry Stack and discover chicken from around the world, capped by their elegant desserts...

Poultry Stack is located at 24-C Scout Tuason Street, Tomas Morato, Quezon City or call 410-5050 for inquiries and more information.

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Time For Tacos at La Taqueria Amiga Mia

May 19, 2017, 8:47 pm
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Nachos, tacos, burritos, and chimichangas, comforting Tex-Mex fare that always hits the spot. And you can find that one spot that serves Tex-Mex the right way at the heart of Quezon City...


La Taqueria Amiga Mia serves classic Tex-Mex cuisine the old-fashioned way, using real corn masa for their signature tacos and nachos. Boiled and stoneground for that authentic crunch and snap, you won't find dehydrated corn meal or commercial products with corn starch at La Taqueria Amiga Mia. This is classic old-school Tex-Mex prepared and served the old-fashioned way...


Chefs Gene and Gino Gonzalez offer their take on classic Tex-Mex cuisine at La Taqueria Amiga Mia, a cozy spot along Scout Castor in Tomas Morato. The colorful yet compact space is one the area's secret hidden gems for some serious Tex-Mex, offering all your all-time favorites from south of the border. Take the tasty Banacho (P 140/P 270), crisp chips made from sweet plantains and served with Black Bean Dip, Salsa Cruda, and Cheese Sauce. Perfectly crisp with a whisper of sweetness, it's a whole new way of enjoying nachos.


La Taqueria Amiga Mia's signature Tortilla is another popular favorite, with three soft tortillas made from real corn masa loaded with a variety of fresh fillings. At La Taqueria Amiga Mia, it's all about real and fresh flavors from the finest ingredients. 


La Taqueria Amiga Mia's signature Tortilla (P 245 for three pieces), available in flour or crispy tortillas or any combination, served with Mexican Slaw, Salsa Cruda, Cheese sauce, Sour Cream, and Taco Cheese with your choice of Ground Beef, Chicharones, Pollo Asada, Carnitas Barbacoa, Mexican Sausage, Callos, Lengua, Karne Asado, and Pescado is a refreshing meal in itself. Each bite delivers vibrant notes, from the fresh herbs and vegetables, the combination of sauces, and the savory filling. That evening, we tried the Ground Beef, Callos, and Mexican Sausage, with each tortilla having its own distinct savory notes. The richness of the melt-in-your-mouth Callos, the flavorful beefy punch of the Ground Beef, and the sharp notes of the Mexican Sausage add to the medley of flavors.  


Fresh and real flavors, just the way Tex-Mex should be. And you can find it here at one of Quezon City's secret hidden gems...at La Taqueria Amiga Mia. 

La Taqueria Amiga Mia is located at 93-B Scout Castor Street, Laging Handa, Tomas Morato, Quezon City or call 411-1234 for inquiries.

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