Mercato Favorites Weekend Treat, A Special Weekend All Foodies Should Look Forward To

A couple of weeks before the Lent, I was able to experience the wonder of a foodie heaven that is Mercato Centrale. Despite the scorching heat of the sun that day, the countless number of food from different merchants that lies before me serves as an oasis of hope that it is going to be one hardcore food tripping. Nothing beats the feeling of feasting on good food and being acquainted with people who have as much love and respect for food like you do. I promised myself that I would definitely go back to Mercato Centrale and experience Midnight Mercato as well.

Mercato Centrale

Although it has always been a practice to avoid meat during Lenten Season, the recent holy week was indeed a sacrifice for me. I was diagnosed with a rare kind of allergy which obliges me to forgo eating some food that I would normally take during Lent. I was rather forced to take fasting seriously because of my allergy and I have never felt so deprived of food until that time. During those time, I cannot help but remember all the good food I have enjoyed at Mercato.

Rodrigo's Roast

Bagwang of ManilaQ

Grilled Seafood and Meats by Oysters Seafood Grill

Lasagna of Mad About Spuds by Juana's Kitchen

Cheezy Potato of Mad About Spuds by Juana's Kitchen

Desserts by Madonna's Cuisine

Now, after days of medication and rest, the allergy somehow subside and I was advised that I can already go back enjoying the food I love without the fear of being hospitalized again. Fasting days are over as well. I am thankful of the favorable medical result and another thing that I am thankful for is the Mercato Favorites Weekend Treat that will happen on April 30 and May 1, 2011. This special weekend will happen just in time for me to pick up my pacing of being a foodie that I am.



It is not as if the idea of food tripping isn’t exciting enough, but the great deals and discounts that Mercato Central Merchants have for foodies are all amazingly irresistible. This weekend is going to be really special.
Baked By Anita (Buy 3 cupcakes and get 3 more for free)Bale Dutung (Get 1 Lechon Tortilla for every 3 Tortillas purchased)Big Bob’s Charcoal Grilled Burgers (Buy 2 Big Bob’s Burgers and get a third at 50% off)The Classic Roast (Purchase any item on the menu and get a cocktail-size duck siopao for free)Chucks’s Grubberie ( Chuck’s Triple Grub: Buy 2 orders of any regular fish , and get a third order for free)Homemade Ravioli ( Buy 1 box of frozen ravioli (any flavor) and get a sampler plate of ALL the ravioli flavors, including the all new Spinach and Mushroon cannelloni)Jam Foods & Co. (Buy 2 and get the 3rd at 50% off)Little Miss O.C.'s Kitchen ( Buy 4 Terra Chips and get 1 Free, Buy 4 3D Cupcakes and get 1 Free)Manang's Chicken (50% off on Set Meal of 1 pc. chicken with rice and drink)Merry Moo (Buy one scoop and get P20 off on the second scoop)Mochiko (Buy 5 mochi ice creams and get another one for free)Off Beat (Buy 2 Offbeat Glazed Donut Bun Burgers and get 50% off the Enzo Ensaymada Chorizo Burger)Tina's Pie (P20 off on all chicken pies, chicken with chorizo and chicken cordon bleu)Risa (For every 700php purchase, get a free 6-pc assorted trufles set or 1 Cuadro Chocolate Bar)Simply Pie! (P50 off on every box of mini-quiches)


People can’t help falling in love with Mercato Central. I, myself have already taken the plunge in this delightful love affair with this foodie paradise. If you haven’t been to Mercato, this weekend is the right time to pay a visit and feast on delectable food with your loved ones. See you there!


Mercato Central
Location:34th street and 8th avenue (across MC Home Depot)
Fri: 10:00 pm - 3:00 am
Sat: 7:00 am - 2:00 pm
10:00 pm - 3:00 am
Sun: 7:00 am - 2:00 pm
www.mercatocentrale.ph

admin@mercatocentrale.ph

+63917 5318949

On Facebook
On Twitter

Chicken Charlie's Soul-Satisfying Bonchon Crispy Chicken

When I received an invite from juice.ph’s resident blogger, Manila Boy Spanky Enriquez to try the best chicken bonchon in town with some foodie friends, I knew instantly that he’s referring to Chicken Charlie. I was right.

I’ve already visited Chicken Charlie’s San Juan branch number of times and before making a blog post about it, came Spank’s irresistible invite since another branch in Malate, Manila has already opened. I’ve tried similar restaurants which offer chicken bonchon but Chicken Charlie still remains on top of my list. Even my family has gone loco over their chicken.



True to its promise of giving their customers a “Perfectly Non-Greasy with a Soul-Satisfying Crunch" bonchon chicken, Ifore Yu, owner of Chicken Charlie obviously mastered the recipe and the double-frying technique. The process of frying chicken twice to give it a crunchiness that can rock your world is a welcome change to the usual fried chicken.

What I love about Chicken Charlie is that the flavor does not just tease your palate as you bite on the crispy skin with all its crunch and glory, but it also plays well in every fiber of every shred of the chicken. The flavor, be it soy garlic or sweet chili flirts to your senses, making you crave for more.


Another offering one can enjoy is their Charlie’s Bowl. Steamy soft rice topped with crispy strips of chicken in soy garlic sauce. Although Chicken Charlie’s bonchon chicken is not really messy to eat because it has less grease and less sticky compare to others, if you are on the go, you can still experience the taste of their delightful chicken without fuss with their Charlie’s Bowl.



Aside from Chicken, they also have Potato Wedges and Cheesestick Dynamite. Potato wedges are big, crunchy European potatoes cooked with the skin on using unhydrogenerated oil (read: zero trans fat!). Cheesestick Dynamites are spanking big green chilis with cheese inside wrapped in crunchy wonton wrapper. Both are good combination to chicken, both are equally addictive.




For drinks aside from the usual iced tea and soft drinks, they offer Bundaberg Sarsa Parilla and Ginger Beer. Sarsa Parilla is already known to most of us as it taste just like root beer. Although it is best paired with chicken bonchon, personally, I prefer Ginger Beer because of its refreshing taste.



Note that chickens are cooked as you order, therefore there’s a little waiting time. If you are up for something really soul satisfying chicken, then it wouldn’t bother you because it is worth the wait. Some says that the crispiness of the chicken cold last for good 20 to 30 minutes, but when I brought home some, the chicken is still crispy after an hour travel time.

Young Entrepreneur, Owner of Chicken Charlie, Ifore Yu

Chicken Charlie has branches at Banawe, San Juan, and Malate. Expect for more store opening in the future because they are now open for franchising.


For franchising inquiries you can contact them through the following info details.

Chicken Charlie

Branches:
Banawe - 808 Banawe St. Barangay sienna (near SOGO hotel)
San Juan - 15 J. Abad Santos St. Little Baguio SanJuan.
Malate - 1635 Adriatico St, Malate Manila (Rothman Inn Hotel),

Telephone Numbers:
Banawe: 742-3333, 475-3781, 0932-2519475
SanJuan: 477-7422, 736-9315, 0932-3125854

Email address: chickencharlieph@yahoo.com
Website: ChickenCharlie.net
Facebook: Chicken Charlie FB Fan Page

Max's Restaurant Coffee Table Book ‘The House That Fried Chicken Built’

After 66 years of serving the Filipinos with their famous Sarap to the Bones Fried Chicken, Max’s Restaurant launched their first coffee table book, aptly titled “The House That Fried Chicken Built” last April 12, 2011 in their first restaurant branch at Scout Tuason, Quezon City.



The 196-page narrative was written by celebrated writers Robert JA Basilio and Sonia Pinto Ner, niece of Max Founder Maximo Gimenez. It recounts the humble beginning of Max’s Restaurant and its transition into being part of Filipino Tradition, as it passed on from generation to generation.

In the book, passionate individuals behind the brand such as the family that started the tradition, employees, stakeholders, and even their patrons shared compelling stories about the restaurant which we Filipinos grew up with. Vibrantly memorable photos from Max’s Restaurant in Scout Tuason Quezon City circa 1945 and sumptuous snapshots of Max’s traditionally home-cooked dishes adds charm to the pages of the book.

'The House That Fried Chicken Built' Coffee Table Book

Book Authors Sonia Ner and Robert Basilio

Co-Author Sonia Ner Signs Books During the Launch

Max’s core value such as hard-work, hospitality, and love for family were also discussed in the book as one of the writer, Ner recounts how the first-generation family member, and restaurant’s first cook, Ruby Trota intricately prepared meals with such love and passion.

Max's Classic Favorites

“Max’s coffee table book is a celebration of the Filipino’s love not only for fried chicken, but for family, celebration and tradition. Max’s enduring legacy is encapsulated in the book as the ‘House That Fried Chicken Built’ continues to capture the hearts of Filipinos worldwide, generation after generation,” said Jim Fuentebella, Max’s Vice President for Corporate Marketing.

Max's Marketing Team with Max's Jim Fuentebella

Max’s coffee table book will be initially sold at Max’s Restaurant Scout Tuason Branch at PhP2,500. Part of the proceeds will be utilized for Max’s corporate social responsibility programs.




Max's Restaurant
21 Scout Tuazon,
Brgy.Laging Handa,
Quezon City

www.maxschicken.com
http://twitter.com/maxsrestaurant
http://www.facebook.com/maxsrestaurant




*photos without the author's mark credits to Bright Idea Events Management

Hyphy's by Chef Bruce Lim

Weeks ago, when I received an invite from Robinsons Galleria and Mr. Ivan Henares for a food tour in Robinsons The Veranda, I was so excited I almost forgot that I have prior commitment to attend to. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, much to my dismay, I wasn’t able to attend the event. What a bummer. Good thing that the favorable proximity of Robinson’s Galleria to my place allows me to drop by to try new restaurants at The Veranda. First stop, Hyphy’s.


My friend Glenn and I were again, on our way to a food event when we decided to drop by at Hyphy’s first instead of just grabbing our usual coffees before heading to the event. Yes, an afternoon snack at Hyphy’s before attending a food event, we are hardcore that way. I guess you cannot blame us because just the sight of this gorgeously decorated restaurant by well-known Chef Bruce Lim is enough for one to just grab a sit and bury oneself on its menu and feast on the food.

Raised in San Francisco but rooted in the Philippines, Chef Bruce Lim is kind enough to share his San Francisco culinary knowledge and incorporate it to the usual Filipino comfort food to give it a delectable kick which we can all enjoy. I appreciate that he took time to visit us at our table to introduce himself and welcome us.

Hyphy’s exudes sophisticated aura so, imagine how surprised I was when I saw that the prices on their menu was very affordable. Although they could have added more choices of food, the line up in the menu were enough to pique one’s searching palate. We decided to stay away from heavy meal because of the dinner we have to attend to but little did we know that the food we ordered for snack comes in huge servings. Huge servings, affordable price, lovely isn’t it?



Baked Macaroni (150php)

Baked Macaroni has always been one of ultimate comfort food. I love how Hyphy’s serve it in such a way that it pleases Filipino palate with its slightly sweet and savory taste. The pasta was cooked perfectly while the generous amount of melted cheese on top was both pleasing to the eye and to the palate. For the price of 150php, a serving is enough for sharing.



Malunggay Pesto (150php)

This dish really impressed me. Malunggay and basil leaves tossed in pasta and topped with perfectly grilled chicken sprinkled with parmesan cheese. The generous serving of grilled chicken on top really makes it more enticing and appetite busting. This is a kind of dish that will definitely satiate ones hunger for a good meal. Just like Baked Macaroni, a serving is good for sharing.



Garlic Fries (120php)

Thick cut fries tossed in garlic and parsley. I am not a french fries person but when I tried Hyphy’s version of it, I am instantly a convert.



Hyphy’s House Iced Tea and Dayap Iced Tea (80php each)

One of those kick-ass drinks that wouldn’t taste bland even if the ice on it already melts. Both drinks were very refreshing but their Dayap Iced Tea was the one that impressed me most. The taste of dayap is very prominent but not overwhelming, perfect drink this hot summer days in replacement to the usual soda.



With all the familiar restaurants in Robinsons Galleria, Hyphy’s is definitely a welcome change. An addition to every good restaurant in that place, Hyphy’s instantly becomes one of my favorite. During our visit, the staff was very friendly and accommodating. They visit us on our table and introduce themselves just to check if we need something or if we are enjoying our meal. Little kind gestures like that are too hard not to notice. I always believe that nice ambiance and good food just make up 70% of a good dining experience and the rest relies on how the food attendants treat you. Hyphy’s just scored a hundred percent in my book.



This is one of the restaurants I would definitely go back to and recommend to anyone I know who loves good food, nice ambiance, and superb service.




Hyphy's by Chef Bruce Lim
The Veranda, Robinsons Galleria, Quezon City, Philippines
Telephone: +632 477-7611
Facebook: Hyphy's

A Delicious Weekend at The Best Food Forward

Nothing is sweeter than to end a tiresome week with good friends who shares the same love and passion for food and good conversation. Last week was quite a challenge for me as I run against time just so I can finish all tasks at hand. Good thing that after the crazy week that was, my friends and I were able to attend the last day of Best Food Forward held at NBC Tent, Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Proceeds from the event will go to Bayan-anihan and the Unang Hakbang Foundation, so it’s like helping others while enjoying good food. Indeed it was one delicious summer weekend.


A lot of merchants from the food industry joined the fair to showcase their products. Some are already well known while the others are just on the onset of introducing their business to the market, nevertheless, most of them are worthy of your money and time. Every stall there put so much effort in order for the public to enjoy what they can offer.

I couldn’t count how many food I have tried and enjoyed, so these are just some of them who really captures not just my attention but my palate as well.

Spinach, Feta, Sundried Tomatoes Mini Quiche and Mushroom & Sour cream Mini Quiche by SIMPLY PIE


Simply Pie
Baby Pies, Puff Pies, Muffins, Healthy Cakes
For Orders or Inquiries:
Contact Person: Gail Genevieve Ang
Tel. No.: 341-2238
Mobile No.: 0922-8822194
Email: gailgenevieve@yahoo.com
Website: www.simplypie.multiply.com
Facebook: www.facebbok.com/simplypie





Insanely Delicious Cupcakes by KLAR JOSEPH

Try their Red Velvet, Bailey’s, S’mores, and The Diplomat. They are all to die for! Gorgeous couple Klarisse and Joseph who owns this business are so nice and very accommodating to their customers. Very promising cupcakes!


Klar Joseph
Tel. No.: 633-9954
Mobile No.: 0917-5335527
Email: klarjo@gmail.com
Website: thespoonisflat.com




Wicked Bites by DRAGONFLY DESSERTS

Their wicket bites is extremely moist and chocolatey with a kick of chili spice. A more solid version of Gelatissimo’s Chocolate Chili Gelato, in my opinion.

Dragonfly Desserts
Tel. No.: 506-9922 / 415-8008
Mobile No.: 0917-8780001 / 09098888802
Email: cherylannlim@yahoo.com
Website: dragonflydesserts.multiply.com




Brazo Bars of SUPREME BRAZO BARS

Supreme Brazo Bars by Ces Lopez
Tel. No.: 722-5638
Mobile No.: 0917-8271518
Email: supremebrazobars@yahoo.com
Website: www.supremebrazobars.com




Moist Chocolate Cake with Caramel and Bread Pudding Crème Brule by MED CHEF

Their Moist Chocolate Cake with Caramel still haunts me in my sleep up to this day and Chef Hasset’s signature dessert Crème Brule is equally worth raving about.

Med Chef by Chef Hasset Go
139 Mo. Ignacia Ave. Diliman Quezon City
Tel. No.: 585-6052 / 732-3355
Mobile No.: 0917-8338628 / 0915-4871332
Facebook: www.facebook.com/medchef




Caramel and Ginger Lime French Macarons from CHRISTA

Christa
Tel. No.: 2119874
Mobile No.: 0917-8905747
Email: chrsitaskitchen@yahoo.com
Website: christaskitchen.multiply.com
Facebook: Christa’s Kitchen
Twitter: MacaronsbyXTA




Blackforrest Bons from LIQUEUER BONBONS

Liqueur Bon Bons by Joana
Tel. No.: 502-7941
Mobile No.: 0917-5783339
Email: liqueurbonbons@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/liqueurbonbons



Chocolate Crinkles from JIMENEZ BAKERY
Jimenez Bakery
Mobile No.: 0916-6064815 / 0919-5747784
Email: jimenez.bakery@yahoo.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jimenezbakery




Cookies, Chocolates, Brownies and other sweets by MELANGE FATTISSERIE

Melange Fattisserie
Mobile No.: 0926-6200572 / 0906-3583943
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MelangeFattisserie



Healthy Carrot Cake by THE LOW CAL CAFÉ

The Low Cal Café
Tel. No.: 871-6508
Mobile No.: 0917-3205463
Email: lowcalcafe@yahoo.com
Website: www.lowcalcafe.multiply.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lowcalcafe



In between feasting on sweets and savory treats, we also had some Lechon Cebu and Food Guru's Beef/Chicken Kebab at the Outdoor Grilling Area of the event.






Again, these are just some of the food I have enjoyed immensely during the food fair but there are still others that are good as well. I’ll probably make an individual post in the future for these good food finds and to others which are not on this list.



Best Food Forward was indeed a success. Affordable good food in one place are very rare to find these days, good thing that food fairs like this are held. My family enjoyed all of the food I have brought them from the fair and they were even planning on joining me for the next food fair I am going to attend with my friends. Such a lovely way to bring people together.




I hope there will be more Best Food Forward Food Fairs to come in the future.



Best Food Forward
Website: http://www.bestfoodforward.com.ph/
Facebook: Best Food Forward