Winners of The Manila Best Kept Restaurant Secrets (MBKRS) Awards 2012

A near-full moon shone over Enderun Colleges Culinary Center on the night of “The Oscars of Manila’s Restaurant Industry”, The MBKRS Awards 2012.  The large hall of the center’s atrium was packed to the brim with chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, media and other guests, waiting with bated breath to hear the results that would be announced that night.  30 award categories, 150 nominees, and a panel of over 100 judges—these are the key elements in this prestigious awarding ceremony that recognizes excellence in Manila’s dining scene.

Elian Habayeb and Ines Cabarus of the MBKRS

This year’s awards were held on November 27 to a record crowd. Before the ceremony began, guests mingled, munched and sipped on fabulous food and wine sponsored by some of the best restaurants and beverage companies in the city.  None other than the honorable secretary of tourism Ramon Jimenez Jr. opened the awards with an inspiring speech.  Jimenez urged restaurants to constantly strive for excellence, all the while maintaining “focus” and “consistency”.

Solace Wine & Dine in Makati City

Whenever I am in Makati City, the place I usually go to when in search for restaurants to visit is Greenbelt area.  It has always been convenient since restaurants at Greenbelt are varied. But i have to admit that sometimes, I crave for something new. Perhaps a place located nearby but isn't too crowded and noisy.  Good thing that recently, I was introduced to Solace Wine & Dine.

Tucked at the ground floor of One Greenbelt Hotel in Arnaiz St., just right at the back of New World Hotel. Solace is a perfect place for someone who is in search for comforting food in a relaxing ambiance away from the busy mall area.

While the place exudes a rather intimidating feat, one shouldn't be deceived because Solace Wine & Dine carries impressive line of menu with reasonable price. The place is not that big but every corner screams comfort inviting everyone to sit back and relax over delectable dishes that Solace has to offer.

Noche Buena Themed Cooking Demo by Yummy Magazine and Lady's Choice

I have been meaning to attend Yummy Magazine's cooking demos, especially when they launched Pass The Plate, months ago, but unfortunately, my schedule was way too crazy.  I've experienced attending cooking demos by Yummy before and I love the fact that I didn't just enjoyed those demos but I learned from it as well.  Good thing though that last Saturday, I was able to drop by at Robinsons Galleria where they conducted their recent demo in partnership with Lady's Choice.

The demo with the theme Noche Buena aimed to start off the Christmas month with delicious flair.

While I was thrilled to learn exciting recipes and easy-to-do dishes just in time for the holiday season, my excitement was taken a notch because my friend and fellow foodie Chef Katherine Jao was one of the chefs who performed during the demo.  Another equally talented chef who graced the demo was Chef Dianne dela Cruz of Lady's Choice.