Staycation at Oakwood Premier Hotel Manila in Ortigas [Part One]

One of the things I love doing for my blog aside from dining at restaurants is writing about hotel staycations here in Manila. So, when this month was welcomed with a weekend staycation at Oakwood Premier Manila in Ortigas, I know I have to make time even if it entails moving mountain. It is my birth month after all, I figured I could use a break from the usual.

Having experienced several themed buffets at Oakwood Premier Manila's Oakroom Restaurant, I have always been confident that they are well worth sharing here on my blog. I even hosted couple of giveaways out of Oakwood's generosity and belief that great food are meant to be shared. This time though, what I am sharing is my weekend staycation experience at Oakwood.

If you have been a long time reader, you know how enthusiastic I can get especially when it comes to telling some great experiences about my little adventures. Add to that the fact that I can get trigger happy when exposed to lovely surroundings with pleasant ambiance. Disclaimer though, as with most of the things I have shared here on YedyLicious, this is not a review, I am just sharing my stories with you. Yes, this is going to be a long post with lots of photos and I deem it is only apt to divide it into parts. And this first part right here is what I call, "A Little Tour of My Room at Oakwood."

Nomama at Capitol Commons

Weeks ago, together with some of my favorite Manila food bloggers, we visited Nomama Artisanal Ramen's branch at Capitol Commons in Pasig City to try new dishes on Nomama's Menu. I have always been a fan of chef Him Uy de Baron, so, regardless the fact that there are a lot of ramen places sprouting in Manila, Nomama is still on top of my list.

While the closing of their branch at Quezon City saddened a lot of ramen enthusiast from the North which shares the same affinity for Nomama Artisanal Ramen, the opening of their new branch at Capitol Commons brought joy nonetheless.

I may have mentioned before that I am not one of those who posses an extensive knowledge when it comes to ramen. But I know my palate, and having given a chance to be exposed in some of the ramen places here in Manila, I know what can makes me happy. Ramen with hearty broth that comforts, ingredients that are fresh, and noodles that are made with respect to the dish - this is my kind of ramen. Nomama never fall short in giving me that.

Oktoberfest at Brotzeit, Shangri-La Plaza Mall

October is an exciting month for me not only because it is my birth month, but it is also because it is a month of festivity called Oktoberfest. Since this celebration originated in Germany, there couldn't be apt way to celebrate it than to visit your favorite German restaurant wherever you are and partake with the feast. In my case, it's the Oktoberfest at Brotzeit German Bier Bar and Restaurant.

Our visit at Brotzeit in Edsa Shangri-la Mall to join them in the kick off of their Oktoberfest at Brotzeit celebration prompted us with an awesome night filled with good food, great beer, and a fun experience in general. This month long festivity isn't just reserved for those who were present during its launching because rest assured, the whole month of October is made extra special for everyone.

In line with this celebration, Brotzeit will be giving away Limited Edition Brotzeit Oktoberfest T-shirt and an Original Paulaner Beer Stein to the first 200 guests that can present Php8,000 worth of accumulated receipts at Brotzeit. This promo started last October 1st up to the 31st.

Best Food Forward 2014: Come and Join the Most Awaited Benefit Food Fair in Manila!

If you have been reading my blog, you know by now that one of the food fairs in Manila that I have always been supporting is Best Food Forward. Who could ever blame me? It's a benefit food fair, nothing beats the nice feeling of feasting on great food for a cause. That's always been Best Food Forward's goal from the get go, so, I am all for it. Now the good news is they are back this year, celebrating their 4th year in making food enthusiasts in Manila happy and helping our fellow countrymen in need while in the process.

This coming October 11 to 12, 2014, from 10am to 8pm, The Most Awaited Benefit Food Fair, Best Food Forward will be staging their two-day food fair event at The Rockwell Tent in Makati, City. Since there have been a lot of flood victims in the past year up to now, Best Food Forward beneficiaries will be the flood victims and survivors.

I remember the very first time I attended Best Food Forward way back in 2011 with some of my friends. It was one of those days when I have met the most talented home bakers and food business owners which up to now I still look up to. I also remember enjoying every minute of it since I was exposed to a lot of new food finds which ended up as my favorites up to this day. Now that Best Food Forward is on its fourth year, I know that there are a lot of great things to expect.

YedyLicious X The Food Scout at CHInoy TV, Living Asia Channel

I rarely post photos of my big fat face here on the blog because as you may have known, there's no shortage of indulging fatty food photos here at YedyLicious. I figured we don't need another photos of anything fatty here, do we? 

But I am giving this one a go.

Reason being is, I am inviting you my dear friends to watch CHInoy TV this Sunday from 10am to 11am at Living Asia Channel with live streaming at www.ptv.ph from 10am to 10:30am.

My friend Jill of The Food Scout Blog and I, together with CHInoy TV host Jason Alexander Kiong will be showing you three amazing Chinese restaurants along Banawe in Quezon City. This particular segment of CHInoy TV is called Chinoy Chart, a count down of top brands under different categories. This Sunday, the spotlight is on food, Jill and I are more than happy to be part of it.

Before I head on to my behind the scene stories, here is a little background as to what CHInoy TV is all about, for those who are not familiar.

Linguini Fini Manila at SM Mega Fashion Hall

Linguini Fini, Manila is an Italian restaurant that hails from Hong Kong known for its farm-to-table and nose-to-tail concept. It is one of the newest additions to the ever growing restaurants at SM Mega Fashion Hall in SM Megamall. Serving artisanal food made from scratch using sustainable locally sourced ingredients, Linguini Fini Manila made quite of a noise since its opening early this month especially among Manila Food Bloggers.

Lingiuini Fini was brought here in the Philippines by the Moment Group (‘Cue, Manam, Burger Bar, 8 Cuts, and Phat Pho) in partnership with Todd Darling and Robert Spina of Homegrown Foods. To secure the success of its opening here n our country, Linguini Fini Hong Kong's Executive Chef Vincent "Vinny" Lauria flew in to personally run the kitchen at this early stage of Linguini Fini here in the Philippines.

I was dead set on trying out Linguini Fini upon hearing that they do serve fresh pasta from scratch. I am at a point in my life where making my own pasta from scratch is a normal occurrence at home and I have come to appreciate the innate goodness of it. Living in the countryside made me appreciate the beauty of farm-to-table concept.

My Thoughts on Sliders at Slammin' Mini Burgers + Fries + Dips @slamminminiburgers

I was under the impression that there’s not a snowball chance in the desert that I would ever enjoy Slammin’ Mini Burgers. For one, it has the word “mini” attached to its name. And for a big girl like me, it is not a word I would want to deal with especially when it comes to material things in life that matters. Mini car, mini house, mini clothes - oh, don’t get me started on mini clothes, and yes, mini food. These things, I believe call for “supersize me” marked on its forehead. So naturally, when it comes to burger – one of the things in life that matters, needless to say, I want it manly and macho. Sliders are such tease! Those burger sizes that could put my big fat face to shame? I like those.

But as with all things in life, even a mini burger deserves a chance. Hence, a visit to Slammin’ Mini Burger, Fries, and Dips at their Promenade, Greenhills branch.

It turns out that Slammin’ Mini Burger is the revamp version of Slammers Burger. I used to see their kiosk just right beside Big Chill at Greenhills before they moved to the new Promenade building but I never had a chance nor the desire to try them out for reasons previously stated. The name is a dead giveaway ~ Slammin' specializes on all-American sliders and fries with different dips, and then some.

Bono Artisanal Gelato at Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall: New Flavors to Enjoy!

Last weekend, I paid a visit to Bono Artisanal Gelato at SM Mega Fashion Hall to try their new flavors. Rea, one of the great minds behind this rockstar gelateria has always been excited and proud to introduce Bono's new flavors. I figured, despite the loaded schedule and slightly injured ankle, I should pay a visit to check out their new babies since I am a self confessed Bono fan (Both the rockstar and the gelato, mind you.)

Since Bono Artisanal Gelato opened its door to the gelato-hungry public, several flavors were introduced. This time they have Butterbeer Gelato and The Spoiled Mommy Sundae up their sleeves to once again entertain the palates of gelato-lovers out there.

Their branch at SM Mega Fashion Hall in Mandaluyong is a welcome addition to the branches I usually frequent to. I am from the Eastern part of the Metro, so it is their branch at Podium that I would normally visit. Their branch in Megamall however became an instant favorite since with all the new restaurants opening in the area, it is where I would usually spend my time roaming around. I love that Bono is continuously branching out. People deserve good gelato, to be honest.

The Rockwell’s 4th Ultimate Taste Test 2014: Join the Gastronomic Funfare!

Hey foodies! It’s the time of the year once again to put on your food critic hat and enjoy variety of food samples as Our Awesome Planet and San Miguel Lifestyle Brews presents Rockwell’s 4th Ultimate Taste Test 2014. This food tasting event will feature 50+ home-based food businesses alongside some food establishments under Power Plant Mall’s umbrella. Needless to say, it is going to be a day filled with gastronomic funfare.

I have been supporting Rockwell’s Ultimate Taste Test since 2011 and until now, theirs is definitely one of my favorite food fairs that I love to attend.  While I have been a fan of the entire Ultimate Taste Test series, the experiences and the food finds I encountered at their Rockwell UTT proved to be incomparable ( Thanks to nice location and comfortable tent set up).

So, if you are as excited as I am to be a food critic at Rockwell’s 4th Ultimate Taste Test 2014, here are the details.

Sizzlin' Steak (Formerly Sizzlin' Pepper Steak) #SizzlinSteak @sizzlinsteak

Sizzlin' Steak is not a new concept in Philippines restaurant scene. It used to go by the name Sizzlin' Pepper Steak which most of us are familiar with giving their years in the business. They are known to serve variety of food choices on a patented hot plate system wherein diners can cook their own food, particularly steak, in no time. The slight change in name was brought about by the restaurants re-branding in keeping with the ever changing needs in the market.

This re-branding is slowly being rolled out in every Sizzlin' Steak branch nationwide. With this re-branding, new items like the Sizzlin' Pasta and processes such as the customizable sizzlin' plate are being slowly introduced to the market.

Recently, I went to check out their branch at Greenhills, Promenade to try some of their specialties and to experience the new ordering process they are now rolling out which is the make your own sizzlin' steak plate. While Sizzlin' Steak is not foreign to me, the customizable plate was.

Genuine Broaster Chicken® at Robinsons Magnolia: The Healthy Alternative to Fried Chicken is Now in The Philippines

My visit recently at Broaster Chicken located at Robinsons Magnolia opened my eyes to a new world of well-loved comfort food, fried chicken. The fact that Broaster Chicken is all about providing healthy alternative to the usual sinfully delicious fried chicken, made me embraced this new world without hesitation.

Broaster Chicken is known for their crisp, light, and juicy chicken cooked through Broasting. Most of us may not be familiar with the term Broasting, I myself has little knowledge of it prior to my visit at Broaster Chicken. But if you have seen the episode of Travel Channel’s Man Vs. Food wherein the host, Adam Richmam featured Broasted Chicken, then you’ll have an idea. So yes, we are not talking about straight up fried chicken here, this post is all about the healthy option for the fried chicken lovers in all of us ~ broasted chicken.

By definition, Broasting a chicken is a cooking method made possible by using a pressure fryer and special condiments. This pressure fryer used in creating genuine broasted chicken is not just anything you could grab at any appliance store. It is an equipment manufactured by Broaster Company based in Beloit Wisconsin, licensor of Genuine Broaster Chicken.  So, unless a store is using this Broaster Pressure Fryer from its license manufacturer, the authenticity of broasted chicken may be questionable.

Osaka Ohsho at SM Megamall: New Dishes on the Menu

We recently visited Osaka Ohsho in SM Megamall to try new dishes on their menu. Osaka Ohsho is known for their gyoza tagged by many as "World's No. 1 Gyoza" but they also offer other great tasting dishes well worth one's hard earned money. The newly added dishes on the menu are variety of Fuwatoro Tenshin Han which can be availed ala carte or through Fuwatoro sets.

For those who is not familiar, Fuwatoro Tenshin Han is one of Osaka Ohsho's best sellers that is made of soft and fluffy Koshihikari rice covered with equally fluffy and velvety scrambled egg. It is sort of like omu rice, only better.

Although with limited choices, Fuwatoro Tenshin Han Set is already available at Osaka Ohsho when it opened here in our country. Now, Osaka Ohsho expanded the choices for this set by adding four new options; Ebi Tempura, Chicken Karaage, Curry Cheese Tonkatsu, and Mabo Tofu. 

Zabo Chicken at SM Jazz Mall: 18 Spice Chicken, Rice Buffet, and Affordable Mediterranean Dishes

Zabo Chicken is a restaurant at the new SM Jazz Mall in Makati that specializes in slow-roasted 18 Spice Chicken alongside other affordable Mediterranean inspired dishes. This new player in Manila restaurant already established itself enough that within three months of operation, they have already managed to branch out to different locations with four branches all in all as of the time of writing. 

Their slow-roasted Mediterranean style 18 Spice Chicken which recipe they developed for 8 months prior to the opening of their first branch is the pride of Zabo Chicken. Rightfully so, since its flavor is a treat in itself. Zabo's Menu leans heavily on Mediterranean without disregard to Filipino market. That is why they offer Rice Buffet wherein diners could feast on as much rice as they want. The affordability of their price range is another noteworthy thing about Zabo Chicken.

Their branches are located at SM Jazz Mall in Makati, SM BF Paranaque, SM North Edsa, and at Glorietta 4 Food Choices. Being the flagship store of Zabo Chicken, I decided to pay a visit at their SM Jazz Makati branch to check out some of their offerings.

Yumi Japanese Restaurant at Promenade, Greenhills

Yumi is a Japanese restaurant located at the new Promenade building in Greenhills. Owned by the same passionate foodies behind Munchtown and other group of restaurants, Yumi serves Japanese dishes with main focus on the aesthetics of the food from the plate to the palate. With chef Robby Gocco on its helm, one can expect freshly prepared Japanese food which are reasonably priced.

Yumi's menu suggests that it specializes in ramen, sushi, and teppan. Yet, amidst these three well-loved Japanese dishes, there are other items on the menu that are all well worth trying out.

Some of the foodies I know have raved about Yumi way before I have tried it myself. I had a high expectation not just because I trust the judgement and the palates of these foodies but also because it is a restaurant by chef Gocco. I had a chance to visit Yumi when they launched new varieties of Chirashi on their menu. Some of my luncheon mates called the gathering "Chirashi Feast." I, on the other hand call it "An Introduction to a New Favorite Japanese Restaurant." 

GIVEAWAY ALERT: I am Giving Away Buffet for 2 at Sabato Cena Italiana of Oakroom Restaurant, Oakwood Manila

Remember when I wrote about Sabato Cena Italiana Buffet at Oakroom Restaurant of Oakwood Premier Joy-Nostalg Center Manila? Yes, the Italian Buffet Feast happening every Saturday night at Oakwood Manila. Recently, I was given a good news that this themed buffet at Oakroom Restaurant will be extended for three more months due to popular public demand. Well, it only goes to show how good the Italian dishes they are serving at Oakroom. I couldn't agree more because I myself, was deeply impressed with their Italian dishes offerings.

Another good news is that our friends at Oakwood Manila is sponsoring another giveaway for YedyLicious readers! Yay! This time, we will be giving away 1 Sabato Cena Italiana Buffet for 2 Persons. This is going to be a quick giveaway because we want the winner to experience the buffet within the month of September. That's how we are excited for you to try the Italian Buffet Feast at Oakroom Restaurant.

We are all happy and really thankful to those who joined our contest for Oakwood Manila's Tex-Mex Fiesta Grande Buffet Giveaway. Now, we are excited to share with you another chance to win buffet for two which you can share with your loved one.

Teddy's Bigger Burgers in Greenbelt 3, Makati City: Hawaii's Number 1 Burger, Now in Manila Philippines!

Teddy’s Bigger Burgers is Hawaii’s top burger joint that is set to open its first branch here in Manila Philippines, located at Greenbelt 3 in Makati City this Saturday, August 23, 2014. You may have noticed that a lot of Manila Food Bloggers have been raving about Teddy’s Burger Philippines, a new addition to Manila’s burger joints. Well. We couldn’t really blame them; Teddy’s Bigger Burgers wouldn’t be called the number one burger chain for nothing.

To celebrate their opening this Saturday, Teddy’s Burger Philippines prepared something special for those who will be joining them in opening their door to the public. First 100 customers will get free burgers, first 5 customers in line will get one year supply of burgers (one burger per week), sixth to customers in line will get six months supply of burger (one burger per week), and eleventh to twentieth customer in line will get three months supply of burger (one burger per week). So, they strongly suggest that you fall in line early at Teddy’s Bigger Burgers this coming Saturday to be one of the lucky customers who will get free burgers.

Teddy's Bigger Burgers, Greenbelt 3 Makati City

Last Tuesday, we were given a preview of what Teddy’s Bigger Burgers will be offering to the public once they go full operation. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers founders Ted Tsakiris and Rich Stula welcomed us by sharing a little bit of history as to how Teddy’s started and by giving us the chance to try the burgers and other products they are most proud of.

Eri Curry in SM Megamall

Eri Curry is a new restaurant that opened recently at Atrium of SM Megamall which specializes in Japanese curry. There are plenty of Japanese restaurants in Manila but only few carries, if not specializes in this particular dish. This fact makes Eri Curry a welcome addition to Manila restaurant landscape.

History dictates that curry originated in India. They are the culture who popularized this dish using the impressive spices that they are known for. Japan however was introduced to curry during the time when British colonized India. Since its introduction, Japan adapted curry and made their own variation that suits their palates hence, the Japanese curry was born.

Eri Curry, SM Megamall

Japanese adaptation of Indian curry includes reinvention of the sauce by adding fruit stock that lends sweeter taste to it in contrast to the usual spicy and spunky flair of Indian curry. Eri Curry's chef Erica, the mind behind the menu and the face behind the logo, stayed for good many years in the Land of The Rising Sun where she learned to loved Japanese curry. Equipped with her love for the said dish and the passion to create good food, she developed Japanese curry recipe fit for Filipinos, in which is now being used at Eri Curry.

Munchtown in Promenade, Greenhills: Elevating Your Cinema Snacking Experience

Friends told me that snacking inside the movie house while watching new flick will never be the same again once you tried the food at Munchtown located at the new Promenade in Greenhills. Having one of the geniuses in Manila restaurant scene. chef Robby Gocco under its helm, I could not argue. I, myself is a fan. Turning the usual movie snack into a gourmet delight is something only a passionate chef could muster to do with impeccable swag. Chef Gocco, did just that.

Munchtown menu consist primarily of food that is perfect to be eaten on the go, making it convenient for people to eat the goodies inside the movie house. Yet, whether you opt to feast on their offerings while watching movie or not, their location can accommodate good numbers of diners.

Munchtown boasts of offerings such as burgers, fries, pizza, chicken wings, nachos, and hotdog sandwich.  I cannot remember how many times have I declined invites to visit Munchtown and try their food due to my schedule. Good thing that one time I was free, my friend Richard tagged me along for some Hotdog Sandwich Feast at Munchtown. Our group feasted on different variants of gourmet hotdog sandwich that I lost count of how many variants were there. Trust me, there were too many that I was not able to try all of them, so I've only written those which I've tasted.

Hello 5 Vietnamese Premium Coffee from Bennett and Palmer The Global Gourmet Online Store

Bennett and Palmer The Global Gourmet is an online shopping company which aims to bring the world to the Philippines and vice versa by selling variety of gourmet products from and to different countries. They are the exclusive distributor of brands such as Hello 5 Vietnamese Premium Coffee, La Petite Epicerie Saigon (Fruit Jams and Preserves), Marous Faiseurs De Chocolat, Koala Tea Australia, and Phoenix All Natural. I have tried some of the fruit jams, coffee, and chocolate available at Bennett and Palmer but my favorite by far is Hello 5 Vietnamese Premium Coffee.

I love Vietnamese coffee. There is a coffee house in Manila that specializes in Vietnamese coffee which I frequent to but during those days when I am swamped with deadlines and getting out of the house is just impossible, I find comfort that I can make a good cup of Viet coffee on my own.

I have several favorite Vietnamese coffee brands but it was my first time to try  Hello 5 Vietnamese Premium Coffee. Hello 5 carries different craft blends of Vietnamese coffee namely original, organic, mondo, deluxe, and regular. Each blends features a quality of its own variant and what I have tried was the organic one.

Kulinarya Kitchen at Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Makati

Truth be told, I think one of the most underrated restaurants that we have here in Manila is Kulinarya Kitchen. Their first branch located at the Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Makati have been in the business for almost a decade now serving high quality fusion of European and Asian dishes. I deem that it is not the kind of restaurant that creates noise to be noticed. Rightly so, since any restaurant that can create impressive dishes like theirs could have the confidence to have the staying power even without much fuss. After all, they wouldn't be in the business that long for nothing.

I had been to Kulinarya Kitchen several times already since I was first introduced to it. I should have published my first blog post about Kulinarya way way back but it was only recently that I discovered that the post had been sitting on my draft folder for what seemed like forever, much to my dismay. Usual blog auto-post fail, but I digress. I already updated the information here, allow me catch up.

Dim Sum Buffet at Crystal Jade Greenhills

Couple of months ago, Crystal Jade Dining IN at BGC, The Fort launched its Weekend Dim Sum Buffet which proved to be an exciting feat for those who love to indulge in an eat-all-you-can dim sum feast. This time, it's Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight at Greenhills in San Juan that is currently carrying out a Dim Sum Buffet promo. For those who adore Crystal Jade Shanghai Delight's famous Xiao Long Bao may now take advantage of this promo to have an unlimited serving of this favorite along side other dim sum that Crystal Jade Greenhills offers.

Compared to Crystal Jade Dining IN's Dim Sum Buffet promo which is available every weekend, Crystal Jade Greenhill's Dim Sum Buffet is available every weekdays, from 6pm to 9:30pm. It started last August 4, 2014 and will last only until August 31, 2014. This promo is Crystal Jade's way of partaking of the Singapore Day's celebration. 

Although it will last only for a month, diners can expect wonderful treats of high quality dim sum that Crystal Jade is known for. The dim sum buffet being set during dinner time can be a perfect way to indulge in sumptuous "little morsels of love" after a days work or after a long day of shopping around Greenhills area. 

Make Life Sweeter with Villa del Conte Chocolates

So, I’ve got an exciting news from Villa del Conte Chocolates specifically for chocolate lovers out there who are about to tie the knot. I have written about Villa del Conte Cioccolato Subime of Padova Italy here on my blog before and I must say their chocolates are really impressive. That is why I am excited to share this good news with you.

Villa del Conte in partnership with A-Weddings is currently having a contest wherein participants can get a chance to win artisanal chocolate tokens for their wedding. It is a perfect way to welcome your married life with something sweet and downright delicious.

The contest runs from July 18, 2014 to August 18, 2014, and joining is fairly easy. Read on for the mechanics of the contest.  

Livestock Restaurant and Bar, Quezon City: Crispy Pata, Crackling Pork Belly, and More!

Livestock Restaurant and Bar is this foodie place located at Sgt. Esguerra in Quezon City that specializes in no non-sense pork dishes that any pork-lover could go crazy about. Their best sellers are the Melts-In-Your-Mouth Crispy Pata (tagged as one of the Best Crispy Pata in Manila by some foodies) which has a mid-blowing crisp tenderness it can be cut with a popsicle stick, and the Crackling Pork Belly with succulence that could slap you in the face and get away with it.

The owner of Livestock Restaurant and Bar is a family which other business concerns raising hogs. Hence, venturing into restaurant scene with pork as the specialty is expected. Since they breed their own livestock and even grow some of the herbs and vegetables from their farm, the dishes they offer at Livestock are guaranteed to be fresh and of high quality.

Pork offerings at Livestock can be easily seen as sinful, an indulging treat not for the faint of heart. Yet, these dishes are not something you would have on a daily basis ~ that is if you love your life, otherwise, it's your call.  So, occasional visit to Livestock Restaurant and Bar to feast your hearts out is forgivable, encourage even, especially if you are celebrating the bountiful blessings of porcini bliss given to mankind.

Circles Buffet at Makati Shangri-La: Treasures of Turkey, a Feast of Turkish Cuisine

A feast of Turkish cuisine is what awaits buffet aficionados and eat-all-you-can lovers at Circles Events Cafe of Makati Shangri-La Hotel from August 1 to 10, 2014. This Turkish food festival at Circles features Treasures of Turkey in gastronomical form prepared by guest chefs from Shangri-La Hotel in Bosphorus, Istanbul, Chef Harun Imre and Chef Ramazan Edrem. These two talented chefs carried with them Turkish ingredients from Istanbul to make Treasures of Turkey Food Festival at Makati Shangri-La breaths authenticity.

Treasures of Turkey will last only for 10 days. Yet, it holds the promise that within that span of time, colorful spices and exquisite flavors of Turkish cuisine will surely transport guests to the Republic of Turkey. International dishes at the buffet spread of Circles Events Cafe will still be available for guests to feast on during the festival, but the spotlight belongs to the Treasures of Turkey this time.

Turkish Feast at Cirles, Makati Shangri-La

During the media preview, we sampled some of the traditional dishes from Turkey which will be included in the festival. Chefs Imre and Edrem graced the luncheon to welcome us and give some insight about the cuisine they re most proud of. There aren't many Turkish restaurants here in Manila, hence, this chance is perfect for those who wants to savor the goodness of Turkey's rich cuisine.

Coco Natura Coco Sugar and Coco Jam: Nature's Finest Sweetener, a Healthy Alternative to Sugar

Do you have a sweet tooth? I do. And honestly, while consuming sugary treats can induce guilt that is not easy do deal with, sugar is something I cannot completely eliminate in my diet. Sure I have tried artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes widely available in the market. Yet, the problem with these things is that I never liked the taste. For some reason, it always left an after-taste in my mouth that made me feel like I ate chemicals/synthetic. It’s always been a dilemma. So when I was asked to sample Coco Natura’s Coco Sugar, I agreed in the hope that I might finally find a healthy alternative to sugar which taste I would like.

Coco Natura’s Coco Sugar, is a healthy alternative to refined sugar and artificial sweeteners which is made from 100% organic coconut sap. It is said to be produced with minimal processing to assure that majority of the vitamins, minerals, and amino acid in the coconut sap will remain intact, making it way healthier to consume than the usual sugar and other sweeteners. It is also said that Coco Natura’s Coco Sugar, is free from additives, artificial flavorings, and anti-fermenting agents.  This can be the best bet for people who has diabetes or those who want to eliminate the harmful effects of sugar in their bodies.

Now, there are other coconut sugars available in the market, but not all brands are the same. Coco Natura boasts of the fact that they do not blend their coconut sugar with additives or flavorings.  They stand by the fact that theirs are made from freshly harvested and organically grown coconut sap which hails from the Southern part of the Philippines.  The quality of their product gained them various certifications, proof that they are doing a great job in producing nature’s finest sweetener.

Vikings Luxury Buffet Pays Homage to Southeast Asian Street Food #JalanMakananVikings

Vikings Luxury Buffet, tagged as the biggest buffet in the country and for some, one of the best buffets in Manila is welcoming the month of August by paying homage to Southeast Asian Street Food. This month long feast, which are set to happen every weekends of August holds the promise of additional dishes on the already impressive choices of Vikings Buffet that focus on the well loved street food. 

Note however that this is not just street food that we could get in every corner street there is. Think Malaysian, Singaporean, and Indonesian street food varieties. Staying true to the word "Luxury" tagged to its name, Vikings Buffet will entice its diners with beautifully prepared street food meant not just to please the palate but the eyes as well.

Vikings Luxury Buffet is undoubtedly one of the most famous buffets in the country but when it comes to serving quality good food to its patrons, they do not just settle for being one of the known options around. From time to time, Vikings Buffet make it a point to launch "Themed Buffets" that add spice and exciting feat for their customers.

Tex-Mex Fiesta Grande Buffet at Oakroom Restaurant of Oakwood Manila + Buffet GIVEAWAY!

Days after I have tried the Tex-Mex Fiesta Grande Buffet at Oakroom Restaurant of Oakwood Premier Joy-Nostalg Center Manila I was still raving about the goodness of their Americanized Mexican offerings. Truth be told, theirs are the best Tex-Mex dishes I have had. The fact that this buffet includes unlimited servings of Margarita and non-alcoholic drink Shirley Temple only took my experience up a notch.

Although the buffet focuses mainly on specific cuisine, I wouldn’t mind saying that it was one of the best buffets in Manila that I have tried recently. Oakwood’s Executive Chef Jerome Catailler and his team really did a great job in creating feast of Tex-Mex dishes at Oakroom. Needless to say, they made a fan out of me.

Oakroom Restaurant is known to dish out themed buffets every quarter that makes them a good candidate for best hotel buffets you would come across with. Unlike other hotel buffets, Oakwood Manila’s wouldn’t overwhelm you with exaggerated choices that are too impossible for you to try in one go anyway.  Yet, it does not mean that you would be limited in terms of variants to choose from. As a matter of fact, their buffet spread is decent enough to get your money’s worth. Add to that, the fact that they focus more on the quality of their dishes assuring every diner that each and every food that they will get to enjoy is worth the calories.

OFK Aloe Vera King Juice, a Refreshing Drink with Health Benefits

When I was asked to try OFK Aloe Vera King Juice I was a little apprehensive at first. For one, I always associate aloe vera with shampoo. When I was a kid, some of my aunts would always talk about how they got their smooth and shiny long black hair by using aloe vera. Second, I am not big on juice made out of plants. Sure, I would indulge on fruit based juices, but rarely do I encounter delicious juice with some plants as its main ingredients. Then, with a little research I found out that aloe vera juice is now a thing and it holds a promise of health benefits. So I gave in. 

OFK Philippines sent me a package full of OFK Aloe Vera King Juice for me to try. The package contains aloe vera juice in different sizes and flavors.  As far as I know, OFK Philippines is the only company that sells aloe vera juice (If not, I would appreciate if you could give me a heads up on the comment section). Aloe vera juice is said to have a lot of health benefits hence, it is slowly becoming the favorite drinks among may.

I am not the healthiest person you may know nor I am the most health conscious you would come across with so I have to ask some friends who are into healthy stuff about the benefits of aloe vera juice.  It is said that aloe vera contains several vitamins and minerals that are good for the body.

New Dishes at Wee Nam Kee Philippines: New Culinary Treasures of Singapore

Recently, I was tagged along to visit Wee Nam Kee at Edsa Shangri-La Mall and try the new dishes added to Wee Nam Kee's menu called New Culinary Treasures of Singapore. Wee Nam Kee is a Singaporean restaurant that has been serving the best Hainanese Chicken for more than 25 years now. Their branching out here in our country proved to be successful as they now have eight branches that includes Ayala Triangle Gardens, Serendra, Glorietta 2, Alabang Town Center, Promenade Greenhills, Trinoma Mall, Shangrila East Wing, and the new Fairview Terraces Mall.

I remember the first time I dined at Wee Nam Kee Serendra Branch, I was deeply impressed with their rendition of Hainanese Chicken including the Hainanese Rice but was saddened by their Lechon Macau. Despite the little disappointment, I resolved to go back at Wee Nam Kee to try some of the items on their menu. So, when my friend Richard invited me to join them on their visit, I gladly said yes.

Come the scheduled lunch, I almost begged off. Our visit happened right after the Typhoon Glenda. Our area in Antipolo City was still out of electricity that time and since I was too smart, I was not able to charge batteries for my cameras. Yes, all three of them. I already sent my regrets to Richard that I wouldn't be able to join them because of my situation but he was kind enough to offer me his other camera so that I may join them still. I grabbed the opportunity and braved the traffic jam and the roads littered with the aftermath of the typhoon from Antipolo to Ortigas. It was worth it.

All-American Buffet at United Taste of America of F All-Day Dining Restaurant, F1 Hotel Manila

F All Day Dining Buffet Restaurant of F1 Hotel Manila located at The Fort, Bonifacio Gloal City is currently celebrating the month of July through an All-American Buffet aptly tagged as United Taste of America.  This month is almost over but due to popular demand, this buffet feast is extended until August 6,2014. 

F1 Hotel Manila is known to do several partnerships with different chefs from all over the place to dish out themed buffet feast to be rolled out at F Restaurant. This time, together with F1 Hotel Manila’s Executive Chef Sau del Rosario, they partnered with USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) to stage a feast of American Dishes to make this month more exciting at F Restaurant.

Over the weekend, we sampled some of the dishes at F All Day Dining Buffet Restaurant and experience the United Taste of America. 4th of July celebration may be over but it is a different case for F1 Hotel Manila. The date extension will allow diners to experience this feast until the first week of the next month.  

Chili's Philippines: Chili's Your Way to Food Feast Because More Life Happens Here!

My recent visit at Chili's Bar and Restaurant SM Megamall branch to check out new items on their menu reminded me that the last time I wrote about them here on my food blog was way back 2009. That was five years ago (pardon the small photos and the writing style, if you're going to check out that post) and I could not believe that despite several visits within that span of time, I am only writing about them again just now. I guess, I have a lot of catching up to do.

Recently, Chili's launched its new tagline, "More Life Happens Here" which I deem apt since I myself, is one of those who could testify that indeed, more life happens at Chili's. Since it opened its door here in the Philippines way back 1996, I cannot count how many times have I dined at Chili's, specifically at their branches at Tomas Morato and Greenhills. Whether its a celebration of some sort or just plain meeting up with friends, Chili's is definitely one of those restaurants that my loved ones, friends, and I frequent to.

While it would be funny to admit that their unlimited Tostada Chips and Salsa have something to do with our frequent visits, the truth is, more than the free refils of these addicting treats, it is Chili's overall appeal that endears it to us. From the good food that they serve to the cool ambiance they have and to the warm and friendly service they give, Chili's is definitely proved all through these years that they deserve all the thumbs up they get.

Dads World Buffet: A Feast of Flavor on Your Plate Through Dads, Kamayan, Saisaki Buffets

It was late last year when Dads Ultimate Buffet (which includes Saisaki and Kamayan Buffet), one of the pioneer when it comes to buffets here in Manila, added an exciting spin to its buffet offering that resulted to its conversion to Dads World Buffet. Dads Buffet has always been considered as one of buffets here in the country that offers wide variety of choices, yet, to keep up with the demands of our times, they decided to take their game to a notch higher by adding more food selections to their spread.

These additions features variety of international dishes from all over the world, thus Dads World Buffet. It is literally a culinary journey translated to your plate for every dishes represents the country it hails from. The conversion of Dads Ultimate Buffet to Dads World Buffet started at their SM Megamall branch last year, and this year all Dads Buffet branches are expected to carry this new spin come August 1, 2014 when their newest branch at West Avenue opens.

Aside from West Avenue, Dads World Buffet branches includes SM Megamall, Glorietta 3 Ayala Center, Manila, and EDSA. Dads Buffet is also known to carry and host different promos for their patrons. Discounted price on buffet rates including birthday promos are dishes out from time to time, hence, Dads Buffet is encouraging people to check out their website and their Facebook page for updates on promos. Each branch carries different promos from one another, hence, better to like all of their Facebook pages for updates.

Jollibee Amazing Aloha Champ is Back! #AmazingAlohaChamp @jollibee

Few days ago I got a news from our friends at Jollibee, one of the leading fast food chains here in our country, about the big come back of Jollibee Amazing Aloha Champ. The word “big” is indeed an apt word since compared to its previous resurfacing in Jollibee’s menu, this time, the amazingness that is Amazing Aloha comes in big size, hence considered a champ burger.

I remember being quite sad when Jollibee Amazing Aloha was re-introduced to the market last year since it is just in a form of regular burger. It was delicious alright, but for something downright enjoyable, you would really want to have it in hefty servings. 

Today, Jolibee Amazing Aloha Champ boasts of a 1/3 pound 100% pure beef patty topped with a juicy pineapple slice, crispy bacon strips, honey mustard dressing, lettuce, and cheese.  As with the usual Jollibee Champ Burger, Amazing Aloha Champ is big enough to satisfy even those who has manly appetite.