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.

Balaw-Balaw Specialty Restaurant and Folk Art Museum in Angono Rizal

Balaw-Balaw Specialty Restaurant and Folk Art Museum

Words and Photos by Yedy Calaguas

Published in Gala Magazine

September 2012 Issue

Page 92-93

Northpoint Publication

“Here’s Minaluto, one of our specialties.” Says the food server as he place the dish on our table wearing a gleeful pride bordering to pontifical.  I cannot blame him for that.  The sight of Minaluto in its bilao exudes a kaleidoscopic world against immaculate backdrop that is the table cloth.  Combination of prawns, crabs, mussels, pork, water spinach, and salted egg on a bed of specialty rice wrapped in banana leaves served on a native shallow basket called bilao, are all the good things that constitute the colorful Minaluto.  The burst of colors mirrors the rich cultural arts that Balaw-Balaw Restaurant aims to reflect.

Balaw-Balaw which name was taken from a specialty dish called Binurong Hipon made of fermented rice, shrimp paste, and “angkak” which give it a reddish color. Despite its name lifted from a dish, this well known restaurant is more than the good food it serves.

Yummy Magazine Cooking Demo with Lady's Choice

Yuletide season is just around the corner and I am sure that like me, most of you foodies are already busy preparing menu line up for the coming parties ahead.  While buying cooked meals from our favorite restaurants can be a tad less stressful, I still believe that preparing home cooked meals for your loved ones especially this season is way lovelier and thoughtful.

In line with this, the country’s best-selling food magazine, Yummy has prepared a Christmas themed cooking demo in partnership with Lady’s Choice.  This event is a good way to kick-start December by providing a fun-filled afternoon where you can learn easy-to-do recipes and mouthwatering dishes you can serve this holiday season to your friends and family.

What:
Yummy Cooking Demo
When:
December 1, 2012 / 3:00pm to 5:00pm
Where:
Robinsons Supermarket Galleria

My friend and Yummy Magazine’s contributing food stylist Chef Katherine Jao will show us how to whip up delicious and easy-to-do recipes while Chef Dianne dela Cruz of Unilever Food Solutions will demonstrate amazing dishes using Lady’s Choice Mayonnaise.  

Oliva Bistro Cafe in Quezon City: Celebration of Different Cuisines

Dining at Oliva Bistro Cafe located along Visayas Ave. in Quezon City, I was faced with the nugget of wisdom I have learned in my years of writing about food.  "Wrong fusion is confusion", this nugget I learned from renowned international chef Martin Yan when I interviewed him for my article published in Gala Magazine's October Issue.   That same idea also echoes when one of my favorite chefs, Mike Tatung Sarthou told me his belief about serving "Straightforward Filipino dishes".

When presented with restaurant which specializes in diverse cuisines, fusion may be the first thing that comes to mind, well at least for me.  Prior to visiting Oliva Bistro Cafe, that was what I expected.  But meeting chef Kannan, I learned that while Oliva focuses on  Indian, Italian, Singaporean and Filipino cuisines, it does not incorporate each element, but rather, it holds a strong grip on its origins. Clearly there's no fusion at Oliva, only celebration of the beautiful cultures expressed through palatable dishes.

Chef Kannan who is married to a lovely Filipina named Denden was born in India, immersed as a chef with impressive exposure to Italian cuisines, and have worked in Singapore for a time.  This clearly state that diverse cuisines at Oliva wasn't randomly picked on a whim, but it mirrors an interesting history of the man behind Oliva.

Pink Guava Café at Quezon Ave.

Recently, I was introduced to Pink Guava Café located along Quezon Ave. in Quezon City.  While the area isn't really the place I would frequent to, I was glad that I took the long ride. Pink Guava Café is the kind of place where good food, nice service, and inviting ambiance merge together to provide a noteworthy dining experience to its customers.

I have to admit that I am a sucker for beautiful restaurants' interior.  Not to be biased against downright simple hole-in-the-wall spot but I appreciate dining in places wherein food and service aren't the only things that are given importance but the ambiance as well.  At Pink Guava Cafe, they wouldn't just quench your thirst nor just satisfy your tummies, they will also feed you visually.

While it can be passed of as yet another cafe, Pink Guava has a lot more to offer.  This new player in the field boasts of their impressive line of drinks that ranges from, milk teas, espresso, coffees, frappe, ice blended, juices, with pasta, homemade pastries, and rice dishes on the menu to boot.  Aptly named Pink Guava, their specialty drink uses guava fruit as its base. 

Village Tavern at Bonifacio High Street

Despite many restaurants gracing Bonifacio High Street Central in Taguig City, Village Tavern is a welcome addition. All thanks to the Bistro Group, which also brought other remarkable restaurants such as Italianni's, T.G.I.Friday's, Ma Maison, and others for taking Village Tavern under its umbrella.  With the promise of dishing out hearty American comfort food, Village Tavern that hails from North Carolina is the place to go when one is craving for comforting meals in big servings.

While I may have a rather romantic view as to what a tavern looks like (blame the novels I read) Village Tavern's ambiance do not disappoint either as it breathes sophistication but not intimidating.  Service is warm and very welcoming as expected to all the restaurants handled by the Bistro Group.  I could go on and on at how comfortable Village Tavern's ambiance is but the the real winner I would like to talk about is their food.

Red Buffalo Wings & Pizza at Greenhills Town Center

It was only a month ago when I indulged in one of my favorite places offering Buffalo wings here in the metro.  And recently, I found myself indulging again, but this time it was in Red Buffalo Wings & Pizza located at Greenhills Town Center.  While I am not one of those who consider Buffalo Wings as their comfort food, I have my fair share of mean cravings for the awesome wings.

While there are a lot of restaurants specializing in Buffalo wings, one advantage of Red Buffalo Wings & Pizza is its proximity to where I reside. Greenhills Town Center is slowly becoming a foodie spot and I am glad that Red Buffalo is part of this development.

Fuego Mexican Steakhouse y Tequila Lounge

I could still remember how Chef Tom Hines left me in awe with his culinary creativity that blew me away when I first dine at LuLu Restaurant in Rockwell.  Memories are as vivid and as delightful as the succeeding visits where further improvement and menu development was very apparent.  When a dinner invite for Fuego Mexican Steakhouse y Tequila Lounge located at Makati City came months ago, mountains were moved just so I can fit it into my schedule. After all, it’s Chef Tom Hines new restaurant in partnership with businessman Mahesh Mirpuri.  I knew right there and then, it should not be missed.

Situated in the same building as KYSS bar fronting Makati A.Venue Mall parking lot, Fuego is more than just a place to enjoy cocktail drinks and socialize as its ambiance suggest.  Diners can revel in the restaurant’s innate energy as they dance the night away with the Latino music in the background while indulging on delightful contemporary Mexican dishes and steaks.  Fuego melds the charm of steakhouse with the elegance of an upscale Tequila lounge.

With its sleek interior, Fuego Mexican Steakhouse y Tequila Lounge has an atmosphere unrivaled for a Mexican restaurant not to mention a menu to match.  Chef Tom Hine’s culinary talent adds modern flair to the rather usual Mexican dishes that captures the pulse of both adventurous palates to the traditional.

The Linden Suites Opens Mesclun Restaurant and Cafe

One of the best places to stay while you're in Ortigas area, The Linden Suites launched its in-house gastronomical attraction called Mesclun Restaurant & Cafe last October 18, 2012.  Together with their top accounts, media friends and industry partners, the celebration was filled with beautiful music and great food.

The launching hosted by the lovely Kathy Manuel-Salenga, Director of Marketing at The Linden Suites started with welcome remarks from General Manager Lawrence Wee and resident Chef Katrina Kuhn-Alcantara.

“Mesclun means mixture, and the menu we created is a mix of local & international favorites.  Creations inspired by my personal travels and experiences and collaborations with my team of talented chefs.  It is a mix of what makes the old world classic & the new world refreshing.  We are  thrilled to offer the Ortigas business community and its residents, a different level of dining experience now available in the heart of Ortigas.”  Said Chef Katrina Kuhn-Alcantara.

The Lobby Lounge at Diamond Hotel Philippines

There are a lot of times when Diamond Hotel impressed me with the gastronomical fares they offer.  Their Yurakuen's Teppanyaki All-You-Can blew me away, Corniche was equally impressive, while the sublime desserts at The Cake Club Bonifacio High Street rocked my world. Now, with the recent opening of The Lobby Lounge at Diamond Hotel, I could only expect five star dining experience, and undoubtedly, they exceeded it.

Located at the main lobby of Diamond Hotel Philippines in Roxas Boulevard, The Lobby Lounge is not just merely a dining attraction, it's a comfortably luxurious abode for people who craves for satisfying meals and indulgent desserts. 

The place exudes sophistication without overbearingly so.  It does not foster an air of intimidation rather, it invitingly beckons. With its enticing contemporary feat coupled with welcoming and warm service, who wouldn't be teased? 

Wine Depot's Wine Festival 2012

Last October 13, 2012 I attended Wine Depot’s The Festival 2012 held at the main ballroom of New World Hotel in Makati City. This festival is in line with the celebration of Philippine Wine and Food Week that happened from October 8 to 14, 2012.

Wine Depot’s The Festival offers its guests with the best taste of the world through bringing in wine makers and gourmet experts from most celebrated brands in one venue.  On their 8th year, The Festival boasts of wine booths with 200 fine wines from 27 regions.  Gourmet booths that served variety of high quality cheeses, homemade breads, and Iberian cured ham were also present during the festival.

It was my first time to attend Wine Depot’s The Festival and I noticed that it has somehow similar to the usual food festivals that I have been to. Guests are given a paper bag containing a wine glass which will serve as their access to tasting the wines being served, a little booklet they called passport which contains information about the participating brands, an order form for those who would want to purchase wines, and a pencil they can use to fill up their forms. 

Papa John's Pizza and Big Time Treat

Despite several pizza places sprouting all over the metro, there are few favorites which I would usually go to whenever a mean pizza cravings would hit me. One of them is Papa John’s Pizza.  Known for using only better ingredients to produce better pizza, Papa John’s Pizza has been serving Filipinos with its quality pizza through its 13 branches all over Metro Manila.  

Since Papa John’s Pizza opened its first branch in Robinson’s Galleria on 2010, there are several occasions that I found myself not minding dining alone as long as I can have my fair share of good pizza with a serving of pepperoncini and garlic butter dip on the side.  But then again, good food are always best shared with your loved ones that is why Papa John’s Pizza introduces its on-going promo aptly called Papa John’s Big Time Treats.

Ang Mo Kio Singaporean Hawker Cuisine at The Podium

I have always been a fan of Singaporean cuisine, but with numbers of Singaporean restaurants in Metro Manila which I have tried, there are only few that really satisfy me in terms of quality of food and the comfort of ambiance.  That is why I am in constant search for something truly worth the money and time I will be spending.  Recently, I was introduced to Ang Mo Kio Singaporean Restaurant that specializes in hawker cuisine located at The Podium.

Most of the Singaporean restaurants I have been to carry prices that are quite steep.  While I don’t mind spending more than my usual food budget, it has to be something which of high quality.  Some of these restaurants are decent enough in that respect, while the others are just plain blah. 

One of the reasons why I am impressed with Ang Mo Kio is that it introduced me to reasonably priced Singaporean dishes made from the scratch out of fresh ingredients sourced both locally and from nearby countries. I do not claim to be an expert, but based on my preferences, Ang Mo Kio really stood out.

Cravings Celebrates 24th Anniversary with Cake and Coffee Festival

On their 24th year in the business, Cravings Group of Restaurants celebrated their anniversary by giving back to their loyal followers and community through Craving’s Coffee and Cake Festival. This delicious and sweet affair was held at Shangri-La Mall Atrium last October 25, 2012.

What started as a simple bakeshop in Quezon City has now evolved into a celebrated abode of delicious food and delectable sweets that every Filipino loves.  I remember having written about Center for Culinary Arts Manila’s anniversary at The Philippine Daily Inquirer late last year and since Cravings is under in one roof with CCA, I heeded to Craving’s invite.

Aiming to stay true to their goal of giving back, this event is in partnership with Operation Smile, an organization that provides free surgeries to repair cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities for children throughout the world.   Incidentally, Operation Smile is also celebrating its 30th year of providing assistance to the aforementioned children in need.  The festival serve as their gateway to further introduced the program they have launched called “The Journey Home”.  This program aims to help 4,500 Filipino children and young adults in different parts of the country.

Longganisa Sorpresa

I have always been a fan of the comfort that food delivery services can provide to someone like me who does not have all the time in the world to prepare a decent meal.  While I appreciate restaurants which offer delivery service, I am more appreciative of those food delivery companies which handle several restaurants under their umbrellas.  I love the fact that I would only have to dial one number and choose from wide variety of restaurants in which I want to order from.  One of them is Quick Delivery.

I have made used of their service number of times before especially during those days when there would be an impromptu get together with friends or when I am just plain tired to cook food.  I am happy to say that I have not encountered any problem with Quick Delivery, and if there was any minor issue, they are very quick in addressing those concerns.

Weeks ago, I decided to have some food from Longganisa Sorpresa delivered in my home through Quick Delivery. I am not a big fan of longganisa but I have heard some feedback that they serve great varieties of longganisa it could make me a convert, so I give it a go.

Bulgogi Brothers Korean BBQ Restaurant at Harbor Point Subic

Ever since The Bistro Group brought Bulgogi Brothers here in Manila, I have been wanting to pay a visit and experience what most of my friends have been raving about. With three Metro Manila branches located at Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, and Mall of Asia, I know I have quite an option location-wise.

Then one day I found myself together with other foodie friends braving a long drive to Riverwalk Harbor Point Mall in Subic where the fourth branch of Bulgogi Brothers is located.  It was already expected that I'll be having a great time downing Korean dishes at Bulgogi Brothers, so, I thought why not intensify the package by enjoying the road trip, eh?
 

I admit with a slight blush that it was only a year ago when I get to appreciate Korean food. I am a tad picky when it comes to spicy dishes as I am not really big when it comes to bold flavor such as that.  But surprisingly, I was able to finished everything that was served on my plate.

California Pizza Kitchen Opens at The Lucky Chinatown Mall

Recently, our friends from California Pizza Kitchen shared a good news about it's newly opened branch at The Lucky Chinatown Mall which marks as its eight location here in the Philippines.  In line with that, they also introduced new offerings which that are now included on their menu.

I have not personally checked the new branch yet and haven't tasted this new offerings but this news is too good not to share with you my dear readers, so here are some words from California Pizza Kitchen Philippines.

An Afternoon of Pizza and Pasta Treats With Pasto

It was a while back when I promised my little sister to treat her with pizza since I wasn’t able to do so during her birthday.  I was so caught up with tasks at hand that I barely had time to take her out to her favorite pizza place, Pasto Restaurant located at Greenhills.  My sister is big on pizza and pasta and Pasto is one of her top three to go to places when craving for her comfort food.

One weekend while I was still caught up with work, she talked me into bringing home some pizza instead.  Since I know that my schedule wouldn’t give me the liberty to fulfill the promised pizza date with her, I agreed.  I was supposed to drop by the restaurant but as luck would have it, an emergency meeting with the client prevented me from doing so. 

Frankie's New York Buffalo Wings at City Golf Plaza

When craving for buffalo wings, one of the best places I could recommend is Frankie's New York Buffalo Wings located at City Golf Plaza along Dona Julia Vargas Avenue in Pasig City.  Although new in the field, Frankie's boasts of downright impressive buffalo wings of different variants, New York style.

While it is situated in a place which I really do not frequent to, Frankie's gave me the reason to go back if only to taste one of the best buffalo wings I've had.

Although small, Frankie's place exudes a really comfortable abode fit for an after work hang out. During my visit, the place was packed with people but surprisingly, after a long day of work, I find myself getting relaxed as the dinner progressed.

Dolcelli Cakes

While food writing warrants me to be adventurous in trying out different food, there are still certain types which I am very particular if not picky about. One of them are cakes. Although I have tried quite a decent number of this fine treat, there are only handful which I consider the best cakes in my book.

I am by no means a cake snob, but I know my preferences. I have few favorites which really rocked my world, I have some which I consider comfort food, an answer to cravings, and there are which I constantly recommend to friends because I know it wouldn't disappoint. Yes, I am picky when it comes to my cake, that is why I am adamant to discover something well worth the calories and a space here at YedyLicious.

Recent discovery includes cakes by Dolcelli Food Specialties, and yes, it deserves a spot here on my food blog.

When I was given the list of cake variants that Dolcelli has to offer, it was their Avocado Sansrival that I find rather interesting. It was just unfortunate that it isn't available when I requested for it since avocado is seasonal fruit. But having tasted other variants from Dolcelli, I could say that the experience was equally noteworthy.

T.G.I.Friday’s at Robinsons Galleria: Giving In To Extreme Cravings!

Couple of weeks ago, when stress from all the work and some responsibilities at hand took its toll on me; I was bitten by a mean flu.  And being a responsible person that I am, I am well aware that there is only one thing that could make me feel better, T.G.I.Friday’s Queso Fondido.  I guess I am weird that way.

So, when thermometer showed a decent enough body temperature, I immediately dragged my sister at T.G.I.Friday’s Robinson’s Galleria to satisfy a sick person’s (read: me) wish.  I wasn’t supposed to indulge on too much food so as not to upset my recuperating body system. But again, being a responsible person that I am, I let go all the notion of moderation and convinced myself that I am going to eat my way to recovery.  No regrets, I am still alive as of the time of writing.

 Known as an international casual dining restaurant and bar, T.G.I.Friday’s serves great food choices ranging from burgers, pasta, steaks, other specialty food, and awesome line up of drinks.  No wonder that it has been a favorite place to celebrate festive occasions or to just simply hang out and relax over great food and drinks.  I have always been a fan of T.G.I.Friday’s so it really doesn’t came as a shock to me that despite the fever I was nursing, the foodie in me still craves for T.G.I.Friday’s. 

Healthy and Delicious Treats at Agico Vegetarian Cafe in San Juan City

If you have been reading YedyLicious, you know for a fact that I am a hardcore meat lover. If not, well, just for the record, I am a hardcore meat lover. Yet, despite being a carnivore, being a food writer entails me to try different food no matter how way out of my league it could be. Say for instance, vegetables. 

While there are food (read: bacon, steaks, etc.) I have devoured in this lifetime which steeled my resolve that I can never be a vegan, I also have my fair share of healthy food consumptions.  Those experiences merit its own recognition. One of them was my recent visit to the newly opened Agico Vegetarian Cafe located at Aurallo St. in San Juan City.

Agico Vegetarian Cafe is not just your run-of-the-mill vegetarian restaurant as it specializes in Japanese cuisine, albeit vegetarian which dishes out wide variety of coffees, milk teas, and other cafe drinks at the same time. This family owned business is a new addition to vegetarian restaurants in Manila which holds the promise that healthy food can also be delicious.

T.G.I.Friday's 17th Annual Shake, Rattle, & Pour Bartender Championship

Last September 25, 2012, T.G.I.Friday’s Philippines held its 17th Annual Shake, Rattle, and Pour Bartender Championship at their Bonifacio High Street branch. This Inter-Store Bartending competition showcases exciting display of bartending skills of each participant from different T.G.I.Friday’s branches all over the country.

Talented bartenders who participate in this year’s competition includes Joel Delos Santos (Bonifacio High Street),Mike Rabago (Glorietta), Edu Manabati (Alabang), Genrev Bacasno (Rembrant), Wilfredo Marcelo (Malate), Aldrin Javar (Trinoma), Francis Domingo (Robinsons Galleria), Marc Bautista (SM Mall of Asia), Mark Maranon (Ayala Center Cebu), Gino Simbillo (Marquee Mall Pampanga), Lorenzo Midguel Salazar (Davao), Donn Mark Celestino (Eastwood) and Harold Puno (Subic.)

Restaurante Pia Y Damaso at Greenbelt 5, Subversive Filipino Cuisine

It was one of those days when rain wouldn’t let up despite ardent prayers. I could have chosen to stay at home and enjoy the comfort of my soft bed with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa. But instead, I find myself braving the rain on my way to Restaurante Pia Y Damaso at Greenbelt 5. That day, I chose to know more about what this interesting restaurant with quirky name is all about. 

Inspired by the novel Noli Me Tangere which is penned by the Philippines’ National Hero Jose Rizal, Restaurante Pia Y Damaso may convey controversial ring to its name.  For those who are not familiar with the characters, Padre Damaso is a Spanish friar in the novel who impregnated a woman named Pia Alba.  Interesting, I know.  I wouldn’t go into sheer details of the novel, instead, let me share with you how I find the dishes at Pia Y Damaso as interesting as the novel itself.

Grab a Copy of Gala Magazine's September Issue

Hi friends,

Please grab a copy of the September Issue of Gala Magazine.  I am one of their contributors for this month.

My article about food and arts at Balaw-Balaw Specialty Restaurant and Folk Art Museum is on page 92, the food section of the magazine. 

Located at the art capital of the Philippines, Balaw-Balaw is known for serving delectable Filipino cuisine with exotic dishes to boot.  It showcases work of arts created by the patriarch who established the restaurant in the eighties, the late Perdigon Vocalan alongside the works of other local artists in town.  In my article, I talked a little about the history, arts, and some of the dishes which the restaurant is known for.

Eat, Drink, and Be Italian again with Italianni's Improved Menu at its Newly Renovated Gateway Branch

I have mentioned in my previous post about Italianni’s Restaurant that way before I fell in love with Bellin’s and Amoroma or other impressive Italian Restaurants for that matter, there is always Italianni’s that serves as my default choice whenever I am craving for good Italian cuisine.

Late last year, I had a chance to try one of their holiday offerings, Tre Combinazioni with some friends which got us raving about how still good Italianni’s food quality after all these years.  I can say that it is one of the reasons why Italianni’s has always been one of the best Italian restaurants in Manila for me.  I love the fact that consistency is one of their strong points in terms of good quality food, great ambiance, and superb service.

When I was invited recently to the re-opening of their newly renovated Gateway branch, I was already equipped with great expectations from the get go. After all, Italianni’s has always been tried and tested in my book. Truth be told, my expectations were not just met, Italianni’s delightfully exceeded it.

Mooncake Treat and more at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila

Mooncake is a pastry originated from China which is considered as an indispensable pastry during Mid-Autumn festival.  It is made of crust with rich thick filling and yolk from salted duck eggs in the center.  Tradition dictates that moon cakes are best shared and eaten during this festival.

Ongoing until the 30th of September 2012, Edsa Shangri-La Manila offers majestic mooncakes, stays, and dining specials in line with their celebration for Mid-Autumn Festival of the Chinese calendar.

The hotel’s Chinese restaurant, Summer Palace is offering special mooncake packages available daily from 7:30am to 9:30pm at the Moon Cake Counter in the hotel’s main lobby.

Makanan Lazat: A Malaysian Food Festival at Corniche Restaurant, Diamond Hotel Philippines

Diamond Hotel Philippines celebrates culinary diversity of Malaysia as they present Makanan Lazat, a Malaysian Food Festival at Corniche. Malaysian cuisine is known for its variety of flavors and cooking style influenced by Malay, Indian, and Chinese together with other ethnic group hailing from its region. With this delightful combination of palate pleasers prepared by guest Malaysian Chef Cheong Yan See of Enderun Colleges, lunch and dinner buffet at Corniche Restaurant is made all the more special.

Ongoing until the 16th of September 2012, Makanan Lazat features gastronomic feast of Malaysian cuisine to add to the already festive buffet spread at Corniche Restaurant. 

Homemade Treasures Ensaymada, How Do I Love Thee?

Despite countless recommendation for best ensaymada in Metro Manila, there are only two ensaymada I normally enjoy; one is Diamond Hotel’s Ube Ensaymada for its luxurious decadence, the other one is Hizon’s Ensaymada for its pleasantly rich panache.  I have tried several other ensaymadas but still, these two are by far are the best, at least in my book. I guess I am loyal that way.

Then recently, I was introduced to Homemade Treasures Ensaymada.  I had a strong grip to the notion that this can be just another ensaymada which will try to lure me into including it to my top three best ensaymada but will fail miserably in the end.  Yet, after tasting a forkful of this impressively delicious treasure, dare I say, life is never the same again.

Love at first bite can be such a cliché for foodies like us. But cliché is a cliché because it holds certain truth in it.  I was bitten by this cliché as I bit into Homemade Treasure Ensaymada’s cheesy and buttery glory. 

So, how do I love thee, you might ask.  With all respect to Elizabeth Barrett Browning, read on and let me count the ways.

The Fog City Creamery Ensaymada Ice Cream

Ice cream and ensaymada.  Who would have thought that these two unlikely pair could yield a beautiful marriage meant to be savored in this lifetime?
 

Enter The Fog City Creamery’s new addition to its line of artisanal ice cream, ENSAYMADA ICE CREAM.  The first ever ensaymada ice cream to hit the market. 

Of the many collaboration I have witnessed, The Fog City Creamery and Homemade Treasures is definitely one of the best.   A combination of The Fog City Creamery’s Brown Butter Ice Cream and chunks of Homemade Treasures Ensaymada made from an heirloom recipe of the 1930s. 

Casa Armas Tapas Bar Y Restaurante

When you are scheduled to attend two dinners in one night, with a daunting 15 minute interval from the end of the first to the start of the second, begging off to either one seems like the most humane thing to do.  But if you are a twenty something foodie who believes that given your age, you can stuff yourself silly and still get away with it, you held your head high and man up. 

A dinner at Casa Armas Tapas Bar Y Restaurante located in Greenbelt 2 is not something you would just pass up. Even if you are scheduled to revisit another restaurant which you deem as one of the best restaurants in Metro Manila on the same night, Spanish cuisine at Casa Armas is well worth the extreme degree of satiety you’ll be nursing hours after. So, unless you fancy being haunted by the drool worthy sight of Casa Armas’ Cochinillo in your sleep, you carry on.

That epic dinner I was talking about happened couple of months ago. Yet, the memory remains as vivid as the glistening skin of the cochinillo hinting of brittle candy-like crispiness.  Definitely a memory I will not soon forget.

The Asian Food Channel: Autumn Treasures with Martin Yan

Catch internationally acclaimed master chef and prolific author chef Martin Yan as he showcases his amazing cooking skills on a live demonstration here in the Philippines through The Asian Food Channel’s Autumn Treasures with Martin Yan.  Prepare to be enticed with his specially crafted culinary masterpieces, as shown on the AFC Original Production, True Passion – Martin Yan!

Autumn Treasures with Martin Yan

September 2, 2012
Venue: Lucky China Town, Atrium
Time: 5pm

September 3, 2012
Venue: The Eastwood Mall, Atrium
Time: 7pm

Toki Q in San Juan, The First Rotating Barbecue in the Philippines

I have mentioned here on my blog several times before how I adore San Juan City because of the numbers of restaurants sprouting everywhere. If you are a foodie like me, you know how things like these matters. New addition to what I consider foodie haven in the metro is Toki Q. Boasting of being the first Rotating BBQ Grill food spot here in the Philippines, Toki Q is a fast served yakitori restaurant one should not miss.

While Yakitori is defined as grilled bite-sized marinated chicken pieces on skewers that is of Japanese origin, Toki Q also offers other skewered meat which can be grilled on the rotating bbq griller. That is what I have found out when Zodio Philippines invited me to try and see what Toki Q is all about.

Located right smack in the corner of Wilsons and P.Guevarra St. in San Juan City, Toki Q occupies a small place which can accommodate around 15 diners.  Although small, with its dominant colors of red and black, the place exudes a vibrant feel which I find rather inviting.

Chocolate Tart: A Recipe from Around The World in 80 Plates

One of the best things I love about long weekend if I do not have a scheduled travel is the ample time I can spend in our kitchen.  Owing to the crazy schedule I normally have, rarely do I have the time now to create a decent dish I could share here on my website. Luckily, the past long weekend that transpired gave me the freedom to finally get my hands dirty in the kitchen.

Inspiration came from a recipe book which my mother gave me last year, Around the World in 80 Plates.  It is a recipe book published by Hinge Inquirer which boasts of a flavorful collection of recipes from expert chefs around the world. Having forces such as F&B World and Unilever Food Solutions behind the book, it is a perfect book for people who want to get their hands on trying recipes hailing from different parts of the world.

One recipe which got my attention immediately while browsing the book was Chef James Antolin’s Chocolate Tart.

California Crunch Cassava Chips: Healthy Alternative to Potato Chips

It may sound weird that I am starting this post by telling that I love potato chips. Potato chips rule the world in terms of food snacks, well at least for me. Truth be told, I cannot live without it. Yet, a bagful of extreme indulgence to such would always send me into a mental sparring with an imaginary cardiologist named Dr. Guilt. It isn't always a good experience, I tell you.

Good thing that someone introduced me to a healthy alternative to my well loved potato chips, California Crunch Cassava Chips. While it is made out of cassava, in terms of taste, it is by far the best substitute for the usual potato chips we all grew up with.   

I have been impressed with how well cassava (Kamoteng Kahoy) fairs well as an ingredient for some of the best local desserts we all loved.  Now, I am equally impressed that it is now used as a healthy snack with benefits to boot.

Chef Gene Gonzales Partners with Cookworks and Maxim

Last July 27, renowned celebrity chef Gene Gonzales has once again sealed the deal for continued partnership with Cookworks and Maxim through a contract signing held at Café Ysabel in San Juan City.  The event was further highlighted with Chef Gene’s cooking demo using his trusted cookware brands and a festive lunch.

The force behind Café Ysabel and The Center for Asian Culinary Studies (CACS), Chef Gene was in constant search for a perfect cookware that is at par with the one he used during his culinary stint in France and Italy. During the time when Chef Gene together with his junior protégés Chef Gino (Café Ysabel executive chef & CACS head instructor) and Chef Giannina (resident food stylist and CACS school administrator) was mapping out the fate of their new restaurant, Buenisimo, they discovered the two cookware brand which finally met Chef Gene’s standards in terms of reliable cookware.

Pepper Lunch with The Breakfast Club

I have heard about Pepper Lunch hailing from the Land of the Rising Sun from friends who had traveled and eaten in Japan way back even before it was brought here in the Philippines.  While the food, they said were crave-worthy, it was the cooking of your chosen dish that can make the experience quite a ride.  I made a mental note about Pepper Lunch when I was contemplating on traveling to Japan but as luck would have it, it was brought here in the country way before I managed to save up for a plane ticket.

A while back, I had these episodes when Pepper Lunch cravings wouldn’t let up that I made several trips to Pepper Lunch in Shangri La alone just to appease my cravings.  The distinct flavor of their pepper rice and the sizzling thin slices of teriyaki beef mixed together with the bright wobbly egg was my default fare.  Loyalty to the dish got the better off me that the only dish I tried aside from Teriyaki Beef Pepper Rice with Egg was the Rib Eye Steak.  What a bore, I know.

Good thing though that our friends at Breakfast Magazine invited several food bloggers at Pepper Lunch through their Breakfast Club to learn something about this restaurant and to sample some of their dishes.  This gave a chance to reacquaint with an old favorite and to check on what I have been missing all these years.

Seattle's Best Coffee: Heavenly Cheesecake and Red Velvet Drinks

Seattle's Best Coffee Philippines recently launched its new line of seasonal drinks which aims to give delight to their customer this rainy season - SBC Heavenly Cheesecake and SBC Red Velvet drinks.  Despite the gloomy weather we have been experiencing this season, Seattle's Best Coffee believes that these dessert inspired drinks can surely brighten up a day.

Given the fact that most Filipino considered dessert as their comfort food, Seattle's Best Coffee took the initiative in transforming two of the well-loved desserts into delightful drinks that everyone will love.

 

During the launching, we were given a chance to sample these new creations and were asked to find the one that suits us best. Want to know which of the two drinks my palate favored? I suggest you stay with me on this and read on.

Go Mad For Chicken at Clucky's in Rockwell Business Center Ortigas

Tucked in a posh and restaurant laden Rockwell Business Center in Ortigas Ave. Pasig City, a new player in the field of Korean fried chicken is slowly but surely making its name known to foodies out there.  Aptly called Clucky’s, a fast-serve restaurant specializing in twice-fried chicken boast of a special sauce hailing from the genius folks at the celebrated Mad For Chicken in New York.

Amidst the craze that is Korean fried chicken, Clucky’s in Rockwell Ortigas is set to serve Filipino palates with their impressive and affordable line of offerings. With focus on the freshness of the chicken and other ingredients used, their dishes are meant to be savored without feeling guilty and burning a hole in one’s pocket.

Fresh chicken coupled with tried and tested Mad For Chicken’s special sauce, Clucky’s version can be tagged as several leagues better than their competitors.  I may be one of those who at first deem that they are yet another addition to Korean fried chicken places in town, but upon trying what Clucky’s can offer, I must say that yes, my mom and I have gone mad for their chicken and more!

Lady’s Choice Real Mayonnaise Scrambulicious Recipe

Out of the many simple thrills that this life has to offer, breakfast is definitely one of those which can truly brighten my day.  While grand breakfast commensurate to that of ray of sunshine on a rather gloomy day, sometimes, a simple breakfast prepared with love can bring enough sparkle for one to get by.

Scrambled egg for instance, is a downright simple breakfast treat.  I have been enjoying scrambled egg for as long as I can remember.  Its simplicity is never tiring. It is good the way it is.  Yet, in a world where all things can be better, even our trusty old time favorite scrambled egg isn’t spared.    I am not saying that it is a bad thing. Rather, I am more than delighted knowing the fact that my usual plain Jane of a scrambled egg can be made all the more filling and satisfying with Lady’s Choice Real Mayonnaise.

I have been hearing about the wonders that Lady’s Choice Real Mayonnaise can add to this simple dish but it was only recently that I get to try it. Thanks to our friends at Lady’s Choice, simple breakfast can now be as grand as it can be by following a simple recipe.  For a creamier, fluffier, and yummier scrambled egg, read on and follow the recipe.

Enjoy a Cozy Delightful Stay This Season at The Linden Suites

Rain can be tad too daunting to conquer as one travels away from the metro in search for relaxation this time of the year. So, this cold season, our friends at The Linden Suites believes that everyone can still have a delightful relaxation by providing us affordable rates exclusively for local residents. We can bask on cozy staycation at The Linden Suites with their discounted rates on Rooms and Suits packages instead of enduring long hours of traffic jam and slippery roads.

Located along San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, The Linden Suites is within short walking distance to financial, shopping and dining hubs in the area, including Asian Development Bank, World Bank, Philippine Stock Exchange Center, SM Megamall, Shangri-la Plaza Mall, Robinson’s Galleria, El Pueblo, and Metrowalk Complex. One needs not to travel too far to enjoy comforting quality time with their loved ones when they avail of The Linden Suites’ accommodation promo packages.

Café Ben-A-Bien in San Juan City

Café Ben-A-Bien, a relatively new player in the field of coffee shops in San Juan City may not yet hit its stride in popularity race, but in terms of quality food and good coffee, it is downright promising.   This tiny and independent coffee shop is one of those I would love to see survive amidst the onslaught of popular cafes in the metro.

While the focus on different dishes they serve and the place exude a vibe that Café Ben-A-Bien is more of a restaurant than a legit coffee shop, dare I say that theirs is the best Caramel Macchiato I’ve ever had here in Manila?  And although their homemade pasta dishes scream deliciousness right smack in your face, their homemade cakes and pastries beg to be had with its affordable price and unprecedented lusciousness.

Tucked on a busy street of N.Domingo corner D.Santiago Street in San Juan City, Café Ben-A-Bien is one of the places where you can kill time away watching shows on their lcd television or simply browsing through their stack of magazines while enjoying scrumptious dishes.  It can also be a good hang out place where you can chat the afternoon away with your friends over a cup of joe and some of their sweet offerings.

Seattle’s Best Coffee “Me & My Traveling SBC” Facebook Photo Contest

Do you want to win a round trip ticket for two to U.S. or Beijing? Or perhaps an all-expense paid trip and accommodation to Bohol Beach Club? How about a spanking brand new AppleiPad 2 16gb with Wifi, Nikon D3100, or Apple iPod Nano 8gb?

I know you want to! That is why I am sharing with you the exciting news from our friends at Seattle’s Best Coffee Philippines regarding their on-going promo, “Me & My Traveling SBC” Facebook photo contest.

Read on to know more about the promo mechanics.