Oyster Night Buffet at Circles Event Café, Makati Shangri-La, Manila

For the past years, numbers of buffet restaurants in Manila undeniably expand significantly. Truth be told, a quest to find the best buffets in Manila is never ending. But despite the addition of new players in the field, there are some buffets which up to this day remains to be much celebrated by foodies. One of them is the buffet at Circles Event Café in Makati Shangri-La Hotel Manila.

Highly recommended by most foodies in Manila, Circles Event Café boast not just of quantity but of the quality of food they are dishing out. Still on top of its game, Buffet at Circles creative spin on conducting "themed buffet nights" is one of the many reasons while they are still one of the best players in buffet league. Last Monday, I was able to try and enjoy one of their new themes, The Oyster Night. 

Circles Event Café is located at the ground level of Makati Shangri-La Hotel. It is near different shopping establishments such as SM Makati, Glorietta, and Greenbelt. Once hunger pangs hit you while you're on a shopping spree, you can head on to Circles to have a gastronomical ride of your life.

Shawarma Guys at The Fort Strip, Bonifacio Global City

While updating my friends on Facebook about my revisit at IHOP BGC The Fort last Saturday, my friend Spanky, one of the ultimate foodies in Manila left a comment on my page about Shawarma Guys located at The Fort Strip, few blocks away from IHOP. Since I am easily swayed by recommendations from few of my trusted foodies, I decided to pay a visit after our dinner at IHOP. Yes, shawarma after dinner, I guess I am hardcore that way.

My friend and I were scheduled to attend a late dinner at one of the new restaurants at The Fort Bonifacio Global City so we decided to visit Shawarma Guys first since we have ample time to do so. I am big on shawarma and sadly there are only few shawarma joints that I know which are decent enough to satisfy my constant cravings. So, it is safe to say that being introduced to Shawarma Guys at The Fort Strip was one of my foodie highlights of the year. No kidding.

Tucked in one corner of The Fort Strip, Shawarma Guys is located just right beside Pasto near The Early Bird Breakfast Club. Surrounded by nearby drinking places, Shawarma Guys is a perfect place to cure hunger pangs and hungover after a drinking session. Its owners are the same geniuses behind one of my favorites, Relik Tapas Bar and the nearby URBN Club.

A Revisit to IHOP Philippines at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City: The Long Queue, Other Items on the Menu, and The Craze

When IHOP Restaurant Philippines (International House of Pancakes) opened its first branch here in Manila last month, people suddenly started hopping their way to IHOP BGC The Fort, to have a taste of this iconic brand that takes and still taking Manila by storm. People are excited to know IHOP Philippines' location, menu, price, and store hours. Everyone wants to know if the branch we have here in Manila is as good as the one they have in the U.S. Everyone seems to be curious if IHOP Philippines offers the best pancakes and breakfast fares in Manila. As most of you aptly put it, we are now experiencing IHOP Philippines craze.

Tip: Check out my previous post about IHOP Philippines The Fort Bonifacio Global City

Since IHOP Philippines opened and after writing about it here on YedyLicious, I've been receiving a lot of messages through Facebook and Twitter, including sms about how crazy the lines were. So, last week I decided to check the IHOP Manila craze and see for myself the long queue at IHOP BGC The Fort that people are talking about.

Garlic Pork Rice Meal and More at Manang's Chicken in Ortigas Center

First time I tried Manang's Chicken was at Mercato Centrale. Claiming to be the 'Ang Bagong Fried Chicken ng Pinoy', Manang's Chicken is proudly local. I don't know about their tag line but their chicken reminds me of Korean fried chicken with all the flavored sauce going on. I have a number of favorite restaurants in Manila dishing out really good fried chicken, and I may not be downright crazy about Manang's Chicken but I wouldn't mind having them once in a while. Also, I love the fact that they are a local brand and it is good to support your very own.

Recently, I was invited to try the new products of Manang's Chicken, the Garlic Pork Rice Meal, side dishes, new dip, and a sweet dessert. I have not dined at any Manang's Chicken restaurant so I deem it's a good chance for me to check out some of their goodies aside from the chicken which i have already tried.

I was in Ortigas area one time so I decided to visit their store located at the AIC Gold Tower near Robinson's Galleria. It's a very small place which I find somewhat similar to a small office canteen but the service was warm and welcoming.

Indian Food Festival at Oakroom Restaurant & Bar, Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila

Oakroom Restaurant & Bar, in-house restaurant of Oakwood Premier Joy-Nostalg Center Manila is currently celebrating divinity of delectable Indian dishes through their Indian Food Festival. This on-going food festivity which started February 20 will run until the first of March 2013.

Oakroom's Indian Food Festival here in Manila is spearheaded by Guest Executive Chef Ashutosh Nerlekar of Oakwood Bangalore. Equipped flair for whipping up complex Northern Indian cuisines and 15 years of culinary experience, Chef Ashutosh is set to enamored Oakroom's guests as he prepares food that does not just satisfy the palate, but nourished the body as well.

This festivity of Indian Cuisine showcases ala carte dishes perfected by Chef Ashutosh himself. During the first day of Oakroom's Indian Food Festival, selected guests and friends from media were invited to sample Chef Ashutosh culinary masterpieces which include some of his personal favorites. 

Buffet at Spectrum in Fairmont Hotel Makati, Philippines

When Manila opened its door in welcoming prestigious name Fairmont Hotel which was built in Makati City decades ago, food lovers got excited with the premium buffet restaurant that comes with it.  This new addition to five star luxury hotels in the Philippines gave birth to Spectrum Restaurant, one of the new hotel buffet dining places in Manila.

Weeks after its opening, we paid a visit at Spectrum in Fairmont Hotel Makati to sample their dinner buffet right after our leisurely pre-dinner cocktail at the famed Long Bar at Raffles Makati.

Spectrum’s ambiance exudes comfort and classy flair without overbearingly so.  Considering it is an in-house restaurant of a luxurious hotel, the place has a welcoming vibes as oppose the usual intimidating bordering into snobbish look of hotel restaurants. 

Big and Tasty Burgers at Granny's Burger, Pasig City

With numbers of restaurants claiming to serve the best burgers in Manila, I still find a certain kind of bliss upon discovering new burger joint that dishes out unexpectedly mean burgers worth raving about. So, for weeks now, I have been stealing precious time from my rather crazy schedule just to scout for these nooks that will satisfy my burger cravings. There are times when I am lucky enough to find decent joints that caters to my carnivorous quest, and there are times when I would just go home in frustration.

One lucky moment includes the time when I was introduced to Granny's Burger located in Pasig City. This burger joint specializes in different burgers made of 1/3 pound pure Australian beef patty, specialty sandwiches, pastas, milkshakes, and more.

Tucked at the ground floor of LPI Center, a building near Valle Verde Country Club and Tides Pasig, Granny's Burger location may be a tad small compare to other joints, but when it comes to the flavors of the dishes they are serving, they are definitely big.

IHOP Philippines at Bonifacio Global City, The Fort ~ NOW OPEN!

IHOP Restaurant, the iconic brand known for dishing out unparalleled all-day breakfast fares has finally landed at Asia Pacific region by opening its first branch in The Philippines located at Bonifacio Global City, The Fort.  Famous for its pancakes, omelettes, and other breakfast items, IHOP Philippines is set to extend the distinct IHOP experience to diners here in Asia. Today, February 15, 2013 marks their opening day.

Check Out My Latest IHOP Post: A Revisit To IHOP Philippines at BGC The Fort

With number of restaurants in Manila offering an all-day breakfast dishes, the opening of IHOP Philippines is a welcome addition to the fast growing local dining scene here in the country. This remarkable addition is made possible by the partnership between International House of Pancake's parent company, DineEquity Inc. and Global Restaurants Concepts Inc. through its subsidiary InterDine Corp.

Currently, IHOP has almost 1,600 branches worldwide and for the next five years, InterDine plans to put up 20 IHOP branches here in the Philippines. With 55 years in restaurant industry, this figures only goes to show that this local brand is set to spread more happiness in the coming years.  The first IHOP Philippines is located at W Global Center, 30th St. corner 9th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Situated in the same building as P.F. Chang's and California Pizza Kitchen.

P.F. Chang's Philippines at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City

Early last year, world renowned US based casual dining restaurant P.F. Chang's China Bistro opened its first branch in the Philippines located in Alabang Town Center. Since then, foodies from around the metro especially those from up north traveled all the way to south just to experience the great dining fare at P.F. Chang's. This year, they finally opened their second branch located at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City.

To celebrate the opening of P.F. Chang's The Fort branch, a media launch was held to showcase P.F. Chang's beautifully constructed abode in the area and to sample great tasting dishes which are known to be some of their best sellers.

Lolo Dad’s Café in Malate Manila: Valentine's Tasting Menu and More!

Believe it or not, I know numbers of love stories in which Lolo Dad's Café in Malate Manila played a great part.  Most of the foodie couples I know have their own romantic stories to dish out about Lolo Dad's.  And I never doubted those stories. With numbers of years in Manila's restaurant scene, what started out as a simple house of Apuyao family that eventually converted into a fine dining restaurant has earned utmost respect in the industry by dishing out impeccable gastronomical fares that everybody loves. Not all fine dining restaurants in Manila can do that, and Chef Ariel Manuel of Lolo Dad's is doing a great job in proving that Lolo Dad's deserves every recognition it earns.

I have always been puzzled why most of these couples I know would always subtly force me to dine at Lolo Dad's in every single dates I had. As much as I want to think that they are dying to see me change my status from single to in a relationship, it is more fitting to think or accept that they do have different reason.  Yes, they want me to dine at Lolo Dad's because no matter how successful or unsuccessful my dating journey would turn out, I still have the impeccably executed dishes to fall in love with at Lolo Dad's.

This resolved was further steeled when recently, I had a chance to preview the Valentine's Tasting Menu which Lolo Dad's offers on February 8 to February 16, 2013. Together with lovely couples and fellow food enthusiasts Richard and Irene, Richie and Rina, Ray and Lynne, and Teddy, my friend Glenn and I feasted on a lovely dinner at Lolo Dad's.  Despite being surrounded by these couples, I do not mind not having someone to fall in love with because honestly, the food alone were enough to make me feel giddy like a school girl seeing her crush. True story.

Mesclun Restaurant and Café at The Linden Suites in Ortigas Pasig City

During the time that I attended the launching of Mesclun Restaurant and Café at The Linden Suites in Ortigas, I was able to have a preview of some of the dishes they will be serving through cocktail portions being passed around while all guests were partying the night away.  It was a great launching as it further excites me to have an actual dining experience at Mesclun.

When I finally had a chance to spent a leisurely afternoon at Mesclun over great dishes that they offer, I knew right then that the excitement I felt the night of launching was really worth it.  The delightful experience was actually expected since this gastronomical abode is headed by Chef Katrina Kuhn Alcantara, the same genius behind the well loved Chuck's Deli.

Located inside The Linden Suites Ortigas Pasig City, Mesclun serves as its in-house restaurant dishing out delectable food for the hotel's guests and walk-in diners.  It boast of cozy and brightly lit modern ambiance that exudes comfort.  Peppered with splash of green colors against immaculate white base interior, Mesclun which is means "mixture" is indeed a mixture of delightful dishes, refreshing ambiance, and great service.

Mitsuyado Sei-Men House of Tsukemen at Jupiter St. Makati City

I think by now it's no secret that I have deep affinity for restaurants that does not just dish out great food but has beautiful interiors as well.  Entire dining experience for me includes taking and feeling in the aesthetics of the place I am dining in.  While there are hole-in-the-wall and some downright humble eateries that I love, admittedly, nothing beats the feeling of enjoying your food in an environment pleasing to the eye.  No, I am not snob, I guess it just have something to do with the architectural background in my family.

Here in Manila, there are a lot of restaurants that made me fall head over heels with their interiors alone. And lucky me because almost all of them delivers when it comes to great tasting dishes. One of them is Mitsuyado Sei-Men, House of Tsukemen located at Jupiter St in Makati City.

Hailing from the land of the rising sun, Mitsuyado Sei-Men was brought here in the Philippines by the UCC Group as an addition to the growing ramen scene here in Manila.  I first heard about Mitsuyado from a traveler friend who fell madly in love with tsukemen during his stint in Japan. The word "tsukemen" means dipping noodle which is an innovative way to enjoy your usual noodle by dipping it into a broth. When I heard that Mitsuyado is already here in Manila, I know have to try it, pronto.

Ba-Be-Q Korean Charcoal Grill at Makati Ave.

I used to be very apprehensive in trying Korean dishes way back when I started this food blog. But as my food writing experiences progress, I have learned to embrace and love the distinct flavor that Korean dishes has to offer. Korean restaurants sprouting here in Manila helped a lot as it opened my palate to new and exciting flavors of their culture. I admit that I am still starting my journey in exploring Korean dishes, and I am definitely enjoying the ride.

Recently, I was introduced to Ba-Be-Q Korean Charcoal Grill located at Makati Ave. I am quite familiar with their location at Makati A.Venue Mall since I always frequent to The Coffee Bean And Tea Leaf just right beside it.  I know for a fact that within the area, there are a lot of Korean restaurants in every corner.  Thus, I was surprised by the spunk and the courage of this new player in the field for holding itself with pride amidst the amateurs.  And I can perfectly understand the guts, because despite being a newbie, Ba-Be-Q Korean Charcola Grill restaurant has its own charm that will surely make its diners fall in love with it.

As compare to other Korean restaurants I usually frequent to, Ba-Be-Q Korean Charcoal Grill restaurant aims to make its diner experience a street-style Korean gastronomical experience. This goal is very apparent in its funky ambiance reminiscent of streets and alley ways in Korea.  

Chops Chicago Steakhouse in Greenbelt 5 Makati City: Executive Lunch and More!

Ever since Chops Chicago Steakhouse opened its door and dive to Philippines' restaurant scene friends who share the same passion for meat had been prodding me to give it a try and write recommendations here on my blog.  The past few months was crazy busy for me so it was only recently that I get to visit Chops located at Greenbelt 5 in Makati City when they introduced their Executive Lunch Set Menu to some Manila bloggers.

I was told by some foodies who have tried it before that indeed they do serve great tasting steaks that will surely satisfy one's inner carnivore. I only got to try the power lunch promo they are currently offering alongside some items which they deem as some of their bestsellers. It's too early to decide but with my short stay and judging from the dishes I have tasted particularly the Wisconsin Beef Tenderloin included on the set menu, I could say that they are one of the best restaurants that serves great steaks here in Manila. 

Then again, I have not tried some of the cuts they are offering so I am looking forward to a more extensive food review hopefully soon. Meanwhile, let me share with you my take on their Executive Lunch Set Menu and some of the dishes we feasted on.

Holdak : Go Crazy Over Crunchy Boneless Korean Fried Chicken!

Truth be told, Korean fried chicken craze is not over yet. And I am still crazy about them. While there have been number of places offering this delectable way of frying our good ol' chicken, sadly there are only few which hit the right button for me. I think it's pretty obvious since there are only few which I wrote about here at YedyLicious.  (No room for bad and lukewarm reviews here unless it's really called for. I only celebrate all things beautiful and delicious in life thank you very much.)

So, when a friend introduced me to this new restaurant named Holdak which specializes in Korean fried chicken, I moved mountains just so I can fit the meet up in my crazy schedule.  I am glad I did because honestly, for me, Holdak dishes out the best Korean fried chicken in Manila I have ever tasted in such a long time! And I am not exaggerating here, mind you, I have my reasons. Stay with me and you would know.

Located at the ground level of Mezza Residences in Aurora Blvd. Quezon City right across Central Colleges of The Philippines near SM Centerpoint, Holdak occupies what used to be a Californiaberry spot in the area.  They are the master franchise of Holdak which hails from Busan South Korea. While the place exudes an inviting vibes, it was the food that really got me head over heels with them.

Early Bird Breakfast Club at The Fort: Beautiful Breakfast. Morning, Noon, and Night

Rarely do I encounter restaurants which serve all day breakfast fare.  While I am not a morning person, I am big when it comes to breakfast. So, even if I woke up at three o'clock in the afternoon, breakfast meal is still the first thing that comes to mind.  I know some places that dishes out breakfast goodies anytime of the day, but I deem that they do it just for the sake of it (read: profit). And I am talking about big fat satisfying breakfast here.  There are few which serves decent enough brekky and well, that's just about it. Seriously, breakfast is sacred, I cannot accept 'decent enough' so to speak. Eat like a king for breakfast, remember?.

Then recently I was introduced to this new restaurant located at The Fort that specializes in breakfast meals served morning, noon, and night. Aptly named "Early Bird Breakfast Club", it serves downright satisfying brekky dishes in an ambiance that screams "good morning sunshine" in your face.  If all clubs are like this, I wouldn't mind being a lifetime member!

With a promise of serving beautiful breakfast all day everyday, Early Bird Breakfast Club is open every Sunday to Thursday from 7am to 10pm, and 24 hours every Friday and Saturday.  Party goers from nearby URBN Bar and early morning joggers at The Fort serve as its target market but everyone is very much welcome to visit and take their fair share of the beautiful breakfast that they offer.

Long Bar at Raffles Hotel in Makati

When you have an alcohol tolerance of an infant and were invited to have a pre-dinner cocktail at the first ever famed Long Bar outside Singapore, you should not have any other option but to say yes and man up. Yes, life is short. So, even if you are headed to an expectedly wonderful buffet at Spectrum in Fairmont, you should suck the morrow out of life and dig in.

You see, the world famous Long Bar originated at Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The opening of this luxury hotel here in the Philippines opened a door for us to enjoy their famous Singapore Sling and other drinks without the need to stamp our passports. Great, right? It’s almost a sin to pass up.

While gone are the days when I could easily drown on alcoholic drinks like it’s nobody’s business ( I can only tolerate wines and nothing else these days, I know I am weird that way), the time spent at Long Bar was well worth it.  I was able to sample their iconic Singapore Sling alongside other drinks that instantly became one of the reasons why I would want to go back at Raffles.

Exciting New Drinks at Serenitea

During the time when milk tea craze was just starting to hit our country by storm, there's only one brand that I would always go to when milk tea craving hits me, Serenitea.  I am not sure about the history but I would like to believe that it was Serenitea that started such craze that people heed to up to this day.  After all, it was Serenitea that started MY addiction to milk teas.

Recently, I was invited ( shout out to my foodie friend frannywanny!) to try exciting new drinks which will be launched by Serenitea come the end of February 2013.  Although they are known to dish out impressive lines of milk tea variants, Serenitea still keeps on coming up with new flavors to satisfy their customers. No wonder that they are still on top of their game up to this day!

The night of what I deemed as a taste test at Serenitea San Juan Branch turned out to be a milk tea party, much to my heart's delight.  We were served with six variants of new drinks to try and some delicious Serenitea snacks to much on while we're at it.

Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant at Diamond Hotel Philippines

The first time I dined at Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant of Diamond Hotel Philippines was during the time when we tried the Teppanyaki Eat-All-You-Can with fellow foodies.  The experience was legendary and from then on, I have been meaning to revisit Yurakuen and try their ala carte dishes. If I was floored with my teppanyaki experience, there isn't a snowball chance in the desert that I wouldn't like Yurakuen's other dishes.

When I finally got the chance to revisit Yurakuen, it steeled my resolve that they are one of the best Japanese restaurants in Manila, at least in my book, but I am confident a lot will agree. 

Located inside Diamond Hotel Philippines in Manila, dining at Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant feels like dining in a small paradise.  Their signature cherry blossom glass tree sits pontifically in the middle of the dining area that gives the restaurant an elegant feel to it.  The roof to floor glass walls serves as a thin line that separate the dining area to the beautiful garden surrounding the restaurant.  

Mochiko Potato Chip Chocolate Mochi

One of the reasons why I love going to weekend markets is the endless possibilities of discovering great food finds.  In the past years that I have been going to Mercato Centrale, one of the food finds that really love and patronize up to this day is Mochiko.  Despite being introduced to different Mochi stores sprouting all over Manila, truth be told, I still keep coming back to the tried and tested Mochiko.

There are a lot of things about Mochiko to be loved, but one that illuminate is their creativity in coming up with different flavors.  I've been crazy with their azuki, caramel, and black sesame variants and I was floored when they released their chocnut and cookie dough flavors.  And during the holiday season, I was introduced to their new flavor, Potato Chip Chocolate Mochi. 

Who would have thought, right?  Sheer genius.

This new flavor by Mochiko is a beautiful collaboration with Risa Chocolate which is also known in every food fairs and weekend markets in Manila.  Risa Chocolate provides the chocolate covered potato chips while FIC Ice cream provides the delectable ice cream.

California Pizza Kitchen at Bonifacio High Street

To mark its 10th store in the Philippines, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK Phlippines) celebrate it with newly revamped interiors and new additions to the menu.  Handled by Global Restaurants Concept Inc., California Pizza Kitchen opened its door to cater to its patrons located at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City.

Since it's first branch that opened in 1998 at Glorietta, California Pizza Kitchen still is among the pizza restaurant chains that dishes out great tasting pizza that Filipino love.  During the opening of it's 10th store, we were able to try some of the new additions to the menu and experience great ambiance at CPK.

Suggestive of California ambiance, CPK's interior boasts of laid back and comfortable feat where diners could enjoy their meals and relax.  I wasn't able to capture photos of their The Fort branch because the place was so jam packed during my visit so I'll just reserved that on my future posts when I get to visit them again sometime soon. Menawhile, here are the dishes we enjoyed during the launching.

Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant Philippines

One of the many reasons why I love Bistro Group is their awesomeness in bringing in impressive concepts in Philippines' restaurant scene. Late last year, Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant opened its first branch here in the country as a new addition to the Bistro Group's line of concepts such as Italianni's, T.G.I.Friday's, Bulgogi Brothers, Ma Maison, Village Tavern, and more.

Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant is an international concept that has over 700 branches worldwide.  The number itself will clearly speak how this concept is well perceived by people all over the world.  Watami has 2 branches now in the Philippines located at SM Mall of Asia and at the New Glorietta in Makati.

Japanese food lovers like me could only rejoice in the fact that Watami offers affordable and great tasting Japanese food in an ambiance that rivals high end restaurants in the country.  Weeks after opening its first branch in SM Mall of Asia, we were able to try some of their dishes that will surely earn the raves of foodies here in Manila.

Book For Foodies: Eat Out Now! 115 Manila Restaurants We Love

I have to say that for someone like me who has a thing for restaurant book guides, launching of such books late last year was quite exciting.  Northern Eats and Southern Eats by Anton Diaz of the famous blog Our Awesome Planet was released last year by Hinge Inquirer Publishing.  Also last year, Alicia Sy, lifestyle editor of Town & Country Philippines and food columnist of Spot.ph released 'Eat Out Now! 115 Manila Restaurants We Love' through Summit Media Publishing.

Some of our country's respected food enthusiasts tagged as panelists joined Sy in dishing out 115 restaurants in Manila featured in the book.  They are Cyrene dela Rosa (Interaksyon.com's Chowbuzz), Erwann Heussaff (The Fat Kid Inside), JJ Yulo (Pinoy Eats World), Sanjeeb Gopaldas (Table for Three, Please), Joel Binamira (Market Manila), and Noel Ermitano (Eyeonwine).

ChocNut Cheesecake of Indulgence by Irene

I admit ChocNut Cheesecake of Indulgence by Irene didn’t rock my world at first bite the way Queso de Bola Cheesecake did.

No, it didn’t turn my world inside out, nor made my knees weak.  No dramatic knee shaking and tight gripping onto my camera happened. Nothing like that transpired. 

Clearly it wasn’t love at first bite.

But let me ask you, have you ever tasted nostalgia?

Have you every experienced having slice of yesteryears play on your palate?  Have you ever experienced memories flirt with your taste buds?

Have you ever tasted something as beautiful as that?  I have.

Cafe Ysabel Through Quick Delivery (twoanyone.com)

One of the many reasons why I love food delivery services is the convenient it provides especially for busy bees like me.  When every task at hand seems too impossible to leave and you got no one in your house to cook hearty meals for your growling stomach, food delivery can be the answer.  This scenario happens to me often. That is why I am thankful for food delivery services like twoanyone.com, formerly known as Quick Delivery.  Not only is the service efficient, but they also handle most of my favorite restaurants in Manila under their umbrella.

Recently, I decided to have something from Café Ysabel delivered at the comfort of my home through twoanyone.com.  I was dead set on beating some writing deadlines that is why although Café Ysabel is a short drive from home, I decided to go for delivery instead.

Books For Foodies: Northern Eats and Southern Eats by Anton Diaz

As a food blogger who is in constant search for restaurants in Manila to try, discover, and re-discover, I would have to say that I am a sucker for restaurant guides.  It's just too bad that such guides are rather limited here in our country.  While food blogs, websites, and social networking sites plays a big role in dishing out recommendations on where and what to eat, it is comforting to know that we still have books to turn to when technology fails.

That is why when friends at Hinge Inquirer informed me late last year that famous blogger Anton Diaz of Our Awesome Planet will be having book launching I couldn't help but to get excited about it.  Knowing the man behind series of foodie fairs called The Ultimate Taste Test and food markets such as Mercato Centrale, Soderno Molito, Manda Centrale, and Cucina Andare, I know the book is going to be a restaurant guide. I was right. The bonus is, it's not just one book, but two.

Presented by Northern Living and Southern Living, and co-presented by Avida, Mr. Our Awesome Planet Anton Diaz dished out his restaurant recommendations in a form of books published by Hinge Inquirer.  Aptly titled Northern Eats and Southern Eats. These two books boasts of 50 restaurants to discover in the north and 50 restaurants to discover in the south recommended by Anton.

Chef Tatung Restaurant in Acacia Estates, Taguig City

During the first time I visited Chef Tatung Restaurant when it was still located in Quezon City, I immediately fell in love with it.  Despite the long drive and the unfamiliar place, I consider it one of the restaurants that made me feel at home from the get go.  

Then last year, owner chef Myke "Tatung" Sarthou relocated his famed gastronomical abode from Quezon City to Taguig City. Location-wise, it became farther from my place than ever. Yet, having experienced the wonders of Chef Tatung's place and the impeccably satisfying treats that it offer, I realized that indeed, home is where the heart is.

Located at the Acacia Estates in Taguig City, Chef Tatung is a foodie destination meant to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.  Its innate charm that captured the hearts of many foodies is still ever present even after the move. Only, it's all the more lovelier as it boast of spacious area where more diners can be accommodated. 

Gala Magazine December-January Issue

Hi foodies,

Please grab a copy of Gala Magazine's December - January issue. My article entitled 'Door to a New Taste' is on the food section page 146-147 of this issue. The article is all about usual food given with a new twist that made it uniquely satisfying, familiar yet new.

Bigger, bolder, and better, Gala Magazine's December-January Issue is by far the most impressive and downright fiercer issue to date.  Needless to say, when it comes to "everything events", they are the authority.  

Breakfast Magazine's December-January Issue

Late last year, our friends at the newest food magazine, Breakfast Magazine invited us together with some of our favorite Manila food bloggers to be part of their magazine's blogger section for December-January Issue.  The assignment was to feature a restaurant that reminds us of holiday season, a restaurant close to our hearts.

Without a second thought I chose to feature Bahay Ligaya Filipino Restaurant and Antique Shop located in Katipunan Ave.  Based on the editorial write up by Breakfast Magazine's Editor-In-Chief, Alexis Cuizon, this issue is by far one in which they poured every ounce of feeling and gratitude they have for food. Hence,. most of the article are really personal and close to the hearts of those who have collaborated to complete the issue, including us bloggers. 

Most of the articles according to Alexis, they have to cut down. But this does not mean that the issue lacks something. Still, it is full of heart and passion. Just like its previous issues, the December-January issue of Breakfast Magazine hold its known charm to foodies, this time only better.

Desserts Overload with the Desserts Specialists in Quezon City

When I was invited to visit Desserts Specialist located in Quezon City I have nothing but big expectations.  Owing to the fact that for one to be a specialist, there should be mastery of a certain craft involved.  For a business which just started its operation last July of 2012 and call themselves a specialists, I know it must be something. Since it's desserts that we are talking about, despite the fact that I have to move mountains to fit the visit to my schedule, my friend Glenn of The Strolling Spoon Blog and I happily took the long ride to their location.

While I've been going on frequent trips to some restaurants in Quezon City particularly the Tomas Morato area for some food scouting, Desserts Specialists' location at Scout Gandia is still considered off the beaten track.  A tad far from the stretch that houses numbers of restaurants, it's the kind of dessert nook that you would need to make a conscious effort to locate to have your fair share of delectable desserts made by the specialists. 

Fresh Flavours with Celebrity Chef Anna Olson in Manila

December last year, YedyLicious was invited by our friends at The Asian Food Channel to take part at Media Lunch with Canadian Celebrity Chef Anna Olson held at Heat, Edsa Shangri-La.  This event is the served as the second installment of Asian Food Channel’s Culinary Masterpieces. The first one happened when they brought Chef Martin Yan in Manila in which my article about the visit was published at Gala Magazine's October Issue.

With two programmes to boot namely ‘Fresh with Anna Olson’ and ‘Sugar’, both air at The Asian Food Channel,  Fresh Flavours with Anna Olson is inline with promoting her new programme also shown at AFC, 'Bake with Anna Olson'.   

Prior to the media lunch, a 2-day cooking demonstration was held at The Gallery, Level 3 of Greenbelt 5, Makati City where Chef Anna Olson impressed the guest with her flair for preparing delectable dishes such as Tourtiere (French Canadian Beef Pie), Calamansi Cheesecake and Pumpkin Crème Brulee Tarts. While I wasn’t able to witness the cooking demos at Greenbelt 5, the media lunch gave us a chance to witness Chef Anna Olson whip up 2 dishes she lovingly demonstrated while media indulged to a meal prepared by Chef Anna Olson herself with the help of some folks at Heat.

Italianni's Holiday Feast Platters

I remember it was only early this year when I get the chance to try Italianni's Holiday Feast Platter for 2011.  During that time, I admit that although Italianni's has always been one of my favorite restaurants here in Manila, trying out different restaurants for food blogging limits revisits to the familiar.  But all things fall into place when I was reacquainted with the old favorite because this year, there were countless of times that I get to dine at Italianni's.  

Time flies fast, and now I am writing about Italianni's Holiday Feast Platters for this year 2012.  With the spirit of Christmas season still lingering even after the day itself, gastronomical festivities still continue at Italianni's with this holiday offering.

While I am aware that most of us still have tons of food for our disposal stashed in our pantries, Italianni's Holiday Feast Platters are worth visiting the restaurant for.  I have enjoyed their Tre Combinazioni platter and I must say that their feast for this are equally satisfying. There are two Holiday Feast Platter to choose from; one is the Country Classic, and the other one is the Farmer's Feast. 

The Bistro Group Premiere Card: Dining Privileges and Discounts to Different Bistro Group Restaurants in One Card

Recently, The Bistro Group of Restaurants launched its Premiere Card which aims to provide more memorable and delightful dining experiences to its customers through access to awesome dining privileges and discounts.  A mother to most of foodies' favorite restaurants in Manila, The Bistro Group has once again taken a step further to provide unbeatable treats to their patrons.

While they are already known to have provided impressive discounts through "The Bistro Circle Card" to their guests who availed of the membership, this new privilege and discount card aptly called "premiere" provides more enjoyable treats that you wouldn't want to miss.

For the price of only Php2,500 per membership valid for one year, The Bistro Group Premiere members can enjoy discounts and perks in all Bistro Group concepts such as Italianni's, TGI Friday’s, Fish & Co, Village Tavern, Bulgogi Brothers, Krazy Garlik, Watami, Ma Maison, The Stock Market Cafe, Flapjacks, PIG Out! and all other concepts which will be handled by The Bistro Group.

So, what are the dining privileges, discounts, and perks of this Premiere Card, you may ask.  Well foodies, read on.

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.