Osaka Ohsho Megamall: The King of Gyoza Now Serving The World's No.1 Gyoza in the Philippines

Osaka Ohsho located at SM Megamall Mega Fashion Hall in Mandaluyong City is one of the newest international franchise restaurants that landed Manila which offers what they dub as "The World’s No. 1 Gyoza." Most of the food bloggers in Manila which I follow have already written their opinion about Osaka Ohsho, even Kris Aquino raved about the goodness of Osaka Ohsho on her T.V. program. I deem that most of them believed that indeed, Osaka Ohsho is the King of Gyoza. 

Osaka Ohsho’s humble beginnings can be traced back in Japan during the year 1969. Fast forward to 2014, Osaka Ohsho boasts of 300+ stores worldwide including the one here in the Philippines, all thanks to the same group that brought Wee Nam Kee here in our country. Its signature gyoza is the main highlight of Osaka Ohsho’s menu, the very same reason of its popularity.

Jollibee KIT KAT Mix-ins: Take a Break and Beat the Heat

Have you noticed the weather lately? I know. It seems like summer is upon us. Although it is usually perpetually cold where I live, stepping outside home these days could mean a struggle not to have a heat stroke.  Yeah, that is why I am writing about Jollibee KIT KAT Mix-ins right now. You see, this relatively new product of the number one local fast food chain in the Philippines is one of the cold desserts I have been digging lately.

One of the reasons why Jollibee KIT KAT Mix-ins sits well with me is the fact that well, it has Kit-Kat Chocolate, one of my favorite products by Nestle Philippines, in it. I love Kit Kat Chocolate, I love ice cream, therefore Jollibee KIT KAT Mix-ins is just perfect way to combat the heat while enjoying in the process.

As with any other Jollibee Mix-ins introduced by Jollibee, this new mix-ins variant has Jollibee creamy vanilla soft serve as its base. Thrown into the mix for a good measure is crushed Kit Kat Chocolate that lends palatable chocolaty flavor and pleasant texture to the entire deal.

Plan Party in Five Days Through WeChat

Are you one of those who loves to plan party? I am not talking about one-thousand-guests-big-event-kind-of-party though, I am referring to the usual chill out party amongst you and your friends. I do. I love cooking and having friends around to feast on the dishes I prepared. These small parties used to be my usual weekend fix especially when I was in college and early on my corporate world stint. I also love having staycation on some hotels with my friends and just have a good time over food and shared stories. Then I got busy and rarely got the liberty of time to plan parties again. So, for a time, I stopped creating these little parties because I cannot afford to deal with stress that party planning entails. But then there’s a comeback.

Enter WeChat.

Yes, the mobile app I have been talking about here on my blog for the past few weeks. WeChat and planning parties, what’s the connection you ask. Well, by the time that I am writing this I am cooking a party, a small gathering over food with my old time friends that will happen in five days. Yes, party planning in five days is now possible. With the help of WeChat.

WeChat: Of Storage and History Backup

I have this thing about storage devices. Because really, wouldn’t it be so much easier if we could stash and keep away our things for future usage? Like say for instance, food. I am a fan of those nifty storage containers we can by from the market. I love its usability and the fact that it helps me keep things and food in my pantry organize made me love it all the more. 

And this affinity for storage extends to most important things in life. I am a photographer, hence, heavy duty external hard drive is a must for safekeeping the photos I shoot for my clients. I am a blogger, so I appreciate online services that can back up datas from my blog. As for mobile conversation through chat, I am happy that WeChat has History Backup feature that enables user to save their conversations histories and restores them to any device for up to seven (7) days.

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you know for a fact that I am a WeChat user. I use it both for personal and business purposes. And I couldn’t stress enough how WeChat features help me in my line of work and day to day life. One of the features that I find indispensable is this History Backup.

Tex-Mex Food Feast at TGIFridays Philippines

It was only recently that I visited the newest TGIFridays Philippines’ branch located at Greenbelt 3 in Makati City to check the new look it is sporting. Weeks after that visit, I found myself at the same TGIFridays branch to try their take on Tex-Mex dishes. TGIFridays is one of the restaurants I have high respect for since the way they execute Western dishes, not to mention the impressive line of cocktail drinks, is well suited to my liking. Now that they are taking their game on a different level by giving highlight on Texas-Mexican dishes, I deem that my visit with few friends must happen. 

“The Taste of Texas. The Passion of Mexico.” Is the tag line that is suggestive of how seriously TGIFridays Philippines takes Tex-Mex dishes. It also holds the promise of what their patrons must expect should they opt to pay a visit and indulge themselves with the goodness of these two cultures merged into one by means of gastronomical feast.

Ube Cheesecake of Indulgence by Irene

By the time that I am writing this, a lot of my favorite food bloggers in Manila have raved about the Ube Cheesecake of Indulgence by Irene. Who could blame these food enthusiasts dubbing this awesome cheesecake as one of the best ube cheesecakes in Manila when in reality, it really is.  

This well-loved Ube Cheesecake is a product of Irene Co's collaboration with equally talented homebaker, Chona Ayson of Homemade Treasures known for delicious ensaymada. Chona is responsible for making the ube jam used for the cheesecake.

I could not count how many times have I raved to my friends how much I love Irene's Quezo de Bola Cheesecake. As a matter of fact, if heaven permits, I would have that for a wedding cake. I am not even kidding. Irene's ChocNut Cheesecake was also notably delightful especially for those who has an affinity for this peanut-chocolate bar of our childhood days. This Ube Cheesecake of Indulgence by Irene, is no exception to the fact that Irene Co bakes the best homemade cheesecakes in Manila.

WeChat 5.2 Upgrade with 6 New Features

For the past couple of days, I am developing this new morning ritual that revolves around coffee and WeChat. I was the big breakfast kind of girl but since I have been dealing with some recipe development and food photography projects lately, I have to make do with what my little time could accommodate. Ditching coffee is out of the question. Logging on to my WeChat account to communicate with some of my clients, all the more. So yeah, every morning, it’s just usually the three of us in my studio-slash-kitchen. 

Couple of days ago, upon logging on to my WeChat, I was prompted with a message from WeChat Team notifying me that the new WeChat 5.2 upgrade is now available. I tell you this, save for my Instagram account where I showcase most of my kitchen works, WeChat is one of my most used mobile app. Needless to say, I am excited with this new upgrade.

I could not stress enough how indispensable WeChat to me especially now that I am slowly trying to incorporate it in my works as a freelancer and as well as a blogger. Means of communication with clients, friends, and loved ones used to be within the confines of text messages, phone calls, and emails. Now that WeChat’s 5.2 upgrade for Android and iOS matches my drive and energy to get through the day with all my activities at hand, I am confident that communication while I am on the go will be so much easier, not to mention fun!

B&B Burgers and Brewskies at Burgos Circle, BGC

B&B Burgers and Brewskies is a gastro pub located at the Forbes Town Center, Burgos Circle area of the Fort in Bonifacio Global City wherein if you hear the phrase "Call the Nurse" you have the excuse not to resort into an immediate panic. Yes, because apparently, one of the carefully crafted burgers at this new addition to the best burger joints in Manila is called "Call the Nurse."

An epic burger variant that boasts of honey cured sriracha bacon and seared mac and cheese on top of a 1/3 lb 100% imported beef patty generously smothered with spiced mustard aioli and bnb cheese sauce, Call the Nurse is one of the many reasons why you must visit Burgers and Brewskies pronto.

Burgers and beers may sound like the usual combination most of us like but with numbers of joints offering the marriage of these two, how else can you elevate such a treat? Judging by the recent experience I had at Burgers and Brewskies, it seems to me that despite being a new player in the field, they have already mastered this league.

Love in the Time of WeChat

We are through with the love month couple of days ago and here I am still talking about Love. But really who could blame me when everything else around speaks of the wondrous things about Love? Especially in this day and age of technology when communicating with our loved ones is made easier. Just like the services that WeChat offers to its users. 

While I am a firm believer of the fact that technological advances like WeChat are not meant to replace human communication but to merely enhance it, I am aware of the advantages it brought to us. 

Through this world’s most searched social mobile application, people can communicate to each other even if one is at the far side of the world while the other is at the other.

Undoubtedly, this notable feature of technology is being relied upon especially those who are in a relationship and wants to be constantly connected with their significant others while doing their respective responsibilities in life. One good example is WeChat endorsers and real life newly married couple, Iya Villania and Drew Arellano.

Miso-Ten Ramen and Tempura at Robinsons Magnolia

Let’s admit it, there are a lot of ramen places in Manila but not all of them are created equal in terms of quality and pricing.  Miso-Ten Ramen and Tempura located at Robinsons Magnolia is one of the affordable ramen places I usually go to when craving for a good bowl of ramen but would have to deal with limited budget. For less than Php300 I am assured that a good bowl of ramen will be served. When asked to name some affordable and good ramen places in Manila, I would say Miso-Ten Ramen is definitely on my list.

There are some ramen places that entice Manila foodies with their downright cheap prices but fall short when it comes to quality. There are also some that boasts of great quality but will burn a hole in your pocket. There are some however that strikes a balance, in my opinion. Miso-Ten is one of them.

I Am Mr. Egg! How About You? What's Your WeChat Sticker Personality?

So, lately I have been fiddling with my mobile phone more than usual after being introduced to the efficiency and entertainment that WeChat provides. You see, before it was just my Instagram account that I was busy with aside from the usual calls and sms, but WeChat made my means of communication through mobile phone way interesting.

My Friend Rina of Rinasrainbow.net for one is also a WeChat user and since I created a WeChat account, we rarely send sms to each other because our conversation through WeChat is far more interesting with the use of WeChat Animated Stickers. These Stickers are the equivalent of your usual emoticons, only better.  

I always believed that emotions can be translated through words, but the use of these cute little stickers on chat conversation adds life to virtual conversation, not to mention some flair of entertainment too.

TGIFridays in Greenbelt 3, Now Open and Sporting a New Look

It was late last year when I heard that TGIFridays, one of my favorite American restaurants here in Manila opened another branch at Greenbelt 3 in Makati City. In line with this opening, TGIFridays at Greenbelt 3 is already sporting a new look, different from the TGIF restaurants in Manila we all are used to.

This change, I was told is in compliance with the global revamp happening at all TGIFridays all over the world. Slowly but surely, every TGIFridays here in the Philippines will follow suit with the said change.

It is their branch at Robinsons Galleria that I usually frequent to, but I guess this new branch as well as the change is well worth checking out.

Hanamaruken Ramen in Trinoma: Serving Happiness in a Bowl

Hanamaruken Ramen located at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City is one of the new additions to the perpetually growing list of ramen places in Manila. With over 40 branches in Osaka Japan, Hanamaruken Ramen boasts of its Tonkotsu-Shoyu based soup ramen topped with a slab of slow-braised tender pork rib. This signature dish aptly called "Happiness Ramen" is said to be the reason of Hanamaruken Ramen's fame.

For the first time in 30 years, Arakawa Pork Company, the strong force behind Hanamaruken Ramen, decided to branch out this Osaka's favorite ramen place and land at the shore of Manila. Having their first branch outside of Japan, founder Takaku Arakawa aims to spread happiness in Manila by means of their carefully crafted ramen.

Most of the ramen enthusiasts I know got excited with the coming of Hanamaruken Ramen here in the Philippines, and I could not blame them. This has been claimed to be one of Osaka's favorites therefore it holds a certain honor to it. So, while I am not the one who can go crazy over ramen, I wouldn't pass up on having my fair share of a promise of happiness in a bowl.

WeChat: Giving Away an iPad Air This Valentine Season!

Happy Valentines Day everyone! Having fun yet? I know most of us are feeling already extra special this day of hearts. Thanks to our loved ones who never fail to brighten our days huh. And thanks to the evolving generation that we are in now because Valentines Day is no longer exclusive to those who are in a relationship (read: coupledom). I have no significant other, but I sure am having a blast today, and I sincerely hope that you are too.

That is right, for me and I am hoping that for most of us, Valentines is a celebration of all things we love the most. Family, friends, significant other, pets, food, and even things that we love dearly. Reason to be equally thankful for is the fact that we are now in this day and age wherein communication is possible even if your loved ones are million miles away. Take for instance this innovative mobile social communications application designed for smartphone users called WeChat.

For sure, most of us would love to get in touch with out loved ones located somewhere around the globe especially today that is a Valentines Day. WeChat can make that happen for us, for free. All we need is the proverbial internet connection and we’re good to go.

Toasted Pastillas by MAJ Sweet Shoppe

Of all the sweet native Filipino delicacies there is, I would have to say that Pastillas is definitely my favorite. I always admire it for its simplicity and delicately sweet taste. Pastillas recipe usually calls for sugar and milk, and that's it. While you cannot do much about it, you can have it toasted. Just like what MAJ Sweet Shoppe dishes out for their customers; Toasted Pastillas.

It was weeks back when I was given packs of Toasted Pastillas by MAJ Sweet Shoppe to try. Purist may say that pastillas should be delicately soft with just enough resistance to the bite for its sugar-laden outer covering. But then in Bulacan, one of the places I know that take their pastillas seriously, they do have this pastillas "tostado". This is pretty much the same thing.

Mrs. Graham's Macaron Café at Sct. Rallos in Quezon City

First time I have encountered Mrs. Graham’s Macaron was during the Best Food Forward last year. I could still remember how their Pancake with Maple Buttercream left a pleasant impression on me. Fast forward to 2014, Mrs. Graham's finally opened a café at Sct. Rallos in Quezon City.

There are plenty of restaurants and desserts places around Tomas Morato area, but Mrs. Graham's Macaron Café is definitely a welcome addition as it offers not just your ordinary macarons, but those which you cannot find else where. That is alongside many other delectable sweets and pastries they are offering.

This newest and most innovative macaron place I have encountered by far brings standard and not-so-standard macarons in the metro. It offers a handful of creative spin to the ordinary macaron, some more appealing than others, but all are worth trying out.

Xin Tian Di Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria: Celebrate Chinese New Year with Prosperity Toss

Xin Tian Di, signature Chinese restaurant of Crowne Plaza Hotel Manila Galleria is currently offering set menus of auspicious dishes perfect for Chinese New Year celebration this 2014. Impressive Chinese cuisine that are known to bring good luck this Year of the Wooden Horse can be enjoyed at Xin Tian Di starting today, January 30, 2014 to February 13, 2014. 

One of Xin Tian Di’s Chinese New Year auspicious entrees is the Yu Sheng Salad which is more known as the CNY “Prosperity Toss Salad.” This Chinese delicacy when translated to English means “abundance of wealth and long life.” 

I have been participating to Chinese New Year gatherings for quite a while now but it was only this year that I got to try the wonders of Yu Sheng Salad Ceremony. And trust me, it’s fun. “A good excuse to play and have fun with your food” one of my dinner mates noted during the preview of the CNY dinner celebration at Xin Tian Di. The fact that it can bring prosperity is an added bonus.

Black Olive Cerveceria at Capitol Commons, Pasig City

Black Olive Cerveceria is a new restaurant by Chef Carlos Miguel which is located at the Capitol Commons, a new foodie hub along Shaw Blvd. in Pasig City. It offers Mediterranean cuisine coupled with impressive line of beers, wines, and spirits in a relaxing ambiance conducive to having a great time over good food. 

Capitol Commons is slowly but surely becoming the favorite of foodies in Manila, with several food trucks and new restaurants up on its sleeve. Black Olive Cerveceria is one of those which should not be missed when visiting the area.

Some weeks ago, I along with some foodie friends visited Black Olive to meet Chef Carlos Miguel, the genius mind behind Draft Gastropub, Opus, Beso and Publiko and try his offerings served at Black Olive Cerveceria. It was a holiday season and there could not be more apt way to relax amidst the busy season than to feast on good food and great beers.

Oakroom Restaurant's Saturday Night Fever Dinner Buffet at Oakwood Premier Manila

Oakroom Restaurant, the signature restaurant of Oakwood Premier Joy-Nostalg Center Manila in Ortigas is known to dish out themed hotel buffet offerings every quarter. For the first quarter of this year, they give a flavorful touch of delectable goodness to their buffet spread through their Saturday Night Fever Dinner Buffet which started last January 11, 2014.

During the launch of the dinner buffet at Oakroom, we sampled some of the offerings on the spread which comprised of delightful international dishes. While the spread, particularly the quality of the food is enticing enough, this special buffet promo is further elevated with the inclusion of Chef Jerome Cartailler's Cronuts Station. 

'Cue Modern Barbecue at BHS The Fort: New Porch Menu and Cocktail Drinks Pairing

Whenever I ask some of my trusted and favorite food bloggers in Manila for their recommendations on best restaurants that serve downright good meat dishes, 'Cue Modern Barbecue located at Bonifacio High Street at BGC The Fort is always on top of the list. A lot of these foodies vouch for the goodness and the quality of food that 'Cue serves. After having tried some of their offerings recently, I could say that now, I am one of those who could recommend 'Cue Modern Barbecue in a heartbeat.

'Cue Modern Barbecue opened their doors to the hungry public couple of years back when an array of new restaurants at BGC, The Fort is starting to make waves in foodie radars. I couldn't count how many times have I let the opportunity to visit them passed. I think I kinda missed half of my life for that if I do say so myself. Then again, there's the whole stretch of a lifetime to make up for the lost times. So let's begin with their new porch menu and cocktail drinks pairing, shall we?

Our visit happened during a busy week reeking of cool fresh breeze of the holiday season. It was a busy week alright, but just the sound of delectable dishes paired with cocktail drinks especially developed by Enzo Lim made all the moving of schedules well worth it. Enzo Lim as you may have known, is a bartender-turned-restaurateur, the same creative genius behind the famed restaurants Maharlika and Jeepney in New York City. 

Aristocrat Restaurant at Subic Bay Freeport Zone

After our visit to Aristocrat Restaurant and Bakeshop at Jupiter St. which is a great addition to the 24 hour restaurants in Makati, we headed to their branch at Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Prior to the visit, I have little knowledge as to where to eat at Subic since I rarely frequent the place. All I know was that most restaurants at Subic Bay area are mostly Korean Restaurants. Little did I know, there are plenty others, including Aristocrat Restaurant.

So, when in Subic, and you are suddenly hit with mean cravings for all-time favorite Filipino cuisine, there is Aristocrat there you can always visit. The menu is pretty much the same as with all other Aristocrat branches there is. The ambiance is very spacious which can accommodate big groups, and very conducive to a pleasant dining experience, location-wise.

Aristocrat Restaurant and Bakeshop at Jupiter St. in Makati, Open 24-Hours!

Aristocrat Restaurant and Bakeshop, Home of the Best Barbecue in Town is one of the oldest restaurants in Manila that stood the test of time for 75 years already. There are countless of beautiful memories that involved great Filipino food happened at Aristocrat Restaurant which has 11 restaurant branches and 4 bakeshop branches to date. Aristocrat menu boasts of all-time favorite Filipino cuisines and that includes their famous chicken barbecue.

I, myself have fond memories of Aristocrat Restaurant but nothing as glaring as my parents who admit that Aristocrat was part of their growing up years. For a restaurant to last a good 75 years, it must be doing something right. Clear enough, Aristocrat, despite the emerging competitors in the Philippines Restaurant Scene is still doing its best to be at par in terms of serving quality food and good service.

Known for dishing out great choices of Filipino food which every Filipino Family enjoys, Aristocrat's vision has further expanded into serving good quality food anytime of the day. This resulted into transforming their Jupiter st. Makati branch into a 24-Hour restaurant that can cater to anyone who would like to enjoy their Aristocrat favorites at any given time.

Gustazo Gourmet: Tuyo Open-Faced Sandwich Recipe and Tinapa Soft Tacos Recipe

Gustazo Gourmet Tuyo Open-Faced Sandwich Recipe and Gustazo Pomodoro Tinapa Soft Tacos Recipe

One of the things that makes a kitchen distinctly Filipino is the unwavering presence of two most well-loved Pinoy delicacies ~ Tuyo and Tinapa. I for one grew up in a household which pantry never ran out of these two. Patriotic treats for some while stable stars on the table for others, Tuyo (Dried Herring) and Tinapa (Smoked Mackerel) are Filipino comfort food that can commensurate to a beautiful nostalgia when eaten.

Tuyo and tinapa are without a doubt always delicious. A poor man’s feast, these two are. And while both of these delicious treats are relatively easy to prepare, Gustazo has made enjoying tuyo and tinapa alongside some of their products all the more convenient through their bottled products.

Started five years ago, Gustazo, which means “pleasure in every bite” aims to provide affordable Filipino gourmet food of premium quality. Having bottled gourmet tuyo as their first product, Gustazo later on introduced other high quality bottled gourmet products. The convenience it proposes has made appreciating these Filipino food possible as it can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere. Yes, no cooking required.

Sunshine Kitchen Restaurant at The Fort Strip, BGC

The first time I set foot at Sunshine Kitchen at The Fort Strip in Bonifacio Global City,I instantly fell in love with it. Its beautifully designed interior was the culprit. And when I tasted some of the dishes they have on their menu, I knew right there and then that it was true love.

Great food and cozy ambiance is always a perfect combination. Sunshine Kitchen offers both and then some. I have been to Sunshine Kitchen a few times already and I must say that each and every visit is always a pleasant experience.

Located just above Shawarma Guys at The Fort Strip, Sunshine Kitchen exudes a charming ambiance suggestive of rustic bistro. Its open kitchen allows diners to take a peek to the magic that is happening before the glorious food graced their tables. Its brick wall and wooden furniture goes perfectly well with the kind of food they serve at Sunshine Kitchen ~ Western comfort food.

Burger Company at Quezon City: Great Burgers in Good Company

Burger Company located at Scout Reyes in Quezon City is the resurrected version of the now defunct Boulevard Diner. Considered as one of the best burger joints in Manila by some of the best food bloggers I know, the demise of the later mentioned burger place came as a sad news. Good thing though that the burger experts decided to make a come back, hence, The Burger Company.

The changed in name signifies fresh start to a much better grind in serving best burgers anyone can enjoy here in Manila. Suffice it to say, at Burger Company, you can expect great burgers in good company.

Burger Company's ambiance is suggestive of a trailer truck but spacious. Outside there is creative wall art while inside is peppered with enticing food photos decorating the wall and a separate corner where interesting knick knacks, board games, and a wall full of post-its dedication written by satisfied customers.

Pizza Hut's Cheesy 7 Pizza

Who does not love extra cheese on their pizza? I for one am a sucker for pizza loaded with cheese. It is one of the treats I cannot resist. So imagine my excitement when the number one pizza chain worldwide Pizza Hut introduces Cheesy 7 Pizza. Well loved pizza crust loaded with seven kinds of cheeses, what is not to love? 

Pizza Hut’s Cheesy 7 Pizza comprise of seven imported cheeses; mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, Monterey Jack, Romano, cheddar, and balls of cream cheese. These cheeses are perfect combination with Pizza Hut’s well crafted pizza crust; hence it is one treat that any cheese and pizza lover would surely love.

First time I was introduced to Pizza Hut’s Cheesy 7 Pizza and I am already hooked. Even my nephew who is not really into pizza became a convert, thanks to Pizza Hut. Upon first bite, you would know that high quality cheeses were used, so expect that you will be craving for more. After all, we cannot really expect anything less from Pizza Hut, indeed they are one of the best.

Lola Cafe + Bar in Quezon City

Lola Cafe + Bar which opened early this year is a welcome addition to the long lists of restaurants in Quezon City specifically that of Tomas Morato area. I have been to Lola Cafe and Bar for number of times already and I must say that every visit is always an enjoyable one in terms of service and quality of food.

Just like some of the restaurants in Tomas Morato area, Lola Cafe + Bar located at Scout Lozano near Cafe Romulo, is a residential space converted into a dining nook. The ambiance is as comfortable as a home, the service is thoughtful and friendly, and the food is always heartwarming.

Its impressive space boasts of two storey dining areas and al fresco space which is very apt since the place can be jam packed especially on weekends. A touch of white with some gray highlights dominates the space. Quirky trinkets also adds charm to the contemporary and modern vibe of the interior.

Cowrie Grill by Manila Hotel at Promenade Greenhills

Cowrie Grill is the signature restaurant of the famous Manila Hotel which opened way back 1977 and closed down to make way for Café Ilang-Ilang last 2011. Fast forward to 2013, Cowrie Grill by Manila Hotel once again re-opened its door but this time, at Promenade in Greenhills San Juan. 

Now a satellite restaurant of Manila Hotel, Cowrie Grill has the flamboyance and the elegance of the well-known hotel it is representing. The magic in the kitchen is spearheaded by Cowrie Grill’s Executive Chef Michael G. So Chan. Thoughtful service and food of high quality are just some of the things that one may look forward to dining at Cowrie Grill.

Some of the original cowrie shells that decorated the restaurant when it was still on its original location were still preserved and presented as décor at the newly opened branch. The ambiance is sophisticated without being snobbish. Five start hotel restaurant dining experience is always expected.

Stockton Place in Makati City: Steak, Pork, and Foie Gras

When I learned that Stockton Place, a fairly new restaurant in Makati City serves mean and manly steak of good quality, I promised myself to visit. Schedule of available reservation was always against my free time. Yet, as luck would have it, fate smiled at me and gave me the illusive chance to finally visit Stockton Place. As an added bonus, I was in the company of dome of my favorite food bloggers in Manila. Thank you, Universe.

Stockton Place is located at Salcedo St. in Makati, just next door to its sibling, the speakeasy-style cocktail bar, the Blind Pig. Since it opened this year, foodies from all over Manila have been raving about the goodness of food at Stockton Place. 

The place although small exudes a contemporary ambiance made classy with its prominent color of black and white. It can house roughly 30 person, and is open from Monday to Saturday, dinner time only. Hence, reservation is highly encouraged. We came just right in time for our reservation and the place wasn't full yet. But couple of minutes later, it was a full house.

Tokyo Tokyo Ramen Dishes + Tokyo Tokyo Giveaway Winner!

When famous Japanese fast food restaurant in the Philippines, Tokyo Tokyo launched their Ramen, one of their goal is to provide great tasting ramen that is accessible to everyone by means of affordability. Kudos to the Tokyo Tokyo team because as we all know, ramen places in Manila tends to lean on the pricey side of the spectrum. Now, people can give in to their ramen cravings without burning hole on their pockets. 

Currently they are offering 3 ramen variants; Braised Pork Ramen, Tempura Miso Ramen, and Spicy Chicken Ramen. These variants are all available in 2 serving portion; Snack size id prices at Php99 while the regular size is at Php150. Really affordable, if I do say so myself. 

All three variants are enticing, hence, Tokyo Tokyo team created an online quiz, the Tokyo Tokyo Ramen Personality Quiz to help everyone in knowing the ramen that suits their personality. I took the quiz and the result indicated that it is the Tokyo Tokyo Braised Pork Ramen that is perfect for my type of personality.

Get In My Belly: Brookies and Chocolate Chip Cookies

Recently I was introduced to two products made by a food business aptly named Get In My Belly ~ the One Bite Brookies and Chocolate Chip Cookies. I wouldn't beat around the bush here and get the message across right away. Because seriously, these two are some of the best baked goodies in Manila I have tried recently. And with the holiday season just around the corner, these goodies could be a perfect Christmas gift to your loved ones.

Get In My Belly is an online business that specializes in baked goodies specifically brookies and chocolate chip cookies. They do join food fairs and bazaars as well and I heard that they do accept bulk orders for events such as birthday parties and the likes.

Yellow Cab Pizza Co.: Christmas Fleet Tango Box

"Fill Those Socks with a Tango Box" Says Yellow Cab Pizza Co., one of the leading Pizza restaurants here in the Philippines. This Christmas season, I don't mind filling my socks with one because I have tried Yellow Cab Pizza's Christmas Fleet Tango Box, and I was impressed!

This Christmas Fleet promo by Yellow Cab Pizza which will last until January 15, 2014 is a perfect bundle that you and your loved ones can feast on this holiday season.

Priced at Php 1,600, Yellow Cab Pizza's Christmas Fleet Tango Box comprised of all things satisfying and downright delicious. A good bang for your buck, this promo is just one of those good treats that Yellow Cab Pizza Co. offers. 

Breakfast Menu at Italianni's Restaurant

I have to admit that it came as a surprise to me that one of my favorite Italian restaurants in Manila, Italianni's is actually serving breakfast. I have always been a fan of Italianni's but I guess not a good fan enough as I have missed the chance to savor their breakfast fare especially during the times when I was in search for good breakfast place. Oh well, I guess it's a good reason to make up for the lost times.

Although the breakfast items are not serve all day, 7am to 10:30am is plenty enough time to feast on breakfast dishes that Italianni's has to offer. Recent visit introduced me to the classic Italianni's breakfast items alongside some new breakfast creation by chef Josh Boutwood, the executive chef of Bistro Group.

We were told that as of the moment, breakfast menu at Italianni's is only available in two of their branches: Italianni's Bonifacio High Street and Italianni's Greenbelt. I wish though that they will eventually roll out the breakfast menu to the rest of the branches because their branch at Greenhills, Tomas Morato, and Gateway are the one I usually frequent to. Nonetheless, good breakfast fare is always worthy of the long travel. 

OTKB: Olive Tree Kitchen and Bar at Bonifacio High Street

I was under the impression that we were royally screwed. If it was the proverbial first date, Olive Tree Kitchen and Bar (OTKB) stood us up. Or so I thought. 

We were sure that we made a reservation under my friend’s name couple of hours before closing time. Yet, when we arrived at OTKB in Bonifacio High Street, no signs of life greeted us. Instead, we found a restaurant with windows covered with what looked like to me as Manila papers. It looked like it is not operational yet. No signage whatsoever aside from a piece of paper plastered on the door that reads “Closed for Training.”

We were dumbfounded at first and when my friend tried calling the number he called hours before to secure the elusive reservation at Olive Tree Kitchen and Bar, no one’s answering the phone. So, we did the unthinkable. We knocked on the door. 

A Revisit to Solace Wine and Dine at Makati City

It was late last year when I was first introduced to Solace Wine and Dine located in Makati City. Memories are still vivid how grateful I was and still am upon discovering this restaurant at Greenbelt area that could provide a peaceful and blissful dining experience away from the usual mall crowd. I admit that I was smitten by the great food that they do serve at Solace Wine and Dine that I even included them on my food article in one of the previous issues of Gala Magazine way back.

Recently, along with some foodie friends, we visited Solace Wine and Dine to sample some of the new items on their menu. Apparently, Solace is now under the wings of chef Philip Golding and they recently had a revamped on their menu that resulted to a more concise and focused line of dishes in contrast to the extensive one they used to have.

Slight revamped on the place also happened. It does posses the same chic vibe to it, only this time, the ambiance is more intimate. Bottles of different wines that reflects their extensive wine list still peppered the place just like it used to, and art works by local artists are now giving aesthetics to an otherwise bare wall.