Watami Japanese Casual Restaurant: New and Old Favorites

We recently had lunch at Watami Japanese Restaurant’s Shangri-La branch to check out some of their new menu offerings and to enjoy some old favorites. I have a lot of favorite Japanese restaurants in Manila and one of them is Watami. Not only the food selections are always good at Watami, the price tags are also affordable – a feat so rare in Japanese restaurants that serves good quality food.

Currently, there are four Watami Japanese Restaurant branches here in the Philippines; SM Mall of Asia, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Uptown Mall BGC, and Greenbelt 2. 

It is not very often that I get to join my fellow food bloggers from our little group we fondly call The KTG, so this trip to Watami was a bit special. We all love Watami. Personally, you wouldn’t believe what mountains I had to move for this lunch, and it was worth it. 

Momo Beach House in Panglao, Bohol

One of my favorite things that we did during our stay at Amorita Resort in Bohol was when we visited Momo Beach House for a filling boodle fight lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Few minutes away from its sister resort Amorita, Momo Beach House is also handled by One-Of Collection group. It is way smaller compare to Amorita but it is not without its own charm.

As a matter of fact, when working on a limited budget, this charming boutique resort can be a good accommodation option when in Panglao Island, Bohol. It is a white sand beach front resort, something most of us look for when finding a resort.

This blog post is part of the Amorita Blog Series. If this is your first time her and have not read about the previous posts, you may want to start with part one, part two, and part three of this blog series. 

Dining at Amorita Resort, Panglao Bohol: Saffron Restaurant and Tomar Tapas and Bar

Our recent stay at Amorita Resort in Panglao Bohol opened my eyes to the beauty on that side of Bohol and it also introduced me to the variety of delicious food that Amorita offers. Beautiful place, award-winning service, and delicious food – Amorita got all that, it’s a complete package, really. It is one of the many reasons why I enjoyed our Bohol trip that much.

As mentioned in my previous posts, it is impossible to summarize my Amorita experience in one blog post, hence, this is a four-part Amorita blog series just like most of my travel and hotel staycation blog posts.

If you have not checked out the series yet, I suggest that you do so. First part was all about the Junior Suite I have stayed in and second part was about exploring more of Amorita Resort – its amenities and room accommodations. We are currently on the third part which is all about the dining options at Amorita and the last part will be about our visit at Amorita’s sister resort, Momo Beach House. 

Exploring Amorita Resort in Panglao Bohol

I recently had a pleasure of staying at Amorita Resort a luxury boutique resort hotel located in Panglao Island of Bohol. Aside from Amorita’s known simple but elegant beauty, what I find endearing about this resort is its award-winning service. The people are welcoming, warm, and kind – an impeccable representation of what Filipino hospitality is all about.

As it is impossible to summarize my thoughts about my Amorita Resort experience in one blog post, I have made it into a four-part Amorita blog series.

The first part was all about the Junior Suite I have stayed in, the second part is this post which will show more about Amorita, and the third part will be about the dining options in Amorita. There will also be a blog post about Amorita’s sister hotel, Momo Beach House which is also in Bohol.

A Stay at Amorita Resort, Panglao Bohol

While writing about a recent stay at Amorita Resort in Panglao Island in Bohol, I am already in the midst of planning my next visit. I know there are other good hotel and resort accommodations in Bohol to consider but truth be told, Amorita left a good impression on me. Its aesthetics and good service made this particular visit to Bohol enjoyable. It also makes me want to go back to the island I wouldn’t have otherwise cared about.

Just like most of my travel and hotel staycation blog posts, this is going to be a series of blog posts about Amorita Resort. 

We are going to start with this post about the suite we have stayed in. Next is all about exploring Amorita and the third one is about the dining options in Amorita. There will also be a blog post about our relaxing visit at Momo Beach House, Amorita’s sister resort also located in Bohol. 

CPK National Pizza Day 2017: Buy 1 Get 1 FREE Pizza Promo

National Pizza Day at (CPK) California Pizza Kitchen is upon us and come August 15 to 16, diners may enjoy the traditional CPK Buy 1 Get 1 Free Pizza Promo. Staying true to their title as undisputed authority in innovative and adventurous California style pizzas, 5 new premium pizza will be introduced as the exclusive choices for the pizza promo.

The highly anticipated winner of the CPK Pizza Wars 2017, the Garlic Cream Cheese and Sausage Pizza will be made available to the public during the National Pizza Day. 

If you love California Pizza Kitchen as much as I do, then you definitely should not miss the CPK National Pizza Day. Read on for more important details about the upcoming promo.

NORD'S BREAD HUB in SM North EDSA The Block: Artisan Bread, Coffee, and Heartwarming Meals

Nord’s Bread Hub in SM City North EDSA The Block is a new urban style bakery café by the Vikings Group that specializes in artisan breads coupled with impressive cafe drinks selections and heartwarming meals.  It is located at the second floor of the busy shopping center which makes It a perfect respite for tired and hungry shoppers who seek to satisfy their hunger with good quality food and service.

Vikings Group which brought us Vikings Luxury Buffet, Niu, and Four Seasons Hot Pot is known for their impeccable taste for high quality food and impressive flair for aesthetics. People can expect the exact same things at Nord’s Bread Hub.

It is not often that I get to visit the Northern part of the Metro but upon learning that Vikings Group opened their newest baby at SM North, I knew it will be worth the long drive.

Milo Cake Flan Recipe

This No Bake 4-Ingredient Chocolate Cake Recipe I made using my KitchenAid Artisan Mini was inspired by the Easy Milo Cake Flan Recipe that has been trending on some some cooking groups on Facebook. I am not even sure if it is politically correct to call it cake nor flan for that matter because the texture is more of fudge. But let's just settle with it.

The charm of this recipe lies on the fact that it is really easy to make and it only takes four ingredients - one of which is even optional.

So really, this can easily be a 3-ingredient no bake cake and still, all shall be well with the world. 

Café Shibuya at SM Megamall

I visited Cafe Shibuya at SM Megamall recently and I have come into realization that after all these years, Cafe Shibuya is still one of those cafe restaurants that makes me giddy with happiness like a kid. It first captured my heart way back 2014 when I first visited their branch in Glorietta, and to this day, I am still fangirling over their delicious offerings.

Just the thought of having their amazing Shibuya Toasts coupled with Ghirardelli Frappe excites me to the core. While actually feasting on it - euphoria, man!

I am telling you, their is the kind of sugar rush I welcome warmly in my life. 

Carte D'Or Gelato Philippines

If there is one thing that I am totally loving right now, food-wise that is, I would say it's Carte D'Or Gelato. Carte D'Or is a number one premium ice cream brand from United Kingdom that captures the heart of ice cream-loving people all over Italy, France, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey. It recently made its debut here in the Philippines, their first venture in Southeast Asia.

Carte D'Or takes pride in using authentic Australian cream incorporated with the finest ingredients sourced from all over the world. 

I was sent four pints of Carte D'Or the previous week and I swear to heavens I fell madly in love with it that I have been buying pints after pints of it to this day. It is quite addictive because it's really really good. 

A Love Affair with AirAsia In-flight Meals

Prior to being introduced to AirAsia Philippines new in-flight meals, airplane food for me does not fall under the category of something I could write home about.  Way back, I have already resigned to the idea that in-flight meals exist only to tide us over long plane rides or during ill bouts of hunger when you’re several miles high up in the sky. 

My fault for not being open-minded enough, because little did I know, AirAsia has this amazing menu called Santan. It was my first brush with what touted as the "Gourmet Food Selections in the Sky" by some, so it's like an encounter with Pandora's box filled with goodies and no nasty stuff.

AirAsia's Santan menu basically offers various in-flight food selections that people would actually want to eat - not out of hunger but because the food choices are really good. It also features gift items, merchandise, and travel must-haves with reasonable price tags that travelers from all walks of life can buy. 

The Cheese Steak Shop and Fire Station Char Grilled Food Manila

The Cheese Steak Shop Manila has a new sister food concept named Fire Station Char Grilled Food. Unlike The Cheese Steak Shop, Fire Station is downright Asian and is specialized in well, as the name suggests char grilled food. But it's not just your run-of-the-mill char grilled food we are talking about here. I bet my name on it, it's all about flavorful and really good char grilled food. 

I had a wonderful staycation at Makati Diamond Residences recently (which blog post will be posted soon) with some of my Manila Food Bloggers friends (a.k.a. KTG Bloggers) and before heading home, some of us visited The Cheese Steak Shop in Makati to check out The Fire Station where it is also currently housed in. 

People behind Makati Diamond Residences fed us really well up to the last minute we were at their property. But being acquainted with a new food concept especially when it is under the umbrella of one of those people who we trust in Manila food landscape, is not something we could pass up. Bloated faces and all, we went there and feast to our hearts' content.

Oishi Snacktacular 2017

Oishi snack lovers out there rejoice because Oishi Snacktacular 2017 is upon us! Happening this coming July 28 to 30 at the Festival Mall in Alabang, Oishi Snacktacular 2017 highlights Oishi Friends, Oishi’s famous webcomic strip series, come to life in this year’s exciting and delicious event. 

Everyone is encouraged not to miss this chance to meet their favorite Team O members namely Alex Gonzaga, Maine Mendoza, Daniel Padilla, and Kathryn Bernardo.

The gang’s comeback is made all the more exciting with a twist and will feature innovative and interactive booths for everyone to enjoy.  

Restaurant Options at City of Dreams, Manila

City of Dreams in Manila is primarily known as a gleaming, luxurious casino resort. Overlooking Manila Bay and designed to please the eye, it's a popular stop for tourists coming through the area, and has been counted among the most popular resorts in Asia. With a reputation like that, it naturally has a lot to offer. 

To begin with, there are the actual accommodations, which are about as comfortable and enjoyable as you'll find. There are actually three distinct hotels attached to City of Dreams- Crown Towers Manila, Nobu Hotel Manila, and the Hyatt Hotel - and each one is unique and brilliant. Crown Towers is rich and elegant. Nobu is more unique and perhaps puts forth a more authentic Asian atmosphere. And the Hyatt is a great option for those looking for a more traditional luxury hotel.

Madison Commons Food Park, Kapitolyo

Food parks in Metro Manila are sprouting left and right these days and the recent one I have visited was Madison Commons Food Park located in Kapitolyo Pasig City near Pioneer. Pasig City, specifically Kapitolyo area is known as one of the food-lovers destinations here in Manila as it boasts of wide variety of restaurants that offers wide range of cuisine. Madison Commons Food Park is a welcome addition as it fits perfectly well with the gastronomical vibe of the area.

This is the first food park that I am blogging about but I have to admit that I am one of those who appreciate the existence of these food parks everywhere as it is a good way to try out different food in one go.

I have visited few food parks and Madison Commons in Kapitolyo is one of those which food vendors and selections I found satisfying.  There are few things which were a turn-off like the irritating flies everywhere, but the good food and some friendly vendors make up for it.

Ramen Nagi Robinsons Galleria

My recent visit to Ramen Nagi Manila Robinsons Galleria branch I deem was timely since it is officially ramen weather now. While there are several ramen restaurants that claim to be the most authentic and best ramen in Manila I only have few favorites I always go back to and one of them is Ramen Nagi. 

If the several branches that Ramen Nagi has already opened here in Manila is not a clear indication of success, then I don't know what is. It only goes to show that they are one of the most trusted in Manila restaurant scene when it comes to Japanese ramen. 

Robinsons Galleria is one of the malls I usually frequent to because of its proximity to where I reside. These days it is undergoing facelift on several spots and from what I heard, there are several new restaurants opening in the area. Now they already have Ramen Nagi.

SM Cherry Antipolo

SM Cherry Antipolo recently opened its door to the public and is poised to serve customers especially those who are locals not just of Antipolo City but of the entire province of Rizal. It is set to provide shopping environment for the surrounding community with services beyond the traditional grocery experience as it includes three levels of retail including brand shops, restaurants, and SM Supermarket.

SM Cherry Antipolo that opens last June 30 marked as the 63rd SM Supermall, and the fifth in the province of Rizal after SM City San Mateo, SM Center Angono, SM City Masinag, and SM City Taytay.

Located along Marikina-Infanta Highway in Antipolo, SM Cherry Antipolo is the third SM Cherry Mall after SM Cherry Shaw and SM Cherry Congressional. 

CPK Pizza Wars 2017

Now on its third year, California Pizza Kitchen’s CPK Pizza Wars continue to showcase its in-house pizza chefs’ talents through a friendly competition. California Pizza Kitchen has always been about creativity, innovative flavors, and culinary adventure which makes it California vibe a sure hit to pizza enthusiasts and foodies alike.

CPK Pizza Wars is one way of encouraging CPK’s pizza chefs to challenge themselves to new heights by creating innovative artisan pizza that tells their personal stories.

The grand winner of the competition, aside from bagging cash prize will be given an honor of having his winning creation to be included in CPK Philippines menu.

KFC Salted Egg Yolk Chicken

I first heard about KFC Salted Egg Yolk Chicken, a new product of KFC Philippines, couple of months ago when it was said to be on a pilot test-run. That time, it was only available on very limited KFC store branches. I tried to search for those near my place to no avail. I was nowhere near the chosen stores, I figured.

Then yesterday, I read from KFC Philippines' Facebook page their announcement about the availability of KFC Salted Egg Yolk Chicken. 

In contrast to the sneaky way KFC Philippines inserted this elusive product on their menu on its test run, this time, it was a legit announcement that KFC Salted Egg Yolk Chicken is now available for everyone to enjoy.

McCormick Flavor Nation Festival 2017 #McCormickFlavorNation

Last Sunday, before going on an out-of-town trip, I dropped by at BGC Ampitheater to check out McCormick Flavor Nation Festival. Summer is not yet over hence the food fair festival season is still very much alive which makes this event very timely. Since this festival highlights one of my favorite food brands which is McCormick, I figured despite being pressed for time, I must enjoy the festival.

And I am happy to report that I certainly did. 

McCormick Flavor Nation Festival aims to showcase variety of food made by respected chefs using McCormick spices and seasonings as part of the ingredients. This event was for free and early registrants were lucky enough as they got to taste sample food from the events featured chefs. 

Bigaw's Brick Oven Pizza, Lilac St. Marikina [Pizza, Pasta, and More!]

Just when you thought that you have already tried all the best restaurants along Lilac St. in Marikina City, there are relatively new players in the field that are well worth the visit. It is true that there several restaurants and even food parks sprouting all over Marikina these days but the food scene at the pioneer and famous foodie haven Lilac St. still deserve the attention,

One of these restaurants I am talking about is Bigaw’s Brick Oven Pizza that serves pizza, pasta, and a whole lot more.

I was recently introduced to Bigaw’s Pizza and to this day, I am still dreaming of having that amazing Kebab Pizza again. And that Baked Lasagna which flavor is as impressive as its hefty serving portion – still makes me salivate even at its mere thought.

Jollibee Choco Mallow Pie

Jollibee Choco Mallow Pie is back and internet is going crazy about it. But while it's announcement has been shared on Facebook numerous times, people are skeptic about it thinking that it might be one of those false news circulating. Some friends and readers of this blog even sent me emails just to confirm if the news is indeed true when it started popping on their news feed since last May 8. 

So I went to the nearest Jollibee branch last Monday to check if the buzz was true. Upon confirming, I sent a group reply to those who have asked and now I am writing about it because quite honestly, it was the first time that I have tried this Choco Mallow Pie by Jollibee.

 

I might be living under the rock in the past because I cannot, for the love of all things yummy, remember that there ever was a Choco Mallow Pie at Jollibee. Perhaps because I am and still a loyalist of their Peach Mango Pie? I am not sure. I did an online research about the Choco Mallow Pie in the past and even that yields no result save for some forum that says it was no good.

J.CO Donuts and Coffee at SM East Ortigas & the New J.CO Premium Affogato Drinks

J.CO Donuts and Coffee Philippines recently opened their newest branch located in SM East Ortigas. J.Co Philippines is now on its fifth year here in the country and this new branch is said to be the 44th J.CO store. In line with this, J.CO also recently launched a new addition to their menu, the all-new premium J.CO Affogato Series.

The all-new premium Affogato drinks line up is perfect for the summer season. It is a perfectly delicious way to combat heat by enjoying the best of both worlds - coffee and ice cream. 

And J.CO as expected, goes beyond that. J.CO's Affogato Series isn't just confined between the goodness of ice cream and espresso. There is more to it, of course. Something I am enjoying immensely these days while lounging at their newest branch.

My Food Photography and Styling Props Storage Solution: Hanns Storage Rack

At home, I practice the art of minimalism as much as I can. Minimalist approach works best for me because I find it hard to function if my place is too crowded with things and everything isn't spic and span. I am easily bothered with things lying around without a designated storage place.

As you may have known, I work as a props and food stylist. I also do food photography as it is an essential part of my blog. This means that I've got plenty of gadgets, food props, and other thingamajigs I have acquired through the years.

I have to be honest that sometimes, dealing with these gadgets and props can be messy and chaotic. Especially when I have to work on consecutive projects that I barely have time to keep things in order. So storage bins and racks became my best friends. Recent one I got on hand was Hanns Storage Rack.

California Pizza Kitchen Philippines New Menu for 2017 #SeekTheUnique

CPK California Pizza Kitchen Philippines  recently launched its new menu for this year 2017 highlighting and staying true to California uniqueness, creativity, inventiveness, and ingenuity. Tagged with the phrase "Seek the Unique", CPK PH's new menu boasts of new line-up of pizzas, pastas, salads, and get this - rice meals!

Fervent requests to include rice meals on CPK's menu have been heard and answered. Now, not only we can enjoy the usual suspects of pizza and pasta at CPK, we can also celebrate our innate love for rice as well while dining at CPK.

Of course, just like all other grubs on the menu, the rice meals are not without the touch of intrinsic California identity known for California Pizza Kitchen. 

KFC Sisig Rice Bowl and KFC Sisig Burrito

KFC Sisig Rice Bowl and KFC Sisig Burrito - these two new delicious offerings from KFC Philippines could be your reason why you should go and visit KFC branch near you, pronto. Especially if you are a fan of what I believe as one of the best Filipino dishes ever known to mankind, Sisig. And especially if you are one KFC fan who is mad crazy about the awesomeness of their rice bowls and sandwich wraps.

I am a fan of both - KFC and Sisig. Safe to say that I am digging these new KFC grubs.

As I was informed when I was first introduced to KFC Sisig, it is really hard to resist so just give in. And gave in, I did. I am happy happy to report and I personally like it.  The distinct sisig flavor was spot-on while the crisp chicken bites were delight to the bite.

Potato Salad in Dill Yogurt Dressing Healthy and Easy Recipe

This easy and healthy US Potato Salad in Dill Yogurt Dressing recipe is one of my favorite snacks to whip up when I need something that can boost my energy and satisfy my tummy. I would normally have this as my pre-work out grub since it is very light and US Potato is  good energy booster aside from its many health benefits.

If you have been reading my blog, or even if you just have poked around it a bit, I am guessing it is no secret to you that I am a believer of US Potato. I have blogged about it several times already and the fact that I am still doing so to this day says a lot about my belief on it.

Now allow me to give you a little back story on why I am sharing this healthy recipe to you and my love for US Potato. Months ago, I have ditched several bad health habits I have been doing with reckless abandon for years now. 

Brotzeit Philippines' Lunch and Kinder Menu

On the previous blog post wherein I share an easy recipe for spaetzle made from scratch, I mentioned how I consider the cheese spaetzle at Brotzeit as the best restaurant-bought spaetzle I have tried by far. Recently, I found myself in the company of some of my Manila food blogger friends once again at Brotzeit, enjoying their spaetzle, and then some.

Brotzeit has just launched their new lunch and kiddie menu offerings. Which I believe is a good reason to visit them even outside the happy hour.

If you are one of those who is under thee impression that Brotzeit is only good for those who loves to drink beer and eat sausages (I know some people who do, it's shocking and sad), you gotta believe me that they are so much more than that.

How to Make German Spätzle from Scratch [Bacon and Cheese Spaetzle Recipe]

I have a list of recipes using KitchenAid Stand Mixer and as promised, I am going to share it here on the blog. First one is this easy recipe for Homemade Cheese and Bacon Spaetzle also known as Kasespaetzle with bacon thrown in the mix. And with the help of stand mixer, I am going to show you how to make basic spaetzle recipe from scratch.

I am crazy about doing things and making food from scratch because that is how we normally do it here on the mountain where I am currently at. Such a tedious task, you say. Don't fret. KitchenAid Artisan Mini Stand Mixer got our back. It makes things easier, I tell you.

But first, what is Spaetzle (Spätzle)? There are tons of information about Spaetzle you can find online but to make our life easier, Spaetzle is basically a German pasta in shape of a sparrow. Some refer it as egg noodle dumplings, you get the gist.

Figures of Beans Coffee: Welcome to the Coffee Revolution

With the proliferation of coffee shops everywhere, there are plethora of coffee options that we, coffee lovers have seem endless. But I'll let you in on a little secret. While I have my favorite coffee shops that I frequent to whenever I go out, at the end of the day, I am still all crazy bout brewing my own coffee at home.

For some of us coffee enthusiasts, brewing your own perfect cup of coffee is the dream.  So when I was introduced to Figures of Beans coffee recently, I was elated. I have my favorite brands, but it is always a pleasure to meet new ones.

Figures of Beans is an online shop that sells whole beans and ground coffee of different kinds. So if you are also into brewing your own coffee or interested in starting this kind of caffeinated love affair, then this might be for you. 

Salted Egg Chips of Yummies by M

I have my own salted egg potato chips recipe so I have not really jumped into the quest for finding the best salted egg chips in Manila. Yet, I could say that I have tried quite a handful of salted egg chips brands available in the Philippine market since the trend started. Some were good, while others sadly fell short.

The recent one I have tried was the Salted Egg Chips of Yummies by M. And no beating around the bush here - it's amazing. Hands down, it was the best store-bought salted egg chips I have tasted to date.

So what makes this salted egg chips special? Glad you asked.

Rustan's Supermarket Promo: Schott Zwiesel Double Wall Glassware

Ever dream of owning renowned high quality Schott Zwiesel glass from Germany? I am guessing most of us are. The good news is that Rustan's Supermarket has partnered with Schott Zwiesel and is currently running an exciting promo where loyal shoppers can have their very own Schott Zwiesel Double Glassware at a discounted price or for free.

Schott Zwiesel has always been known for their high quality and wide range of crystal glasses individually hand-blown by artisans to maintain high quality standard. This fact poised them to be the  market leader among glass manufacturers around the world.  

Now, Rustan's Supermarket is carrying the brand's Double Wall Glasses which are not only stylish but has superior functionality as well. Six types of Schott Zweisel Double Wall Glasses are currently available at Rustan's.

Meet the New KitchenAid Artisan MINI

I am super stoked to share recipes using my new KitchenAid Mini Stand Mixer but let me give you first some information you want to know about this new addition to the KitchenAid family. It was only early this month when KitchenAid Mini was launched here in the Philippines facilitated by Focus Global Inc., the exclusive distributor of KitchenAid here in the country. 

Thanks to the fun hands-on baking class led by no less than chef Miko Aspiras during the launch, I personally got to experience the amazing power of this new baby. With that, I am excited for you my dear readers to #MeetTheMini. 

"Mini" is the operative word because compared to other full size KitchenAid titl-head stand mixers, KitchenAid Mini is 20% smaller and 25% lighter but said to be just as powerful. 

A Stay at Hotel Jen Manila

I remember I was hell-bent on finishing some tasks and beating writing deadlines that weekend so I deemed that a hotel stay was just perfect. I'll be away from the usual distraction when I work at home. So I was not expecting this stay at Hotel Jen Manila to be enjoyable since I need to get some work done. 

Little did I know, Hotel Jen Manila has a palpable charm and knack for making their guests' stay enjoyable and relaxing regardless if the guests are staying for business or some RnR.

Who would have thought that a weekend which was expected to be work-filled turned out to be one of my most satisfying hotel stays to date? I was able to get some work done and enjoyed what Hotel Jen has to offer as well. Talk about work-life balance, hey.