Recipes

William Faulkner, a known writer once said that “a man will not just merely endure, he will prevail.” This one line has shaped my outlook in life in every imaginable aspect there is. But how can one prevail and not just merely endure? Thousands and one explanations can answer that question and in my case incorporating it in food will hopefully get my message across.

Filipino cuisine. If there is one thing I am proud of being a Filipino that would be our cuisine. I have visited quite a number of Filipino Restaurants, all of which occupies a special place in my heart. For the longest time Filipino cuisine is used as one factor in defining our rich cultural heritage. The beautiful thing about it is that although it has a strong grip to its cultural orientation, it is adaptable to the ever changing civilization. Indeed, Filipino cuisine will not just merely endure, its strong sense of identity commensurate to its capacity to evolve without losing touch to its roots. One good example I would like to give is the restaurant called Recipes.


Serving Filipino food with a twist. They have been with us for quite a while now and they have already created their own mark in the food industry. A clear way of showing a strong hold on Filipino roots without fear of evolving by giving their dishes a remarkable twist.

My recent visit to Recipes was a feast of delectable dishes that I consider an intimate venture. For the past week I was exposed to different cuisines which are all undeniable good, but during the time that I sat inside Recipes restaurant and was handed Chicharon Bulaklak with vinegar for dipping, I know I am yet again in communion to the very cuisine which I hold dear to my heart.

Chicharon Bulaklak

The crunchy edge of the Chicharon Bulaklak tickles my tongue with its texture while the taste that was significantly magnified by the distinct character of the vinegar plays well with my palate. I love that Recipes' version of it isn’t too oily nor too soggy. Just the right amount of crispiness with a taste perfectly palatable.

Crispy Tilapia

One of Recipes’ best sellers is their Crispy Tilapia. Cooked in a manner like that of a finger fish, but the slices are served on top of the entire crispy fried fish where they have taken off the meat. The convenience of eating is just one feat that this dish offers but the main thing that separate it is its rich taste that assures you of fresh fish the restaurant use. It comes with Recipe’s homemade dip of vinegar and soy sauce plus some secret spices.

Crispy Bangus

Although their Crispy Tilapia was adored by its doting foodie fans, my palate favored their Crispy Bangus more. I love how I wouldn’t have to worry about its fishbone since it was served fillet fish fingers style just like the Crispy Tilapia. The satin texture of the Milk Fish is predominant although it was covered with a thin batter hinting of spices which made it all the more delectable.

Gising-Gising

Gising-Gising, a truly Filipino dish of vegetable cooked in Coconut Crème. I’ve had several Gising-Gising before but Recipe’s version is the one which suits my palate well. The right amount of spiciness tempered by the creamy coconut milk is enticingly delicious.

General's Chicken

First time I heard of General’s Chicken I was half expecting that it is served whole in all the chicken’s honor and glory. But no, it’s not just that way. Turns out, the general is not the chicken but the sauce they use for it. Crispy chunks of chicken and slices of fried egg plant covered with the luscious general sauce which is sweet and savory flavorful. My teeth penetrates into its crunchiness then the delicate chicken meat oozes out its natural juice only to be interrupted by the luscious taste of the general sauce. It deserves a salute for its perfection.

Fried Tofu in General Sauce

Now, if you are a vegetarian, you can still enjoy the wondrous taste of the general sauce poured over fried tofu. Although I’m a fan of its chicken version, the tofu is equally dignified on its own. Crunchy on the outside but soft and luscious inside. You don’t have to worry about the usual lame taste of the tofu because the sauce will definitely make up for it. Again, another salute, for that one tasty dish.

Crispy Tilapia Escabeche

Versatility is one of Recipes' remarkable feat both in terms of their ambiance and dishes. Aside from the Crispy Tilapia, they have other version of it enriched with different flavor. One is Crispy Tilapia Escabeche and the other one is Crispy Tilapia in Tamarind Sauce. The escabeche sauce screams flavors you could eat it on its own.

Crispy Tilapia in Tamarind Sauce

While I am exposed to eating escabeche because it is one of my father’s mastered recipes, the Tamarind sauce however is a welcome change on my palate. I love the tangy citrus flavor that tease my tongue to have another bite after the other.

Lechon Kawali with Kang-Kong

I am used to having lechon kawali with its usual sauce; little did I know that when combined with adobong kang-kong, it’ll be a dish I would still crave for days after. We know that lechon kawali is one of the dishes that you should have in moderation because of its fat content. Now personally, I love that Recipes was able to incorporate something sinfully delicious to something downright healthy. It gives me some sort of affirmation that after biting into the crunchiness of the meaty lechon kawali, the adobong kangkong will be my redemption.

Kare-Kare

Recipes' version of Kare-Kare is another thing that one should not miss. The sauce is not too thick nor too runny. Just the right amount of thickness with a punch of nutty flavor savory enough for me to have a second helping of steamy rice. I have tried eating it without its usual accompaniment of bagoong (shrimp paste), and it is still great tasting.

Beef Stew

The Beef Stew on Recipes menu only goes to show that this restaurant is welcome and adaptable to the increasing demands of the market it caters to. You wouldn’t feel restricted to just Filipino Cuisine because they also offer other Asian dishes which are equally delicious. Their beef stew is probably one of the best I ever tasted. The beef was so tender and tasty, and combined with steamy white rice; a spoonful is enough to satisfy. They cooked it in a way that is friendly to Filipino palate but one can always ask for adjustment depending to your liking.

Buko Pandan

They offer different lines of dessert but what captures my attention mostly was their Buko Pandan. Shreds of fresh coconuts on the bed of pandan flavored gelatin with coconut cream sauce, topped with vanilla ice cream. They won my heart with the right amount of sweetness that is not too overwhelming and a perfect way to cleanse the palate.

These are just some of the dishes serve by Recipes. The distinct Filipino flavor was clearly prominent in every dish but touches of evolving flavors are also given importance. Food attendants were all pleasing and accommodating to their customers, making sure from time to time that they are giving the best customer service they could offer.

Restaurants like Recipes, which offers Filipino cuisines but still take pride in the notion that they can be at par with other restaurants serving International dishes is one way of showing that we Filipinos would not just merely endure. Amidst the myriad of different gastronomical choices, we will prevail.

Recipes

Branches:

OPENING SOON AT NEW PORT
2/F Greenbelt 3 Ayala Center, Makati City
2/F TriNoma Edsa cor. North Ave., Q.C.
2/F Corte de Las Palmas Alabang Town Center
2/F Robinsons Place Manila-Midtown
5/F Shangri-la Plaza Mandaluyong

Astralis by Diamond Hotel

It was one of those days when ardent prayers were answered, goals were accomplished, and little big dreams were attained. It’s not as if the whole day wasn’t good enough, the night was however made special with scrumptious dinner at Astralis by Diamond Hotel located at Powerplant Mall Rockwell in Makati City.

I haven’t been to Astralis before that night, although several plans were made. It was such a perfect timing that the first time was spent with people who has the same affinity for food. We were told that they recently revamp their menu and everyone was excited to check on their new offerings.


While perusing the menu, I was torn between steak and fish and was even eying on the chicken. With scrumptious list of dishes on the menu, I just couldn’t decide on what to order. It was the usual challenge that I always face whenever handed out a menu, it was like a cosmic torment, a delicious one at that. And just in passing, Spanky tapped me on my shoulder and told me to enjoy the steak; it was like an answered prayer whenever I am faced with hard decisions in life to make, yes, it was a green light. I am suddenly decided and sure of myself. I immediately placed my order of U.S. Choice Rib Eye Steak.

U.S. Choice Rib Eye Steak (995php)

Served with vegetables and buttery mashed potato on the side, my steak with its criss-cross grill marks and shade of vibrant pink on the inside was an enticing sight that beckons. Every shred of meat was packed with flavor not just meant to induce satiety but to regale one with its glorious knock out presence. A bite of the soft and juicy meat and I was already in communion with myself. Infinitely succulent with its haunting smokiness, it was a fleet of gastronomical lush in one fell swoop

Roasted Norwegian Salmon 435 (435php)

I was delighted when Glenn decided to have Roasted Norwegian Salmon, because then I get to have my fish fix as we share our meals. Crusted with almonds, pecans, and some Mediterranean spices, the salmon was a goddess in itself. My bite broke through its delicate texture sailed to the creaminess of the dill sauce only to encounter the spunky crunch and flavor of its Mediterranean crust.

Seafood Risotto (495php)

Seafood Risotto was shared by everyone. I was in the middle of communion with my steak, when Glenn handed me the Risotto, its smell was very enticing. It’s not as if the Risotto wasn’t good on its own, but when Spanky suggested slathering some butter on the risotto, I knew it was yet another revelation. The intensifying taste of seafood and the creaminess of the risotto was enough to send me to a stupor. It was deliciously arresting to say the least.

Pan fried Chicken Quesadillas (415php)

We were served the Pan Fried Chicken Quesadilla as an appetizer aside from their complimentary bread and butter that was already gracing the table as we were seated. I am a fan of quesadilla and the best one I had was at Café Ago-go, a hole-in-the-wall restaurant along Emerald Avenue in Ortigas. But after tasting Astralis’ Pan Fried Chicken Quesadilla served with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream, it definitely hit the top spot on my list.

Lobster Bisque (275php)

I have already heard that Astralis serves to-die-for Mushroom Soup but my love for seafood got the better of me and decided to have Lobster Bisque instead. Glenn on the other hand ordered for Double-baked Wild Mushroom, and we decided to share so that we could taste both. The Lobster Bisque was so tasty, it screamed Lobster right smack on your face, while the Mushroom Soup was delicately tasty, leaning to a lighter side of flavors.

Double-baked Wild Mushroom (255php)

Two kinds of salads were served. The classic Caesar’s Salad and Diamond Hotel General Manager’s favorite, GM’s Salad. Caesar’s Salad, although downright simple, it was definitely palatable. As good as a classic can get. GM’s Salad on the other hand was a combination of fresh mesculun greens, cheese, and mushroom in a bowl of baked parmesan bowl complimented with balsamic dressing. These two delectably healthy salads took the guilt out of pleasure.

GM’s Salad (285php)

Everyone was enjoying their meal while exchanging stories which expectedly mostly about food given that everyone in the table has deep affinity for such a blessing. Everything was impeccably delicious; I couldn’t imagine we weren’t violating any codes of some sort! To say that it was a nice dinner is an understatement.

Lamb Shank Kaldereta (545php)

US Choice Porterhouse Steak (1,195php)

Prawn Napolitana (615php)

Australian Baby Lamb Chops (1,145php)

U.S. Choice Rib Eye Steak (995php)

I was already full but a plate of dessert was really enticing, Lian suggested trying Astralis’ Chocolate Lava Cake. It was perfection. I have tasted numbers of Chocolate Lava Cake before but I have never encountered one as sublime as Astralis’. I love how the chocolate oozed out as my fork broke through the dense chocolate cake revealing one of the most beautiful sights to behold. I adore that there are some crunchy punch at the bottom part of the cake which goes well with the silky texture of the chocolate. The warmth of the cake was tempered by the luscious vanilla ice cream on top. With all its creaminess and glory, a bite of the mandarin served on the side was a welcome change in my palate.

Chocolate Lava Cake

While the rest of the group enjoyed their Trio Sorbet, Glenn ordered for Crème Brule which in my opinion was equally delicious. Not too sweet but luscious enough to provide a great ending.

Trio Sorbet

Tahitian Vanilla Bean Creme Brule

Glenn, Melanie, Jane, Jonel, Spanky, Richard, and Yedy

also with us was Lian, the one who took this shot.
(thank you Melanie for this photo!)

Astralis' overall interior and ambiance exudes sophisticated aura which is perfect if you want a luxurious casual dining experience at its best. The quality of food does not fall short on ones expectation since it was handled by the same people from Diamond Hotel. Whether it’s a lunch, dinner, or in between meals, Astralis’ is definitely one of the restaurants that you should visit.



Astralis
R1-144 Lopez Drive, Powerplant Mall
Rockwell, Makati City
890.7124
Open Mondays-Sundays 11 am – 10 pm

Bistro Better

Truth be told, whenever I am up for a food trip in Makati area, which is not that often due to its proximity to where I work and live, I always make it a point to have a budget a little higher than the usual. That is of no big deal to me considering most of the time, Makati Restaurants I have tried are all good, I always get my money’s worth.

A friend who happens to love food as much as I do would sometimes complain that whenever we are together, there’s this urge for her to drag me home and eat home cooked meal instead. Such suggestion is enticing enough if we are not living at the other side of the hemisphere opposite each other. She happens to be from the south, while yours truly is from San Juan.

That is why I am quite excited to share to her and to you my readers as well the recent discovery that my other foodie friend Glenn and I found right smack in the busy streets of Makati. Tucked along Chino Roces Avenue Extension (Pasong Tamo Extension), Bistro Better is a quaint foodie place that serves home-style cooked comfort food amidst the busy city proliferated by commercialized and high end restaurants.

This homey restaurant offers meals at a very reasonable price. We were told that the menu consist of the owner’s personal favorite from household meals while growing up, therefore one can expect delicious dishes in which recipes were handed down from generations ago.

Roast Pork

Thin slices of slow-cooked pork covered with mushroom sauce, served with fried rice and buttered vegetable on the side. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive the first time I saw what Glenn has ordered. I am a hardcore carnivore and seeing slices of pork as thin as that, I feel like walking out. However, when Glenn handed me a piece to taste, the savory flavor erupted inside my mouth I was suddenly transported to my grandmother's kitchen waiting my servings of her comforting pork asado. It was magical.

Beef Morcon

I was planning to order for their Chicken Alexandra, but we were told that since it was past lunchtime, they ran out of it. No big deal because I was also eyeing the Beef Morcon on the menu. When it graced our table, I knew right then that it was a good choice. The sweet onion sauce on top which looked like shrimp paste for me raised this simple dish up a notch. I love onions, and I must say that I can have this sauce alone as a viand (lame me, I know). The morcon was very savory and juicy, however I would like to have it with a plain rice though because with the its stuffings, the sweet onions, and the fried rice, it feels as if there's a lot of flavors and textures going on. All in all it was a good dish.

Pesto Chicken

I was already full but we both agreed to try their pasta. It was good, nothing extra ordinary like the one I had at Hyphys, but Glenn who is a pesto lover seem to like it a lot. I was already feasting on my dessert while he was still savoring the pasta.

Honey Crunch Homey Cake

We were told that they offer different desserts from time to time depending on the availability. At that time, we were lucky that they serve delicious cakes baked by their newly hired baker, according to them. Their Honey Crunch Homey Cake was so good we were able to finished it in a snap. I hope that they still offer this dessert when I visit again.

Chocolate Comfort Cake

Now, this simple looking cake can be deceiving it can be pass for the usual chocolate cake, but believe me when I say that it was so good, it can almost make my friend cry. Literally. well, okay, figuratively. Chocolate cake is his ultimate comfort food and I was quite impressed that this piece from Bistro Better was able to make his heart skip a beat.

Clearly the food was good, we were full and delighted, especially with their desserts. As with the ambiance, although it is not that spacious, there's still a comfort feel to it, I guess it has something to do with the friendly food servers as well.



The air conditioning works well, especially during the time we dined there because it was pretty humid outside. No smoking area, but you can always step out if you feel the need to puff. And one of the best thing about Bistro Better is that they have Free Wifi.



If you want a break from the usual restaurant shindig ambiance, Bistro Better is one of the place you might want to consider paying a visit. It is downright simple without all the fuzz, and it offers good food with reasonable price.




Bistro Better
GF-2 GEE Bldg. 2301 Pasong Tamo Ext. Makati City
(between the Chrysler and Chevrolet showrooms)
10am-8pm Mon-Fri / 10am -2pm Sat / Closed on Sun & Holidays
(632)886-7870 or (63) 917 6124858
www.bistrobetter.com/

Of New Beginnings, Healings, and Sweet Endings at Banapple ~ Part Two of Two

“Do you think we will have our own happy endings?” asked my friend in between wiping the chocolate syrup on her plate with a forkful of Chocolate Chip Walnut Pie and biting into it with pleasure. It was one of those cold and windy days when there was plenty of time to kill having dessert at Banapple Northeast Square in Greenhills.

“Of course, we will.” I answered briefly after the warm mush of pie coated my tongue with its soft texture interrupted with bits and pieces of walnuts. The taste of melted chocolate chips highlights the playful event inside my mouth.

Chocolate Chips Walnut Pie

“But we are not princesses.” She replied coyly, as her fork gently cut into the dense texture of Snicker Fudge Cheesecake, it’s her time to feast on my plate. It was more of a reminder than a statement. A metaphorical point from someone who has deep affinity with fairy tales.

“Yes, we’re not. We are warriors.” I smiled while the luxurious taste of cheese and chocolate regaled my palate. The delicate taste of Snicker Fudge Cheesecake is royalty in itself.

Snicker Fudge Cheesecake

“Warriors, I like that. Warriors with happy endings.” She said as the food attendant gently placed another plate on our table. The smell of apple hinting with cinnamon and caramel wafted slowly enticing our nasal faculties. We both stared the Apple Caramel Crumble Pie, and then my friend looked at me.

“We are warriors who will fight for our own sweet happy endings.” I said as I let my friend slowly and with consuming passion, savored the warm apple pie, an epiphany for sweet ending.

Apple Caramel Crumble Pie

I would like to believe that in a parallel universe more magical than ours; life can be sum up in a full course meal. In between the servings of different dishes, the adventure is there. Alluring ones appetite in a successive play of push and pull of varieties of flavors. And after the palatable showcase of savory tastes, one will yearn for something sweet, regardless of its simplicity or grandeur; you just have to have it.

One thing about Banapple that endears me the most is the way they serve good desserts at a very reasonable price. Delicious dessert need not be expensive. The sight of different variants of delectable cheesecakes and sweet pies is arresting. A comforting assurance that the time you set foot into their store, you’ll have a decent meal and the luxury of having a sweet ending.

Aside from the ones mentioned above, these are some of my favorites.

Strawberry Amaretto Cheesecake

Strawberry cheesecake slathered with strawberry chunks and jam on top, made special with slivered almonds on top and a subtle taste of amaretto.

Dark Chocolate Tiramisu Cheesecake

Tiramisu meets cheesecake with the use of dark chocolate. Pure heaven. Pure bliss.

Myster-Reese's Wicked Pie

Chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top of layers of icing, peanut butter cream, and chocolate crust. Wicked, it is, indeed.

Gobblin' Goblin's Pie

This cute monster looking pie consist of layers of chocolate crust, cheesecake, mousse, with combination of chocolate malteasers and snickers bars embedded on it for a good measure.

Blueberry Cheesecake

The classic blueberry cheesecake, only better because it is from Banapple.

White Chocolate Truffle Berry Cheesecake
 

Layers of graham crust, cheesecake with truffle berry, strawberry cream, topped with chunks of cookie crumbles and white chocolate shavings.

These are just some of the cheesecakes and sweet pies from Banapple because there are plenty to choose from. Much like in real life. We create our own happy endings. Not everyone was born with a silver spoon, but with courage and conviction, you might end up having not just a spoon, but a silver platter. We live and fight life through. At the end, it is us who will decide if the glass is half empty or half full.

As for me, yes, I am not a princess, but I know in my heart, even warriors deserve happy endings.



Banapple Branches:

225 & 206 Katipunan Ave,
Blue Ridge, Quezon City

Northeast Square
47 Connecticut St
Northeast Greenhills,
San Juan City

Ayala Triangle Gardens
Ayala Ave, Ayala Triangle
Makati City

2/L Il Terrazzo
35 Tomas Morato
Quezon City

Banapple is open everyday
7:30AM to 11:30PM

You can contact them at

(02) 439-2675 [Katipunan 1]
(02) 413-2675 [Tomas Morato]
(02) 438-2675 [Katipunan Too]
(02) 756-2675 [Ayala Triangle]