Friday, February 27, 2015

Eat. Cafe, Comfort Food, Tea, Coffee, and Wine Bar


Simple.

Just like this new cafe, that I had recently visited and tried, I am about to write my simplest blog. not that I don't want to over sell them, which I would want to, but because of the fact that the whole sense of it should not really be complicated.

Well you see, my life also as it is, is simple just that I complicate things a tad bit more, or let's just say to elaborate on stuff like preparing a simple tuna sandwich or baking brownies.  By the way, will posting really soon my recent addition to my brilliant brownie inventions -Oatmeal Brownies.

By now the lights of the cafe are off and the guards would make sure that the doors of the elevator don't open at the Mezzanine floor.  While I'm still tucking heartily into a heap of Spicy Brownies which I took home from Eat. Cafe at this wee hour with a mug of Chamomile tea to combat the sugar and lull me to sleep.  Sure enough the brownies and some of the food I've tried at Eat made it hard for me to doze off easily.

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Pan Pacific Hotel's Take on Fun Lounging with the Breath-taking Manila Bay Sunset View


Still in pristine condition after servicing clients for over 17 glory years in the hospitality business, Pan Pacific makes after work hours even more relaxing and fun.  Last Feb. 13, a preempt to Valentines day, my co-travel bloggers had a get together at the Sunset Lounge. It's Pan Pacific Hotel's new al fresco venue which was launched November of last year.

Let me describe that experience in 3 F words - field of vision, food and fun!


Nestled at the 7th floor, the open deck highlights an encompassing view of the surrounding Malate and of course the Manila Bay.  On the same floor is where you can find the pool and the venue hall for gatherings.

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Hotel Review: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar and Cafe Marivent


In about 3 days, we will be celebrating our wedding anniversary.  Before the year 2010, we never really spent a lot of time and money in commemorating our wedding anniversary.  We thiought that simple gifts for each other and greeting each other would be enough.  All that changed when my husband understood my needs as a woman and his wife.  I just praise God for making him the kindof husband that I have been praying for.  Well don't get me wrong, he did work his ass of to provide for the family however no such better investment were put to our marriage.

To make the long ang boring story short he made amends and proved to be very generous in lavishing me with love on our special day, the day God and the law made us one.

There was this particular celebration we shared some years ago that I have to say I have highly esteemed.  It was when he bought an overnight accommodation to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan.

Here are my articles on that:


Monday, February 16, 2015

A Showcase of German Food at the Mabuhay Germany 2015

GPCCI General Manager Nadine Fund

Food establishments offering the best of German cuisine and beverages recently headlined a food-tasting event, as part of the upcoming Mabuhay Germany 2015.

Hosted by the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI), the activity featured participating food concessionaires who showed a preview of what will be served on February 21 and 22 at the Bonifacio Global Center.

“We know that Filipinos love to eat, and this certain passion for food is a trait shared by Germans as well. In Mabuhay Germany 2015, we are introducing German cuisine to more Filipinos, allowing them to experience the country’s culture one bite at a time. Since there will be no entrance fee, everyone can come freely and have a slice of German food and culture for the whole weekend,” said GPCCI General Manager Nadine Fund.

Sunday, February 15, 2015

Cayet's Cabin: A Balinese Resort to Cure One's Ailing Soul


What do you do when disappointment comes? 
Regrettably, picking oneself back up again is, easier said than done.  I know that it doesn't take any special talent to give up or lie down on the roadside of life and say, "I quit!" In fact, the road to chronic discouragement, hopelessness and despair often begins with an ordinary day that ends up piled high with simple disappointments. 

When it weighs on you like a rock, you can either let it press you down until you become discouraged, even devastated, or you can use it as a stepping-stone to better things.  If you ask me, it has not been a walk in the park, but I was blessed enough to have my God show me awesome things that get me through every time I'm faced with such difficulties in life and learning how to stay calm when He says "No."

There are quite a few inspiring means on how to adjust yourself to disappointments, what our family do is to pray for it, wait on it and while waiting, retreat from life's harshness by chasing hidden dwellings.

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Before One Saturday Night Ended at Greenfield Weekend Market



Just as I was still hoping to check out the rest of Kapitolyo, Pasig's food establishments, a new weekend go-to place has emerged, and one that I would not get tired of coming back for.  Well, I'm a mom so going to the market and visits to the grocery or food fairs are always on my list.  

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Swoon Over Resorts World Manila's Luck in Love Dining Finds


As a couple, many of our unusual successes in marriage life were shared and shaped out over romantic dinners.  Most of our family get-aways and weekenders were thought of over a conversation with juicy steaks, pasta and of course sweet endings.  

That's why I'm ecstatic to share you Resorts World Manila's special Valentine's offering and might I say the different restaurants can't wait to feed the lovebirds, as each of these avante garde food establishments have created equally romantic menu offerings. 

A Taste of My New Orleans' Dream at Gumbo


Next to the Rose Parade, New Orlean's Mardi Gras is something I would definitely take a stab at. Any party animal would agree on me on this.  I'm  imagining myself  grooving and dancing along with every marching band that came through the place, probably wearing a glittery green mask, and jumping for beads doled out by the Krewe of Morpheus.  But sad to say, I had to earn my US Visa for that.

Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, happens to fall on Feb. 17, this year.   I guess I have to try my luck again next year, however, apart from reliving the wild street party, the glorious food of Bourbon Street is something I would also be dying to try.


It was so timely that someone invited me to try out Gumbo.  I was so glad to make that trip to Megamall that day because I was reacquainted with the resto.  I can't really remember how long it was when I dined at Gumbo in Mall of Asia.  So, it was like seeing Gumbo in a whole new light.

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Honest-to-Goodness Coffee by City Blends, Now in 7-Eleven


Have you noticed 7-Eleven's new addition to their hot beverage line lately?  7-Eleven made a mark by launching its newest coffee brand, City Blends, last January. What a way to start 2015?  Quite a welcoming thought for coffee lovers and 7-Eleven customers like our family, don't you think?

City Blends by 7-Eleven promises its convenient, rich and flavorful coffee that is affordable and easily accessible.  Just yesterday, after finding out about it, Bhogs and I have visited two of their stores while we were out looking for an outdoor adventure store and the unit is readily available.  In fact, it is now servicing frequent-goers of 258 stores in select branches in the metro and its in their plan to roll it out to 700 other stores within this year and soon in Visayas.


Friday, February 6, 2015

Our Top List for Romantic Places That are Off the Beaten Path


Aren't you tired of going to the same restaurant or hotel every Valentines Day? Getting sick of expensive couple packages in restaurants? Would you rather have a different vibe yet still feeling every bit romantic and lavished?

If you say yes to most of these questions we are pleased to share you some of our well-loved food tour which my husband and I agree to be quintessential this month and well actually throughout the year to celebrate pure love in the most romantic way.

Though not in particular order, consider what is listed all our favorite.  You can thank me later...



1. LEMURIA
Address: Julieta Cir, Quezon City, 1112 Metro Manila
Phone:(02) 724 5211
Hours: 6:00 – 11:00 pm
Link of our story here

Lemuria: Discovering a Lost Foodie Paradise




2. SULYAP GALLERY AND RESTAURANT

Address:  Brgy. Del Remedio, Cocoland Compound, San Pablo, Laguna
Phone:  (049) 562 9740 or 5629735

Our story here:

SULYAP: A Glimpse of the Past

Eat Out and Party Hard at Universe Gastrolounge and Nightclub


Any partying I did, back when I was young, I did at home. Does that suck or what? So, I did make up for a lot of lost time very quickly.  For many, working hard is equated with partying hard, though I am not into partying that hard, but its not bad if I go out with friends occasionally.  I did love dancing but at my age, I guess sharing the limelight and the dance floor isn't my turf anymore.

It's good that the idea of such restaurants and bar that magically transform into a club or a party venue at night was invented.

One such example is Universe Gastrolounge which replaced the now defunct Opus.  Universe is housed on the location of Republiq and Opus Restaurant and Lounge.


We know how Resorts World have been a mecca for bar hoppers and clubbers.  So, for the fans of Opus and Republiq, fret not for Universe is now at your service.  For both diners and party-goers, Gastrolounge is your respite from the busy world, a dining haven for international cuisines and a party place at the strike of 10 pm.  

At the helm of the exquisite gastronomic experience is Chef Fernando Aracama of none other than the Aracama Restaurant and Lounge at The Fort.


The stylish and classic vibe of the old Opus still remains, with the bar still at place.  However, the interiors have changed, even the chairs - from the quilted cushion beige long chairs to the studded velvety black mimicked antique chairs.


I love the wall side where my fellow foodies and I were seated.  The whole wall was made into a huge blackboard and the menu is written so glaringly.  



Aside from an array of unique cocktails, they also serve up health shots.  Healthy juices are concocted from a mix of different fresh fruits and veggies.  Here I think I had orange, carrot, lemon and pineapple.


They can be a bit naughty when naming some components in the menu, meet one of our antipasto, Black Bikini!  Yet, there is nothing too kinky about this deck of French toasts.  Layers of bread, Jamon Serrano, cheese, black truffle jam and more toasts can be enjoyed as you wait for  your mains.


The beautiful stack of garlicky log croutons dipped in Mixed Mushroom Dip is best complimented with any cocktails and white wine.  Three different mushrooms are sauteed and topped with molten cheese.   Ahh, good thing I'm just a tone-throw away from RWM and I could just make a quick run here jut for the dip!  


Couch potatoes unite with Patatas Bravas!  For me, this isn't an advisable starter though.  Baby potatoes were deep fried making the skin crispy, served marinara sauce and garlic aioli (which was btw, totally addicting), making your tummy heavy and palate a bit oily.  However, this i good paired with the heavy meaty mains.


I never regretted eating a lot of Chicken Cobb Salad here, it was a complete meal  all in itself for me, especially with those chunky grilled chicken and fresh veggies that make up the salad, oh not to forget having avocado slices as well.  The ranch dressing spiked up with blue cheese is endearing, you could really get that sharpness from the blue cheese, and that meant they don't scrimp on gourmet ingredients. 

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Weekend of Everything That Flies at the 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clark, Pampanga


One of the event our family considered as holy grail is our first ever trip to Clark, Pampanga for the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fest some years ago.  It was actually the 16th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta which concluded with an overnight stay and the kids swimming in the pool at Pacific Breeze Hotel.

It would be such a welcoming thought if we would do that again, this Valentine season.  With that let me share you the event updates on this year's Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Now on its 19th year, Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival (PIHABF), set on February 12 to 15 at the Philippine Air Force ADAC Hangar in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, is expected to be more exciting and newcomer would be in such a wild treat.

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Festive February at Century Park Hotel


Are you feeling weary of how to spice up this month? Let me give you two reasons why you need to be really be frantic, it's the most romantic season of the year and in time as well to usher in the year of the Sheep.  Why not let Century Park Hotel handle both for you.  The exciting line-up of the hotel' month-long festive activities guarantees a memorable Valentine and Chinese New Year celebration.

Eat to your happy heart’s content by checking out the lavish dinner buffet spread at the Café in the Park on February 14 from 6 pm to 10:30 pm.  For P 1,430+, you and your lady love can indulge in a wide selection of food and fill your plate with your favorite items from the cold, salad, soup, carving, hot, Western and Chinese stations. Be sure to make room for dessert and bottomless refill of iced tea, house wine or local beer.

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Kopi Roti #KeepRising with New Look, New Products and Upbeat Campaign


Whenever my husband would do a work-related visit to Singapore, he would ask me what I want for pasalubong,  Whenever I think of Singapore, the first thing that would come to mind is coffee bun.  However, when that situation arises, I would always tel  him, "Nah!"  I guess, he doesn't need to because he doesn't need to buy them there since we can buy coffee buns here, and other Singaporean breakfast treats.  


Everyone's familiar with Kopi Roti,  the Singaporean coffee shop brand that serves remarkable coffee buns, teh tarik and kopi C/O/milk, However, behind the restaurants' success still means innovation.

This was made clearer when I attended the grand reopening of their Katipunan, QC branch as they have unveiled the fresh new look of their stores and Katipunan happened to be the first to have the makeover.

Monday, February 2, 2015

An Afternoon of Fun at Cartimar, Pasay City



Living in Pasay has it's perks as well, though it's not as popular to city dwellers in the upper class unlike Makati or Pasig.  One lazy afternoon, as Bhogs and I were looking for a grooming place for our pet Lhasa Apso, Hazel Nutella, we thought of going to Cartimar.

Cartimar is famed for pet lovers, as it is a one stop venue for all our pets' needs.  Also, a famous place to buy a new pet, you can definitely go frantic in choosing your new pal, as quite a number of stores line up selling certified pups, birds, fish and other rare pets.

Whenever we need to buy bicycles, we also come here. In fact, all our kids' training wheels to bikes were bought here.  Bikers also have their nooks here where a couple of stores open up for gears, and stuff for biking or racing are up for grabs.

Not only that, we also buy our plants here.  From flowering, to herbs, and indoor plants, this is where we go to buy them.