Blog Feed: The Purple Doll

Daily Quickie: Pizza Hut's Cheese Burger Pizza

Published on 2013-05-17 09:30:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. I've always loved Pizza Hut's creative stuffed crusts, so whenever there's a new variant available, I make sure to try it out.

Cafe De Seoul: Seoul Searching at Taft Avenue

Published on 2013-05-16 07:04:00

Although I love Korean BBQ houses and bulgogi restaurants, there will always be a special spot for Korean cafes in my heart. Unlike the usual Western coffee shops, Korean cafes offer a unique experience not only with its drinks and snacks, but also w

Post-Mother's Day Giveaway: Goodwill Coffee by Great Kind

Published on 2013-05-12 18:26:00

Mother's Day may have passed, but showing mom you love her, definitely doesn't have a deadline. And in partnership with the good folks from Goodwill Coffee, I'll be giving away a box of 10 to 3 winners, so you and mom (or dad) can bond over a good cu

MEZZA NORTE by Mercato Centrale Now Open in Trinoma!

Published on 2013-05-12 15:52:00

Food markets have been the "in" thing for foodies these past few years, and we have the Mercato Centrale Group to thank for that. However, as you may have noticed, I still haven't blogged about the weekend market or even the Sunday morning market of

LEVANTE by Mercato Centrale Opens in Eastwood this Friday!

Published on 2013-05-11 17:09:00

After the big move of Mezza Norte to Trinoma, another food market by the Mercato Centrale Group will be serving northern Manila foodies looking for a different dining experience. This time, it's in Eastwood Citywalk 2 with a grand opening this May 17

Daily Quickie: Cookie Butter Donuts by Go Nuts Donuts

Published on 2013-05-09 11:40:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Earlier this month, I was lucky to be offered two boxes of Go Nuts Donuts' newest donut flavor, the Cookie Butter Donut. Althou

NACI Comfort Food: New Look + Mother's Day Giveaway!

Published on 2013-05-09 10:07:00

It was around this time of the year last 2012 when I first encountered NACI Comfort Food in Greenhills. After another year, I again revisited this comfort food and dessert destination. This time though, NACI Comfort Food has already moved to Bonifaci

Slappy Cakes: Do-It-Yourself Pancakes Now in Manila!

Published on 2013-05-08 10:59:00

While I'm not a big breakfast person, I don't think my view mirrors the general public as there has been a continuously multiplying number of breakfast places sprouting here and there. But while a restaurant serving all-day breakfast may not entice m

My Top Picks at UP Economics Society's FOODGASM II

Published on 2013-05-05 07:37:00

I've always been a fan of food events where anyone can be a food critic for a day. And after experiencing my first session at last year's 10th Ultimate Taste Test, I once again had the chance to sample different treats under one roof last March 9, 20

Mango Tree: Thai Cuisine, Anniversary and Project Brave Kids

Published on 2013-05-02 16:21:00

If you've been sticking around for quite a while, you might have noticed that I've been growing a love affair with Thai cuisine. So when I was invited to a first year anniversary thanksgiving lunch at Mango Tree in Bonifacio High Street Central, I ca

Mother's Day Giveaway: Surprise Mom with a McDo Breakfast!

Published on 2013-05-01 00:11:00

Aside from Labor Day and the elections, the most-awaited occasion this month of May is that special Sunday dedicated to a wonderful woman whom we lovingly call moms. And if you've wanted to surprise her this upcoming May 12, then you're in luck as Mc

Wee Nam Kee: Yellow Chicken Festival for Limited-Time Offer

Published on 2013-04-30 08:26:00

Who doesn't love chicken? Definitely not me, most especially if it's prepared Hainanese-style by Wee Nam Kee. However, earlier this month, I got to taste something even better. Sure, it's still chicken and it's still from the same Hainanese chicken r

Daily Quickie: Lucky Me! Special Instant Pancit Palabok

Published on 2013-04-28 12:00:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Earlier this month, I received a special bilao from Lucky Me!. Our helper thought that it's palabok, and she was actually right

SumoSam: 26th Branch Opens at SM Manila

Published on 2013-04-27 20:25:00

If you've been a reader for a while, you've probably known of my serious infatuation with Japanese cuisine. Whether it's authentic Japanese, Japanese-Western fusion, or localized Japanese fare, I'll always be game to try it out. So when I was invited

The Creamery: Resto and Ice Cream Bar + Summer Giveaway

Published on 2013-04-26 10:50:00

With such a harsh summer weather, I just can't help but crave for something cold and sweet. So one afternoon while we were strolling inside SM Mall of Asia, the beau and I decided to head to The Creamery Resto and Ice Cream Bar for a merienda session

Outback Steakhouse: The New Lunch Specials Menu

Published on 2013-04-24 15:59:00

Although I'm currently not as hardcore as a carnivore as I used to be, I still appreciate all the meaty things in life. So when I got a chance to visit Outback Steakhouse in Glorietta 4 to sample their new lunch menu, I didn't even have to think and

Ka Inato: Palawan's #1 chicken is now in Manila!

Published on 2013-04-23 04:19:00

Frankly, I haven't been to Palawan yet. But from friends, reviews and blog posts, I've found out that there's a chicken haven famous in the island. It's Ka Inato which serves their famous charcoal-grilled chicken. And now, it finally hits Metro Manil

Ang Mo Kio: Singaporean Hawker Cuisine at The Podium

Published on 2013-04-18 18:21:00

Hawker food has already been synonymous to Singapore, at least for me. However, it would really be troublesome and costly to fly to Singapore just to get a taste of their wide array of gustatory hawker treats. Fortunately, we have our own haven of go

Bistro 98: Discovering Gourmet Comfort Food in Quezon City

Published on 2013-04-15 10:58:00

There's no denying that I love to dine in my list of trusted restaurants. However, hole in the wall dining spots have a certain charm I just can't get enough of. Earlier this year, my friend and I visited a comfort food destination off the main stree

Wrong Ramen: How can this wrong be so right?

Published on 2013-04-11 10:58:00

While I may not be the biggest fan of ramen, I can't deny that I still have an undying drive to scout both the old and new ramen places sprouting in the metro. My most recent visit was a trip to a really unique ramen house in Bonifacio Global City. W

Primero Casa Filipino: Affordable Filipino Buffet in Quezon City

Published on 2013-04-05 06:30:00

After a month of blog post drought, let's get back to regular programming, shall we? Now, although I'm not the biggest fan of Filipino cuisine, I appreciate hearty Pinoy dishes both cooked traditionally and creatively. And this my friends is what I e

Corner Tree Cafe: Award-Winning Vegetarian Food in Makati

Published on 2013-03-17 09:09:00

Before 2012 ended, I was lucky to have won a gift certificate from Corner Tree Cafe by being the 3,000th liker of their Facebook page. Being someone who doesn't really have good luck, I was really surprised yet very grateful at the same time. You see

Manang's Chicken: New Garlic Pork Rice Meal and More

Published on 2013-03-13 03:04:00

We Filipinos love fried chicken. But although Manang's Chicken dubbed as the bagong fried chicken ng Pinoy specializes in what else but double-fried and glazed poultry, the beau and I discovered a new treat worth going back for again and again in thi

Yabu: Revisiting the House of Katsu

Published on 2013-03-06 20:14:00

It's been quite a while since I've last paid a trip to Yabu: House of Katsu, so when I received an invitation from Ms. Erika to try out the most recent additions to Yabu's roster of excellent katsus, I just couldn't say no. I mean, after trying it ou

Goodwill Coffee: Instant Coffee with Moringa and Spirulina

Published on 2013-03-04 10:47:00

While I'm no coffee aficionado, I surely enjoy a good cup of hot coffee during mornings and even on late afternoons when I seriously need a perk-me-upper. And although I hate to admit it, my choice when it comes to coffee are instant coffee mixes. So

Taste the Love with The Bistro Group + Giveaway #12!

Published on 2013-03-03 09:54:00

While I was on a roll last January, the love month made me a real busy bee. And while this post is late, I think we should spread the love even if it isn't the month of February. But first, let me share with you The Bistro Group's newest campaign, Ta

Wang Fu Chinese Café: Asian Comfort Food in IL Terrazzo

Published on 2013-02-20 20:49:00

A few weeks ago, I celebrated my 22nd birthday. Although it feels surreal that a year had passed that quick, I'm happy to have been given not only a family to celebrate this milestone with, but also a set of great friends who has always been there fo

Get Ready for UP Economics Society's FOODGASM 2!

Published on 2013-02-18 01:03:00

Earlier this year, I received an invitation to attend UP Economics Society's Foodgasm II, a one day food tasting competition aiming to showcase the up and coming food establishments here in Metro Manila. And being a foodie myself, how can I not say y

Umami Hambaagu House: Japanese Burger Steak at The Grove

Published on 2013-02-15 09:46:00

It's not a secret that I'm a sucker for anything Japanese. Japanese-Western cuisine included. So when I heard of a new Japanese burger steak joint which location was kept secret for quite a while, it stirred my curiosity. Luckily, I got the chance to

Napa Restaurant & Bar: American-Italian Dining in Quezon City

Published on 2013-02-11 06:48:00

Last year, we at Filipino Bloggers Worldwide held our very first grand eyeball. And although it wasn't a flawless event, it was thankfully a success. We, the admins, wouldn't be able to do it though without the help of our group's volunteers. So to b

Daily Quickie: Duo Valentines with Nestlé Drumstick Duo

Published on 2013-02-10 05:27:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Earlier this afternoon, we received a special delivery in the house. It's from Nestlé Drumstick! They gave my little sister a

Blog Anniversary Giveaway #11: Figaro UP Ayala-Technohub

Published on 2013-02-10 01:54:00

Whenever the beau and I are out, we always make sure to drop by a coffee shop to chill and have our caffeine fix. And among different cafés out there, one which is close to our hearts is Figaro Coffee Company. If you'd remember, we went on a discoun

Lutong Bahay: Shrimp Balls with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Published on 2013-02-06 15:01:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house, either my own cooking or not. My dad has recently been obsessing on perfecting his shrimp tempura recipe. So with a surp

Krazy Garlik: Garlic Overload at Greenbelt 5

Published on 2013-02-05 04:06:00

If you've been a reader for a while, you probably know that the beau is very picky with his vegetables. In fact, he doesn't even eat the salad sidings included in most of his meals. Fortunately though, there's one veggie he's crazy about -- garlic. S

CHOPS Chicago Steakhouse: Executive Lunch Special

Published on 2013-02-03 09:30:00

While I've recently found myself very much into fitness, there are still some things I can't and won't ever give up, like milk tea, desserts, pasta and of course, meat. So when I received a lunch invitation for CHOPS Chicago Steakhouse in Greenbelt 5

Birthday Giveaway: Win GCs from Acacia Hotel Manila!

Published on 2013-01-31 09:30:00

Today, I celebrate my 22nd birthday. I know, I know, it might not be something worth fussing about especially with both the Chinese New Year and Valentine's Day lingering around the corner. But since it is for me, let me throw a birthday bash of sort

Gavino's Japanese Donuts: Pon de Rings and Pon de Balls

Published on 2013-01-29 09:44:00

After enjoying the savory and spicy Korean cuisine at Yoogane in Il Terrazzo, we can't help but notice a fairly new stall of sweet treats just beside the restaurant. It was the first time I've seen Gavino's Japanese Donuts, but I've already had a ton

Yoogane: Revisiting Korea's Famous Dak Galbi

Published on 2013-01-28 08:07:00

It's been about three months since my last visit to Yoogane, the famous dak galbi (diced chicken marinated in a gochujang-based sauce) haven from South Korea. And while I didn't expect to pay Yoogane at IL Terrazzo in Tomas Morato a trip this soon, I

Jelly G: Thai Milk Tea and More at 500 Shaw Zentrum

Published on 2013-01-27 08:32:00

Since I've found myself steadily falling in love with Thai cuisine, it just follows that I've taken a liking for Thai tea. So when I was invited to try out Jelly G Thai Milk Tea at 500 Shaw Zentrum in Mandaluyong City, I made sure to clear out my sch

Fish & Co: More Than Just Fish and Chips

Published on 2013-01-25 09:50:00

Although I'm a sucker for anything seafood, I rarely eat out on seafood restaurants since my mom can get a hold of the freshest catches from the sea and cook them in the comforts of our own home. However one weekday afternoon last December, when we w

Blog Anniversary Giveaway #10: Pepper Lunch

Published on 2013-01-21 09:22:00

Back during my pre-blogging days, I was able to try Pepper Lunch and got myself hooked! And while it's been over a year since I've blogged about my Japanese fast-steak experience at Pepper Lunch's SM Mall of Asia branch, there's no denying that I've

Lia's Cakes in Season: Avocado Cake and More at Kapitolyo

Published on 2013-01-20 09:58:00

Remember The Foodies Circle's trip to Nav Modern Thai Cuisine? If you've been a long-time reader, you'd know that we'll never leave a restaurant without trying out their desserts. However, for our pre-Christmas get-together dinner, we decided to skip

Greenwich Party Size Pizzas + Blogger Apprentice 2012!

Published on 2013-01-17 14:32:00

Last year was definitely a very fruitful year for me. It was when I started to get more serious and blogged relentlessly. Actually, I even went beyond my comfort zone and joined the Search for the Blogger Apprentice 2012 by Blogger Manila for the exp

GrandMomma's Kitchen: American Comfort Food in Il Terrazzo

Published on 2013-01-15 14:21:00

Eating has always been a stress reliever for me. When I'm in a bad mood, a plate or two of good comfort food can already lift up my senses and put me back to a state of zen. So when I received an invitation to try out GrandMomma's Kitchen in Il Terra

Free Coffee with McDonald's Hooray for Mondays!

Published on 2013-01-13 14:04:00

Happy Monday everyone! While I don't often grab breakfast every morning, there's always something more engaging and special during Mondays. I guess it's the thought that a Monday morning is a start of another chapter in our weekly working or student

Ramen Bar: A Taste of the Seasonal Menu Offerings

Published on 2013-01-13 08:27:00

A few years back, Ramen Bar in Eastwood has always been a go-to noodle house for us. Even if both the beau and I were not really big fans of ramen, this modern Japanese noodle spot had successfully converted us. And although we haven't been back soon

Tous Les Jours: Bread Overload at SM North The Block

Published on 2013-01-11 10:30:00

It was last year when I first discovered Tous Les Jours in SM North EDSA The Block. I had one of their beautiful cakes for my 21st birthday, and got some breads for the family. However, it wasn't until recently that I'm finally able to blog about the

Nav Modern Thai Cuisine: Rediscovering Thai in Kapitolyo

Published on 2013-01-10 11:34:00

One of the greatest things that happened to me in 2012 was forming a friendship with the girls of The Foodies Circle. Although we've only met through blogging events just last year, it felt as if I've already known them for so long. And of course, be

Jack Frost Premium Ice Cream: New Flavors + Giveaway #9!

Published on 2013-01-09 21:39:00

Last year, I was lucky to get the chance to sample the homemade premium creations from Jack Frost Premium Ice Cream. And while I was already impressed by the flavors I got to try back then, the man behind this sweet and creative brand, Mr. Bonner Dyt

Watami: Japanese Casual Restaurant at SM Mall of Asia

Published on 2013-01-08 09:29:00

As a big fan of Japanese cuisine, I was super excited to hear the news that Watami has finally arrived in the Philippines. With over 700 branches all over the world, Watami is actually Japan's number one casual-dining restaurant, and I'm just glad th

Lutong Bahay: Pan-Fried Bacon-Wrapped Enoki Mushrooms

Published on 2013-01-06 16:44:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house, either my own cooking or not. Whenever we eat at Yakimix or at Sambo Kojin, there's always this one item my parents and

Ba-Be-Q: Street-Style Korean Charcoal Grill in A.Venue Mall

Published on 2013-01-05 14:15:00

For the past year, Korean cuisine has been steadily growing on me. And while the beau has yet to gain a fondness for Korean fare, he has an undying love for meat, so it was win-win for us when we headed out to Ba-Be-Q Korean Charcoal Grill in A.Venue

Sophie's Mom: Delightful Cupcakes in SM North The Block

Published on 2013-01-04 11:20:00

Being a lover of almost anything and everything confectionery, especially cupcakes, I've found myself excited in trying out stores and flavors that I haven't had before. So when I spotted a Sophie's Mom kiosk in SM North EDSA The Block, I didn't even

New Year Giveaway: Win a CBTL 2013 Giving Journal!

Published on 2013-01-04 01:53:00

Before the year 2012 came to a close, I was collecting stamps for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 2013 Giving Journal. Initially, I wanted to get my hands on the planner for myself. However, when I finally completed all 12 stickers, I thought of embodying

Torch Restaurant: All-Day International Cuisine in Greenhills

Published on 2013-01-03 11:13:00

Whenever I eat out with family, friends or even with the beau, I'm always faced with the dilemma of where to bring them next. While I'd love to try out more unfamiliar dining spots, it's hard not to mind my companions' taste preferences. Fortunately

Bag of Beans: Breakfast in Tagaytay City

Published on 2013-01-02 21:44:00

While I don't usually eat breakfast, I find pleasure in waking up early and basking in the morning sun. And with the bonus of having your friends around for the first meal of the day, the whole experience becomes even better. This is exactly how I fe

The Purple Doll's Top 10 Picks for 2012

Published on 2012-12-31 17:21:00

While 2011 has been a good year for me, 2012 was even better! From being a personal blog, I was able to really transform The Purple Doll into a food blog. I got to publish 206 entries, appear in GMA News TV's Pop Talk, emerge as an Influential Blog f

Filipino Bloggers Worldwide: The 1st Grand Eyeball

Published on 2012-12-29 15:05:00

Over a year ago, I discovered the enjoyment of blogging. And although it was tough getting readers as I started The Purple Doll, I was glad I got to meet fellow bloggers and in the process, became a member of Filipino Bloggers Worldwide (FBW) -- a gr

The Coffee Book 2013 from Bo's Coffee

Published on 2012-12-27 12:25:00

Being a writer and a doodler, I always make sure to have papers or a notebook with me so I can jot down my thoughts, my plans, or just bask in my own cartoon land. I know with cool gadgets in the market nowadays, I'm one of the few old-school folks w

Lutong Bahay: Peach Mango Graham Refrigerated Cake

Published on 2012-12-26 17:40:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house, either my own cooking or not. You all know I'm a sucker for cakes. However, as much as I want to learn, I don't have the

Precious Moments Manila: Showroom, Gift Shop & Tea House

Published on 2012-12-26 09:59:00

Whether it be for Christmas, birthdays or anniversaries, we Filipinos are known to go all out just to celebrate our special day. We love gathering our families, closest friends and loved ones not only to share our joys and milestones in life, but to

Merry Christmas + Blog Anniversary Giveaway Winners!

Published on 2012-12-25 00:20:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you guys and gals all had a wonderful Noche Buena last night. Our Noche Buena was as intimate as usual since we're just a four-piece family. However, it's not really the food nor the location that matters the most, bu

Daily Quickie: Minute Burger's Big Time Sandwiches

Published on 2012-12-19 07:07:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Merienda or afternoon snack has played a very important part in my childhood. I remember back in the day, I would always rush h

F: Disappointing Buffet at Best Western Premier F1 Hotel

Published on 2012-12-17 09:30:00

Groupons have been an integral part in my foodie escapades. However, there are times I regret going gaga to purchase some restaurant deals. One of these instances is the time I bought and redeemed my vouchers for Best Western Premier F1 Hotel's F buf

Lutong Bahay: Knorr Sinigang na Bangus sa Sampalok

Published on 2012-12-16 09:15:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house, either my own cooking or not. If there's one dish that spells nothing short of being truly Pinoy, then it's Sinigang. Ev

SLICE: A Slice of the Sweet Life in BHS Central

Published on 2012-12-14 09:19:00

Being a dessert person, I just couldn't pass up the chance of trying out the nearly one year-old SLICE at Bonifacio High Street Central. So when a voucher for P500-worth of food and drinks at the dessert cafe became available at Ensogo, I just knew I

Kichitora of Tokyo: Authentic Tokyo Ramen in SM Megamall

Published on 2012-12-12 23:23:00

After our pampering session at the ChaLife Milk Tea launch in Nail It!, we headed out to SM Megamall to grab a bite. We first met up with Berylle's bf, D, who generously treated us at the newly-opened authentic ramen place in SM Megamall, Kichitora o

ChaLife: Relaxing and Refreshing Powdered Milk Tea

Published on 2012-12-11 01:37:00

Whether it's a cup from a store, or powdered, I can't deny my love for milk teas. Actually, over the past year, I think I've already consumed nearly a hundred servings. So when I was invited to attend ChaLife Milk Tea's launch, I didn't even have to

Blog Anniversary Giveaway #8: Chubby Chicken

Published on 2012-12-10 07:34:00

While there are already a lot of chicken places around, I can't deny that I'm still enticed. Whether it's double-fried, baked, roasted or whatnot, I won't get tired of trying them out. So when I was invited to sample Chubby Chicken in Katipunan, I ju

Daily Quickie: Pizza Hut's Parmesan Cheesy Crust Pizza

Published on 2012-12-05 07:15:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. I've featured Pizza Hut's Wing Street on my last Daily Quickie post. And while I initially planned to order another wing flavor

Saint's Alp Teahouse: Milk Tea, White Moustache and More

Published on 2012-12-03 09:17:00

You all know by now how crazy I am for teas and milk teas. So when Saint's Alp offered vouchers at Deal Grocer, I knew I just had to grab the chance. I got vouchers for P600-worth of food and drinks at Saint's Alp Katipunan which I used up last Octob

Humming Bread: My Little Sister's Poring Cake

Published on 2012-12-01 06:30:00

Time flew by so fast when 2012 hit the "ber" months that I literally felt like it was just a few days ago. It also didn't help that my little sister turned 18 last November 15. All these years, I've treated her like a child -- innocent, pure and some

Lutong Bahay: Potato, Bacon & Bell Pepper Frittata

Published on 2012-11-30 13:11:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house, either my own cooking or not. While I'm not really talented or even skilled when it comes to cooking, I can proudly say

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: 2013 Giving Journal

Published on 2012-11-29 11:12:00

It's that time of the year again... The season for collecting stamps, and claiming planners. And if up until now you're still undecided what planner to get for the year to come, then maybe you should check out The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's 2013 Giving

Blog Anniversary Giveaway #7: The Burger Project Taft

Published on 2012-11-28 08:58:00

Customized burgers have been making a buzz in the foodie scene for the past year or two. Luckily for me and the beau, there's now a newly-opened burger shop in Vito Cruz, Manila -- The Burger Project Taft, a franchise of the famous customized burger

My First Tsoko Nut Batirol Delivery Experience

Published on 2012-11-26 11:38:00

Although I expected October to be a cold month, I wasn’t prepared for the typhoon Ofel. Actually, despite not being a homebody, I decided to spend that particular week at home for safety reasons. Of course, it’s inevitable to crave for something

Pepita's Kitchen: My Lechon Degustacion Chronicle

Published on 2012-11-22 11:34:00

While I've been sporting a healthier diet recently, there's no denying that I still enjoy the more sinful gustatory treats in life. That's why when I received a special invitation to join the Lechon Degustacion at Pepita's Kitchen last month, I just

Jamba Juice: Manila's New Healthy Blend

Published on 2012-11-20 21:31:00

First of all, let me admit that this post is super delayed. I was supposed to share my Jamba Juice experience at the newly-opened SM North EDSA The Block branch earlier last month. However, I decided to hold back and compile all my Jamba Juice trips

Peri-Peri Grill House: Spit-Fire Grilled Chicken and More

Published on 2012-11-19 09:59:00

If there's one kind of meat that I couldn't get enough of, it's chicken! Whether it's boiled, steamed, braised, fried, grilled or roasted, chicken tastes good. Actually, I've even made a separate category just for chicken alone! And to add to my grow

Indulgence by Irene: Quezo de Bola Cheesecake

Published on 2012-11-17 08:21:00

When it comes to cakes, forgive me but I am always biased to chocolate-flavored ones, especially those which are beautifully coated with chocolate ganache. However, the reason behind this isn't exactly simple. It's not that I prefer chocolates over o

Bar Dolci: Quiche, Gelatos, Macarons + Giveaway #6!

Published on 2012-11-15 01:09:00

It was last year when I first discovered Bar Dolci in Burgos Circle, The Fort. And while the area is not really that accessible for someone living in the far north such as me, it's not a reason not to crave for the heavenly macarons and gelatos I got

Daily Quickie: Pizza Hut's Wing Street for Delivery

Published on 2012-11-12 07:03:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. While it's already been quite some time since I last blogged about Pizza Hut, my family and I have still been regularly orderin

Village Tavern: American Comfort Food at BHS Central

Published on 2012-11-11 02:01:00

If I live and breathe Japanese food, then my beau-cum-foodie-partner swears by American cuisine. So after a few weeks of being apart, it was just fitting to finally bring him to Village Tavern, when we were invited by The Bistro Group, in the restaur

Coloud The Knock Headphones + Giveaway #5!

Published on 2012-11-04 18:17:00

Aside from being a food lover, I'm also very much into music. And for a while now, I've been faced with the problem of looking for great headphones without hurting my pocket. I know, if I'm really that much into music, I should be ready to spend thou

Oat Square: For Healthy and Yummy Oat Snacks

Published on 2012-11-03 10:55:00

If you've been a regular reader, then you probably know about my undying love for Japanese cuisine. However, I haven't told you a lot about my other favorite food items yet. And in this entry, you'll get to uncover another one. Yes, you got that righ

The Sandwich Guy: Hexagon Sandwiches and More

Published on 2012-10-30 04:46:00

Even as a food blogger, I'm still conscious with what I eat. Although you can assume I stuff a lot of carbs, meats and sweets in my system, most of the time, I just want light yet satisfying meals. And fortunately, we've spotted The Sandwich Guy in S

Blog Anniversary Giveaway #4: Akiba Cafe

Published on 2012-10-26 10:59:00

Whenever I'm in SM Megamall, the first store I visit has always been Akiba Cafe. I may not have blogged about every trip I made, but I assure you that all my visits led to the expected satisfaction. And since I'm still celebrating my blog's 1st year anniversary, I'd like to give you a chance to sample one of my most favorite cafes around, Akiba Cafe. I fell in love with this cosmopolitan Japanese-inspired cafe when I first visited it back in January. Although I liked the yogurt drink I ordered, [..]

Yoogane: Korea's Famous Dak Galbi now in IL Terrazzo

Published on 2012-10-24 11:40:00

It's almost the end of October, and as expected, reunions and gatherings are becoming more of a staple. I'm enjoying every bit of it though, especially since I get to bond with relatives and friends whom I haven't seen in a while. And the latest among my pre-holiday food trip session is with my lovely high school friends, just three of them this time, that is. Since we already got so used to visiting SM North and Trinoma, we decided to head to IL Terrazzo in Tomas Morato. There are a lot of res [..]

I Want to Eat Out, but.. but..

Published on 2012-10-23 04:39:00

Have you been denying yourself the pleasure of eating out lately? Maybe you feel that it’s too expensive? Maybe you think it doesn't fit into your plans to lose weight? Fortunately, there are many different things you can do to still enjoy eating out without hurting your bank account or your waistline. Kurobota Pork Belly from Lolo Dad's Cafe How to Eat Out and Save Money It's no secret that eating out is usually more expensive than cooking at home. However, it’s not always possible to c [..]

Blog Anniversary Giveaway #3: Epicurean Cakes

Published on 2012-10-22 17:03:00

If you've been a regular reader, you probably know how much I love sweets. Whether it's ice cream, chocolates or cakes, they always have a special place not just in my stomach, but also in my heart. A few months ago, I was very fortunate to have tried some goodies from Epicurean Cakes, a new online pastry store offering cupcakes and other confectionery to satisfy every epicurean. And staying true to its promise, I was left very impressed at how soft, moist and tasty their Red Velvet and Mad Rabb [..]

Hai Kang Seafood Restaurant: A Chinese Gem in Greenhills

Published on 2012-10-21 16:58:00

Coming from a Chinese-Filipino family, I've already gotten used to eating Chinese cuisine whenever we're out. Honestly, it has become a drag since we always get the same dishes almost every time, even in different Chinese restaurants. However, I've recently discovered Hai Kang Seafood Restaurant which boasts of new and exciting dishes for the youngsters like me, while still carrying the tried and tested Chinese favorites. Located along Wilson Street in Greenhills, Hai Kang Seafood Restaurant is [..]

The New SM Foodcourt in SM City Dasmariñas

Published on 2012-10-20 10:58:00

Whenever I'm in an SM mall and can't decide where to eat and what I want to eat, SM Foodcourt has always been there to save my meal. While I enjoy visiting fast food chains and casual dining restaurants, I can't argue that when it comes to variety, SM Foodcourt simply offers more and for more affordable prices. And recently, I got to take a look, feel and taste of the new and improved SM Foodcourt in SM City Dasmariñas. If you've been a regular reader, you'd know that I live in the northern pa [..]

Ilustrado Restaurant: Paella Love Promo + Giveaway #2!

Published on 2012-10-17 10:58:00

October is indeed a month full of celebrations. While you all know that my blog is currently celebrating its first year anniversary, a notable dining establishment also shares the same anniv month. Yes, it's Ilustrado Restaurant in the walled city of Intramuros. And in line with this, they're offering 50% off on all paella orders for the whole October! I may not be Spanish, but I sure love a good paella dish since it has a bit of everything -- rice, meat, veggies, seafood and even a crispy burn [..]

Bon Appetea: A New Kind Of Milk Tea Brew

Published on 2012-10-15 04:22:00

On the "Basta driver, food lover" episode of POP Talk in which I was a guest reviewer, we chilled at Bon Appetea in España and shot the verdict portion here after checking out 3 driver-recommended carinderias. While I had cough and cold that particular day, I just couldn't say no to free milk teas especially since it's from a shop I haven't tried out yet. Since Bon Appetea in España is just a walk away from universities and colleges in the area, the place was swarmed with a lot of students. I [..]

The Purple Doll's 1st Year Blog Anniversary + Giveaway #1!

Published on 2012-10-12 11:00:00

Time flies so fast when you enjoy what you're doing, and that's exactly what I have in my mind right now. Even after 12 months and 245 blog entries later, I still can't believe that it has already been a year since I've first published a blog post here. It's funny too how things have turned out with my blogging adventure, yet at the same time, I feel blessed. If you've read my very first blog post, you'd realize that I made this blog as my personal space on the internet. I actually wanted to co [..]

'Cue Modern Barbecue: A Carnivore's Meat Paradise

Published on 2012-10-11 13:55:00

As much as I enjoy eating fruits and vegetables, there's still no denying that I am heavily carnivorous. Although a plate of sautéed spinach with mushrooms can make me crave, just imagining a thick and juicy slab of steak can have me salivating. And just a few weeks ago, I got to experience a very meaty afternoon meal at 'Cue Modern Barbecue. Located at Bonifacio High Street Central, 'Cue Modern Barbecue as its name implies is a barbecue house ready to cater to the carnivorous cravings of not [..]

Bulaluhan sa España: One of Manila's Best-Kept Secrets

Published on 2012-10-10 10:59:00

Recently, I was able to take part in GMA News TV's POP Talk as one of the reviewers for the "Basta driver, food lover" episode which aired yesterday. Although I'm usually out and about when scouring for food spots, I have never gone food tripping in España yet, so I'm very fortunate to have discovered a humble eatery in the area, Bulaluhan sa España. I honestly didn't plan on blogging about the driver-recommended carinderias we've visited for the episode. However, Bulaluhan sa España really [..]

Italianni's Restaurant: Bigger and Better in SM Mall of Asia

Published on 2012-10-09 10:19:00

A few months ago, I got to visit the newly-renovated branch of Italianni's Restaurant in Gateway Mall. And this time, it's their SM Mall of Asia restaurant which got a make over! From a cramped Italian restaurant, Italianni's in SM Mall of Asia can now comfortably seat over 120 guests. Although the dining space can accommodate about 80 people prior to the renovation, the tables were so close to each other that it's hard to keep your conversations private. It was also very difficult to get a tab [..]

I'll be on GMA News TV's POP Talk on Oct. 9!

Published on 2012-10-07 22:12:00

Yes friends, you read it right! I'll be a guest reviewer on POP Talk's episode tomorrow "Basta driver, food lover" which you can catch on GMA News TV (Channel 11) at 10PM. Kuya Tonipet, Alyssa Alano and myself riding a jeepney While it never really crossed my mind to have my face on national television, I was super excited when I got contacted to join the show as a guest reviewer for a food trip episode. I am very far from being pro when it comes to food critiquing, but I grabbed the opportun [..]

My Top Picks at Rockwell's 2nd Ultimate Taste Test

Published on 2012-10-06 04:29:00

Every year, there's a much-anticipated event especially made for food lovers and food critics-wannabe, it's the Ultimate Taste Test by Anton Diaz of Our Awesome Planet. This annual food trip event gathers foodies in one venue to give them a chance to sample mouth-watering food items and concoctions from over forty home-based businesses. This year is the 10th installment of the Ultimate Taste Test, and the 2nd to be held at the Rockwell Tent. So aside from getting a chance to try out items from [..]

The Purple Doll: An Emerging Influential Blog for 2012

Published on 2012-10-04 01:53:00

First of all, I would like to thank everyone who nominated my blog, The Purple Doll, on the recent Search for the Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs of 2012. Although I participated in the writing project, I never actually thought I'd win. So to everyone who voted, as well as to my regular visitors and readers, from the bottom of my heart, a big big thank you! And of course, congratulations to Ms. Janette Toral who hosted this successful annual writing project, as well as to all the participant [..]

Kitsho: Eat-All-You-Can Japanese Buffet at Traders Hotel

Published on 2012-10-02 10:09:00

Earlier this year, I got to visit Kitsho Restaurant and Sake Bar at the Traders Hotel for a leisurely weekday lunch. And after almost five months, I got to step foot into its dining space once again, but for a gastronomic eat-all-you-can Japanese buffet this time. Kitsho Restaurant and Sake Bar doesn't regularly offer eat-all-you-can as it specializes in serving traditional Japanese dishes a la carte. However, the restaurant started offering lunch buffet dining available every Saturdays, Sunday [..]

Daily Quickie: White Lotus Mooncake from Shangri-la Hotels

Published on 2012-09-30 10:36:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Happy Mid-Autumn Festival everyone! It's been a while since I've last posted a Daily Quickie, so let me share with you what I had just a while ago. Just to be clear, our family isn't really a traditional Chinese family who celebrates each and every Chinese holiday. However, we've already gotten used to eating mooncakes around this time of the year. This one is a big White L [..]

Dakasi: Buy One Get One Free at Trinoma

Published on 2012-09-28 13:08:00

If you've been a regular reader, you'd know my undying love for tea and its trendier sibling, the ever-famous and sought-after milk tea. Although I've already had my fair share of this refreshing beverage, my hunt for the best milk tea shops in the Metro is still on. And recently, it led me to a new milk tea kiosk in Trinoma by the name of Dakasi. If you're thinking that this is another homegrown milk tea venture, then you're wrong. Apparently, Dakasi originated from Taiwan and has gained popul [..]

Don-Day Fresh Restaurant: Samgyeopsal-All-You-Can

Published on 2012-09-26 07:46:00

Earlier this month, I met with my closest college friend for a catch up session. And since she's a fan of K-Pop while I'm a fan of Korean cuisine, we decided to go all the way from Taguig to Teachers Village in Quezon City to try one of the most inexpensive and most famous dining spots for samgyeopsal, Don-Day Fresh Restaurant in Malingap Street. Located just in front of Pipino, Don-Day Fresh Restaurant is known for offering an eat-all-you-can Korean buffet for only P199, and the buffet plus sa [..]

Blue Toque: The Ultimate Mousse Cake and More

Published on 2012-09-23 13:57:00

It's no secret that I'm a big dessert person. Whether it's cupcake, jelly, ice cream or whatnot, there'll always be space in my tummy allotted for sweet goodies. So when my friend Berylle had me try some treats from Blue Toque, I went giddy and gladly obliged. Blue Toque is a new venture by Chef Mary Anne Ramos who hailed from both the Ateneo de Manila University and the International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management, hence the name of her dessert brand. And although Blue Toque has [..]

Mao Jia Hunan Cuisine: Authentic Chinese Regional Food

Published on 2012-09-22 12:31:00

Coming from a Filipino-Chinese family, I've already had my fair share of Chinese cuisine and even found myself quite tired of the traditional Chinese flavors. However, since I only got used to the Guangdong style also known as the Cantonese regional cooking, I found myself unusually excited to try out Mao Jia Hunan Cuisine in San Juan which offers a different Chinese regional gustatory experience from the Chinese dishes I got used to. Located at the Ronac Art Center in North Greenhills, Mao Jia [..]

The Cake Club by Diamond Hotel: Weekend Brunch and More

Published on 2012-09-19 20:09:00

Breakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day. However, for people like me who always wakes up just in time to go out, whether it be on a weekday or a weekend, we can only catch brunch. Fortunately, The Cake Club by Diamond Hotel understands us and offers a lovely brunch treat from 9AM to 3PM every Saturdays and Sundays. Contrary to popular belief, The Cake Club by Diamond Hotel doesn't only serve cakes. Who would want to eat cakes for brunch, right? Okay well, even if you do, this [..]

Triple Treats, Triple the Food Trip at SM City Manila

Published on 2012-09-19 09:33:00

Just a few weeks ago, I paid SM City Manila a visit to catch its 3-day mall-wide sale. And while I enjoyed scouring the department store for some fashion finds, I was more than excited to find out that SM City Manila's 4th floor will not only be housing boutiques, gadget stores and its movie theater, but also three new exciting restaurants! Last Sunday on September 16, 2012, celebrities and notable people have been spotted in SM City Manila as SumoSam Tokyo Grill, KungFu Kitchen and Blackbeard' [..]

My Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs of 2012

Published on 2012-09-19 07:18:00

Even as a blogger, I also have my personal list of blogs that I follow and regularly visit. I may not have a blogroll here, but believe me, my list is very long! So after stumbling upon the Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2012 writing project, I thought this is the perfect time to recognize some of my favorite blogs which fall under the project's certain criteria. As a girl with lots of varying interests, it's expected that my list will be a mix of blogs under different niches. However, r [..]

O'sonho: A Portuguese Fusion Discount Dining Experience

Published on 2012-09-18 05:34:00

As a frugal foodie, I already found myself very much into groupons ever since the advent of group buying sites. And today, I'm sharing my recent groupon redemption experience for a set meal for two at O'sonho Portuguese Fusion Restobar courtesy of Ensogo. I purchased my groupon from Ensogo for P600 back in April, but we only got to use it late last month. I've never dined in O'sonho Portuguese Fusion Restobar prior to this trip, so does the beau, so we were very excited to try out the bestselle [..]

Thai Resa: Authentic Thai Cuisine For Less

Published on 2012-09-17 01:49:00

It's funny how these past few weeks, I have already been posting about nothing but Asian restaurants. And today, I'll be sharing with you yet another great Asian find. But this time, it's a hole-in-the-wall Thai restaurant in Quezon City by the name of Thai Resa. Located along N.S. Amoranto, formerly Retiro, Thai Resa is a humble and unassuming restaurant drenched in magenta and purple with some Buddhist accents. As both a pink and purple shade lover, the color scheme of the place definitely e [..]

Yen Yen: Taiwan Street Food in Wilson San Juan

Published on 2012-09-14 08:06:00

Although I haven't been to Taiwan yet, I have somehow been acquainted to Taiwanese cuisine thanks to the continuously growing number of Taiwanese dining establishments here in the Metro. And just earlier this month, my friends and I headed to Wilson, San Juan to check out another Taiwanese food destination, Yen Yen Taiwan Street Food. Located in Wilson Street corner P. Guevarra Street stands the green and orange signage of Yen Yen Taiwan Street Food which actually started out as a business sel [..]

The Purple Doll's 1k Facebook Page Likes Giveaway Winners

Published on 2012-09-13 00:10:00

Hi friends, how are you all been doing these days? I've been quite busy this September and I'm excited to post about my weight loss and lifestyle change journey. I know, it's so ironic that a food blogger would be so into health and fitness. However, as much as I enjoy eating good food, I also want to promote healthy eating and living. We can't just gulp down food and expect to be healthy, right? Anyway, enough of my blabbering! Before August ended, I reached 1,000 likes on my Facebook page. Fo [..]

Lolo Dad's Café: A Timeless Fine Dining Gem in Malate

Published on 2012-09-11 07:42:00

As a foodie, I have my own bucket list of must-visit restaurants, one of which is an ancestral home-turned-restaurant in Malate by the name of Lolo Dad's Café. Tucked in the corner of Quirino Avenue, this fine dining destination is owned by the Ayuyao family and headed by renowned Chef Ariel Manuel together with his award-winning team. Ever since I first heard of Lolo Dad's Café, I have always wondered why they named the restaurant as such. Turns out, this ancestral home used to be the old ho [..]

Bulgogi Brothers: Now Grilling in SM Mall of Asia

Published on 2012-09-10 01:50:00

These past few months, I have been constantly and excessively craving for Korean food. Luckily, SM Mall of Asia which is one of my go-to malls, already have a branch of one of the hottest Korean barbecue grill destinations in Metro Metro, Bulgogi Brothers. Brought to us by The Bistro Group, the same company operating Italianni's, T.G.I. Fridays, Fish & Co., Ma Maison, Flapjacks, Pig Out, Krazy Garlik, The Stock Market and Village Tavern, Bulgogi Brothers is a Korean barbecue restaurant original [..]

Share Your Best Julie's Bakeshop Moments!

Published on 2012-09-08 10:43:00

If there's one thing I love during the start of every day, it would be waking up to the smell of freshly-baked and bought pan de sal from Julie's Bakeshop. And as the country's largest neighborhood bakeshop chain, I'm sure you too have tried out their sumptuous goodies, and have possibly created an unforgettable memory with Julie's Bakeshop. It may be the moment of how you first met your true love in Julie's Bakeshop, a memory of when you donated a loaf of bread to the less fortunate, or that d [..]

Market Cafe: Distinctly Danang Food Festival at Hyatt

Published on 2012-09-07 10:59:00

Call me a late bloomer, but I admit I haven't delved much into Vietnamese cuisine yet. Fortunately though, one of my favorite eat-all-you can buffet destinations in the Metro, Market Cafe at Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila has brought in Chef Ho Thi Tin and Chef Le Hoi Tuong from Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa, Vietnam to prepare a gastronomic feast of entrées and desserts, and to give us a taste of Danang, Vietnam. Flat Rice Noodle; Photo from Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila From September 7 [..]

Clucky's: New York's Mad for Chicken and More

Published on 2012-09-06 10:57:00

Among my favorite meaty treats, chicken still tops my list. And despite the growing number of Korean-style chicken establishments popping in the Metro, I still haven't found myself tired of checking them out. In fact, my undying craving for the famous crispy glazed double-fried chicken has led me to another exciting destination, Clucky's. Tucked in Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas is a new Korean-style chicken destination by the name of Clucky's. Despite being a Philippine-born pay-as-you-orde [..]

Café in the Park: Century Park Hotel's 36th Anniversary Treat

Published on 2012-09-05 10:59:00

Aside from mall sales here and there marking the start of the country's holiday season, the most-awaited "ber" months also begin the series of feasts for most foodies. To help you decide where to bring your family and friends, Century Park Hotel has prepared a yummy treat for the whole month of September in celebration of their 36th anniversary. If you remembered back in June, I was able to dine at Century Park Hotel's eat-all-you-can destination, Café in the Park. And after almost three month [..]

Jack Frost: Sweet Homemade Premium Ice Cream

Published on 2012-09-04 09:14:00

These past few months, I have found myself endlessly craving for cold and sweet comforting desserts like gelato and ice cream. And as if luck was on my side, I suddenly received a very timely invitation to try out a new brand of uniquely-flavored homemade sweet treats, Jack Frost Premium Ice Cream by Mr. Bonner Dytoc. It was a bright Saturday morning when we got to visit Mr. Dytoc's home in Quezon City where he personally welcomed and served us his creative ice cream concoctions. And although J [..]

Kokoro Ramenya: Authentic Japanese Ramen and More

Published on 2012-09-03 10:58:00

Japanese cuisine has always been and will always be my ultimate comfort food. So with a rainy August, we decided to check out Kokoro Ramenya, a new ramen house along Roxas Boulevard, to satisfy our craving for a hot hearty bowl of Japanese noodle soup. I've already seen Kokoro Ramenya's facade prior to the visit. However, I didn't expect the ramen house to have such a wide space. And since we timed our trip on a Saturday afternoon, we were welcomed by a lovely, naturally-lit restaurant adorned [..]

My Fashion Finds at SM City Manila's 3-Day Sale

Published on 2012-09-02 06:30:00

First of all, let me warn you that this post won't be about food. Rest assured though that I don't plan on shifting to fashion blogging anytime soon. However, since I've shared the news about SM City Manila's 3-Day Sale earlier this week, I thought I might as well take you on a tour as I visit the mall and spend my Sunday afternoon window shopping. Although I've spent about four years studying in Manila, I don't really frequent this particular SM mall. But with a promise of great discounts, I w [..]

Epicurean Cakes: A Taste of Sweet Pleasures

Published on 2012-09-01 01:28:00

Whenever I eat out, I always make sure to save some room for desserts. Whether it's ice cream, flan, shaved ice, cake or any other sweet treat, you won't catch me saying no, except when I'm seriously sick. So when I received an invitation to sample some of the creations of Epicurean Cakes, I just knew I shouldn't miss this sweet opportunity. Epicurean Cakes is a new and upcoming pastry store offering cupcakes and other confectionery to satisfy every epicurean, a person devoted to sensual enjoym [..]

Chef's Noodle Giveaway Winner

Published on 2012-08-31 13:46:00

It's on! The Christmas season is officially starting now that we've already stepped into the "ber" months. And to give you a nice start this September, here's a very timely post about the result of my recent Chef's Noodle giveaway which was open for only a week. Normally, I hold my giveaways for about two weeks or even more. However, these gift cards will already expire on September 10. And since I won't be able to make good use of them within the given time, I wish whoever wins these goodies w [..]

Catch SM City Manila's 3-Day Sale this weekend!

Published on 2012-08-30 10:56:00

To officially welcome the start of the most-awaited "ber" months, SM City Manila will be holding a 3-Day Sale this August 31, and September 1 and 2, offering up to 70% off on various items and knickknacks, mall-wide! So if you're looking forward to treat yourself, or buy Christmas presents in advance, then better mark your calendars now! Although I'm no fashion blogger, I'm not exempted from getting excited. Aside from my love for food, I also enjoy shopping at SM malls, specifically in their D [..]

Italianni's Restaurant: New Menu and Better Gateway Branch

Published on 2012-08-29 08:51:00

When one craves for pasta, pizza and even wine on the side, there's no doubt that the top of mind choice will always be Italianni's. And with a promise of great food, great wine and great company, despite being partial on Asian cuisine, I just can't say no when I got invited to check out their new offerings at the newly-renovated Italianni's in Gateway. Even as a northie, I don't frequent the Cubao area, so I didn't have an expectation of the newly-renovated Italianni's at Gateway. However upo [..]

Chef's Noodle: Affordable Korean Fare + Giveaway

Published on 2012-08-24 14:45:00

After our trip to Sariwon, I can't help but grow a sudden fondness for Korean cuisine. Luckily, a new yet affordable Korean dining destination has opened in the Metro. Direct from South Korea, we can now enjoy the creations of celebrity Chef Choi In Sun at the newly-opened master franchise of Chef's Noodle in University Mall, Taft Avenue. Endorsed by the famed chef alongside Ms. Grace Lee, Chef's Noodle is a fast casual dining restaurant which specializes in noodles, sushi, and rice meals. With [..]

J.Co Donuts & Coffee: The New Donut Craze in Manila

Published on 2012-08-23 18:30:00

After Krispy Kreme, another international donut and coffee destination hits Manila. But this time, it isn't from the United States, but from Indonesia. And although you probably have heard and seen this new donut and coffee establishment, it wasn't until last month that I first got to try a treat from J.Co Donuts & Coffee. Before July ended, I've already visited J.Co Donuts & Coffee in its newly-opened branch in SM Mall of Asia. However, since I got sick a day after grabbing a box of donuts, I [..]

The Purple Doll's 1000 Facebook Page Likes Giveaway!

Published on 2012-08-22 11:02:00

When I started this blog, I never thought I would even have readers. All I know is I wanted to have a creative outlet where I can post photos, random things and hopefully satisfy my writing itch as I pass the time while waiting for my college graduation. However, over the past 10 months, I'm lucky to have met wonderful people who inspired me to keep on blogging. They are my fellow bloggers, online buddies, and even you, my dear readers. Along the way, I also created The Purple Doll's Facebook P [..]

Chicken Charlie: Pinoy-Style Double-Fried Chicken

Published on 2012-08-22 04:43:00

Although double-fried chicken places have been sprouting everywhere in the Metro, I still can't and won't get enough of trying them out. So after sampling the famous BonChon and Manang's, this time I went to Eastwood to finally get a taste of Chicken Charlie. The success behind Chicken Charlie is undeniably very inspiring. Owned by the young entrepreneur Ifore Yu, who's still in his mid-20s, he named his restaurant after his dad, Charlie. To his surprise, what started out to be a humble spot in [..]

Food & Drinks Asia and Asia Food Expo 2012 Giveaway

Published on 2012-08-21 01:13:00

Even as a foodie, I still haven't been to a lot of food and beverages expo. However, these upcoming events are exceptions. With the month of September fast approaching, there will be not just one, but two big events which entrepreneurs, cooking enthusiasts and even foodies shouldn't miss, the Food & Drinks Asia 2012 and Asia Food Expo 2012. FOOD & DRINKS ASIA 2012 The first among this tandem of events is the Food & Drinks Asia 2012 which will be held from September 6 to 9, 2012 at the World Tr [..]

Adobo Connection: Affordable Adobo Variants and More

Published on 2012-08-19 16:10:00

Although I easily get tired of the same old home-cooked Filipino dishes, there are a few items I surprisingly can't live without. Yes, you've guessed it right, one of which is adobo which easily defines Pinoys and our homeland. And recently, my adobo craving has led me to Adobo Connection where they serve not just one, but several adobo variants. About a year ago, I got a taste of Adobo Connection in Eastwood's food junction where I was impressed with not just how their adobo offerings fare tas [..]

The Kebab Factory: The Ultimate Kebab Platter

Published on 2012-08-18 10:10:00

I came, I saw, and I ate at SM Megamall's Mega Food Sale this afternoon. And aside from getting a great deal from one in over a hundred of dining establishments on sale, my adventurous taste buds also got to explore another cuisine I haven't been acquainted to that much, Middle Eastern and Indian fare which The Kebab Factory generously offers. Being a lover of the famous Chinese, Japanese and Filipino dishes, I haven't had the chance to immerse myself in the gustatory delights of the Middle Eas [..]

Simply Thai: Contemporary Thai Cuisine in Greenbelt 5

Published on 2012-08-17 03:12:00

As a foodie, I always make sure to keep an open mind and an open palate especially for cuisines I haven't delved much into yet. And just this week, together with my lovely girls from The Foodies Circle, I've gone to explore more of Thai cuisine from a notable food destination. This time, it's a feast of contemporary Thai gustatory treats at Simply Thai. Located at Greenbelt 5's ground floor, the side near Greenbelt 1, stands a sophisticated dining space that is Simply Thai. Since I don't freque [..]

Lutong Bahay: Scambled Eggs and Tomato Rice Bowl

Published on 2012-08-15 09:16:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house. Late last week after the peak of the monsoon rains, I decided to whip up an easy rice bowl meal. Well, I'm not really one who's always in the mood to tinker in the kitchen. However, since I was left alone at home, I needed to cook if I want something to eat. I may not be a pro in the kitchen, but I have some recipes up my sleeves. Due to the floods though, we didn't [..]

Get ready for the Mega Food Sale at SM Megamall!

Published on 2012-08-14 15:34:00

SM malls are not only known to provide shopping convenience and wide spaces for a leisurely stroll, they also house a lot of restaurants and budding food spots for a foodie's utmost pleasure. And today, I'll let you take the dibs on a wonderful announcement as one of SM's biggest malls take us on an Ultimate Food Trip from August 17 to 19, 2012. Yes, SM Megamall's Mega Food Sale is back, and it's bigger and definitely better this time around. With over 100 dining establishments in the house, al [..]

Restaurante Pia Y Damaso: For Subversive Filipino Cuisine

Published on 2012-08-14 02:37:00

Recently, I've found myself falling in love for our national cuisine, both traditional and modern. It's quite fitting too 'cause August is Buwan ng Wika. And to start off the month, I've explored a whole new take on our beloved Filipino dishes. There may have been a lot of Filipino fusion cooking going on in the Metro, but this is the first time I've heard of subversive Filipino cuisine, only at Restaurante Pia Y Damaso in Greenbelt. Located at the second level of Greenbelt 5, Restaurante Pia Y [..]

Daily Quickie: Jollibee's Crisscut Fries

Published on 2012-08-11 05:50:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Hey friends, how was your week? I hope it has been safe and dry now. As for me, it was quite grueling since Monday. I was stranded in Monumento, Caloocan City for over an hour. Good thing Jollibee at Victory Mall was still open to serve both hungry diners and stuck commuters. And while I was waiting for the flood to subside, what better way to pass time than to finally give [..]

Stackers Burger Cafe: A Taste of Auss'm Burgers

Published on 2012-08-06 15:44:00

Even though I've eaten quite a lot of burgers lately, I still don't consider myself a true blue burger fanatic. However, even as a casual burger muncher, it never hurts to grab some for a quick bite. So when the beau and I were out to watch The Amazing Spider-Man movie in Eastwood, we decided to visit Stackers Burger Cafe for a pre-movie snack. Located at Eastwood City Walk, Stackers Burger Cafe is a 24/7 burger house and diner right smack in front of the whole resto-filled plaza across the New [..]

Yabu: I won a free meal from the House of Katsu!

Published on 2012-08-05 12:47:00

Before 2011 drew to a close, I was able to try Yabu: House of Katsu located in SM Megamall The Atrium. In fact, my first experience at the katsu destination was quite memorable that it made the sixth place in my Top 10 list of food and drink spots for 2011. And after over 7 months of missing Yabu, I finally got to visit the restaurant yet again. This time, I got lucky as I've won Yabu's Father's Day Promo on their Facebook Page. I planned to use it for the special day itself so my dad can also [..]

Daily Quickie: McDonald's Twister Fries

Published on 2012-08-02 16:47:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. With an almost unending series of bad weather, I haven't found myself eating out as frequently as I'd like to. So to make up for it, I ordered a few items from the ever trusty fast food chain, McDonald's. Last night, when I called in to order my go-to burger, the tasty Filet-o-Fish (P95), the agent informed me that Twister Fries (P59) is finally back. Of course, I wouldn't [..]

7 Corners: Eat-All-You-Can Buffet at Crowne Plaza Galleria

Published on 2012-08-01 04:33:00

Being a groupon lover, I find it very hard to resist tempting deals especially when there's good food on the line. So a few months ago, when Deal Grocer offered a voucher of P995 instead of P1,547 for a lunch buffet at Crowne Plaza Galleria's 7 Corners, I didn't even think twice 'cause I just knew I had to grab the opportunity right then and there. It wasn't my first time to visit Crowne Plaza Galleria as I've previously enjoyed an eat-all-you-can dimsum session at Xin Tian Di, also courtesy o [..]

Nuat Thai Tomas Morato: Make Your Own Spa Experience

Published on 2012-07-30 12:05:00

As a daily commuter, I've always found myself tired after a long day. My work may not involve strenuous activities and grueling manual labor, but there's nothing wrong with unwinding and having my weary body pampered once in a while. So a few weeks ago, after eating out with my friends at Octoboy, off we went to Nuat Thai Tomas Morato. Although there has been a lot of Nuat Thai branches sprouting in the Metro, I'm glad that my first Nuat Thai experience was in Tomas Morato. Located at corner Sc [..]

The Wine Museum: Wine Appreciation with Breakfast Club

Published on 2012-07-30 06:55:00

For the past few months, I've found myself eager to learn more about wines. Fortunately, I was given another opportunity to appreciate the art of wine, and food and wine pairing through a tour and lunch at The Wine Museum courtesy of Breakfast Magazine. Photo sourced from The Wine Museum Located along Aurora Boulevard in Pasay City, The Wine Museum is a four-story family-oriented restaurant, bed and breakfast destination, as well as a foundation established not only to cater to wine aficionados [..]

Carinderia Buffet: The Cheapest Filipino Eat-All-You-Can

Published on 2012-07-27 03:45:00

A few months ago, I was invited by my friends Kurt and Stacy of Tsinoy Foodies to check out a Filipino eat-all-you-can restaurant as they have a voucher good enough for four. So with the beau in tow, I didn't only get to eat out but also had my very first double date. Located in Quezon City, we visited Carinderia Buffet which offers one of the cheapest, if not the cheapest, Filipino buffet rate. Since we had a voucher, we only paid less than a hundred per person. But even without a coupon, thei [..]

Daily Quickie: KFC Cheese Top Burger

Published on 2012-07-25 01:22:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. If you've been a reader for a while, you probably know that I'm a big fan of KFC. So when I first saw the commercial for the Cheese Top Burger, I can't help but ask myself, "Is this serious? This is probably a bad joke, right?" But of course, KFC wouldn't pay for the commercial slot just to make us laugh. It's not April Fool's Day when I saw it anyway. Even if I found the c [..]

Black Canyon Coffee & Manang's Chicken Giveaway Winners

Published on 2012-07-24 04:03:00

Happy Tuesday friends! Sorry if it took me longer to post this. I've suffered from flu these past few days, and I still have a bad case of cough and colds at the moment. But enough with my lame but honest excuses! After over a month of waiting, I'll finally present to you the winners for my Black Canyon Coffee and Manang's Chicken giveaways. And before I announce the winners, I'd like to thank everyone who joined. It was quite overwhelming to receive 70 participants for the Black Canyon Coffee [..]

Octoboy: Japanese Sizzling Pizza in Tomas Morato

Published on 2012-07-23 08:18:00

It's no secret that when it comes to Japanese food, whether traditional, modern or Western-Japanese, I'm probably one of the biggest fans. So after an impromptu evening snack at Little Tokyo the other week, we found ourselves in another Japanese food spot. This time, at Octoboy Japanese Sizzling Pizza in the heart of the busy Tomas Morato. Owned by Mr. Giovanni Cheng, Octoboy Japanese Sizzling Pizza is a revolutionary Japanese dining spot serving Osaka's famous savory pancake, as well as other [..]

Mother's Crepe and Cafe: Crepes and More by Mazazu

Published on 2012-07-19 09:58:00

Even after a heavy meal, when it comes to desserts, I certainly won't pass. So after a very filling Jawbreaker session at Zark's Burgers, my friends and I didn't hesitate to try out the sweet treats at the newly-opened Mother's Crepe and Cafe in SM Mall of Asia. Originating from Japan, Mother's Crepe and Cafe also known as Mazazu Crepe in Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries, is finally in the Philippines to bring us delicious yet healthy sweet delights that reflect a mother's wish for her [..]

Zark's Burgers: It's Jawbreaker Day!

Published on 2012-07-18 10:22:00

When CashCashPinoy offered a deal for Zark's Burgers, I was one of those who didn't think twice and just went ahead to buy the coupon. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, I wasn't able to claim my P500-worth of food and drinks from the famous burger shop. I thought it would take me forever to finally pay a trip to Zark's Burgers. Fortunately, The Pickiest Eater invited me to attend Jawbreaker Day last Sunday. The Jawbreaker Day is Zark's Burgers special promo offering their 5-inch tall bu [..]

Sariwon: Authentic Korean Barbecue at BHS Central

Published on 2012-07-17 06:31:00

Although I'm seriously in love with Asian cuisine, there are still some oriental favorites that I haven't grown too acquainted to. As much as I love koreanovelas and K-Pop, I still haven't tried a lot of Korean dishes in the Metro. Fortunately, a new Korean restaurant in Bonifacio High Street Central has spared me from running into less-than-mediocre Korean food spots. Hailing straight from South Korea is Sariwon Korean Barbecue. Being awarded "Best Korean Restaurant" by NBC Broadcasting Compan [..]

Cova Tapas Y Sangria: Tapas, Racion and More Sangria

Published on 2012-07-15 01:28:00

What better way to chill and catch up with friends than to visit a Spanish tapas bar... And this is exactly what we did last week as my pals and I visited the new tapas bar along Jupiter Street, Cova Tapas Y Sangria -- a joint venture of Tatyana Guevara and Patrick Hesse, both of whom after graduating from Enderun College, trained at the Hotel Arts in Barcelona before returning to Manila to finally open their own modern Spanish tapas bar. Although I admit that I'm a hearty eater, surprisingly, [..]

Little Tokyo Series: Okonomiyaki and More at Kagura

Published on 2012-07-13 10:45:00

Being a big Japanese food fanatic, people have already told me countless times to pay Little Tokyo in Makati a visit. I've been in the area once, but wasn't able to blog about the experience for lack of decent photos and details. So when my food buddies and I went to the Japanese food haven for a quick snack, I knew I should start a Little Tokyo Series not just to share with you the good eats I've found in the area, but also to motivate myself to visit the place more often and try every restaura [..]

Bistro Filipino: Modern Filipino Cuisine by Chef Laudico

Published on 2012-07-12 08:49:00

After a Filipino cuisine-packed June, I thought I'd find myself taking a break from our national fare. However, after gaining a new-found love and respect for our own cuisine, I started the month of July with an exquisite modern Filipino lunch at the six-year old fine dining restaurant in Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig -- Bistro Filipino by husband and wife tandem Chef Roland and Jacqueline Laudico. As a fine dining spot, Bistro Filipino exudes a quirky elegance with its warm color scheme, [..]

Casa San Pablo: Inns, Coconuts and A Cooking Tour

Published on 2012-07-08 16:50:00

Together with the Breakfast Magazine team and fellow bloggers, I got to visit a quaint country inn at the heart of Laguna last May 26. Owned by the husband and wife tandem of Boots and An Alcantara, Casa San Pablo is a cozy compound filled with Baguio-like pine trees, sprawling lawns, rustic pieces and a view that will surely charm any visitor. Our group endured over a 2-hour drive from Taft Avenue, Manila to San Pablo City, Laguna. However, the butt cramps I suffered during the long ride was [..]

Moshi Koshi: The Noodle Boss of The Metro

Published on 2012-07-06 16:05:00

Like a puzzle piece, a hot bowl of noodle soup fits perfectly during rainy days. But whether it's raining cats and dogs or extremely sunny, no one can take away the noodle boss title from a happy urban diner along Shaw Boulevard -- Moshi Koshi. You all know my love for Japanese food. And as much as I love my fresh pieces of sashimi, Japanese noodles can happily warm not just my tummy but also my soul. At Moshi Koshi, they give utmost importance not just on the flavors of their noodle dishes, bu [..]

Manang's Chicken: Wilcon City Center Branch + Giveaway

Published on 2012-07-05 13:25:00

Who has yet to hear about the crispy and savory chicken treat which first made a name in Mercato Centrale? If you're a fellow foodie, I bet Manang's Chicken rings a bell. With roots still strongly and deeply planted in weekend markets, this up-and-coming chicken house expands to cater to diners in commercial areas. And with eight branches scattered all over the Metro, another store joins the roster as it opens its newest branch in Wilcon City Center, Visayas Avenue, Quezon City. Manang's Chicke [..]

Daily Quickie: McDonald's Big N' Tasty

Published on 2012-07-04 14:14:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. I might be late in joining the bandwagon, but for the past two weeks, I've ordered McDonald's Big N' Tasty thrice. The first time from a drive thru, and the second and third for home delivery. I know I'm endangering my life and more importantly, my weight, but how can I not crave for a burger as tasty as this? I must admit that I was skeptical at first. I didn't understand [..]

Shi Lin: Taiwanese Food Fare at The Podium

Published on 2012-07-01 20:22:00

Taiwanese cuisine, a lighter take on Chinese food fare, has become quite popular in the Metro especially with the fame and glory of Lugang Café. However, this Taiwanese gem in Greenhills and SM Mall of Asia has found a new competition in the name of Shi Lin, a restaurant inspired by the Shilin district in Taipei. Two weeks ago, during Father's Day, I convinced my dad to have lunch in the Ortigas area. If you know my parents, they'd probably reject my idea since they despise long drives. Fortu [..]

Our Kitchen: Let Manila Catering Do All The Cooking

Published on 2012-06-29 02:06:00

With today's fast-paced world, I'm sure a lot of you don't have time for cooking. You may either be too tired from work or like me, you're probably both lazy and unconfident with your culinary skills. And when my four-piece family find ourselves in this situation, we'd usually just eat out or order food for delivery. However, consuming food from restaurants too often isn't doing anything good for both your wallet and your health. Recently, I've come across a brilliant solution for me and my mom [..]

Ma Maison: Japanese-Western Cuisine in Greenbelt 2

Published on 2012-06-27 08:05:00

If you've been a reader for quite a while, you'd already know how much I love Japanese food fare. Whether it be traditional, modern or even foreign-influenced, Japanese cuisine has a distinct taste that never fails to tickle my taste buds. And with my hearty appetite on tow, I tried a Japanese-Western gem in Greenbelt 2, Ma Maison. Brought by The Bistro Group, Ma Maison which was founded in Nagoya, Japan back in 1976, is a restaurant specializing in Yoshoku or Japan-ized western dishes. With a [..]

Black Canyon Coffee: International Thai Cafe + Giveaway

Published on 2012-06-25 09:54:00

Among Asian cuisines, Thai is one of those I haven't figured out yet if I truly like or not. Although I'm adventurous when it comes to food, I find the bold and complex flavors of Thai cuisine quite overwhelming for my palate. However, I'm learning to understand the merge of sweet, spicy and sour by trying out more Thai restaurants. And for my most recent adventure, I headed to Black Canyon Coffee, the largest café chain in Thailand. A highly successful brand, Black Canyon Coffee is a coffee [..]

Breakfast Magazine Mini-Giveaway Winners

Published on 2012-06-25 02:34:00

Happy Monday everyone! First of all, thank you for joining The Purple Doll and Tsinoy Foodies' joint Breakfast Magazine Mini-Giveaway. After 10 days and going through 47 entries, we're here to finally announce the 6 lucky winners. After manually checking each and every entry -- verifying if the participant's Facebook post is public, if The Purple Doll, Tsinoy Foodies and Breakfast Magazine's Facebook pages were tagged, if 3 of the participant's friends were also tagged, and if the participant f [..]

Kuppa Roastery & Café: The Family That Knows Coffee

Published on 2012-06-22 02:36:00

Everyone loves a good cup of coffee. Despite being quite acidic, I still can't say no to my needed dose of caffeine. That's why when I was invited to try the new homegrown Kuppa Roastery & Café in The Fort, I simply can't say no despite the inconveniences I had to go through to get to Taguig. However, I'm happy I made the right choice. Pronounced as cup-pa and not koopa, this quaint and laid-back café is a new addition to the line of coffee shops inside Fort Bonifacio. However, this homegrow [..]

Daily Quickie: Krispy Kreme Spider-Man Doughnuts

Published on 2012-06-20 12:15:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. You guys might already know that I'm a desserts person. And today, I had one of the simplest but equally sinful sweet treats -- doughnuts. Although it's been quite a while since I've had one, I just can't help but give in to the temptation, especially after seeing Krispy Kreme's new doughnuts. Okay, before you react violently, let me explain. I've bought these donuts to-go [..]

KFC: Colonel Sanders' So Good, So Real Recipes

Published on 2012-06-20 05:55:00

Truth be told, although I love scouting for unconventional and hole-in-the-wall dining destinations, I still can't and won't give up my love for inexpensive yet equally satisfying fast food -- one of which is Kentucky Fried Chicken commonly known as KFC, an American franchise serving the Colonel's Original Recipe Chicken for 45 so good years. Being a big KFC fan, I was delighted to take part in an important event held at Diamond Hotel last May 30. You see, in Louisville, Kentucky, a secret manu [..]

Taza De Oro Food Garden: Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Published on 2012-06-18 23:49:00

Being a foodie, I always get it right when friends and relatives challenge me to match restaurant names with the cuisines they serve. However, it was a different story with Taza De Oro Food Garden located in Madison Square, Greenhills. Although Taza De Oro sounds like a Spanish restaurant, this food joint actually serves authentic Chinese cuisine. Its restaurant space proves so too with its red and white color scheme, gold Chinese lanterns, big round tables, display of cold cuts and fish tank. [..]

Café Adriatico: A Taste of The Oldie But Goodie

Published on 2012-06-16 04:15:00

Every journey has an end. And after a series of Filipino food tastings for the Department of Tourism's Kulinarya Kalayaan Food Festival which almost seemed endless, we finally found ourselves on to our last stop -- the legendary Café Adriatico in Remedios Circle, Malate. Café Adriatico is a 32-year old restaurant standing tall in the heart of Manila long before its sisters -- Bistro Remedios, Café Havana, Abé, Abé's Farm, Fely J's Kitchen, Larry's Café and Bar, and Lorenzo's Way, had be [..]

Market Café: Rizal Favorites at Hyatt Hotel Manila

Published on 2012-06-14 10:56:00

Buffets will always have a special place in my tummy. So after a highly-satisfying eat-all-you-can experience at Market Café earlier this year, I found myself in the sleek and elegant space of Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila once again. This time though, it's for a Filipino feast as Market Café joins Kulinarya Kalayaan to highlight our national hero's favorite Filipino dishes. Just like other hotel and restaurant participants for this food festival, Market Café will also be offering its take [..]

Breakfast Magazine Mini-Giveaway

Published on 2012-06-13 00:17:00

Although it's just mid-year, there's a lot of things to be grateful for. Aside from yesterday's 114th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, today marks the start of classes for most college students. And what does this have to do with my post? Nothing, really. Before you get annoyed by my randomness, let me break the ice. If you've been a regular reader (or stalker), you've probably had a hint that I got in touch with the gorgeous ladies from Breakfast Magazine. And alth [..]

Bacolod Chicken Inasal: Eat Like a Hero!

Published on 2012-06-12 08:12:00

Today's the 114th anniversary of the Philippine Independence Proclamation, and what better way to celebrate this occasion than to feast on Filipino dishes and to eat like a hero. So in participation to the Department of Tourism's Kulinarya Kalayaan, Bacolod Chicken Inasal brings us new meal offerings inspired by Jose Rizal's favorite dishes. This Bacolodian gem is not a stranger to me as I've enjoyed my previous Bacolod Chicken Inasal visit to try its famous chicken inasal. However, for this t [..]

Bayview Coffee Shop: Filipino Fiesta Buffet

Published on 2012-06-11 10:59:00

Despite the heavy rains, our pursuit for Filipino food didn't end at C2 Classic Cuisine. As part of Kulinarya Kalayaan, Bayview Park Hotel Manila also cooked up a hearty Pinoy feast at their lobby Coffee Shop to showcase the Philippine's one-of-a-kind gustatory creations and eye-catching pieces of arts and crafts. The Pinoy fiesta at Bayview Park Hotel Manila is not just one, but two month-long. From May 24 to July 31, guests and diners can enjoy a buffet of delectable Filipino dishes for only [..]

C2 Classic Cuisine: Filipino Food Fare Redefined

Published on 2012-06-10 10:58:00

Since it's already the independence week, let me get into a patriotic mode by featuring more Filipino restaurants around the Metro. After a gastronomic journey with Jose Rizal, I got to visit another participant for the Department of Tourism's Kulinarya Kalayaan -- C2 Classic Cuisine. Owned by the Cravings Group, C2 Classic Cuisine is a casual-dining restaurant offering redefined classic Filipino dishes that exude true Pinoy taste but with a touch of C2's ingenuity and innovation. And to celeb [..]

Café in the Park: Rizal's Journey at Century Park Hotel

Published on 2012-06-09 08:07:00

With the upcoming celebration of our beloved country's independence, Century Park Hotel in participation with the Department of Tourism's Kulinarya Kalayaan, brings us a gastronomic journey inspired by Jose Rizal's travels around the world. From June 10 to 20, Century Park Hotel will be featuring a wide array of international dishes at Café in the Park's eat-all-you-can buffet in tribute to Jose Rizal. For only P1,215, diners get to enjoy a diverse culinary adventure as Century Park presents [..]

Lutong Bahay: Pinoy-Style Creamy Carbonara

Published on 2012-06-06 05:27:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house. My parents and friends know me as the girl who eats a lot but can't really cook. However, there are days that I get motivated to play around in the kitchen, and today was one of them. For merienda, I volunteered to cook Carbonara. And although real Italian Carbonara makes use of raw eggs, cheese and pancetta, I decided to make the Pinoy-style creamy version. This ta [..]

Bo's Coffee: A Local Brand of Specialty Coffee

Published on 2012-06-05 02:02:00

Although I've always been a fan of coffee, it was only late last year that I got a first taste of Bo's Coffee. Having only experienced lounging at their SM Mall of Asia branch, I didn't have an idea if this cozy chain of coffee shop is an international franchise. At the back of my mind, I think it is. After an afternoon lounging session at the sleek and comfy Bo's Coffee in SM North Annex, I found out that this personal venture of Mr. Steve D. Benitez is actually homegrown. In June 28, 1996, [..]

Photography: A Peek Through The Doll's Lens

Published on 2012-06-03 14:37:00

Back in February, I joined a blogging and photography challenge by IntramurosManila.Asia. And although I've been very passionate with photography, I didn't expect to win the Best Photo Award, especially with the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation as judges. However, with quite a lot of luck on my side, I got to bag not only the bragging rights but also a 5-session Basic Photography Class at Photo World Manila. All photos are shot using Candice + EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS kit len [..]

Ilustrado: An Inaugural Malolos Heritage Feast

Published on 2012-06-02 13:41:00

After I have found myself enchanted with the culture and scenery the walled city of Intramuros has to offer, it was my taste buds' turn to immerse in the rich history of our beloved country thru an Inaugural Feast at one of the most notable Filipino-Spanish dining destinations in the heart of Manila -- Ilustrado Restaurant. Tucked along the street of General Luna inside Intramuros is Ilustrado Restaurant which was inspired by the educated and well-travelled Filipinos who were tagged as the en [..]

Masatami Shave Ice: Refreshing Hawaiian Icy Treats

Published on 2012-05-31 10:57:00

Summer's out and the dreaded rains are already in town. But before I packed up my shorts and colorful tanks, I got to try a Hawaiian icy treat which cooled me off from the unbearable scorching heat. If you frequent SM Mall of Asia, Glorietta 4 or Robinsons Galleria, then you've probably seen Masatami Shave Ice, a new yummy cooler to hit the Metro. Earlier this week, the date and I braved the non-air-conditioned south arcade of SM Mall of Asia for a leisurely stroll cum restaurant sightseeing. [..]

Yurakuen: Teppanyaki Eat-All-You-Can at Diamond Hotel

Published on 2012-05-30 09:44:00

After enjoying a Kapampangan food fest at Diamond Hotel's Corniche earlier this month, I got the chance to revisit the hotel once again. This time, I'm in for a Japanese treat at one of the hotel's most notable dining spots -- Yurakuen Japanese Restaurant which has been included in Asian Tatler Dining's Philippine's Best Restaurants for 2011. Conveniently located at Diamond Hotel's ground floor, this posh culinary destination boasts of providing an authentic Japanese dining experience the mom [..]

Peanut Butter Company: For the Love of Peanut Butter

Published on 2012-05-28 10:58:00

Do you have a favorite food item you wish was in every dish you could eat? Well, I do. Being a kid who grew up on peanut butter, I can eat this nutty and creamy treat with bread, biscuits, pancakes, bananas or even just a plain spoonful of itself. Fortunately though, there's a food establishment witty and courageous enough to offer more exciting food combos for peanut butter lovers like myself -- Peanut Butter Company (PB Co.). Honestly, I'm not sure if PB Co. is a local food venture inspired [..]

The Chicken Rice Shop: Malaysian Chicken, Rice and More

Published on 2012-05-25 13:30:00

Even as a wandering foodie, I still haven't eaten in a lot of Malaysian food joints in the country. Although I've got a taste of Malaysian cuisine when I went to Singapore two years ago, I know I still haven't had enough. Luckily, the beau and I got to try The Chicken Rice Shop, a humble-looking quick service restaurant that turned out to have come from Malaysia. Earlier last week while we were in Harbour Square, I convinced the beau that we dine at the first restaurant that piques my intere [..]

Mochi Creme: Cute and Yummy Japanese Ice Cream

Published on 2012-05-24 10:58:00

Being a desserts person, I always make sure to try new places offering sweet treats once in a while. And although I know sugar-loading is quite bad for both my health and my figure, I can't fight off the temptation when I saw a new desserts kiosk in SM Megamall -- Mochi Creme. If you're a sweets-loving person, you've probably heard of Dezâto and Mochiko, both of which are fast-growing brands in the Metro selling mochi ice cream like what Mochi Creme generously offers. However if you haven't y [..]

Li Li Chinese Restaurant: Dimsum Fest at Hyatt Hotel

Published on 2012-05-22 10:57:00

After a feast at Market Café two months ago, I found myself at the luxurious hall of Hyatt Hotel yet again. This time though, I'm in for a Chinese dimsum fest at one of the hotel's pride, the award-winning Li Li Chinese Restaurant which didn't only receive recognition from Philippine Tatler and Dineasia but was also part of Miele Guide's top 20 best restaurants in Asia. Located at Hyatt Hotel's 5th floor, this lavishly-decorated restaurant takes after a very prominent socialite in Hong Kong [..]

Sweet Bella Café: Cakes, Pastries and More

Published on 2012-05-18 22:35:00

Everyone knows my love for both good food and great deals. Since I eat out almost every other day, it's just necessary that I attempt to get a dining experience for a discounted price. So when Sweet Bella Café volunteered itself as my next discount dining destination through a 50% off deal at Ensogo, I just know I shouldn't pass up the chance. Located in the restaurant-filled Burgos Circle, The Fort, Sweet Bella Café is a French-style patisserie boasting of the saccharine creations of Chef C [..]

413th Foundation Day & Malabon Kulinarya Festival 2012

Published on 2012-05-17 08:53:00

Malabon has acquired a reputation of being a sunken town in the Metro. But for someone who has lived in this humble city for 18 years, I grew to love my hometown and call it our local Venice. This May, Malabon City celebrates its 413th Foundation Day. And in line with this important occasion, the city government launched its first Kulinarya Festival to showcase our city's culinary tradition and distinct food heritage. Held at the Dampa sa Paseo in Catmon, Malabon City, bloggers and members of [..]

Phat Wong Asian Cafe: Modern Oriental Sharing Menu

Published on 2012-05-14 10:58:00

Whether it be Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai or any other oriental cuisine, I seem to share an instant connection with the sweet, savory, spicy and distinct flavors of Asian dishes. I guess as much as we try to veer away from stereotypes, being an Asian, it's just normal to love the gustatory delights that are truly ours. And I'm sure, the Lolo Dad's Group also shares the same as they bring us Phat Wong Asian Cafe. Located in Nicanor Garcia (formerly Reposo), Phat Wong Asian Cafe is a fairly [..]

Corniche: Culinaria Capampangan at Diamond Hotel

Published on 2012-05-12 10:58:00

Food has always been my passion. But although I always try to keep an open mind and palate for different cuisines, I have a hard time appreciating our own Filipino food fare due to taste fatigue. Fortunately, a delightful gustatory wonder by the name of Corniche, one which I've already visited a few months ago, takes Kapampangan cuisine into the limelight and gives it an added flair. With renowned Chef Sau Del Rosario heading the kitchen, Diamond Hotel brings us Culinaria Capampangan Food Festiv [..]

Pipino Vegetarian Food by Pino: Healthy and Delicious

Published on 2012-05-10 18:32:00

If you haven't noticed yet, my friends and I have already jumped onto the healthy eating bandwagon. And after trying out a few healthy food destinations, we decided to amp it up and finally get a taste of real vegetarian dishes at Pipino, Vegetarian Food by Pino. Located at Malingap Street in the restaurant-filled Teachers Village, Quezon City, Pipino is actually a vegan restaurant taking pride of bridging healthy and delicious to both vegetarians and curious foodies like ourselves. Co-owned b [..]

Circles Event Café: Persian Delights at Makati Shangri-la

Published on 2012-05-09 13:52:00

Hotel restaurant hopping has been one of my hobbies these past few months. But although I've already been to quite a number of luxurious dining spots, I still haven't tried the wonderful gustatory treats at Circles Event Café in Makati Shangri-la Hotel. Luckily, I got invited earlier last week to sample Circles' offering for their Monday Persian Delights. Located in the heart of the financial and commercial district, Circles Event Café is Makati Shangri-la Hotel's casual dining restaurant s [..]

Quantum Cafe: Healthy Eating with SPIT Manila

Published on 2012-05-08 10:56:00

Although Pinoys generally love eating sugar-packed and cholesterol-loaded dishes, the Metro has surprisingly catch on the bandwagon with the advent of healthy eating. With more and more Filipinos gearing towards a healthier lifestyle, it's no wonder that food establishments offering healthy meals start to grow in number. And after getting a taste of what healthy eating is all about, my friends and I decided to try Quantum Cafe in Makati next. Located in Kamagong corner Bagtikan Street, Quantum [..]

Roboto San: Japanese Grill Buffet in Bonifacio Global City

Published on 2012-05-07 10:56:00

After SumoSam, John and Yoko, Marciano, and Mr. Kurosawa, a new icon in the name of Roboto San, comes to town. Set in the year 2089, Tokyo is under attack by alien robots and only the ultimate robot -- Roboto San, can rescue the world from destruction. In the war against alien invasion, Roboto San doesn't only fight for the world and the humanity. Aside from being the ultimate robot of the future, he also puts up a great buffet spread for everyone to feast upon. Strategically located in Cross [..]

FrosTea: Katipunan's Newest Milk Tea Hub

Published on 2012-05-04 17:33:00

Milk tea shops which were once only found in Taiwan, have been a common sight in various malls and even on the streets of the Metro. With a continuously growing market, it's just expected that more and more milk tea stores will sprout like mushrooms. However, even with multitudes of milk tea cafés, kiosks and stalls taking the Philippines by storm, only a few managed to captivate my taste buds. One of which is FrosTea in the Katipunan area. FrosTea is fairly new in the milk tea scene. Having [..]

Daily Quickie: Frank&Carol's Milk and Dark Chocolate Cake

Published on 2012-05-03 15:55:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Earlier this year, I started my 2012 right with a trip to a one-stop desserts shop that is Parvati, the place where I first got to try Frank&Carol's chocolate cake. Just to try my luck, I joined Frank&Carol's giveaway and surprisingly, I won myself a one-year supply of their delectable chocolate cakes. (Something new for someone as unusually unlucky as me.) If you remember [..]

Cafe Publico: Gelato, Snacks and People

Published on 2012-05-02 06:12:00

Summer this year has been unforgiving. With the scorching heat of the sun majestically shining upon the Metro, I often find myself dehydrated and craving for cold and refreshing icy snacks. Good thing there are a number of gelaterias around to give us our needed cooling session, one of which is Cafe Publico in Greenhills. Located at the 2nd level of Greenhills Promenade, this quaint snack bar and gelato destination is perfect not only for hungry foodies, but also for the barkada and even for [..]

Toro Restaurant & Bar: 4-Course Mother's Day Degustation

Published on 2012-04-29 21:02:00

April draws to a close, and before you fret that summer is about to end, don't forget that another special day should be celebrated. No, it's not Labor Day. It's the special Sunday where we give honor to our beloved mothers, mum, mama, nanay -- Mother's Day. There's still almost 2 weeks before her special day, but if you're having trouble what gift to buy, why not take the most special woman in your life and bring her to Toro Restaurant & Bar for a sumptuous 4-course degustation? Convenient [..]

Brew-Kus: The Bev-Wich Shop in Salcedo Village

Published on 2012-04-27 14:37:00

On a scorching hot summer day, it's just nice to lounge at cafés, get a light snack and enjoy a refreshing drink. And in Makati where life is undoubtedly fast-paced, a bev-wich shop by the name of Brew-Kus generously offers good Continental comfort food along with an extensive selection of equally comforting drinks. Having only opened last November, Brew-Kus which is a wittingly conjoined word of brew and cuisine, is a young and laid-back café drenched in purple, lime and cream. Subdivided [..]

Bar-B-King: The Ultimate Grilled Angus Beef Belly

Published on 2012-04-25 17:52:00

Although I like dining at fancy restaurants, I love eating at fast food houses that can give me the most bang for my buck. And recently, I've discovered one in SM Megamall which goes by the name of Bar-B-King, a quick service dining hub offering charcoal-grilled barbecued pork, liempo, chicken, seafood and more. I won't be taking credit from discovering this humble fast food barbecue house, 'cause clearly, I only found out about it through its first bloggers event held last Thursday. And despi [..]

Kitsho: Restaurant and Sake Bar at Traders Hotel Manila

Published on 2012-04-24 16:35:00

Being a self-proclaimed foodie, I pride myself on having an open mind and a curious palate ready to take on new flavors from a wide array of international cuisines. However, as much as I want to hide my inclinations, I can't help but feel giddy whenever I'm in Japanese restaurants. Even as a kid, I had always been partial to Japanese cuisine. And after a sumptuous lunch at Kitsho, Trader Hotel Manila's Japanese restaurant and sake bar, I can no longer deny that I am deeply in love with the simpl [..]

Naci: Ultimate Comfort Food and Dessert Destination

Published on 2012-04-21 05:44:00

Eating has been one of my most irresistible guilty pleasures in life. Although I have already packed on unwanted weight for indulging in various gustatory delights in almost a daily basis, I just can't say no to good food especially when it's a wide array of comfort dishes like what Naci generously offers in Connecticut Street, Greenhills. Located in the second floor of Fox Square Building, Naci is a 7-month old haven for foodies who just want to enjoy good comfort food without stretching the [..]

Akiba Café: Evening Trifle Tea & Cake Delight

Published on 2012-04-19 13:52:00

About three months ago, my date and I got to visit Akiba Café, a cosmopolitan Japanese-Filipino coffee shop inspired by Tokyo's famed gizmo and gadget district, Akihabara. Although we've enjoyed the café's best-selling Green Tea Cheese Cake and Banoffee Pie, I had an unfinished business as I wasn't able to sample Akiba's famous trifle drinks. Fortunately, our newly-established food club, The

Max's Restaurant: 4Sharing Meal for Sharing

Published on 2012-04-18 10:34:00

Filipinos generally love to dine out whether be it with family, friends, classmates or co-workers. I myself love eating out in restaurants and cafés with my barkada. However, one problem I usually encounter is not having enough food for everyone in the group. To address this and make eating out more fun, Max's Restaurant created their latest group meal offering, 4Sharing Meal. Max's Restaurant

Sugarleaf: Foods that Nourish

Published on 2012-04-16 10:56:00

Being a foodie, I've always surrounded myself with carb, fat and sugar-loaded dishes. I also have a great affinity with popcorn, chips and other very tasty but seemingly unhealthy snacks. So although I want to cleanse myself of toxins, I just can't give up the flavors that I've always loved. However, one casual dining restaurant in the name of Sugarleaf proves otherwise. Branding itself as a

Jatujak: Falling in Love with Thai Cuisine

Published on 2012-04-14 10:58:00

Although I consider myself quite an adventurous foodie, there are still a lot of cuisines that I haven't delved much into. Being an Asian, I've always thought that I've already tried most of what Asia can offer. However, as embarrassing as it may seem, I wasn't able to try Thai not until last week. For a few years now, Thai restaurants have been popping up like crazy in almost all parts of the

Chicken Deli: Delicious Inasal Since 1983

Published on 2012-04-12 14:12:00

There's no doubt that Mang Inasal and Chic-Boy are currently two of the most famous chicken inasal destinations in the Metro. However, being an adventurous and curious foodie, I made sure not to miss the chance to try a very popular chicken inasal restaurant which came straight from Bacolod, Chicken Deli. Since 1983, Chicken Deli has been serving savory flame-grilled chicken all throughout

Cafe Mary Grace: Ensaymadas, Tsokolate and More

Published on 2012-04-08 16:33:00

Mary Grace has been known to offer ensaymadas which are to die for. And although it has been around for quite a while, I haven't had the chance to actually try their sweet goodies. Good thing the pastry business had already expanded and put up Cafe Mary Grace, an easily accessible café carrying breakfast items, sandwiches, pasta dishes and pizzas, along with their famous pastries. Among the

Lutong Bahay: Ginataang Kalabasa't Hipon

Published on 2012-04-06 16:51:00

Lutong Bahay is a short tag on the title which I use to feature home-cooked food, either in our own home or at a friend's house. Although I'm a big meat eater, I managed to abstain from eating any chicken, pork or beef this Good Friday in observance of Lent. Of course, you wouldn't expect me to turn vegetarian in an instant. So the most perfect alternative to juicy, succulent meat is seafood.

Moshi Moshi: Modern Japanese Fast Food in Katipunan

Published on 2012-04-03 07:55:00

If you've been reading this blog for quite a while, then you'd probably know that I'm a big Japanese food lover. So when I got the chance to try out Moshi Moshi, a new Japanese fast food at Katipunan, Quezon City, how can I skip the trip. I've eaten in a lot of Japanese food establishments -- full service restaurants, cafés, fast food chains and even in kiosks. And among those I've already

Les Tadeos Restaurant: Filipino Exotic Food Fare

Published on 2012-04-01 03:23:00

Some people may see me as a foodie with safe choices. However, believe it or not, I've had my fair share of exotic dishes -- from the common frog legs, to the rare kilawing langgam (ant ceviche). So when I was invited to try out Les Tadeos, an exotic and Filipino fusion restaurant in Don A. Roces Avenue, Quezon City, I didn't pass up the chance. Les Tadeos is a fairly new restaurant with a

The Lobby: a la Carte Dining at Acacia Hotel Manila

Published on 2012-03-29 07:53:00

With outstanding hotel facilities, services and even a buffet to boot, you'd think that our posh staycation at Acacia Hotel Manila ends there. We initially thought so too, but we're wrong. At the ground floor of the lavish Filipino luxury hotel is The Lobby, a sleek, stylish and modern lounge which doesn't only serve as a reception area, but also as a casual dining restaurant. Yes, you read it

Acaci: Buffet Dining at Acacia Hotel Manila

Published on 2012-03-27 14:41:00

Spending a fabulous weekend staycation at a luxurious five star hotel like Acacia Hotel Manila would not only entail a night of uninterrupted relaxation and unwinding, but also of food, food and more food. So after touring the new yet already impressive facilities of the hotel, the beau and I paid a trip to Acacia Hotel Manila's signature coffee shop that is Acaci. Located at Acacia Hotel

Acacia Hotel Manila: A Filipino 5-Star Luxury Hotel

Published on 2012-03-25 15:22:00

Being a northie, I haven't had the chance to visit most parts of the southern Metro. However, thanks to Ms. Mae Ilagan and Ms. Marla Mendoza, I got the chance to experience the comfort, luxury and Filipino hospitality the south can offer by spending a weekend staycation at Acacia Hotel Manila. Located at Filinvest Alabang, Acacia Hotel Manila is a 6-month old five star luxury hotel boasting of

Figaro Coffee Company: What's New This Summer

Published on 2012-03-22 17:29:00

Although I love coffee, I've been battling against a case of hyperacidity for the past few months. What I can't battle out though is the temptation to visit coffee shops. Fortunately, Figaro Coffee Company does not only carry a wide array of caffeine-infused beverages, but also a continuously growing selection of food and refreshments. I have always been a fan of Figaro Coffee Company ever

Moderne Culinaire Academy: The Grand Open House

Published on 2012-03-22 05:40:00

Being a foodie, I am not only at awe with gastronomic delights that I get to try. Although I have no talent and patience with cooking, I acknowledge that it's in the kitchen where all the magic happens. So when I was invited last Saturday, March 17, to attend the Grand Open House of Moderne Culinaire Academy, the newest culinary school in the Philippines, how can I say no. Located at AFPOVAI

Bacolod Chicken Inasal: Ini ang Inasal

Published on 2012-03-19 02:28:00

Chicken inasal has been one of the continuously-growing Filipino dishes to hit the Metro. Although I'm unsure of how it all started, most people say it originated in the Visayan islands. I have tried the versions of both Mang Inasal and Chic-Boy, and I thought Bacolod Chicken Inasal is just the same. But, I was wrong. With its branches mostly located in high traffic malls, Bacolod Chicken

Daily Quickie: Selecta Magnum Classic & Almond

Published on 2012-03-17 12:41:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Selecta Magnum has hit the Philippines like a signal number 4 typhoon! On the television, on Facebook, in the blogsphere, and even in stores, there's always a tidbit about this famous premium ice cream bar. So although I was skeptical at first and thought that this might just be a common-tasting ice cream bar over hyped by the media, I finally gave in and decided to try it f [..]

Market Café: Buffet Dining at Hyatt Hotel

Published on 2012-03-16 11:41:00

After a series of buffet dining last year, my date and I went on a short hiatus with scouring eat-all-you-can destinations. But being foodies and groupon addicts, we just can't let Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila's Market Café deal from Deal Grocer pass. So although I still have a buffet hangover because of Buffet 101, we gladly dined at Market Café using our vouchers one weeknight. Located at Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila's 3rd floor, a lovely corridor with posh decors and lighting will greet [..]

Cupcakes by Sonja: Serendra's Sweet Haven

Published on 2012-03-15 10:16:00

Ever since I've learned to love cupcakes, thanks to the ever-trusty Frostings, I had nothing but an undying eagerness to try out one of the most raved cupcake shops in the Metro. Most of my friends and even online buddies have nothing but praises for this well-acclaimed haven of personal-sized cakes. Yes, I'm talking about Cupcakes by Sonja in Serendra. After our feast-ive lunch at Brazil Brazil, my date gladly obeyed, I mean, accompanied me to Cupcakes by Sonja's store. And although I've alre [..]

Studio Kitchen: Creative Cuisine in Alabang

Published on 2012-03-13 08:37:00

Having been born and raised in the northern part of the Metro, I have nothing but sheer curiosity of what the South holds within its area. Although the Dora-like part of me made me explore Makati and Taguig despite the distance, there are still parts of the Metro I have yet to travel to. One of them is Alabang in Muntinlupa which is the southern most city of NCR. When given the chance to visit Alabang and dine in Studio Kitchen, an upper-class sit-down restaurant offering the creative fusion cu [..]

DW Cafe: Food, Drinks and Gadgets

Published on 2012-03-10 16:47:00

Whenever my date and I visit Eastwood, we'd usually pass by Digital Walker, a store famous for carrying stylish accessories for Apple products. Although I consider myself quite tech-savvy, I don't own any Apple gadgets so the store didn't look as enticing for me. Not until now. Just beside the shop is a Japanese concept café, DW Cafe. Owned by Charlie Paw -- the man behind Digital Walker, Digital Hub and Beyond the Box, among others, DW Cafe somehow serves as a dining section for the Eastwood [..]

Brazil Brazil: Churrasco Feast Platter

Published on 2012-03-09 10:00:00

Although I eat out often, I'm still a frugal foodie. And being one, I want to get the most out of a dining experience but at a reasonable, or better yet, discounted cost. So after a series of discount dining adventures courtesy of group buying sites, I bring you yet another episode. This time, it's a meaty feast at Brazil Brazil. It was last year when I first saw Brazil Brazil's Churrasco Feast Platter deal at Metrodeal. But for some reason, I wasn't able to grab the chance that time. Luckily, [..]

Relik: Modern Tapas Bar and Lounge

Published on 2012-03-06 10:39:00

Although I love Chinese and Japanese cuisine, I have a soft spot for Spanish dishes. So when I was given an opportunity to try the modern Spanish-Mediterranean food fare from the newly-opened but already one of the hippest spots in the Metro, Relik Tapas Bar and Lounge, I didn't think twice and immediately grabbed the chance. Located at the 31st Ave. cor. 4th St. of Bonifacio Global City, Relik Tapas Bar and Lounge is secretly tucked in Commercenter Building's second floor, sharing the space w [..]

Daily Quickie: My Pink Wasabi's Kashi Maki

Published on 2012-03-03 10:54:00

Daily Quickie is a short tag on the title which I use for blog entries about food I'm snacking at home, work or anywhere. Last Sunday, my beau finally gave in to one of my requests -- to visit Mercato Centrale. Although we weren't able to really enjoy the experience as we walked from Bonifacio High Street's parking lot to MC Home Depot under the scorching heat of the sun at high noon, I finally got to try one of the reasons why I've long wanted to visit this food bazaar -- My Pink Wasabi's Kash [..]

Balkan: Yugoslavian Home Cooking

Published on 2012-03-02 13:40:00

Honestly, I have never been too adventurous with trying out new cuisines before I started this blog. Through the years, as a non-blogging food lover, I had already found comfort in Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, Italian and American food fare. However, as a blogging foodie today, I am thankful to have met wonderful people who've inspired and convinced me to get out of my comfort (food) zone and try out other gustatory delights that other parts of the world can offer. So after going French a few we [..]

Xin Tian Di: Unlimited Dimsum at Crown Plaza Galleria

Published on 2012-03-01 13:59:00

Being a foodie, and at the same time, a fan of group buying sites, I didn't hesitate buying vouchers when I saw Deal Grocer's offer for Crown Plaza Galleria's Xin Tian Di -- Unlimited Dimsum for only P888 instead of P1,088. It has been months since we've last dined in an eat-all-you-can restaurant, and after a week of sulking for missing the Valentine's Day celebration (Blame it on the flu!), my date and I decided to use our vouchers and stuff ourselves with dimsum to make up for the quite una [..]

Nectar Restaurant: Wine Dining 101

Published on 2012-02-28 02:30:00

Wine has been an intriguing luxurious drink for me. Most aficionados use fancy words I've never heard before. And although I would love to learn more about this famed alcoholic drink, just the terminology in wine-tasting already intimidates me. Fortunately, there are places like Nectar Restaurant in Legaspi Village, Makati which aims to break away from the norm when it comes to orienting people with wine culture. Instead of basking wine neophytes with overflowing intimidation, Nectar Restaura [..]

Brasserie CiÇou: Station by Station Degustacion

Published on 2012-02-25 11:42:00

After touring Istituto Culinario, I along with fellow bloggers got the chance to sample some of the offerings from Brasserie CiÇou, a French restaurant headed by Chef Cyrille Soenen, and where Istituto Culinario students undergo their internship program. Being a noob in French cuisine, I didn't really know what to expect when it comes to the food selection. However, the restaurant exudes a relaxing and very casual ambiance to calm even the French cuisine neophytes like me. There were bleached [..]

Istituto Culinario: Real Culinary Art Begins Here

Published on 2012-02-25 07:05:00

Although I have already accepted that I have no talent in cooking, my curiosity and eagerness were stirred when I got the chance to attend the grand opening of Istituto Culinario, the Philippines' newest, most innovative institution for culinary arts. Built on the strong foundations and solid reputation of the country's first specialized school for the culinary arts, the O.B. Montessori College Culinary Institute, Istituto Culinario is committed to nurture professional, creative, and passionate [..]