Food for the Saul

Certainly, it's Sugi

2012-09-03T19:24:00.001+08:00

Ask my childhood self what my favorite Japanese restaurant is and I would reply, "Sugi!" Prices weren't that high then but everything, I loved. It was there where I got introduced to Sashimi, Gindara, and Unagi, where I developed my preference for Shime Saba, and where I looked at my first moving Okonomiyaki.

The menu stayed the same, and most of our orders also. Bing, our favorite waitress, is now the head of the staff. And this time, since there was something to celebrate, it was my turn to get the bill.

Sugi will always be that special restaurant where every bite can be expected as perfect, as I have remembered it as a kid. As its name means, it is like that kind of Evergreen, always reliable. If I bring you here, it's because I love you and at that time, I have a lot of extra cash

So, if you're going to ask me now what the best Japanese restaurant is...you know the answer.

As Recommended by @ChaDaoTeaPlace

2012-09-02T00:01:00.001+08:00

It started with a text. Yanee wanted to hang out with me, Zhang, and Arnold. We all had nothing to do but Arnold was not feeling well.

Usually when I go to Cha Dao BF Homes, I just buy and take out. Cha Yen is my usual but when I tweeted @ChaDaoTeaPlace and they recommended Dark Assam Frost Blend or Peach Mango Yakult. I initially wanted to try Jasmine Honey Yakult but it was unavailable so I just got Dark Assam. The cup reminded me of Gong Cha, only closer to the heart. It was sweet with cream on top that complement when you sip from the cup. It looked so good, my sister asked me to bring one home. Just got the Peach Mango Yakult with popping bobba for my brother so I could taste what a bobba is. It does pop. :)

Agahan, Kape, Bulalo, Merienda, Sandwich, Milk Tea

2012-09-01T23:22:00.001+08:00

Tagaytay has always been one of my favorite near-Manila-quick-getaway spots. One Saturday, I found myself there after almost being left behind by the transportation at Santana Grove. Good thing Reggie, Tonyo, Ros, Blyn, Ramon, and Raffy were not impatient enough to leave me there.

Breakfast was at old reliable Jollibee at Paseo de Sta. Rosa. Nothing beyond the usual there.

Morning break found us behind Leslie's, at Filibeans. We didn't know where to pass time so we cruised along the main road, found the sign, and tried it out. It was a small space that we took over. I got myself the Tres Lolas special, served in a big glass with fancy whipped cream on top. It's the usual coffee shake with langka, which was surprisingly a good combination. This is where I met Ana and Paul, the unlawyer couple.

After multiple rounds of humor, we figured out the way to Mahogany Market. Bulalo restos were side by side and we did not know where to go. Apps failed us but our instincts brought us Betchay's. We filled a long table right before the lucnch crowd filled the place. Bulalo was without sebo and crispy tawilis was just enough. Full, and almost in a food coma, we went to the next Cafe.

Bag of Beans was not that big before my last visit. My favorite area now has a minimum charge and maximum number of hours. They also now have three parking areas, a buffet area, and worse service. Coffee would always be good but bad service made the place lose its charm. We were there for more than 3 hours because of bad tracking and lack of a system for check out.

Last Tagaytay food stop was at classic Mushroomburger but that was only for take out. 64 pesos got me a mushroom sandwich, better than the burger.

Last last stop was back at Paseo de Sta. Rosa, to check out outlet stores and get milk tea from Moonleaf. Classic Hakka lulled me to relaxation.

Non-dessert at Breton

2012-08-29T23:05:00.001+08:00

Another default restaurant for my family to hang out in is Cafe Breton. Usually we're at the one beside Greenbelt's best set of speakers.

Although, it's usually known for La Pinay, my favorite crepe is a savory one, the Poseidon. Salmon, cream, capers, and lemon. Always the best combination. Top your meal with an order of Cafe Liegeois and you don't need a dessert crepe.

Bye Valencia, Welcome to my life Jaffa!

2012-08-25T10:04:00.001+08:00

I've heard a lot about Chocolate Fire since it opened and but I never got a chance to go there since it was out of the way until recently.

Yanee and Ruth were there ahead of me and already ordered food. Being my first time there, I had to order something for myself. Looking at the menu, "Jaffa" caught my eye immediately. The description was perfect, dark and orange. Of course, I just had to order the larger size! It was great right from the very first sip until the contents of the mug was only just a memory.

Food was good, a bit on the light side. Flavorful but my Jaffa stole the show. Ruth got a Cervelat which was perfectly steamed and an Apple Pie ala Mode. Yanee gave the DealGrocer coupon which got us pasta, sandwich, side salad, iced tea, and a slice of cake. At first the cake was like any other chocolate cake, until after about a second in your mouth. The word "Premium" lingered with satisfaction. Elton pointed out that the difference was in the aftertaste.

The chocolate display was temptation at its peak! Good thing I was already full and satisfied. I would love to buy their dipped blueberries and strawberries, plus a ginger nut bark but I'll reserve that for next time. Which is most likely real soon!

Food + Trip + Friends

2012-08-21T11:33:00.001+08:00

I've said it a million times and I'd say it again and again, I love eating with Yanee! And I'm sure she loves eating with her friends too, all 20+ of us.

Grateful for the planned foodtrip we ran all around Pampanga to get our comfort food in our stomachs. First stop was AC Rumpa, which served great ribs, Cordon Bleu, SOS, Chili con Carne. The ribs rival that what I tasted in Davao, which was quite unforgettable really. The second stop was the best. LA Bakeshop had cozy interiors and bottomless coffee + spanish bread + cheese bread. I have never stuffed that much within 2 hours. The great ending was at Apag Marangle where we had usual fare plus frogs and crickets.

Nothing's better than breaking bread and travelling, don't you agree?

Rave-ioli!

2012-08-20T15:08:00.001+08:00

When I walk from work to my preferred shuttle area near Ayala MRT, one of my routes includes passing by this small, seemingly un-spacious restaurant called Bistro Ravioli. Of all the Italian pastas, as a kid, I've always been intrigued by ravioli. Maybe because it's harder to make since you really have to do it by hand or maybe just because it's much easier to eat

So finally, a not so busy day entered my schedule where I was able to drag Kate with me to Glorietta. We were hungry and undecided. We were just following our instincts until we got there. We got a good table which was surprisingly not claustrophobia-inducing despite the appearance of the place. Service was quick and they anticipated what you would need.

That night we got Salmon Ravioli with Saffron Cream Sauce and Fennel Sausage Pizza. That was actually good for three but we had digestive tracts after. For less than 600, it was much better than what we expected it to be. The experience was good but be better if they have a branch down South.

JT's Gift to BF :D

2012-08-12T07:42:00.001+08:00

Going to work on a very stormy day is quite tiring, especially since the workforce is reduced. Never mind the stress though, the newest branch of JT's Manukan Grille is walking distance from our house.

I've heard from Sharin who is from Bacolod earlier that day that JT's Inasal is the closest to the authentic. It was probably that conversation that I asked my sister and Cheryl to eat with me there.

The place was not packed probably because of the weather. It had air-conditioned and al fresco areas with only about 4 tables per area. Tables were for bigger parties inside but we choose to sit where we wouldn't smell of chicken after.

We got Paas, Baticolons, a stick of Atay, and since I was hungry, I added an order of Apan-Apan. The last one was Kangkong with Ilonggo bagoong, which was just right for a little vegetable craving. Filling to the bones and stress was gone plus everything we ordered was only 531.

Overseas Donation via BPI

2012-08-11T17:49:00.001+08:00

Remittances through BPI Express Remittance Centers from August 8, 2012 to September 15, 2012 will have their charges waived for donations for credit to Ayala Foundation and BPI Foundation accounts. This can also be done in BPI UK offices.

List of offices: http://www.mybpimag.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=294&Itemid=338

Other ways to give:
https://www.mybpimag.com/BPI_foundation/BPI_Foundation_Donate.html

Cheego de Sal / Pan de Sol

2012-08-11T09:45:00.001+08:00

My dad's (Yes, his name is Sol) creation during the habagat: Pan de Manila pan de sal + mango jam + cheese = a surprisingly good combination. Everything's available at your neighborhood Pan de Manila.

Bites 7/31-8/02

2012-08-04T09:14:00.001+08:00

Tuesday - KFC Cheese Top - This controversial burger that's still making waves, and even made it on Jimmy Kimmel, is worth the try. 50 for the burger and a drink is worth it. It's unusual but having the cheese on top makes the chicken patty tastier probably because you get to taste more of it, and more of the sauce. Go and try it to satisfy your curiosity!

Wednesday - Serenitea - Black Dragon, 25% sugar, pudding - Not for everyone, this has a stronger tea taste than the usual with only the pudding to balance it out. Still one of my favorites.

Mary Grace's Truffle Cake - As always, I ordered my Mexicana Chocolate but that night I was introduced to the Truffle Cake. Light but flavorful without being overpowering.

Thursday - Dunkin Donuts Tordesillas - Yanee discovered this new branch that offers DD's more premium products like the Sansribav. Affordable, comfortable. If they opened until late, RST (Ruth + Saul + Tanya) might just stay here until dawn. By the way, can you figure out the meaning of the pictures down there?

Happy Meals!

2012-07-30T20:36:00.001+08:00

I wasn't able to bring lunch today and I was too lazy to go down so I asked my officemates if they wanted to have McDo delivered. I was also too lazy to pick up the phone so I just uses the Click the City app I have installed in my phone. And of course, we did not know what to order. Since it was available in the menu, we got the easiest thing to get as a group, the Happy Bundle.

It was quick, as usual, but we forgot to instruct to not use styro as it was prohibited in our building. Paper plates were used to improvise so that we could share our regular drinks, 2 large fries, 20 chicken nuggets, and 4 orders of spaghetti. All that for 495 + 40 delivery charge. Perfect lunch for four.

The best part was the placemat. It tempted us to ask for crayons from the delivery guy. Yes, love ko 'to!

Cinemalaya 8 Winners

2012-07-29T23:02:00.001+08:00

Maraming salamat sa mga alagad ng Pelikula!

Full Length - New Breed

Best Picture: Diablo
Special Jury Prize: REquieme!
Audience Choice: Ang Nawawala

Best Director: Mes de Guzman, Diablo

Best Actress: Ama Quiambao, Diablo

Best Actor: Kristoffer King, Oros

Best Supporting Actress: Anita Linda, Santa Niña

Best Supporting Actor: Joross Gamboa, Intoy Syokoy ng Kalye Marino

Best Screenplay: Rody Vera, REquime!

Best Cinematography: Tristan Salas, Diablo

Best Production Design: Benjamin Payumo, Intoy Syokoy ng Kalye Marino

Best Editing: John Wong and Rona delos Reyes, The Animals

Best Original Music Score: Mikey Amistoso, Diego Mapa, and Jazz Nicolas, Ang Nawawala

Best Sound: Albert Michael Idioma, Aparisyon

NETPAC Award: Diablo

Full Length - Directors Showcase

Best Picture: Posas
Special Jury Prize: Kamera Obskura
Audience Choice: Bwakaw

Best Director: Raymond Red, Kamera Obskura

Best Actress: Iza Calzado, Janice de Belen, Judy Ann Santos & Agot Isidro (ensemble), Mga Mumunting Lihim

Best Actor: Eddie Garcia, Bwakaw

Best Supporting Actress: Iza Calzado, Janice de Belen, Judy Ann Santos & Agot Isidro (ensemble), Mga Mumunting Lihim

Best Supporting Actor: Art Acuna, Posas

Best Screenplay: Jose Javier Reyes, Mga Mumunting Lihim

Best Cinematography: Albert Banzon, Kalayaan

Best Production Design: Adolfo Alix Jr., Kalayaan

Best Editing: Vanessa de Leon, Mga Mumunting Lihim

Best Original Musical Score: Diwa de Leon, Kamera Obskura

Best Sound: Ditoy Aguila, Kalayaan

NETPAC Award: Bwakaw

Short Film

Best Picture: Victor
Special Jury Prize: Manenaya
Audience Choice: Ruweda

Best Director: Sheron Dayoc, As He Sleeps

Best Screenplay: Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, Ang Paghihintay sa Bulong

Liquid Dreams

2012-07-29T22:00:00.001+08:00

We rarely go to Festival Mall but when we do, we usually end our night with Seattle's Best simply because we park near there always.

Upon entering the cafe, I saw the display of their new drinks, picked one, and then went straight to get seats. While waiting for the drinks, I overheard the other table that they ordered the new drinks too. I was a bit anxious but hearing that relaxed me a bit.

I got Heavenly Cheesecake and my dad ordered Red Velvet. His, I imagine, would be how a slice of cake of the same name would taste like if it was put in the blender.

My drink was more familiar. Seattle's Best ice blended drinks were always consistent. Think of the classic coffee variant, add the taste of cheesecake, crushed graham on top and in the drink, plus tiny cheesecake bits.

I'd recommend trying the Heavenly Cheesecake if you love coffee but want a hint of cheesecake.

Finally, Friday's!

2012-07-24T17:52:00.001+08:00

All set up for The Dark Knight Rises take 2 and the family struggled to find a place to eat sort of late lunch in Glorietta. Italianni's would always be the default but I wanted to have a break from the usual so I suggested Friday's. The last time we were there was before the Town branch was renovated.

It's nice that it's still the good old Friday's with some new offerings. We stuck with what we love but also ordered their fried ice cream. What was served was a big scoop of vanilla inside a nutty crust, with cinnamon tortilla and whipped cream. During the whole time, one of their new drinks, Watermelon Spa, accompanied me. It definitely was not a disappointment!

Rain = Pizza + Wings

2012-07-21T23:03:00.001+08:00

Thank you Ferdie for keeping us stranded but Raine (@RaineMusing) was right in saying this:

Upside of this weather: Forced rest. And no need for power. Except maybe the ref. And router and laptop :)

That's just what the whole family did. And then we called Brooklyn Pizza, our neighborhood pizza joint, to ask a delivery man to brave the rain. Any random pizza is good there and their white is wonderful and has much garlic. I grew up ordering Manager's Choice but my favorite has always been Garlic & Cheese and tonight's white is a great alternative. The rest of the basic-ish flavors just go well with Buffalo Wings.

Tsaa Daw. No, Cha Dao.

2012-07-21T09:18:00.001+08:00

I've been hearing a lot about Cha Dao from my friend Yanee and she claims that it is the best tea shop she has been into so far. I've tried several shops and I liked some for different reasons. I see the shop almost every day when I go home but I almost always just enjoy it. I'm tired of other shops' Wintermelon and the best way to hook me is to give me an interesting flavor. And Cha Dao has it!

Cha Yen, also known as Thai Iced Tea, was introduced to me by my Tita Lorna when we were at Peninsula. My tastebuds were happy and that sensation was not recreated until earlier this week, for a much cheaper price, of course. Cha Dao called their biggest size XL and a drink is less than 100. It may not be an exact replica of what Peninsula offers but it is definitely the closest.

Pictured also is Kopiko but Cha Yen would still be my favorite.

The 3rd Time Isn't Always A Charm

2012-07-15T20:16:00.001+08:00

I am writing this because I love their donuts. Unfortunately, their service is not as good as their donuts. Yes, I want them to improve.

J.Co and I started well especially that I scored a Free GC from Glenn Ong's Blog (Go to http://glennong.com now! And Hi Glenn!). Megamall isn't really a convenient place for me to go to so I waited for other shops to open. Heard about the Greenbelt opening so I went there right after work but was rejected for a private launch. I'm fine with private launches but I didn't see any news about it there. They were on full blast mode at that time shouting that they would give away 500 free donuts at the Greenbelt open area, on a rainy day. It was wrong for me to assume that they opened for the public already.

July 5, Day 2 of the Greenbelt store, I was glad I could taste it finally. The line was long, it was packed. They had a great launch and things were going well for them, but not for me. I understood that the line was long but it was extremely slow because the cashier was still issuing ORs for every transaction. Also, while I was still in the line, I wanted to buy a dozen that would be put in 2 boxes. The next disappointment came when I was told that I would be charged for 2 half dozens and not a dozen just because of the packaging. Complaining would just be too tiresome so I ended up getting JPops. So much for planning what flavors to get. The box I got was madungis too.

Tonight was my third visit to a J.Co store and it wasn't a charm. Location was bad for the MOA branch but I wouldn't be able to do much about that. The line was long as usual, they had air con installed but it was hot. My dad said that he couldn't breathe in there. Stock was bad, choices were few and I didn't get the flavors I wanted. At the counter, I had to ask them to change 1 flavor since they refilled it only when I was about to pay. They also didn't have JPops at that time and I overheard that it would take an hour for the next batch to finish. I wouldn't be able to do anything about that either, except to hope that they manage their stocks better. While in the line, I observed that the crew had smears of what I hope is their glaze on the sleeves of their black collared shirts and they aren't that skillful in getting donuts from the display. One Alcapone fell from the top display case to the lower one and had to be marked out. Sayang.

Clearly the management should know that there is much room for improvement and it's as big as a warehouse.

Again, I love their donuts. I've only samples their Iced Thai Tea and it was quite bland. I would want to try their drinks more but situations don't allow me too. And my cravings would lessen if operations won't improve.

May they get things right the next time I visit.

Update: Added screenshot of J.Co Philippine's tweet (949 AM, July 16)

You Can't Go Wrong With LJC

2012-07-15T19:24:00.001+08:00

One of the perks of having an LJC card is receiving GCs for their restaurants from time to time. My family frequents Fely J's but the GC was only valid for Abe MOA. Still not bad since we don't go there often.

We arrived and the restaurant was empty but not for long. The waiters were charming, attending to our every need. Even if the dining area was not big, ample space is provided for your comfort. We ordered Sinigang na Boneless Bangus fillet with Ripe Guava (My Dad's favorite!), Ginisang Mustasa, Bamboo Rice, and Crispy Tadyang.

Amidst the hustle and bustle outside the restaurant, every second inside was excellent. This is probably the only great reason to MOA.

Five for Guimaras

2012-07-14T20:10:00.001+08:00

Si this signage lowered my options to four. Thank you Jamba Juice for making this your CSR project, and for sourcing locally! Plus Green, the one at the counter, had a really infectious smile! This made my evening. :D

By The Label Friday

2012-07-13T23:24:00.001+08:00

Gelatissimo + Bulgogi Brothers + Mr. Jones

When in Doubt, Go Greek!

2012-07-11T22:17:00.001+08:00

Eating at the food court is always a tricky thing unless you have a certain craving. Walking through Food Choices reminded me of the unappetizing fusion of Kalbi, of how I haven't eaten in Reyes Barbecue for a long time now, and how I enjoyed Manang's Chicken the last time I stayed there with Kaye. Still, I followed my feet, which actually just followed my gut. To Go Greek! Again, I went to the familiar and reliable. Their lamb kebab did not let me down tonight. It kept me full throughout that film that was shot using Instagram.

I need a haircut

2012-07-11T22:05:00.001+08:00

Fork Club Wednesday! No bananas today.

Always Requited

2012-07-10T19:28:00.001+08:00

Before I discovered what love is, my heart leaped every so often during the morning while I was still in college. This evening, we met again when I visited 7-11.

My eyes were locked, there was no other choice. I grabbed and stepped out, eager to go home. It was familiar, comfortable, a blast of great days that passed. A reunion is always pleasant.

That's just what happened. Got MineShine to accompany me back then and right now.

Fork Club's July 9 Pantry Creation

2012-07-09T21:55:00.001+08:00

Banana + Swiss Army Energy Bar Chocolate (Dark Chocolate with Cornflakes and Guarana) + Canned Peaches