DOCGELO'S EYES

When in Nepal : Eat Like A Local

2014-01-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

Perhaps, Nepal to most people is only synonymous to Mt. Everest, the roof of the world.

Or probably, first time travelers and tourists would think of Buddhist and Hindu temples,

Durbar Squares and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While it is true that this incredibly

fascinating South Asian country boasts of exotic cultures and rich traditions, Nepal is little known

to be a gastronomic paradise. I myself was surprised to find pizza, burgers, dumplings, noodles

in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan and Nagarkot when I went there with my family last August

2013.

Indubitably, travels & tours are best enjoyed when you're with locals. In our case,

my family and I tried our very best to communicate with the few people we met from streets

to eateries.

We arrived past lunch time in Kathmandu, so immediately after checking in at our hotel in Thamel,

we headed to Kathmandu Durbar Square. However, prior to being mesmerized by the grandeur of the temples built mostly in 1700s, we satisfied our hungry growling tummies with these Nepalese cuisine. Behold. These were our first bites in Kathmandu...

Momo, the Nepalese (Newar) dumplings. Of course, we chose to taste local food as early as our first meal. We ordered Momo in two ways, fried and steamed. We opted for vegetable momos instead of chicken or buffalo. Oh and by the way, we had them at a rooftop restaurant just a few steps before Kathmandu Durbar Square called, Cosmo De' Café!

Another remarkable Nepalese dish we had from Cosmo De' Café was their Cosmo Special Noodles. It reminded us that we're still in Asia. It tasted like Pancit Bihon from the Philippines and Singapore Beehon from our neighboring ASEAN country. Delicious, actually!

If you like coffee, and you're in Kathmandu, it's a must for you to try Himalayan Java Coffee at Basantapur Durbar Square, just a few steps from Kumari's Palace (the living Goddess of Kathmandu).

It's always good to taste local blends when traveling to a new place!

For our dinner on our first day in Nepal, we had simple plates from a restaurant tucked in Mandala Street in Thamel. We had Fish and Chips, and some Fried Chicken, all washed down with red wine that came with it and Pineapple Juice for our kid.

On our second day in Nepal, we spent and enjoyed Bhaktapur Durbar Square and its laterals. We dined our brunch at Shiva’s Cafe Corner (Authentic Kitchen). We wanted to taste more authentic Nepalese dishes so we ordered their breakfast specialties – Dragon’s meat and dinosaur’s eggs. Of course, the last part was a big joke! We had these plates of continental breakfast plus hot coffee with milk and chocolate for Gabby. Everyning’s fine except for the bacon strips. It has a little taste that our tastebuds disagreed. It must be buffalo’s; we regret that we didn’t ask.

For lunch, we were around Nyatapola Temple, still in beautiful Bhaktapur, so we decided to try the local's recommendations, Nyatapola Café.

We had Mixed Chow Mein, Macaroni and Cheese for Gabby and Clubhouse Sandwich that had buffalo instead of chicken. This time, it’s for real that we had buffalo on sandwich. I prefer it rather than chicken because there’s outbreak of bird flu virus in Kathmandu during our visit. For dessert, we had the famous yoghurt of Bhaktapur. Creamy, tangy and cheesy. Delicious! Huge servings and affordable too!

Third day was spent in Patan Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal. Where did we eat? We chose another rooftop restaurant with an overlooking view of the plaza and a place where our kiddo could have something he pleased. We dined our first meal of our third day at Café du Temple in Patan.

The meal was apparently simple, yet what made it remarkable was the experience of looking at the priceless view while you sip your coffee and dunk your fork at your fried eggs and toasts.

On our next day, we headed to Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambunath. At Boudha, there were several options for you to eat in. As for us, we preferred another rooftop restaurant called, Café Himalayan. It gave us a great view of the stupa in its glory! Café Himalayan also served us our refuge during the slight drizzle. We ordered light snacks like pizza, mixed fried rice (Nepalese style, of course) and sweet hot banana (or what we call locally in the Philippines as banana cue).

On that same day, we savored our dinner back in Thamel. We found this restaurant called, Café New Orleans with laid back and non-intimidating ambiance and surprisingly affordable prices on the menu. Presentation and servings were impressive and huge. Highly recommended!!! Two thumbs up!

At Café New Orleans in Thamel, would you believe our palates and taste buds were delighted at the most tender and tasteful Beef Steak, Pork Steak, and Mongolian Beef and Noodles? And for our thirst-quenchers, we had Mango Iced Blended drink, Tropical Fruit Juice and Chocolate Drink for our son. Everything was refreshingly good!

Before we departed Thorong Peak Guest House, our hotel in Thamel, and prior heading to Nagarkot, we had our breakfast of course. The hotel menu's simple and we had satisfying plates.

Everything's OK for me, except for the cheese in Nepal. Most of the restaurants and eateries we dined in used yak cheese. So it's so Greek to my taste buds, nonetheless was part of the Nepalese experience!

Our last two days in Nepal were spent in Nagarkot, an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level! We stayed at Peaceful Cottage & Café du Mont.

Coffee for us, particularly at a chilly weather up at 7,000 feet was a must! Definitely a must!

Pizza, Mixed Fried Rice, Chapatti and Nepalese platter of dahl and curry. Yum!

Dessert we shared : Warm & creamy Custard Pudding with Mushroom. Totally new to our taste buds! With due respect to Nepalese, I was used to and still favor something cold and chilled for dessert.

Our last dinner in Nepal was simple plates of noodles, fried rice and club sandwich, still prepared Nepali style of course. Something we're proud we've tasted! Nothing comes close to authentic Nepalese cuisine!

When traveling to a new place, one must really sample local dishes for a complete sensory experience!

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people,

you might better stay at home.”

- James A. Michener

*For Ultimate Travel and Tours Experience in Nepal, this blog recommends WithLocals.Com

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A new day. A new hope!

2012-05-04T16:29:00.000-07:00

CHARITY

2011-12-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

donate, contribute, support, volunteer, help, coordinate with http://projectpearls.org

HAVE SOME PIZZA FOR MERIENDA!

2011-12-25T14:17:00.000-08:00

PRECIOUS SMILES

2011-08-21T07:43:00.000-07:00

taken last 07 july 2011 at george town, penang, malaysia at its 3rd year celebration as one of unesco's world heritage sites.

I'M BACK!

2011-08-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

It's been long while since I last updated this blog. It's my second virtual home, actually. Nonetheless, I decided to keep it. From now on, I'll post one photo at a time...Hope it inspires people somehow. Thanks!

THE MOVIE ON MY MIND

2010-08-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

This was the last movie I saw a day before I left for Penang, Malaysia to work. I watched it with my wife and our preschooler kid in Greenbelt 1, Makati City. I believe it's one of the most brilliantly crafted and intelligently written movies of all time. I smell Oscars next year for Inception.

Have you watched it too? What's your take on this movie? How do you like its ending?

ON NEW GROUNDS

2010-08-09T06:46:00.000-07:00

I need to restart and rebuild my family's future by working abroad.

I thank God for all the blessings coming our way despite the challenges life has been throwing. God is indeed a great provider.

I just miss my family so much. Thanks to Skype, it melts my homesickness away.

...wish me luck on being a medical educator on foreign shores.
...come follow me as I take this blog to Penang, Malaysia and beyond.

PRESS RELEASE : IBAYO, by Barrio Fiesta

2010-07-21T09:52:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the years of their clan's success, brothers Tyrone and Tristan Ongpauco, third generation members of the Barrio Fiesta Restaurant Chain clan, decided to create a bistro style restaurant.

Having the desire to carry on the rich culture and heritage of Barrio Fiesta, the Ibayo concept was put to life. Ibayo, literally meaning "the next town," offers the same classic Filipino favorites such as the famous Crispy Pata, the mouth-watering Sinalab Special, and the crave-satisfying Mama Chit's Special. While loyal to its Barrio Fiesta roots, Ibayo offers a new and exciting line of signature food and cocktail redefining the classic Filipino dining experience with a modern bistro twist.

To complete the Ibayo experience, it is highly recommended for one to try the Ibayo Sunset. Other must-try concoctions include the Skywalker, the Two Alpha, and the Mango Bongo - each offering a different range of flavors that will surely leave you asking for more. Ibayo also offers a bar chow menu including reinvented Filipino favorites like Inihaw na Liempo, Grilled Tuna Belly, Sizzling Mushrooms, Pork Barbeque and Sizzling corn that will definitely satisfy your short cravings. For the enthusiasts looking for an out-of-the-ordinary meal, Ibayo recommends starting with the Ibayo Firesticks, Ibayo White Adobo, and the Ibayo Crispy Catfish.

Ibayo transforms from a casual dining atmosphere to a “chillax” place that escalates into an ultimate night-out, let-your-hair-down experience. Situated in the San Miguel by the Bay strip, it is a great place to unwind and catch up with friends over a delicious selection of food and stimulating drinks. Ibayo makes for a unique dining experience perfect for get-togethers, food-trips, as well as celebrations.

Ibayo Sunset
The ultimate warm weather party potion. A sweet and refreshing fusion of mango, pineapple, orange, rum, and grenadine to warm up your mood.

Aurora
An astronomical phenomenon of blended orange juice & Vodka, perfect to loosens things up!

Skywalker
Not too strong, not too light. Malibu mixed with pineapple juice makes a perfect tropical concoction. Oleh!

Two Alpha
A very brave concoction of vodka, tequila, rum, and gin with a splash of club soda ready to blow your mind off. Beware.

Mango Bongo
Go loco over this unbeatable tropical mix of mango juice, white rum, and mint leaves, tickles & tingles at the same time.

IBAYO SIGNATURE DISHES

Ibayo White Adobo
A different take on Philippine’s most popular dish. The best chicken and pork adobo cooked sans the soy sauce.

Ibayo Crispy Catfish
Deep-fried and extra crispy catfish served with our Barrio Fiesta bagoong and green mango salad.

Ibayo Firesticks
Zesty jalapeños & cheese rolled up and lightly fried to a spicy, exciting and challenging appetizer. Go once… and more!

The resto-bar is located at Bldg. G Unit 7-8 San Miguel by the Bay Seaside Brgy. 076 SM Bay City, Central Business Park 1-A Pasay City, open from 3pm to 12mn on weekdays and 3pm to 2am on weekends. It is also open for lunch on holidays.

All text and photos were provided by Eventus Kinetix for Ibayo.

Special Thanks to the owners of Ibayo and to Ms. Abigail Delos Santos for the invite.

PRESS RELEASE : SINGAPORE FOOD FESTIVAL & SINGAPORE AS BEST DESTINATION

2010-07-17T16:41:00.000-07:00

2010 Singapore Food Festival celebrates Chinese cuisine

"The highly anticipated Singapore Food Festival (SFF) returns for the 17th year, bringing the country’s rich and diverse food culture to the world stage once more. From July 16 to 25, the festival will offer a spectacular sampling of Singapore’s most-loved dishes and other treats, treating residents and visitors alike to one of Asia’s biggest gastronomic events.

This year, the festival will highlight the specialty dishes of Singapore’s big Chinese population, which means servings of Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, Hakka and Hainanese food delights for everyone present.

“At the SFF, visitors from the Philippines can expect to taste flavors they already love about Singapore such as Hainanese Chicken Rice and get a chance to fall in love with new ones, all in one festival. With so much feasting and fun in store, my advice is to leave the diet plan at home and indulge those cravings in Singapore” said Lynelle Seow, Area Director-Philippines, Singapore Tourism Board.

To delight food lovers further, major SFF events will also be held simultaneously at key venues.

More than 30 well-loved restaurants and hawkers will all be under one roof at the Clarke Quay Food Street on Read Bridge from July 16 to 24, 4pm to 11pm. Here, families and friends can partake of a wide variety of scrumptious Chinese delicacies from just $2 onwards.

Another major event is the Singapore Chinese Dialect Tingkat Cruise, where one can enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of various Chinese dishes served in a tingkat or tiffin carrier. Meals will be served as guests take a relaxing cruise along the Singapore River, beginning and ending at the landmark Merlion Park. Guests can enjoy this cruise from July 16 to 25 at various intervals from 4 to 10 pm for only $35 per person.

Other activities such as cooking classes, games and special dining privileges and promotions also await those who visit Singapore this July.

“Through SFF, Singapore enhances its identity as a true melting pot of cultures and as a destination that has something to offer many different nationalities. Fringe activities will also serve up ethnic Malay and Indian dishes, allowing Filipinos to enjoy the true ‘taste’ of Singapore,” added Seow.

For more information on the SFF’s calendar of activities, visit www.YourSingapore.com.

The 2010 SFF is proudly presented by Standard Chartered Bank. It is jointly organized by the Restaurant Association of Singapore and SPOC Solutions PTE Ltd, and supported by the STB. Singapore’s renowned food personality KF Seetoh also lends his experience and passion in food as this year’s festival food consultant."

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Singapore: Your best destination to live, work and play

"People, in order to live a full life, must have a balanced-lifestyle. They must enjoy the comforts of quality living, work in a career that gives them a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, and delight in frequent amusement and recreation. This and more is what Singapore has to offer. The country’s booming economy, world-class atmosphere and first rate leisure destinations make this tiny island the perfect place to be.

Singapore is a true global city. Teeming with opportunities, this forward-moving nation espouses a first-world lifestyle, fueled by a multi-cultural society that brings the best that Asia has together in one place, making it a vibrant city to work, live, and play in.

Live
Mercer Quality of Living Survey 2010 states that Singapore has the best quality of living in Asia. Local and foreign residents alike take on the benefits of living in a country that has a warm, tropical climate all year round, stable political environment, modern infrastructure, and sophisticated, metropolitan way of life.

This country also provides its residents with a state-of-the-art healthcare plans and facilities, low personal income tax rates, and excellent educational system.

Moreover, Singapore is easily accessible within region, giving more comfort and convenience to its residents. It has more than 80 airlines operating for over 4,000 weekly flights to more than 180 cities in 50 countries around the globe.

Work
The strong lively economy and vast career opportunities empower this country’s global workforce. It has more than 7,000 multinational companies operating in various in-demand industries such as technology, manufacturing, research, electronics, chemicals, biomedical sciences, infocomms, digital media, engineering, transportation and financial services.

It has an open-door policy to foreign professionals and has a liberal work visa ― attracting international and multi-cultural talents and skilled workers. It also provides its labor force with unique professional benefits; one great example is internally benchmarked salaries. With its inspiring, productive and challenging working environment, Singapore nourishes a creative and innovative society.

Play
Over the years, the Garden City has transformed itself into a playground for virtually everyone, allowing residents and visitors to indulge their varied interests. With new attractions such as Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa which houses Universal Studios, Singapore continues to raise the city’s vibrancy and energy. And with signature events throughout the year including the Great Singapore Sale, Singapore Food Festival, and the Grand Prix Season Singapore, this global capital is the pulse of Asia.

These things definitely make life worth living and enjoying, and one can get it all in Singapore. For information on how you can get the best opportunity to live, work and play the Singapore way, visit www.contactsingapore.sg, www.yoursingapore.com, and www.stb.gov.sg.

Contact Singapore is an agency of the Singapore government that aims to boost the country’s economy by attracting people from around the world to live, work and play in this country. It is the one-stop center for those who wish to pursue a fulfilling life, career and adventure in Singapore.

YourSingapore.com is Singapore’s destination brand that showcases Singapore’s uniqueness and offers travelers a personalized travel experience.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is an economic development agency for one of Singapore’s key service sectors – tourism. The mission of the Board is to develop and champion tourism, so as to build the sector into a key driver of economic growth for Singapore."

Special Thanks to Contact Singapore's Lee Puay York, Singapore Tourism Board's Lynelle Seow, and Harold C. Geronimo, PR Manager Stratworks, Inc. for this press kit.

Visit my other blog for more details on the event :http://docgelo.wordpress.com/2010/07/18/small-city-big-dreams-great-food/

ITALIAN FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

2010-06-03T17:13:00.000-07:00

Last June 02, I attended to an invitation for Press Lunch in Oakroom, located at the 6th level of Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. The event was hosted by Oakwood Premier and Future Trade International, distributor of Frescobaldi and Danzante wines and so many other brands in the Philippines. These two wine brands are highlighted in Oakroom's "A TASTE OF TUSCANY:, an Italian Wine and Food Festival which runs from June 07-27, 2010.

Among the finest wines featured are ALBIZZIA, CHARDONNAY 2007, 2008, REMOLE, TOSCANA 2006, and CASTIGLIONI, CHIANTI 2007.

TASTING NOTES to GUIDE YOUR WINE APPRECIATION at this food and wine festival (provided at the press kits).

ALBIZZIA, CHARDONNAY : The color is a very intense straw-yellow. The bouquet releases intense armoas of citrus, which yield to scents of banana and peach. On the palate this wine shows a good consistency and a perfect balance of alcohol and acidity.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS : As a white wine, it is appropriate with hors d'oeuvres, fish and white meats (but this isn't strictly follow now as these wines are very versatile; can be perfectly paired with any dish).

A basket of breads

Lentil soup with king prawns and coriander...

REMOLE, TOSCANA : A star-clear, sparkling purple introduces Remole. Beautifully fruited aromas follow, with cherry and strawberry in the lead, enriched with a spicy touch of black pepper and aromatic herbs. A tangy acidity provides juicy cripness on a palate of impressive balance. A wine of wonderful drinkability.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS : A classic example of a wine for all dishes, on all occasions. Enjoy it for example with charcuterie that is not too spicy, or with full-flavoured pasta dishes such as all'amatriciana.

Aubergine and courgette parmigiana...

CASTIGLIONI, CHIANTI : It exhibits a dense, purple-flecked ruby. Intense, well-defined fragrances spring form the nose, wild red berryfruit and bright cherry emerging first, then darker notes of dried plum and raspberry. Supple tannins and a bright acidity contribute to a fine balance and velvet mouthfeel, while empathic notes of tasty fruit return on a long-lingering finale.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS : Full-flavoured dishes such as meat-sauced pappardelle, and roast chicken as well, sauteed beef with vegetables, and medium aged cheese.

Veal fillet medallions with artichokes, lemon and Provolone...

And a toothsome dessert for a grandiose meal...

Strawberry tiramisu..

"A Taste of Tuscany" at Oakroom is co-presented by Future Trade International, Inc., distributor of Frescobaldi and Danzante wines in the Philippines. It runs from June 07 to 27, 2010.

For details and reservations, please call the Oakroom direct line at (63-2) 719-1160. Other phone lines : (63-2) 637-7888/ 910 8888 ext. 8118. Oakroom is on the 6th level of Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila, located at 17 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

Thank you, Ms. Genny Puno for the invite! :)

Delicioso

2010-05-30T00:26:00.001-07:00

Smoked salmon, lumpfish caviar, mozzarella, cream cheese, chives = one of my favorite pizza :

It's called Pizza Caviale Salmone..

yum!...i'm craving now!

pasta ...

sauteed seafood, cream, parsley = farfalle alla veneziana

and of course, dessert! ...tiramisu

another wonderful meal from cibo!

FREE Stay at MICROTEL Boracay’s Double Room Accommodation!

2010-05-29T23:40:00.000-07:00

FREE Stay at MICROTEL Boracay’s Double Room Accommodation!

ONE OF BORACAY'S BEST

2010-05-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Tranquility. Turquoise crystal waters. Powdery white sands. Fresh sea breeze. These and more are the reasons why my family and I love Boracay. Being one of the most charming and gorgeous islands in the country, it's a favorite vacation spot of every local and foreign tourists alike.

Anyone who's on leave from the hassles of daily living deserves nothing but great comfort and satisfaction. And a much-required break in an island as fantastic as Boracay needs to be spent in a place where there are consistently clean and world-recognized hotel facilities. I became aware that MICROTEL INN & SUITES in Boracay offers these best amenities.

Sitting on Diniwid Beach north of Boracay Boat Station 1, Microtel Boracay brings to its doorstep the white sand beaches, water sport activities, tropical beach night life, and other island adventures available in Boracay Beach.

”Microtel Boracay is a Mediterranean inspired resort hotel of international brand Microtel Inn and Suites. It sports a tropical island look that is new to a Microtel property. Yet the resort facilities and services available at their Hotel in Boracay offer the same great-value-for-money convenience, comfort, and style that exist in all of their properties in the Philippines, Mexico, Argentina, Canada, Honduras, and USA. Microtel Boracay is “the same great hotel everywhere you go."

"Why do I think Microtel Boracay gives the highest satisfaction in terms of experiencing Boracay to the fullest?“ From what I gathered, this hotel gives value to its clients by providing impeccable service that's almost synonymous with its name. With those awesome qualities mentioned about MICROTEL BORACAY, undoubtedly, it can be our home-away-from-home.

*This is my blog entry to Microtel Hotel Boracay's Free Stay at their Double Room Contest. Thanks, Hit A Bargain!

CURRENT ADDICTION

2010-05-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

My wife and I with our 5-year-old son are currently hooked on this game! What a way to enjoy wholesome fun! Oh and their MTV too is the coolest! =)

CALORIES

2010-05-06T05:25:00.000-07:00

But nonetheless simple pleasures!

CRAVING FOR THESE AT ALMOST MIDNIGHT

2010-04-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

TOKYO DISNEYSEA

2010-04-12T02:14:00.000-07:00

for full text, visit http://docgelo.wordpress.com/2010/04/02/letters-about-tokyo-10-tokyo-disneysea/

MY FOOD DURING MY 14-DAY STAY IN TOKYO

2010-04-04T23:55:00.000-07:00

For complete text, visit Beyond Toxicity,http://docgelo.wordpress.com/2010/04/05/letters-about-tokyo-11-eating-japanese/

MEIJI SHRINE, TOKYO

2010-03-24T16:26:00.001-07:00

AKIHABARA, TOKYO : ELECTRIC TOWN

2010-03-24T16:18:00.000-07:00

YAKIMIX - SM MALL OF ASIA

2010-03-02T07:40:00.000-08:00

for complete text, visit my other blog at
http://docgelo.wordpress.com/2009/11/24/smokeless-grill-sushi-and-more/

AMICI + CARAMIA

2010-03-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

This set was our celebratory meal in Amici + Caramia when our son bagged 4th place in their preschool's Declamation and Academic Contest. We dined at Amici + Caramia Tomas Morato Branch.

KUCHAY DUMPLINGS, ANYONE?

2010-02-19T05:48:00.000-08:00

Dong Bei Dumplings is a hole in the wall food place located in Yuchengco Street, Binondo Manila. It's the immediate left street right after Basilica Menor Del San Lorenzo Ruiz a.k.a Binondo Church.

Do you like freshly made chives or kuchay Dumplings?
What about combination of pork + kuchay, sounds yum? =)

Fried or Steamed? Either way, it's best dipped in soy sauce + chili =yum!

You may want to taste their Pancakes too... not your usual with butter + syrup =)

Did I already mention these Chinese treats are so affordable?
Happy eating! Happy Chinese New Year!

CHINESE NEW YEAR IN MANILA CHINA TOWN 2010

2010-02-17T13:39:00.000-08:00