WHEN IN MANILA, TOCCARE SPA at Antel Spa Hotel Suites is a place of escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Toccare Spa draws inspiration from its Italian meaning of “touch,” providing personalized touch to all guests, making the Toccare Spa Journey a remarkable experience.

Toccare Spa is managed and operated by Elohim Spa Solutions, Inc. headed by partners, Liza Del Rosario and Leah Dy. When you enter Toccare Spa, guests are able to choose which massage oil to be applied: lavender and rosemary for relaxation, lemongrass for uplifting your mood, peppermint and eucalyptus to ease those tired muscles, and green tea extracts to soothe and calm the senses. Room scent may also be chosen as well as the music during the treatment with some options of spa meditative, classical and even pop music.

Black Onyx Crystal Room

For a premium, guest may upgrade to private Toccare Spa Crystal Rooms. The most famous VIP solo room is the Black Onyx, which has a very elegant design, perfect for releasing those muscle tensions away.

Guests can also enjoy Toccare Spa facilities: heated jacuzzi pool, sauna room and steam room in separate male and female areas.

“There are also signature treatments that are found only at Toccare Spa. One of this is the Toccare Spa Healing Gemstone Massage, a must try massage that focuses on healing thru rejuvenating massage strokes and healing crystals which are applied throughout the body. Another unique massage at Toccare Spa is the Healing Bamboo Massage. This massage uses a combination of the smooth bamboo and human touch in each stroke.”

Pevonia Skin Care Solution are used for Toccare Spa Facials

“For those discerning spa guests who want the best in body care, Toccare Spa has a line of body treatments to improve the texture of the skin and health of the body. The chocolate raspberry truffle and coco crème souffle is the most famous body treatment since this seems to have it all – improvement of the skin thru the exfoliation, which is then followed by the absolute moisturizing effect of the chocolate or souffle body wrap. A body massage or a hair crème completes this relaxing treatment.”

“Other spa treatments offered include ear candling, hair removal services with choice of waxing or threading, nail services, hand and foot care like the green tea foot spa, which is exclusively done at the hand and foot care room. This room has 7 sizeable stations that are tailored for comfort with plush pillows propped while treatments are conducted.”

No matter what treatment is availed at Toccare Spa, each client is guaranteed to obtain not only a visible result but also a deeply relaxing experience. 

WHEN IN MANILA, encounter the true “Spa Experience” at Toccare Spa as their trained staffs soothe your mind, pamper your body, and lift your spirit.

TOCCARE SPA

4/F Antel Spa Suites

7829 A.Venue Makati,

Makati Avenue, Makati City

Contact Numbers: 

555-1232

0927-768-6556

Website: Toccare Spa

WhenInManila photos by JoTan23

When in Manila, you might dream of one day exploring New Zealand, or Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud. This little guide will ensure that if you do get to visit the land of Hobbits and Orcs, you’re sure to have a blast. Whether you’re into nature, culture, extreme sports, or café life, New Zealand has something to offer everyone.

New Zealand Wind Farm near Wellington

Let’s start with Auckland, or the City of Sails, and the largest city with about 1.3 million residents. A third of the population live in and around Auckland, and it has a temperate climate. If you want to have some fun, try leaping off a building and head to the Casino at Sky City where you can throw yourself off the Sky Tower. It’s a face first leap from 190 metres to the target below, and your friends can watch as you try to outpace your lunch on the way down.

New Zealand Sky Tower

For something a bit more sedate, try Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, a large aquarium established by a New Zealand diver and all round good guy of the same name. The ride out to the site is in a free bus that is shaped like a giant shark, and it leaves from Sky City 7 days a week. Whilst the large aquarium is full of sharks and rays, the highlight are the penguins in the Antarctic Encounter. New Zealand has a long association with the Antarctic and has a permanent operational tem there, sited at Scott Base.

Now if it is volcanoes and hot springs that you want, head out of Auckland. Despite the entire city being built on a whole pile of volcanoes, they are considered dormant. Heading north takes you to some amazing scenery in the Bay of Islands, but going south takes you to adventure. Head to Rotorua to experience geothermal activities up close, take a trip through Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Park, which smells terrible due to all the sulphur, but is quite amazing. Roturua has some of the best mountain biking tracks in New Zealand, and is home to the Cateye Moonride, a 24 hour endurance race like no other.

Heading south from Roturua leads you to peaceful Lake Taupo, a lake formed in the crater of a super-volcano. There are points around the shoreline where boiling water feeds into the lake as a casual reminder that you’re standing on top of a dormant (but not extinct) volcano. The lake is magical, and many of the local attractions are based around what is New Zealand’s largest lake. But enough of the easy stuff, lets head up a mountain.

New Zealand’s Lake Taupo in the distance

Just 40 minutes from Taupo is one of the greatest walks in the country, the Tongariro Crossing. It is classed as a moderate walk, but it is not for the feint hearted. You’ll need walking boots, and cold weather gear, and it is certainly challenging. You’ll head pretty much straight up a mountain and over the top, and the views are spectacular. It is a full day walk, and it’s best to arrange transport as the end point is a long way from the start; there are always tourists at the end confused when they can’t find their car as this isn’t a loop and their wheels are back over the mountain.

New Zealand: The Tongariro Crossing

The road from Taupo to Wellington, the Capital City, is long but is easily done in a day, stopping at Waiouru, where there is a small but perfectly formed National Army Museum. New Zealand has a proud history of military service, and the museum offers a look into the lives of those who have fought for the country and a memorial to those that have fallen in battle.

Wellington is one of the most amazing small cities in the world. It is set overlooking a spectacular harbour, and whilst it is the capital city and seat of Government, its population is only around 400,000 people. It is the cultural capital, and home to Te Papa Tongarewa, the National Museum. Entry to the main museum is free but there are often special exhibitions that require a fee. It is a must for every tourist, and there is a wealth of information about New Zealand and its history.

The City of Wellington and surrounding suburbs in New Zealand

Wellington is also home to the Weta Workshop, the company that produced all the costumes and sets for the Peter Jackson epic movie trilogy, The Lord of the Rings, and who are currently working full-time on the Hobbit. You can visit the Weta Cave, and see some of the designs, and there are a number of companies offering tours of the movie locations from the various films. However, if you want to really experience the sights of Wellington, there are many walks around the hills surrounding the city but you’ll need to pick your day carefully as Wellington is known as the windy city, and a light breeze to the locals can be a small gale.

A Weta Orc from Lord of the Rings filmed in New Zealand

To head south from Wellington requires either a flight or a ferry ride as it is the southernmost part of the North Island. The ferry takes a few hours, is a comfortable trip on the InterIslander Ferry, and it drops you in the little port of Picton which is a short drive to the main wine district of Marlborough. This is home to the infamous Cloudy Bay, and there are too many vineyards to name. Take a tour and do them all, and stop off in Blenheim before heading off further south.

Tourists either head directly south towards Christchurch, or west to Nelson for the beaches and scenery of the West Coast. My personal preference is the latter, as Nelson is a very serene small city, and offers travellers the most sunshine hours of any town in New Zealand. The drive down the West Coast takes you towards Franz Josef Glacier, a must see for environmentalists, but more importantly Queenstown, the heart of the adventure tourism industry. If you want bungy jumps, jet boating, white-water rafting or canoeing, this is the place. Be sure to plan plenty of time here, and save some money ‘cause it ain’t cheap.

Friends from New Zealand wearing the WhenInManila.com shirts

Wind Farm at Makara 

Most travellers head over to Dunedin after Queenstown, a historic university town, rather than going any further south. There is some amazing scenery down towards Invercargill, but not a huge amount else for those looking for adventure. If you time your trip, you could attend a game of rugby at the new stadium in Dunedin, before heading back up the East Coast towards Christchurch.

Christchurch is still rebuilding extensively after the devastating earthquakes of 2011. The airport is an International Terminal and is very modern. Accommodation is a premium as the rebuilding work is still a long way from complete, and many of the cities attractions were lost. The city needs tourists to help with the recovery, and a trip there is very welcomed by the local tourist industry.

It is a fitting end to a tour to fly out of Christchurch, and to leave our shores with memories that New Zealand is a relatively young country but with a rich culture and respect for Mother Nature. Our clean green image is our national pride, and we hope that our visitors leave with a sense of wonder at our scenery and a small part of our spirit of adventure.

Friends from New Zealand wearing the WhenInManila.com shirts.

At “The Beehive” New Zealand’s Parliament Building

When In Manila, or should I say, When In New Zealand, be sure to check out these great attractions! Below are some links to the favorite places I’ve mentioned in this article! Hope you all enjoy!

The SkyJump: http://www.skyjump.co.nz/

Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World: http://kellytarltons.co.nz/

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Park: http://www.waiotapu.co.nz/

The Tongariro Crossing: http://www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz/

Contributed article by Mr R, of Wellington New Zealand 

When In New Zealand: Must See Attractions from the Land of the Long White Cloud

When in Manila and in the mood for a fresh fusion of Filipino favorites but with a tight budget and fondness for homey atmosphere, you have to try Señor Inasal At Iba Pa; it is easily the best kept secret restaurant in Tomas Morato – Timog Area. Not only do they serve some of the best quality chicken inasal out there, the “At Iba Pa” part of their restaurant’s name is equally important as they serve this humongous repertoire of delicious and affordable dishes, which will surprise you as they’re coming from a very humble and simple restaurant.

While it is already interesting to learn that Señor Inasal At Iba Pa is in the middle of other larger giant restos in the Tomas Morato – Timog Area, equally intriguing is to learn that the owners of the restaurant are some of the most fascinating people I’ve met in all of my WhenInManila features. 

Where else can you find a restaurant owned by a SK Kagawad who is also 75% Spanish, 25% Ilocano, but 100% Pinoy?

Mari Rodriguez, restaurateur/owner of Señor Inasal At Iba Pa is of Spanish lineage (which also explains the Señor part of their restaurant’s name, which is named after his father Señor Antonio). He and his family lived in the Isabela (North Luzon) area and are passionate for Filipino food.

The Rodriguez Family – with Señor Antonio himself!

When I interviewed Mari, who looked mestizo and foreigner at first glance, he surprised me by speaking like an ordinary Pinoy with no foreign accent (he even spoke Ilocano to my friend who speaks the language, too!); he has all the makings of any Pinoy you know: sense of humor, penchant for drinking and pulutan, deep family-ties, and love for Pinoy food. He acquired J. Lo Inasal last year and renamed it Señor Inasal At Iba Pa just months ago. And now with his brother Chippy, Mari has been doing an excellent job for being able to feature a wide array of everybody’s favorite chicken inasal, Filipino food at iba pa!

Let me give you a gallery of mouth-watering dishes that they offer in Señor Inasal At Iba Pa.

WARNING: Do not view with an empty stomach as these photos will make you feel hungry. Or better yet, run immediately and hail a cab and rush to Señor Inasal At Iba Pa!

Round One: The Appetizers (aka Pulutan)

 The first dish served on our table was their Crispy Tenga with Tokwa. Not only were the pig’s ears crunchy to every bite, the soft-inside-but-crunchy-outside tokwa was also mixed with pork liempo slices, topped with sili and freshly cut onion rings. Served with vinegar-based sauce, the only thing you might want next is your favorite beer!

Enter Calamares with its crunchy coating and your favorite mayo-ketchup dip. Perfect for whetting your appetite!

Another thing that makes Señor Inasal At Iba Pa special is that they serve Isabela Longganisa, which comes all the way from Northern Luzon. Personally, it’s one of my most favorite among the varieties of longganisa. It’s very garlicky and crispy and really great for your -silog breakfast!

And the most popular appetizer, as it was the dish that was gobbled up really quickly, was the Chicharon Bulaklak, cooked very, very crispy, unlike other restaurants which cook theirs still awkwardly chewy in the middle. If you don’t have high blood pressure (or if you have one and want to be a daredevil), you have to try this! 

Sidenote from Mari while we were munching our appetizers: they’re actually reconsidering changing their restaurant’s name from Señor Inasal At Iba Pa to House of Crispies (or was it Crunchies?) because they love serving food which will make your teeth happily munching and muching.

I hope you still have space in your stomach because ready or not, here comes Round Two: Veggies!

Ilocanos are very proud of the way they cook their vegetables. Hence, Mari was proud to tell us about the special sauce of their version of Pinakbet. Señor Inasal At Iba Pa uses anchovy type of bagoong and has all the veggies crunchy and fresh. 

My favorite between the two Round Two dishes is the Chopsuey. Like all of their dishes, this dish is MSG-free, hence you can taste the delicious sauce with the crisp, fresh vegetables, topped with crunchy garlic bits (which Señor Inasal At Iba Pa loves to put on all of their major dishes) and quail eggs. Delicious!

Round 3: The Meats!

Of course, Mari had to serve a classic Spanish dish in their roster of great dishes. The Authentic Spanish Callos of Señor Inasal At Iba Pa is 100% Spanish as it is a hand-down recipe from Mari’s parents. Mari shared with me that their Callos is cooked for more than a day, hence when you bite the tripe and cow’s pata, the meat just melts in your mouth. And that chorizo is 100% authentic Spanish. This is a must-try, everyone!

Adobo has been a staple food in many homes, but  Señor Inasal At Iba Pa offers a unique twist because theirs is Adobong Kambing. The goat meat is tenderized with their special marinade that will surely make even a non-goat meat lover a fan.

Their version of Crispy Dinuguan is flavorful and a bit spicy, thanks to the siling labuyo and healthy toppings of crunchy fried pig parts.

Mari is also particularly fond of their Grilled Liempo because it is cooked with the simple salt and pepper method. The result is a flavorful and tender meat. This is served with atsara and vinegar-based sauce.

Finally, we have their special Bacolod-authentic Pecho Inasal. They use special sauce for this one. I love the saltiness of the sauce as well as the perfectly grilled chicken meat that makes their Inasal simply one of the best in the metro.

And you thought it’s over already? Round Four: Seafood Specials!

The Sinigang na Hipon soup of Señor Inasal At Iba Pa is done really well with its just-right sour hot soup with generous servings of shrimp. Other restos usually have only about two or three pieces of shrimp in their sinigang, while Señor Inasal At Iba Pa has enough pieces of shrimp to feed an entire family of six. 

Their Grilled Pusit is fresh from the grill and you can feel the tenderness of the squid meat with every bite.

And finally, we had their Inihaw Boneless Bangus. The quality of the bangus is topnotch as it doesn’t taste muddy as some bangus could be, and being boneless, you get to just enjoy the milky goodness of the meat. Just look at the size of the bangus, and you would agree with me that Señor Inasal At Iba Pa really wants their customers to leave with happy stomachs. 

Just look at how full our table was. Hahaha! Señor Inasal At Iba Pa served us a FIESTA worth of dinner. Everything was fantastic! 

The staff and crew of Señor Inasal At Iba Pa are very hardworking and nice people; believe it or not, some of them were actually baranggay tanods working with SK Kagawad Mari and his wife, Mayene, who actually is an incumbent Kagawad of their district as well.

The staff and crew with owner Mari and his brother Chippy Rodriguez. Thank you very much, guys! We hope and pray for the success of Señor Inasal At Iba Pa! We will definitely come back with our family and barkada to enjoy your amazing and affordable food! 

When in Manila, head over to Scout Santiago cor. Scout Limbaga, Quezon City (near Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato Area) and enjoy the fresh fusion of your favorite Filipino food at Señor Inasal At Iba Pa. 

Señor Inasal At Iba Pa

Scout Santiago cor. Scout Limbaga, Quezon City (near Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato Area)

Like their Facebook page

You can contact them directly for deliveries and reservations at 709.4761

They’re open on Mondays to Saturdays; 11AM – 2 PM and 5PM – 11 PM 

Señor Inasal At Iba Pa: Fresh Fusion of Filipino Favorites at the Best Kept Secret Restaurant in Tomas Morato and Timog Area

When In Manila, one should never forget to look back and be proud of one’s provincial heritage. Negros Occidental is my home province, the Sugar Capital of the Philippines, and I was born in the capital City of Bacolod. The Island produces approximately 70% to 80% of the country’s sugar yeild and makes it an all too plausible fact that the sugar you are most likely using right now came from the sugarcane fields of Negros under the shadow of Mount Kanlaon. Sugar is a multi-billion dollar industry that fueled the semi-legendary affluence of the Negrenses, the name of the people from Negros Island. 

Official Trailer of PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar

When people say Negrense, images of wide haciendas and luxurious parties thrown by hacienderos come into the picture. It was even said that hacienderos of Negros were kingmakers of their time due to their excessive financial wealth. Sugar Crisis of during the Marcos Dictatorship struck the industry and deemed the industry cripped especially with NASUTRA monopoly led by Marcos crony Roberto S. Benedicto. Film Director Jay Abello, himself a former farm manager of his family’s estate in the town of Isabela, offers to shed light on the fall of sugar and answer the questions surrounding the main crop of Negros.

Sacadas or sugarcane workers at Isabela, Negros Occidental

In an interview for República Negrénse at Kuppa Fort Bonifacio, Direk Jay as I call him, detailed things to expect in this one-hour and half hour documentary. PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar was a documentary done in three years that tackled on issues like reported workers’ abuses, Marcos’ National Sugar Trading Authority and preceived uncertainty due to the enactment of the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement which will cut quotas on ASEAN imports like sugar and rice, etc.

Direk Jay on a shoot for PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar

While Direk Jay is known for comedy films like Namets, a comedy love story on Negrense Culinary Traditions, he was convinced that this is “hardest work yet” since it touched the sensibilities of everyone in Negrense Society, cutting across the social divide from the financially-stricken hacienderos to sacadas. Hardcore economists like Prof. Winnie Monsod of the UP School of Economics and fellow Negrense, Dr. Bernie Villeges of the UA&P School of Economics also appears on the documentary. Direk Jay maintains that the documentary is open-ended which means the audience answers the questions.

Former Presidential Mansion of the defunct Republic of Negros

While subject weights heavy on Negrenses, the film offers a fresh insight to previously silent Negros History and Culture. The film will finally premiere soon in Manila this May 31, 2012 at Powerplant Cinema 2 in Rockwell Center. With Masskara Festival fast approaching this October, have a peak into a crisis that created this colorful festival of Bacolod City to give a new reason for Negrenses to smile despite problems. Get atuned to the uniqueness of Negrense culture founded on resilience and strong faith shown through the pounding of times. The ticket price is at P400 with a schedule of showing at 6pm and 9pm.

When In Manila, join the Negrenses in rediscovering heritage and celebrating a culture of resilience through PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar. The best seats are running out fast so hurry and buy your tickets now!

PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar

c/o Nextmedia Advertising & Communications, Inc.

2116 Cityland 10 Tower 1, 156 H.V. Dela Costa St.

Salcedo Village, Makati City

 Marketing Hotline: 0927-280-5888|0910-681-4328

Online: Facebook (Groups | Page) | Blog | Twitter

WhenInManila Photos by PUREZA Marketing Team

PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar Premieres in Manila

When In Manila, enjoy life and take an afternoon break. On a sleepy afternoon, we decided to try out one interesting Japanese-themed coffee joint called Akiba Cafe. My now consistent food review partner, my Mom, together with co-writer Jo Tan and her husband Mark Tan tapped our way around to the Second Floor of SM Megamall A to this quaint but lovely stand-alone stall.

Triple fun for coffee and tea with Akiba Café’s Trifle Drink

The Akiba Trifle Trio: Coffee, Cream and Tea

Everyone was expecting a full-sized café but since we are in the mood for desserts so this got work. We got curious with the Trifle Drinks that are being bannered around the café so everyone got a Trifle Drinks like Coffee, Cream and Tea. I seem to be out of place when I got a hot Kyoto Macchiato instead for the sore reason that I was sleepy. Coffee Trifle might have worked since Mom found the coffee strong which I would love. The coffee and cream is supposed to be unmixed but mixing them well would work for those who are not used to having their coffee black. Jo enjoyed her Tea Trifle, actually the signature drink.

Kwaiken Puppy Cake: Too Cute to be Eaten, Too Yummy to be Ignored

Akiba Cafe’s own Yogurt Softcake

Since we came here for desserts, we scoured Akiba Café cake displays for best eats. What got me curious is the Kwaiken Puppy Cake which was too cute to be eaten! For the curious side, I changed my mind, too yummy-looking to be ignored too. Yogurt Softcake – yogurt and a cake, cake yogurt? This is getting more interesting. Instead of reeking our minds for the best choices, we just asked the friendly staff to get us the specialty cakes as well as that week’s new batch.

Akiba Café’s Sweet Potato Cake filipinized by me as “Camote Cake”

Kwaiken Puppy Cake aka. “Unfortunate Puppy’s Ears”

Your hungry food reviewers got our hands on two unique treats – Sweet Potato Cake and Kwaiken Puppy Cake. Camote as a cake is not a strange concept for me since I tasted a Potato Cake from my home province but this one approached this one in a totally different way. Instead of mixing mashed potato in the chiffon, it has a thick layer of mashed sweet potatoes instead and the ones used a not our usual market camote. It has a yummy combination with a thin chiffon layer too. As for the cake that was too yummy to consume, we got its “ears”. Kwaiken Puppy Cake is actually a vanilla cake. If you would taste this one, you would not have mercy for the “puppy” anymore for its too yummy to be ignored indeed especially with smothers of chocolate.

Casualty of the hungry reviewers: Akiba Cafe’s Yogurt Softcake

Notice the two pieces of cream puff from Akiba’s Cream Puff Cake

We got ourselves from cuteness to the more serious tastes with Yogurt Softcake and Cream Puff Cake. Yogurt is one healthy snack and have it with a cake makes for a healthier dessert. A bit of sourness from the yogurt balances well with sweetness and makes it less “umay” than your usual cakes. The Cream Puff Cake is actually a tandem of chocolate cake and cream puff. I got one ball of cream puff and it explodes with a tasty vanilla filling which complements the strong chocolate taste.

Green Tea Cheesecake: my personal favorite from Akiba Cafe

Every afternoon desserts deserve a grand finale and Akiba Cafe has one too – Green Tea Cheesecake. Every customer at Akiba agrees since it has been the cafe’s best seller. The taste of green tea goes with with the slightly sour and sweet taste of the regular cheesecake component. Actually, the balance of taste is a prevailing theme of Akiba Cafe‘s cakes that makes customers go back for treat. Lunch and dinners are usually the times where Akiba Cafe is busy for people going in for desserts. The interesting thing about Akiba Cafe is that they change cake varieties every week but you can order the previous week’s cake as a whole. Cakes like those above have been a constant order and has made it to the cafe’s permanent selection of cakes.

When In Manila, hop right in to SM Megamall A and savor unique Japanese desserts and drinks from Akiba Cafe. Like Akiba Cafe on Facebook since they will announce the opening of a new branch soon!

Akiba Cafe Megamall

www.theakibacafe.com

2/F SM Megamall, Building A

Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

Phone: (63947) 344 1025

Email: akibacafe@yahoo.com

WhenInManila photos by JoTan23.

Akiba Cafe: Desserts Going Japanese

When In Manila, make a choice for your favorite food that suits your lifestyle perfectly. Rockwell Center is a perfect place not just to shop but find good eats for your satisfaction. Tucked in the middle of Rockwell is LuLu Restaurant, a restaurant known to have been the place where President Noy and Grace Lee once dated in the better days. Looks like a good date idea for couples who do not want to be bothered isn’t it? More than being a good place to have a date, good food is at the premium here. Together with my co-writer Jo Tan, her husband and blogger Mark Tan, her Mom and my Mom, we immediately got to business of food tasting. We were lucky enough to have been joined by Chef Tom Hines, the mind behind these innovative cuisine.

LuLu Restaurant’s Vegetarian Appetizer: Zucchini Blossom Tempura

Smoked Tinapa and Crab Cake, food innovation from LuLu Restaurant

Zucchini Blossom Tempura? You heard it right! Tempura is known to be mainly seafood but for this, they used flowers or “blossom” of what we know as patola in Tagalog. Zucchini’s relative’s flower, the squash, has also been used in cooking but the zucchini flower has a richer flavor, especially when Davao Goat Cheese was added as filling. Together with tempura, we also had Smoked Tinapa and Crab Cake. Yes, it is tinapa or smoked fish chopped and mixed with crab meat as filling. This is one of their innovative cuisine that fuses local flavors with international recipes, though the owners are apprehensive with using the term “fusion cuisine” for food at LuLu Restaurant might be new but still familiar to the tastes of both foreign and local.

My favorite LuLu Restaurant innovation, Argentinian Empanada

LuLu Restaurant’s signature dips for Mezze with Pita Bread

Innovative recipes are a common theme in LuLu Restaurant‘s menu and my personal favorite is the Argentinian Empanada. We have always been familiar of empanadas especially the famous Ilocos Empanada but the Argentinian version has a stronger meat taste. Argentinian beef is known globally for distinctive taste, blending well with our local recipe. This was coupled with a Roasted Tomato Chimmichurri Dip. For a lighter dish, we also tried out their LuLu Mezze or pita bread with choice dips of Hummus Beiruti, Salade Olivier and my favorite among the dips, Roasted Eggplant.

Classic Mac and Cheese, with a truffle twist by LuLu Restaurant

LuLu Restaurant’s version of Trofie Carbonara

Mac and Cheese was never my favorite nor would I like to eat it, but put truffles in it? Add to that five kinds of cheeses which does away with a monotone in flavor I usually associate with the dish. Mac and Cheese is a LuLu Restaurant Favorite and so was mine too! Boring dish? Not anymore! Its related pasta dish, Trofie Carbonara, also with truffles, was another favorite. What is a trofie anyway? Trofie is a kind of pasta which is very much unfamiliar to Filipinos unlike other kinds of pasta like spaghetti, macaroni and fettuccine. This Trofie Carbonara goes well mixed with chicken and wild mushrooms.

Green Tea Salmon served with Lemon Mashed Potato

Grilled Chicken Supreme with LuLu Restaurant’s twist of Shiraz

Say cheers to Green Tea Salmon and Chicken Supreme! When I try out restaurants, I would usually take note of their fish and chicken dishes and good thing they have these two. Tuna and Salmon are my top choice of fish and surely LuLu Restaurant‘s Green Tea Salmon attracted my attention since it was cooked Sous-Vide. In this method of cooking popularized by the French, a piece of salmon was placed inside a sturdy airtight plastic bag and immersed in warm water in hours to tenderize. This ensures that the salmon remains intact even when cooked and juicy. Japanese Green Tea was added to add aroma to the dish. What’s the deal with their Chicken Supreme? It was cooked adobo-style with Shiraz added for extra flavor. Born in a city that is home to the original chicken Inasal recipe and several other chicken recipes, it passed my taste standard of being juicy and flavorful.

Ultimate Pork Chop, an ultimate goodness from LuLu Restaurant

Lamb Shank with Lemon Vermicelli Rice

Since food experience must be ultimate, LuLu Restaurant’s Ultimate Pork Chop was served. Forget about the overcooked pork chop, this one’s soft, juicy and retains the freshness of meat. In order to balance the saltiness, it is served with mashed sweet potatoes. The Lamb Shank at Lulu Restaurant is a wonder! One of the toughest meat to tenderize, a piece of choice lamb shank was cooked sous vide for twelve hours! Out came one of the juiciest lambs I have ever tasted with bone marrow intact. The meat falls off the bone and is very tender, good even for the oldies with weaker teeth.

Lemon Glazed Cheesecake, Dark Chocolate Tear and Butterscotch Apple Pie

LuLu Restaurant’s new dessert offering, Coconut Creme Brulee

Just as you think everything is done, make room for not just one dessert, but desserts! On the list was a Dessert Sampler of three amazing desserts from Lulu Restaurant‘s. The first one I tasted was the Lemon Glazed Cheesecake that has yogurt as one of the main ingredients. Awesome! More awesome though is the Dark Chocolate Tear that is not only name because it is shaped like a tear but would really make you have tears of joy. I almost shed tears for who wouldn’t while eating big chunks of premium dark chocolate? The dessert classic, Butterscotch Apple Pie, would never fail you. I am a fan of apple pies and I wish I had more but make room for Coconut Creme Brulee. Ah, it was a flavorful rest from the sugar rush and induced my appetite for more desserts.

More chocolate offerings from LuLu Restaurant with Chocolate Mousse…

…and even more with Chocolate Indulgence Sugar Free

Just as when you thought that Chocolate Tear was enough chocolate for the night, there is more! Chocolate Mousse topped with strawberries and my favorite dessert for the night – LuLu Restaurant’s Chocolate Indulgence. Before you cringe, the good news is that it’s Sugar Free! This is not the usual chocolate cake, it has layers that have unique flavors in harmony. My dessert philosophy goes that desserts should never be too sweet and this restaurant’s The Grand Finale selection of desserts was an experience worth going back to in LuLu Restaurant, especially with a date! It was indeed a grand finale for the night.

When In Manila, and want to treat your special someone for a sumptuous dinner date, drive down to LuLu Restaurant at Rockwell Center in Makati City for they would make your date extra special. 

LuLu Restaurant

G/F South Joya Tower, Joya Drive

Rockwell Center, Makati City

WhenInManila photos by JoTan23.

LuLu Restaurant: Your Lifestyle, Your Choice Healthy Food at Rockwell

David Choi Live In Teatrino, Promenade

Originally to be held at the Music Museum, I was surprised that David Choi Manila Concert was moved to Teatrino,

Promenade.

It was my first time at Teatrino, unlike the people at Music Museum, the service of the staff of Teatrino were “OFF”.

I didn’t need them to treat me important—just PROPERLY. In which they failed to do. Oh well.

Anyway, David Choi Manila Concert’s opening act was the bubbly Ashley Gosengfiao. I didn’t know she sings until I heard her that night.

What can I say, her voice was as angelic as her face. She sang acoustic while playing her guitar. All spotlights on her. Her voice was so pleasant that even the fly would listen to her singing. Haha! (A fly was on her microphone almost the whole time, it didn’t go away even if Ashley shoo-ed it already.)

She sang a few original songs.. But when she started singing her version of John Mayer’s “Back To You”, the crowd just went silent and listened to her. Well, so did I.

After her last song, the crowd cheered as Ashley introduced and welcomed David Choi!

David Choi is a Korean American who became popular at YouTube because of his voice and different music videos.

Looking at David Choi alone, he might not be your “boy-next-door-heartthrob”… but give this guy a chance to sing, you might just FALL IN LOVE with him, OVER and OVER again.

David Choi sang quite a few from his current album Forever and Ever like “This and That Is Life“, where during the chorus, we audience raised sticks with David Choi’s face. (Well, that was a surprise for him) and I guess it worked!

 Audience waving sticks with David’s face

Unlike the previous shows of David here in Manila, this time he had a band with him on stage. Which made his performance more “lively” and happy. David also sang “Missing Piece”, which was one of my favorite!

He also sang his 6 million views YouTube hit song “That Girl”,

The ones we love tend to stay in our hearts and minds long after the relationship ends. While some move on quickly, others dwell and heal at a slower pace. Whatever the case, the thoughts, emotions and memories we experience during this time are heartwrenchingly powerful and real.

in which, he worked with YouTube producers WongFu Productions in making the music video.

Of course, David Choi is known for playing acoustic songs! He didn’t let his audience miss that chance! He played “By My Side” with only his guitar. Oh yes! He made the girls’ hearts melt when he started singing! 

Check out the video:

David Choi – By My Side

While he was playing, fans came in front and left white balloons for David. 

 As his final song, David gave us his version of “What A Wonderful World” for his Filipino fans! You rock David Choi! 

 David Choi – What A Wonderful World

Overall, I really enjoyed the show. I loved how David kept constant communication with his audience! And yes, he even gave signed posters to lucky fans who answered his questions correctly! Indeed it was a fun-filled night with David Choi!

So When In Manila, next time David Choi comes to Manila, be sure to get your tickets! I guarantee you its worth watching! :) 

David Choi Forever and Ever Tour is brought to us by SoulMannaLive

DAVID CHOI FOREVER & EVER TOUR DATES

http://davidchoimusic.com/tour

Check out David Choi :)

www.davidchoimusic.com

http://apps.facebook.com/davidchoimusic/
http://twitter.com/davidchoimusic
http://www.myspace.com/davidchoimusic

My David Choi pass!

David Choi with Vince Golangco and Tracy Abad after guesting at The Wake Up Show 

David Choi Live in Manila Season 3!

When In Manila, there are many quirky food choices you should try out and the Offbeat Burger at the Offbeat Cafe is one of them!

I really have this insane sweet tooth. I love cakes, doughnuts, ice cream, cookies.. The list goes on and on. I also love burgers. It’s usually what I order from fast food joints when my friends and I eat out.

Now, I was browsing around Facebook last Monday night and I stumbled upon this Facebook page of Offbeat Cafe and what caught my attention was the burger that not had buns for its bread, but Krispy Kreme original donuts! At first I thought, “What the heck, how will that thing taste like?” But here’s a burger with a donut, a fusion of the 2 food I absolutely love! I saw the address of Offbeat Cafe and it’s at The Collective in Makati so I thought why not try it out. I was really curious to what it tasted like.

Come the next day, I dropped by at the Offbeat Cafe after work. 

 The signage outside Offbeat Cafe

When I entered, the first thing that caught my attention was the nice wall decorations! They really add to the nice ambiance of Offbeat Cafe.

 I want this painting in my room!

My mother would love this. She has a thing for earth-themed metal ornaments. 

 More paintings!

The space at Offbeat Cafe is small so this place is perfect for intimate gatherings.

Counter top seating

Dining area

After looking around the place, my burger has arrived! It’s the infamous donut burger with an all beef patty with cheese, bacon, and a sunny side up egg sandwiched in between a glazed donut. It comes with fries on the side. I was looking at it for a long time and trying to figure out in my mind how it would taste like.

Joey Suaco, the owner of Offbeat Cafe, happened to be there too and hanging out with his friends. I heard him say “The Offbeat Burger is insane! I mean, donut on a hamburger?” Insane indeed, but people keep coming back for it!

The honey-glazed donut is screaming “Eat me, the Offbeat Burger! I’m delicious!”

Well, who am I to resist?

 So after taking the first bite, I had a few minutes to process the taste. I was like “This thing is weird. But it tastes good! But it’s still weird. But good.” Well, that’s the only two words I figured would describe the taste of it. It’s an explosion of flavors in your mouth that you wouldn’t think would blend well together.

Drink for the night, Raspberry Ice Tea

Offbeat Cafe Menu

Another great thing about Offbeat Cafe is their fine selection of beers. Local and imported beer are available for that ultimate bonding session with your friends!

I wish our fridge at home was like this!

There are many books, magazines, comic books, and games that you and your companions can do while at Offbeat Cafe. They have this little corner of recreational activities. 

Games and magazines!

Books and comics! I see Avengers and FHM there. The men approve!

Really nice bottle chandelier

I got to talk for a while with Offbeat Cafe’s main man Joey Suaco. He said Offbeat Cafe has been around at The Collective for one and a half years. I really think it suits The Collective ambiance because of its quirky interiors and intimate space for friends to hang out. The chef who conceptualized the menu of Offbeat Cafe was Chef Mickey Wineke.  So he was the man behind the Offbeat Burger. I wonder how he thought about it. Maybe he loves donuts and hamburgers like I do!

Joey Suaco (farthest from left) with his friends

When In Manila, you should definitely drop by at Offbeat Cafe to  experience the quirky ambiance of the place and the flavorful explosion of the Offbeat Burger!

OFFBEAT CAFE

7274 Malugay Street Makati City 1203

Facebook Page: http://facebook.com/Offbeat-Cafe

Offbeat Cafe: Home of the World Famous Donut Burger

 Rufo’s Tapa!

Rufo’s Tapa—–Whenever I’m craving for good old Pinoy comfort food when in Manila, there’s only 1 name which comes to my mind… and that would be Rufo’s Tapa!

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of meeting them when I did a feature about Rufo’s Tapa for one of the Sooo Pinoy Search for the Ultimate Pinoy Food Blogger challenges. I was sooo fortunate that the universe led me to them for their owner, Sir Paul Reyes was so kind and very supportive so today,   I’d like to tell you more about their dishes which I always always crave for!

For this special feature, I’ve invited some dear friends of mine.  Fortuantely, Charlie’s husband Alex, who is also a fellow musician, arrived from Hong Kong that day, so bringing them along at Rufo’s Tapa was perfect since he’s been craving for Pinoy comfort food for a long time now!

 meet princess Chin Chin, Alex and Charlie

Rufo’s Tapa has been around since 1984 and is growing even more and more because of the dedicated people behind it. Like in all the carefully selected spots which I feature, I can only say good things about Rufo’s Tapa. I can say that this place would be one of closest to me because literally, their store at the Pearl Plaza at Pearl Drive in Pasig is just a few steps away from my office! So each time I’m craving for Pinoy comfort food, I can easily drop by their place!!

There is more to Rufo’s Tapa  than just their irresistibly mouthwatering “sausy” tapsilogs. They got a whole array of mouthwatering rice meals which will surely blow you away…. Today, my mission is to show you the must haves and my personal picks!

Let’s all start with their Crispy Danggit (89php) which I really adore! I love it so because they are all perfectly deep fried to perfection! The dried fish isn’t too salty and the serving size is just right! Dip it in vinegar and voila!!  Heaven in each crunchy bite!! I usually crave for this when it’s raining…. It reminds me of those times when classes were suspended due to typhoons so mom and I would cook danggit and fried rice early in the morning! It’s also the best most perfectly prepared danggit meal as compared with its other competitors!

Rufo’s Tapa‘s Crispy Danggit surely has this primordial effect on me

Boneless Bangus (109php) -Since I’m a lover of seafood, of course the Boneless Bangus at Rufo’s Tapa will always be on my list of favorites! Like their danggit, it is also cooked to perfection. The “atchara” compliments this meal so well!

 Rufo’s Tapa‘s Boneless Bangus

You can’t go wrong with their Liempo (130php)! A whole slab of this full-flavored  tender yummy specially marinated pork belly will keep you pumped up in any ordinary stressful day! Since it’s grilled, less guilt as well!

Rufo’s Tapa‘s  Pork Humba (89php) is definitely another personal pick of mine! A taste of something truly Visayan right at your table! Love love love! The crunchy nuts gave it that nice texture! The sauce tastes very authentic!

the Pork Humba of  Rufo’s Tapa— highly recommend!

 No matter how busy my day gets, I  always find time to enjoy their Pork Humba!

They also got a treat for your little ones! The Rufo’s Spaghetti Bola-bola (59php)  holds this very Pinoy flavor which locals will surely find so tasty and satisfying….

  topped with bola- bola!

 For the ultimate test, we asked little Chin Chin to be the judge!!

the verdict: APPROVED!!

Rufo’s Tapa also offers a variety of very Filipino sweet treats for that delightful finale…..

 The delectable delights of Rufo’s Tapa

Creamy Fruit Fiesta (35php) , Black Sambo (35php) and Leche Flan (39php)

 Chin Chin loving the Leche Flan at Rufo’s Tapa

Hanging out after work? Here’s an insider tip: The Pork Sisig (140php) at Rufo’s Tapa is so affordable and tastes very much like the expensive Sisigs at your regular bars! So if you want delicious affordable Sisig, remember Rufo’s Tapa!!! The price of their beers are also very affordable! Another good thing about it is that, their stores are very safe and the ambiance is very cozy without any noisy house music making Rufo’s Tapa  an ideal place to really bond with your friends!

 the 140 peso satisfying Pork Sisig only at Rufo’s Tapa

 have it your way!

mix mix mix!!

 enjoy!!!!

So privileged to finally meet the very dedicated man behind Rufo’s Tapa – Sir Paul Reyes!!!

So what do I love most about Rufo’s Tapa? Aside from the food, is a  firm belief in this vision which I also personally support… It’s about having pride on even the simplest of our very own dishes. About appreciating and recognizing our roots. It’s about bringing all the flavors of the islands right here in Manila for everyone to savor… A celebration of our very own heritage which can be done  anytime as we please! Thanks to Rufo’s Tapa, these Filipino culinary treasures are made available to us 24/7!

 So whenever craving for good old-fashioned Pinoy comfort foods when in Manila, always remember Rufo’s Tapa!!!

Rufo’s Tapa

Pearl Plaza, Pear Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

contact numbers: 633.26.49 and 475.44.02

Rufo’s Tapa: Fine Affordable Pinoy Comfort Food Anytime Anywhere

When In Manila For real, heavenly Chinese food that is  craved  for by people who know what is really Chinese cuisine- head on over to Tung Lo Wan Greenhills. After all,  Greenhills is like the second Chinatown in Manila- next to Binondo of course.Tung Lo Wan used to be Red Prawn but when they changed their name and with some changes made by the feng shui expert, business seems so much brisker!

Tung Lo Wan is actually another name for Causeway Bay in Hong-Kong but this Wilson Street in Greenhills; a road famous for small Chinese and Japanese eateries and groceries which caters to the affluent Chinese Filipino community.

Yours truly with Wilma Lee and Pebbles Lee

Reggie Lee and Wilma Lee own the place. They certainly know the restaurant business inside and out because they used to own the Sun Moon Garden crab restaurant formerly located in Shoppesville Greenhills and Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong. Ask any Chinese family in the Philippines about Sun Moon and I am sure they remember the place well. It was located on the basement of Shoppesville Greenhills.  My grandfather actually loved Sun Moon so much that he would eat in the Shaw Boulevard branch so often since it was a stone’s throw away from his Lee Street office. Wilma Lee happily informed me that she knew my grandfather well since she was his lunch companion and he always ordered their Buddha soup.

 Buddha Soup (P250 per bowl) 

A little background about Buddha Soup: this very delicious soup that is a meal in itself was named  such because legend has it that monks in a nearby monastery jumped over the fence of someone’s home to eat Buddha Soup. They smelled the wonderful aroma from the house next door, got very tempted and “jumped over the fence”.  Mind you, monks were not allowed to eat meat but it was that good that they had to have it. Buddha Soup contains quail eggs, bamboo shoots, scalopps, abalone mushroom, shark’s fin, chicken, Jinhua ham, pork tendon, ginseng and taro. Very high in calcium and other nutrients.

Chopping Station ala Hong Kong

 Fried Prawns with Salted Egg (P250)

Steamed Local Seabass “Apahap” (in Tagalog) with Tauso (P1,200 / kg. + P50 Tauso/ serving)

Erap’s Favorite

Haianese White Chicken- Whole (Imported P750, Local P500)

Fried Squid with Salt and Pepper

(P260)

  This one is the best!

Crab with Chili (Singapore Style) (P1,800/ kg.)

Nice presentation with the head

Stuffed Lotus Chicken (P600)

Notice: Have to order this one day in advance 

Inside of yummy Lotus Chicken; the table next to me saw it and ordered one for her mahjong group.

 Braised Oxtail in Pot (400)

Roast Pork/ Lechon Macao

Men out there: This is THE Perfect pulutan with beer! This was not fried but roasted to perfection!

 Crabmeat Lomi (P350)

Steamed Live Boneless Eel with Black Beans (Seasonal Price)

Chinese Food Feast  fit  for a Queen 

Tong Po Ro that goes with Steamed Buns (P250) 

Pair the Lechon Macao with Mustard

Sauce for Haianese White Chicken

 Mustard from Unimart (I think)

Flocks of Chinese and Filipino families would converge here, especially during weekends. I myself have seen the former President Joseph Estrada twice, enjoying his favorite Haianese White Chicken with special sauce. I was informed he dines there very often with his friends and family. My mother found it funny when I even rang her just to say that the former President and maybe future mayor  was seated across our table. She finds my delight in seeing famous personalities kind of off but then I digress.

There is ample parking in Tung Lo Wan Greenhills as it is located in a building right across Santi’s and it is within walking distance from DEC, the favored grocery of the Chinese. There is also basement parking available so no worries. Upon entering, there is a chopping station on your left which Pebbles, the daughter of the owners shared that  the feng shui expert they consulted recommended it be located at since it will bring luck.

Wilma Lee, the owner, is a very vivacious, spriteful warm person who is always dressed to the nines. I think she lights up the whole place! She loves to share little stories here and there which makes everyone laugh their hearts out. Furthermore, she is very helpful and openly shares her knowledge about Chinese cuisine and what goes well with each. I think she has great public relation skills which is a huge asset when you own a restaurant. Plus she has a good heart; maybe  that is why good fortune seems to follow her, too.

The interiors of Tung Lo Wan Greenhills are nothing fancy but this does not matter. What is very important is that the food is delicious and indeed they all are! Tung Lo Wan Greenhills is very consistent in quality and presentation and Wilma Lee and family are usually there to oversee everything. Their waiters are old timers who are not irritatingly all over you unlike in some restaurants I have eaten at.

Tung Lo Wan Greenhills serves authentic, super fresh food seven days a week. If you are with children, Wilma suggests ordering their tempura and roast chicken with Yang Chow fried rice. My son loves their Yang Chow. They do not close after lunch so merienda is always an option. You may order Lomi or Pansit Canton or whatever you fancy. This was one unforgettable meal! Everything tasted fantastic. I give it an excellent rating! When In Manila

Tung Lo Wan Restaurant Greenhills

\

199 Wilson Square, Wilson Street

Greenhills, San Juan City

Call 723-9201 or 661-7794

Hours:  11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

When in Manila, June is the (chosen) month when most of the couples say “I do”. But before  the bride walks down the aisle, and the parents talk about the reception details, Romeo must first prepare for the bigger event – the Marriage Proposal.  ”What is the most creative way to propose?” is what a man usually asks his buddies, before practicing the line – “Will you marry me?”

Picture from http://www.flickr.com/photos/bwr/

When in Manila, we will give you places where you can kneel down and be creative. Here’s the list of 5 places where you can be creative and do marriage proposal in Manila.

1. Manila Ocean Park

If you and your girlfriend love nature and the life under the sea, bring her to Manila Ocean Park and once again reconnect with marine life with attractions like Dancing Jellies and Sea Lion show, or even a visit to Antartica.

Photo by Antonio Carranza, Jr of  Pusangkalye.Net

Proposal Tip: We once had our company Christmas Party in Manila Ocean Park and during the Musical Fountain Show, the lights and water flashed our company logo. We were so amazed and delighted! You can probably ask them to flash - “<Your girlfriend’s name here”, will you marry me?” and ask the funny characters in the show to bring flowers to your girlfriend.

Manila Ocean Park
Quirino Grandstand, Manila
http://www.manilaoceanpark.com/

2. Gandiva Cafe and Archery Range

The Gandiva Cafe and Archery Range is one of the nice places to visit to bond with your significant other while discovering an ancient sports – Archery. The place also offers food for vegetarians. 

Proposal Tip: We are not asking you to wear Cupid’s costume, and take the arrow and bow (but we are not stopping you if you want to!). What you can do is to put the ring in one of the balloons and ask your girlfiend to aim on it (now she has to be good and hit it). Once she did, take it and ask her the magic words.

Gandiva Cafe and Archery Range
7/F One Corporate Centre Bldg.
Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gandiva-Cafe-and-Archery-Range/140651039350389

3. City Kart Racing

Even if you are not a fan of Formula One or racing, you will love this place because it gives you a sense of independence and adventure. Racing in City Kart is like racing in a real racing tournament with your scores being updated and flashed real time on LCD monitors, and even in Facebook.

Proposal Tip: Race with your girlfriend and let her win the race (of course). Wait for her in the finish line with a flag saying “Will you marry me?“. You just need to pray that she keeps her focus and say “yes”.

City Kart Racing
7F Park Square One, Makati City

http://www.citykartracing.com/

4. Enchanted Kingdom

Who doesn’t love Enchanted Kingdom? I never know a couple who has never been in Enchanted Kingdom for a date. All darlings, honeys and bebes must have had their picture taken in Space Shuttle, Anchors Away or Jungle Log Jam. In that note, isn’t fun to go back to the park where the magic is, and propose?

Picture from Enchanted Kingdom website

Proposal Tip: If you can ask Mr. Wizard and the Enchanted Kingdom gang to do a flash mob for your proposal, that would be great. But if you want something more creative, you can ride the Space Shuttle and pretend to fall (now, you need to talk to the Enchanted Kingdom management for the whole set-up). Paramedics and lifesavers must then come, with all the drama. Just when you are lying in the stretcher with your girlfriend holding your hand, take the ring and ask the question. Just make sure she doesn’t have any heart problems.

Enchanted Kingdom
Sta Rosa, Laguna

http://new.enchantedkingdom.ph/

5. The Mind Museum

The Mind Museum is one of the most celebrated museums in the country today. It is a place of information, discovery and innovation. You can have endless pictures with the moon, globe, dinosaur, fossils, austranaut and even the brain while discovering facts and fun things about life and the world we live in.

Proposal Tip: If you can ask the giant dinosaur in there to ask the magic question, that would be awesome. If you think that is not possible, you can make your own robot and ask the Mind Museum management to set it up somewhere – so when your girlfriend checks on it, it can ask the question you have been dying to ask her.

The Mind Museum
JY Campos Park, 3rd Avenue
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

http://www.themindmuseum.org/.

These are just few of the many places where you can propose. If you think that proposing is just too much work, always think of your girlfriend’s preferences and personality. Besides, it is really easy to come up with such a big proposal, with fireworks and orchestra; but always remember that most of the time, it is the simple things that is hard to do.

 When in Manila, there are a lot of  perfect places to propose and say “I do”.

 5 Fun Places to Propose: Unique Spots in Manila to Get Down on a Knee for your Marriage Proposal

When in Manila, going to school is not only the option for education.

To further its campaign on homeschooling and responsible parenting, the Homeschooling Association of the Philippine Islands (HAPI) launched its second annual national conference today, bannering the theme “Laying a strong foundation” to underscore the importance of homeschooling as a trans-formative force in nation-building.

The Homeschooling Association of the Philippine Islands (HAPI) is an organization composed of the homeschooling families, the students, and the home education resource providers working with the Department of Education (DepEd) to change the current mindset about homeschooling, and to promote it as a premiere education option. According to HAPI Chairman Edric Mendoza, the homeschooling movement has been gaining ground in the last three to four years, and the current number of students who have availed of homeschooling education has gone up to approximately 5,000. This figure does not include independent homeschooling families who are not connected with resource providers but may seek DepEd validation through testing.

Present during the event was Department of Education (DepEd) undersecretary Tonesito Umali who highlighted the importance of developing a framework to institutionalize the homeschooling system in the country. He said that homeschooling should be strengthened in light of the perennial problems that confront us today.

In addition, keynote speaker Bo Sanchez, an esteemed inspirational talk resource person and the author of several scholarly works.Mr. Sanchez expounds on the significance of choosing to home school if parents are truly committed to laying a strong foundation for their children’s education. Mr. Sanchez’ whose passion for homeschooling has moved him to establish an academy for parents who desire to teach their children at home, and who does homeschooling for his two sons, said that home school is one of the best environments where the relationship between the parents and the children can flourish, because of the time spent together and the teaching process that allows not only guidance of the children but also growth for the parents as teachers as well.

In her speech, Mrs. Debra Bell, a recognized homeschooling advocate from the US and best-selling author of award-winning books such as Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling, Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling Teens, and the Ultimate Planners for Moms, Teens and Students explained how effective homeschooling should be done. A former high school and college teacher, Mrs. Bell has passionately devoted her time to homeschooling her four children who have all successfully finished college and are now rearing their own families. Currently taking her Ph. D. in Educational Psychology, Mrs. Bell sought to provide scientific and academic reasons for why homeschooling is ideal. She said that homeschooling allows the child to study and learn at his own pace and according to his developmental abilities. Homeschooling allows the recognition of each child’s uniqueness and individuality and so, it allows the facility of learning. Homeschooling provides a relaxed and nurturing environment that may be more attuned to the personality of the student and which allows parents to tailor-fit their teaching as according to the needs and wants of the individual learner. In addition, homeschooling allows children to be free from the pressures of labeling, categorization, and competition that conventional schooling inadvertently espouses. The family is made the focal point of the child’s education and socialization, and therefore, parents become the main influencers in their children’s life. As such, children are raised to embody the values cherished by their families.

HAPI advocates home schooling because it recognizes both its educational as well as its social values. Aside from providing a better environment for each child’s learning, home schooling also helps in the cultivation of the family, the basic unity of society. Chairman Mendoza said that they wish to change the system one family at a time, staring with their own. To grow the movement, they’re planning to organize more national and regional conferences because they believe that the primary goal is to aid and build positive awareness first. This is important because currently, most families are either not aware that the system exists, or have misconceptions about the system. Second, it aims to be in partnership in DepEd in creating a framework so conventional schools can embrace homeschooling. This will hopefully result in better reception and protect the parents’ liberty to homeschool. Lastly, it also plans to help homeschooling organizations in their pocket programs, so each may be able to help more families.

Mendoza said that when families are transformed and strengthened, then the overall community is also positively impacted. Because homeschooling has the ability to transform and strengthen families, they recognize its ability to transform entire communities, and its potential in changing the nation. They are advocating not only an efficient way to teach children but also an innovative way to strengthen the family and the nation.

They say school is the second home. But why do we even have to leave home in the first place?  These advocates believe that when done within the confines of the home, schooling can be more HAPI in the Philipines; When in Manila

HAPI: Who says one has to go to school to be educated?

When in Manila, this blogger found herself surrounded by a merry mix of Pinoy fans who bravely lined up for hours (some as early as 1pm) to watch Lady Gaga’s final sold-out performance at the newly built Mall of Asia Arena at the MOA complex in Pasay city.

Just why is Lady Gaga so popular here? For non-fans and observers, it would be easy to dismiss her as a manufactured freak show, but judging from last night’s performance, this blogger verified that she’s a true artist – as real and as human as the rest of us.

There are so many praiseworthy things about this tour stop. First, in terms of production, the central piece of her stage was the huge castle that opened and closed at certain segments of her show—like an adult version of the Poly Pocket toy houses that became popular in the 90s. Her so called “Kingdom of Fame” was fully usable from top to bottom and inside out. It became part of the show throughout the night because Lady Gaga and her dancers danced one each platform and window, and it even housed the band members throughout the show. With effective lighting, it also evoked different images and moods, perfectly complementing each song in the set list.

 

Of these, my favourite was the white ensemble she wore while singing Bloody Mary, which had butterfly sleeves that made it look like she was wearing a terno! Moreover, this costume covered a small moving platform that allowed her to glide ethereally across the stage, perfectly fitting the eery concept for the song. Of course, she wore her fair share of revealing outfits, but what I liked about it was that the vulgarity was not there, perhaps because she was using those costumes as part of her concept and not things to sell her sexuality. Aside from the costumes, who else can pull off having a keyboard welded onto a motorbike, a huge meat grinder, and pig carcasses on stage? She also had a Pinoy guitarist who played Dandansoy (a Visayan folk song) on his acoustic guitar! Awesome!

Meanwhile, in terms of sound and music, the acoustics at the new Arena enveloped the audience with this great wall of sound that heightened the experience, enabling the viewers to “sense” the show in all aspects of the word.

Finally, it was the artist herself who made the whole thing memorable. “Stage presence” is not even enough to describe how she holds your attention; commanding her little monsters to raise their “paws up” at one point and belting out her songs on another. I couldn’t tell how much of it had back tracks (or if there were any), but it was pretty obvious she was singing her heart out that night. If any other doubting Simons remained, however, one of her encore songs, Edge of Glory, had her singing with just a piano at the beginning. She.can.really.sing. And sing she did, to the delight of her fans—all the crowd favourites were included from her older albums, Poker Face, Paparazzi, Just Dance, Love Game, and Bad Romance; and from her recent album, like Judas, Edge of Glory, Marry the Night, Americano, Bloody Mary, Hair, Bad Kids, and the anthemic You and I and Born This Way.   

I always say this about Lady Gaga—it is not easy to dismiss her as a pop fluff because first, she writes and produces her own songs; second, she plays the piano well; and third, she has the pipes to prove her worth as a singer.

In the end, When in Manila, and stripped down to just a piano, her voice, and her sincere words, these were all that her fans needed to bring the night to a joyful conclusion. To her critics, she has this to say: “They think they can use my name to spread hate, but I can spread even more positivity with my music.”

 The Born This Way Ball Tour in Manila is brought to you by Ovation Productions and the Mall of Asia Arena.

To see the first night of the Lady Gaga concert and more videos, check out Vince’s post here - http://www.wheninmanila.com/lady-gaga-manila-concert-sheds-tears-on-philippine-protests-video/

Married the Night, Lady Gaga’s Second Sold Out Show in Manila

When In Manila, great news for make-up and beauty enthusiasts. Our co-working space COWO and Bottega Studio (led by US Trained Celebrity Make-up Artist Au Mauricio), will be holding a workshop entitled “MAKE-UP LIKE A PRO” on Saturday, June 9, 2012 for the whole day. Learn the secrets of professional make-up in the comfort of a cool workspace for collaboration at the heart of Ortigas Center. For Php 5,000, you get PIXI professional make-up products worth Php 3,500 and a lot of freebies that makes it all worth it! Early bird price is Php 4,750. You also get that discount if you are a COWO member. Food and drinks are also included.

For more information, inquiries and how to register, please call or text Gaye at 0917-5062344.

http://www.cowo.asia/

Make Up Workshop in Manila by Au Mauricio: MakeUp Like a Pro

When in Manila, you have to try the newest Pinoy fried chicken, Manang’s Chicken! Currently with nine branches all over Metro Manila and three weekend market locations, Manang’s Chicken is on fire and currently gaining popularity among fried chicken lovers. What makes Manang’s Chicken your new favorite Pinoy fried chicken? Let me count the ways.

Their Tomas Morato branch features a wall, telling the audience about their humble beginnings.

Like many popular and best restaurants, Manang’s Chicken‘s story starts in a family’s kitchen. For the past 20 years, the unique Manang’s Chicken was already being served on the tables of the Gerodias’s family. Jill and her sister Jen, before they became lawyer and chef respectively, adored their cooks’ unique take on fried chicken–and as you might have guessed, they fondly called her “Manang”. What’s so special about her chicken was that it’s deeply fried twice (hence crunchy) and it’s also sweet–and not too sweet or subtly sweet but it’s just the exact kind of sweetness that we love when we taste sweet barbecues. Seasoned with sesame seeds, Manang’s Chicken is crispy and sweet–it’s Pinoy because unlike the other fried chicken from that resto that came  from Korea (which is quite salty, by the way), Manang’s Chicken will definitely make you feel you’re home with every bite.

Manang’s Chicken wings are awesome! You can have them just sweet as they are, or, if you’re ready for a tongue kick, try it mild spicy or very spicy!  

Last week, together with a few friends, I visited the Tomas Morato branch of Manang’s Chicken. Chef Jen Gerodias Slagle, COO of the commisary of Manang’s Chicken, shared with us some more of the success story of Manang’s Chicken. She told us that they started selling just at Mercato or weekend markets not more than two years ago and in a very short span of time, they already opened their 9th store on Visayas Avenue. They hope to open around ten more stores in the next twelve months and we wished her luck and congratulated her on the success of Manang’s Chicken. 

We ordered the a lot from the menu and since my friend, Marvin, is on diet, he opted for the Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich. Of course, my natural instinct was to ask him how does the sandwich taste as compared to other Chicken Sandwiches like the McChicken Sandwich of McDonald’s and the Zinger Sandwich of KFC. His verdict?  Manang’s Chicken Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich is better than those two! Wow!

Eat your hearts out, Zinger and McChicken! Meet your delicious new challenger, Manang’s Chicken‘s very own Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich!

Of course, the sandwich is never complete without Manang’s Chips and Dips!

Of course, my other friends and I feasted on, what else, but the Chicken Cuts and Chicken Wings of Manang’s Chicken! I would never forget my first bite of this chicken: since it was served hot, my teeth sank into its crispy coating, which was deep fried twice to get rid of the excess oil from the chicken skin, and my tongue met the sweet, delicious sauce smothering the meat. As I chew, the crunchiness of the skin and the sesame seeds and the delectable and delightful sweet sauce on the thigh’s meat reminded me of happy thoughts. Remember that scene in Ratatouille when the food critic Anton Ego finally tasted the cooking of the film’s charming protagonist? That’s exactly how it felt for me. Childhood thoughts appeared in my head and made me smile silly. 

If only life were as sweet as Manang’s Chicken Wings… 

Thigh and Leg: my favorite chicken parts. I didn’t request for it, but they ended up on my plate anyway. Nice! 

But more than just their already perfect fried chicken, Chef Jen surprised our group with some of the dishes that Manang’s Chicken is proud to offer. 

First up is Chef Jen’s pick: Pork Garlic Liempo Rice Meal. It’s crispy and is served with crunchy garlic bits topping and vinegar-based sauce.

Manang’s Chicken‘s crunchilicious Pork Garlic Liempo Rice Meal!

My personal pick, on the other hand, is  Sesame Beef Stew Rice Meal. The tender beef, slowly simmered in thick sesame sauce, served with steamed veggies, was heavenly good. It reminded me of Kalbi Stew of Korean restaurants.

 Delish!

If this still doesn’t satisfy you, you can also try their Cheezy Spaghetti or Fried Pansit. Their deep fried pancit canton is topped with chicken, vegetables and their very own secret special sauce. 

Of course, you have to mix this first! Yummy! This is a favorite among Manang’s Chicken’s regulars.

One of the best parts of the meal was the dessert. Manang’s Chicken recently launched this latest twist on a classic dessert: the Velvet Sundae. What’s so special about this? They bake the moist velvet cake on the spot (that’s why it’s served hot) and imagine this topped with vanilla ice cream which is by itself topped with fudge and chocolate chips. Oohlala!

 On their website, they promised that Velvet Sundae is “a sundae with a taste of heaven inside”. It’s quite accurate. :)

After an hour of stories and great food, my friends and I felt as if we were warped back in time when Jen and her sister Jill were enjoying their favorite Manang’s dishes in their very own kitchen. The dining experience made me feel at (and miss) home. 

When in Manila, you have to try the newest fried chicken craze in town and I can assure you that Manang’s Chicken will be your new favorite Pinoy fried chicken. Check out the nearest branch in your area.

Manang’s Chicken

Store Locations and contact numbers

Like their Facebook page

Follow them on Twitter

Visit their Official Website 

You can contact them directly at 847.5657 or 847.5090 or at manang@manangschicken.com 

Manang’s Chicken: Your New Favorite Pinoy Fried Chicken

The Stock Market cafe at Bonifacio Highstreet

The Stock Market cafe has been around since 2008. It is currently managed by Bistro Group of Restaurants and is known for their concept of serving fresh, filling and wholesome food made from especially selected organic ingredients.

The Stock Market cafe and its fresh interiors! 

To complement the healthy concept of the menu, The Stock Market cafe has carried over the fresh idea over to its interiors. I love the clean and crisp vibe throughout the place; high ceilings, the huge windows that let lots of sunlight in, the breezy and refreshing color scheme of green, yellow and white, and the quirky pineapple details found on the flooring and walls. Overall The Stock Market cafe gives off an inviting ambience that sets the mood for fun family lunches and hearty after-work meals.

An assortment of  fresh fruit juices!

The Stock Market cafe presents their Tempting Twosomes

I tagged my friends and my trusty photographer Hannah along to sample the newest selection of The Stock Market cafe, the Tempting Twosomes sandwiches. These are a pair of stuffed and satisfying sandwiches served with a side of The Stock Market Harvest Salad, Tomato and Cheese Supreme soup, or clam chowder. You can take your pick from three sandwich varieties: the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, the Tuna Melt, or the Pan Pastrami.

Clam Chowder and Tomato and Cheese soups

Tuna Melt Sandwich 

The first sandwich we dug into was the Tuna Melt Sandwich. It’s made up of deep fried battered bread stuffed with tuna and cheese, served with curly seasoned fries. I just loved how crunchy the battered bread was, such a quirky take on sandwich buns! The tuna filling was really creamy and packed with tuna slithers you can actually bite into. I thought I tasted a bit of crab meat as well, that was a pleasant surprise!

 Pan Pastrami

Next up was the Pan Pastrami which is made up of fresh pastrami, flavored crispy onion, mesclun salad and spicy mayo dressing on focaccia bread. The crispy onions looked so good! We munched on most of it first before eating up the sandwich. This one was very flavorful and quite spicy with the seasoning of pepper and spicy mayo dressing, but I think it worked well with the mesclun salad cooling it down and the thick focaccia bread balancing out the flavors.

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

We then tried the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich; two sandwiches on a skewer filled with thinly sliced grilled marinated pork tenderloin, smoked turkey and vegetables. The best part about this sandwich was that the tenderloin was super juicy; it very well complemented the refreshing cucumber, lettuce and tomato in it. Our sandwich had some curly fries stuffed in them too which added a crunchy kick to it!

Seared Salmon 

We were also served Seared Salmon which is fresh Norwegian Salmon served on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes, vegetables, and caper tomato sauce. I usually steer clear of salmon because I’m not a big fan of its texture and bland flavor, but The Stock Market’s version was very moist and tender, and it didn’t taste pungent at all! The garlic mashed potatoes were a flavorful addition to it as well.

The Stock Market cafe carbonara 

The Stock Market cafe version of the carbonara was a hands-down hit. It was creamy and saucy but not overpoweringly so, and the organic egg yolk mixed with the pasta even boosted creaminess to greater and more indulging heights. I especially loved that there was an abundance of mushrooms!

The Stock Market Harvest Salad

My friends just loved The Stock Market Harvest Salad. The fruity salad dressing added a refreshingly sweet and zesty tang to the crunchy greens, and the caramelized walnuts added some bite to the grapes and bananas added in.

The La Sarbonne crepe 

Finally, dessert! The filling and wholesome trend remains consistent with the dessert options of the Stock Market cafe as fresh fruits and organic ingredients take center stage – none of the fatty and unhealthy stuff! We had the La Sarbonne crepe, which consisted of banana and mango slices with ice cream and Hershey’s chocolate syrup. The mangoes were perfectly ripe and the crepe pastry was soft and delicious, it was easily our favorite part of the dish.

Pistachio Sans Rival Cake

We also had The Stock Market cafe Pistachio Sans Rival Cake. This was my most favorite part of the dessert selection because I love Sans Rival! The wafers were soft and chewy, and the butter filling was rich, sweet and creamy! The pistachio nuts were a nice alternative to the usual peanuts added in Sans Rival, and lent a distinct flavor to the cake.

The Stock Market cafe’s Banana Explosion!

We were in for a surprise when we were served the Banana Explosion! Such a sinfully delectable dish that had so much going on! It had bananas that were deep fried in a coating of batter, served atop a bed of whipped cream with ice cream in the middle and strawberry syrup. This was attacked by everyone within seconds. The deep fried bananas were so original and creative; I am still amazed at how unique this dish is.

My friends and I enjoying our lunchie :)

Good times at the Stock Market cafe

Overall our lunch at the Stock Market cafe was such a great experience. There’s nothing like bonding with your friends over satisfying and refreshingly healthy meals! The Stock Market cafe sure offers rustic and flavorful dishes that make for a perfect meal to be shared with friends and family. So when in Manila, be sure to stop by the Stock Market cafe!

 The Stock Market Cafe

Located at the Ground Floor, Bldg. 3, Quadrant 4, Bonifacio Highstreet, Global City Taguig

For reservations and inquiries, you may contact them at: 8562888 local 1898

You can also email them at:

thestockmarket@bistro.com.ph

gmthestockmarket@bistro.com.ph

CORE YOGA !!!!

For the longest time, I’ve been seriously thinking of  an effective way to be fit. As a well known food and travel blogger, maintaining my normal weight is definitely a struggle. Just imagine visiting various restaurants every weekend! It’s a lot of fun of course however, I also have to look after my health. I’ve been soooo stubborn in dieting the past months and like most people, I find going to the gym to be quite boring. 

These past weeks, I’ve been feeling so weak and lifeless… my body felt so  heavy and my mood was at an all-time low. I really wanted to do something about it. I wanted to do a worthwhile activity  which would be very meaningful for me so I could also recommend it to people as well.  Good thing my editor-in-chief Vince referred  me to our friends from Core Yoga.  Hmmmm Yoga?  I’ve never tried it before and I heard it’s really hard! I checked out their website and read how yoga is not just an effective way to be fit, but more of a way of life…. Hmmmmmm (curiosity levels rising!). Fortunately, they have a branch near my office (AIC Burgundy Tower, just at the back of Robinson’s Galeria).

I’d like to show you some photos and tell you all about my 1st Vinsaya Yoga experience at Core Yoga …..

there are several house rules which need to be observed and respected

the Core Yoga studio looks and feels so conducive for relaxation.

When I finally entered the Core Yoga studio, I noticed that the people there were so calm

And so the session started…….

I never thought it would be this difficult! 90 minutes of various stretches and poses… inhaled and exhaled from one pose to another… but the nice thing about it was that,  after you get used to it…. you feel more focused. 

It’s my 1st ever time to sweat like this… best feeling ever!

 I found myself in tears during the cool down.  unexplainable inner peace!

 I remember feeling so happy and energized after the session to the point that I felt as if my body is  yearning more of it!

 Namaste!

I never thought those 90 mins would be so full of realizations… It was like getting to know myself all over again.  After that, I noticed I’ve been losing a lot of weight and my mood has improved drastically! I feel more patient and in control of my emotions.  I never thought the benefits would be this great! Definitely more than just the physical !

Yoga is indeed a way of life for it will grow on you. Yes, it may be hard at first but after going through all the pain, all the ecstasy is just worth it! Personally, I find it to be such an effective way in communing with yourself. I remember feeling soooo alive afterwards! The following day, I noticed huge improvement with my posture. So amazing!

Another must try when in Manila!

Thank You So much to the wonderful people of Core Yoga, to Sir Tristan and Ma’am Rose for this wonderful experience!

Core Yoga Asia

1504 AIC Burgundy Tower, ADB Avenue cor. Sapphire Road, Ortigas Center, 1605 Pasig, Philippines

contact # (02) 576 3756 or (02) 576 3857

email: info@coreyogaasia.com

 join them on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/coreyogaasia

Core Yoga Asia: A Life Changing Experience!

When In Manila, come check out this BIG EVENT on MAY31, 2012 – THURSDAY

FLEX EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTIONS
present…

“STRIPPED: A Lingerie and Bikini Fashion Show”  @ CANDYSHOP SUPERCLUB!

Sexy Female Models in a one-of-a-kind Lingerie and Bikini Fashion show by Renowned Phil. Fashion Week Designer, ALEX PIGAO.

Music Powered by DJ JayB! HOSTED BY ‘The Naughty but Nice’ MC VINCE RYDER!

Tickets are P180, inclusive of:

- 1 ANTONOV APPLE / LIME / ICE

- Gift Items from our sponsors and Party Freebies

- First 50 guests get an additional one (1) FREE ANTONOV bottle

FREE VODKA / TEQUILA SHOTS from 9pm to 12midnight!

WIN AMAZING PRIZES IN OUR RAFFLE DRAW!

Join our BOOTY SHAKING CONTEST and win FREE DRINKS for you and your friends!

Co-Presented by:

ANTONOV
SAN MIGUEL CORPORATION

Powered BY:

MELLOW94.7
WhenInManila.com
Jam88.3
Gboyz and Ggirlz

FOR TICKET INQUIRIES / VIP Reservations, Contact me at: 09152432687

Candyshop Superclub Party: STRIPPED Lingerie and Bikini Fashion Show

Red Bull threw an amazing party for their launch in the Philippines. It was at the Makati Stock Exchange Plaza which is a wide open area, with fountains decorating the middle. The DJ station was pumping out tunes when I got there, with free Red Bull and champagne drinks all around. And in case you didn’t know, this is the best drink known to man!

Lots of music, dancing and celebrities for an all out cool experience. While I didn’t get to try it, in one section they had F1 racecar driving. A little different than your average PS3 game when you have headphones and an F1 Red Bull steering wheel!

And of course there was no stopping the party with celebrities models all around. From my experience, Red Bull is very popular in the US and I’m sure you guys will like it here. Just make sure you’re ready to get a jolt when you plan on drinking it!

Now, let’s see if I can’t do something about the 24 pack of Red Bull sitting in my living room…When in Manila Red Bull will give you wings to party ’til the break of dawn!

The event also included a t-shirt exhibit, t-shirt silk screening booths, live street art, a shirt sale, and showcased great music from bands like Top Junk, Nameless Heroes, and Craft’s regular Party Rock Saturdays band, Aspen Way.

Tribe of Tees highlights the bold personalities of the youth and welcomes artists of the same wavelength to share their creativity and be one with their crowd. With the launching of the new website that incorporated a simple “submit and vote” feature, and was established on the basis of networking, interpersonal relationships, and a common vision about what life is supposed to be, the brand truly creates something inspiring for its unique breed of individuals.

Nameless Heroes

While the t-shirt exhibits, silk screening booths, and live street art were taking place, Top Junk opened the night with their original songs that immediately pumped up the audience. They were followed right after by Nameless Heroes, and the finale was of course, Aspen Way. All the while, Tiger Beer was served to everyone who participated in the launch. It was definitely a good evening with friends, which encompasses the Tribe of Tees theme.

When in Manila, check out the cool and unique designs of Tribe of Tees and get updates on their latest events and design contests!

Tribe of Tees

http://www.tribeofteesshop.com/ 

Tribe of Tees: I Am Who I Am Because of Who We All Are