Culinaire 2017: Our Passport to a Flight of Flavors

Congratulations to Juan Carlo catering for winning three awards (Best Appetizer, Best Main Dish and Best Setup) at the Culinaire 2017 event held last night at SMX Convention Center Manila.

I believe Juan Carlo emerged as the crowd favorite as well last year. They have obviously been consistent with the quality and taste of their dishes even in small servings.

Juan Carlo was followed by Conrad Manila for winning two awards (Best Dessert and Best Service). There were 14 that night but the awards were all received by the said two caterers as voted by the attendees themselves.

Though the caterers had been designated to offer specialties coming from different countries (Germany, China, Japan, Korea, Italy, Turkey, France, USA, India, Mexico, Brazil, Thailand and the Philippines) to conform with the theme of the night "Flight of Flavors," where we had a boarding pass and passport accompanying us as we roam around our different culinary destinations.

But before all the tummy traveling treats, the management of SMX welcomed the attendees and presented the good news that happened, happening nd about to happen with their many venues from Megatrade Halls to SMX Conventions Centers here in Manila and other areas like Davao and Cebu.

Conrad Manila got Best Dessert and Best Service Awards

Juan Carlo Catering got three awards (Best Appetizer, Best Main Dish and Best Setup)

The caterers who participated were the same batch as last year but with the addition of three more (Kitchen City, M Catering and Fine Foods, and Manila Catering). The original batch are LJC Group Catering Service, Tamayo's Catering, TJIOE, Via Mare, Albergus, Bizu, Conrad Manila, Hizon's Catering, Josiah's Catering, Event Shaker Mobile Bar (the only bar) and Juan Carlo.

All caterers have given their best but still everyone was required to vote for their chosen ones to win five awards. It is also times like these that many would wish they have a bigger stomach. With 14 caterers (1 bar) offering delightful dishes, you could not really fit everything in one seating so I had to go through every dish offering half-way . Meaning, I had to eat only half or just a portion of everything so I would have room for everything. I felt I had this obligation to judge them well so skipping a caterer was not an option. My mission that night was to taste everything even if it means not being able to consume the entire portions of the dishes.

To be objective in my judgement, I had to sacrifice eating only half of that Churros, just a portion of that Slow Braised Beef Ribs and Roasted Leg of Ham, just a piece of that Azuki Pearls with Rose Jelly ..... you get the idea.

Juan Carlo's Beef Brasatto truly was tender and tasty deserving of the Best Main Dish win. Their Setup is equally superb since it attracts attention in just one look, while their Wrap a la Portofino appetizer is worth every praise.

Conrad Manila's dessert CO2 Soju Lime was quite unique for me and makes you want to return for more as your happy ending.

The organizers of the event know very well to offer finger foods and cocktails before the event started, and the final drink of coffee that was available for everyone at one side of the venue.

Culinaire is really an event I always look forward to. Being my third time at a Culinaire event has given me the opportunity to compare, and I could very well say that the event has been constantly improving every year. Congratulations to SMX for a very successful event.

Debunking the Tupperware-gate: Was There Even A Plastic Container?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Bakit ba hindi kayo maka move on jan sa issue nang pag take out ng food galing sa event. Buti nga si Ate girl may sarli nang dala na tupperware. Eh yung iba jan nanghihingi pa ng supot so mas nakakahiya yun.Kelan pa nagkaron ng instruction ang mga event host na pwede mag take out ng food from events? Yung iba nga jan hindi nga nag ta-take out eh nagsasama naman ng mga nanay, kapatid, pamangkin sa events. pinakain na kayo meron pa kayo take out. Gawain din yan ni.... (Ay syet nalaglag ang Orange)" - Hao Siao

My mom used to sell Tupperware.

Yup! I still remember how she used to go visit one home to the next to offer her wares - Tupperware(s). But she's so quick in leveling up this particular "career" by getting herself promoted immediately from being just an ordinary home-to-home seller to an area manager of some sorts. This part I was too young to remember but I do get the feeling that she was something like a boss back then because she has "people" under her who gets the bulk of Tupperware orders from her.

The Tupperware home parties was probably a big hit too since it was so nice seeing so many different kinds of plastic food servers, containers, keepers, etc., on the table. From plates to salad bowls, glasses and storage bins, Tupperware has them. They also have these policy that you can return any Tupperware item that breaks and they'll replace them with brand new ones with no questions asked.

So basically, the brand had a great reputation and marketing scheme, and until now they are still on it. Though there may be some competitions around, the Tupperware brand still seems to be the most popular.

This is probably why it was the branding that was given to a blogger accused of "stealing" food from an event. The news about her so called despicable act spread online because of some bloggers and their friends who were all itching to jump on the bandwagon of hate and persecution.

This issue even made its way to another publication who even included a quote from the blogger. Well, I have to say that the article was a bit comprehensive but actually pertaining to food blogging dilemmas instead. Still, even though the writer included so many facts and quotes from other people, she still left out an interview with the accused herself.

That made her article incomplete because it is always important to get all the facts from the other party (especially the accused) involved. As we all know, inclusion of select quotes would never quantify the entire story. The article, even though it tried to raise the issue of how questionable food blogging is, added further injury to the blogging community because it was specifically pointed to bloggers. Isn't she aware that even legit traditional media review, and take home, food and restaurants as well? Don't even let me get into the sponsorship, advertising and/or "enveloped" ways of giving thanks for their support towards a brand. The difference between traditional media (TV, Radio and print) and online media (including bloggers) is already so hardly seen anymore because we see trad media following the ways of online, and vice versa.

The bashers responsible for spreading the rumors couldn't even get their information right. The accused blogger said there was no Tupperware involved. She just wrapped the food in tissue and put it in her bag. But I guess the term "Tupperware-gate" was only meant to generalize similar acts. It just proves that the Tupperware brand is highly recommended for all your food storage requirements.

They've already judged the blogger as guilty and pronounced her as a thief. Her pregnant daughter jumped into the "hate-full" conversation to save her mother from the wrath, not thinking that the rumors about her and her mother may cause harm to her delicate condition. Admirable, but sort of crazy. Her mother is tough enough to fight her problems on her own, but the rest of us who understand that all these bashing are senseless should stand up and put a stop to these stupidity.

Hey, I bash also. But only to react and ridicule the "professional" bashers instead, most especially those that would even write "love letters" to brands, PRs and event organizers, to put down other bloggers so they would gain monopoly of the industry. Attacking them would probably make them realize that bashing is not even worth any of our precious time because it only asks for a retaliation from both parties and further brings down the perception of people about "online publications."

But even after we all know that the hate towards bloggers should not be discussed on public forums or threads because it only aims to ruin reputations, "hate-full" bloggers continue to ridicule her like she's the most evil person in the world. The hate bandwagon has always been a public party among social media friends who immediately jump in on the bashing without even knowing all the facts.

Regardless if she's guilty or not, we cannot convince her to do better if we personally attack her without giving her the opportunity to explain first. You don't shame people in advance....then explain that the thread was all about saving the blogging community. You've already damaged her. Talk about adding pain to the injury - of being seen on CCTV?

That particular report that she was seen on CCTV was even disturbing. How could bloggers have access to the video footage or even get reports about it if the "casino and hotel" did not leak the information? Shouldn't there have been a questioning first between the "casino and hotel" with the accused, rather than giving out this information already to other people? I'm sure they understand that this accusation of "theft" is a highly sensitive matter that may ruin a reputation if not dealt with accordingly. Isn't there a protocol that should have been followed?

We are not siding with the blogger at all, or anybody else for that matter. But, when food will only go to waste, even the organizers themselves would take them out. They have the authority to do that because they are responsible for the event. Though we encounter a lot of events where the organizers encourage everyone to take home the left-overs, it is not really very "classy" to have take-outs on either paper/plastic/foil/cardboard or even Tupperware, especially when there are still people eating.

Stay away from being tempted to bring home those yummy dishes when some people are still around. It may be a compliment to the chefs that you appreciate their cooking, but let everyone else have their second or third serving, please. Wait until everyone has left, and then (when very few people are looking) you discreetly ask the organizers if you could take home the left-overs. OK lang yan kapag close kayo ng PR, or makapal ang mukha mo, or may advocacy ka to give food to the needy street children or those at the squatters (informal settlers) area, or you just couldn't stomach seeing good food go to waste.

To the journalist who wrote the article putting bloggers in a bad light. Please complete your information. Get the side of the blogger you quoted. We prefer to read an article where you also reached out to the parties concerned  rather than just grabbing a few quotes here and there, then arriving at a conclusion based from those itsy-bitsy information. When you confine the issue of "taking out food" among bloggers only, that is totally a wrong perception. Everyone appreciates being able to bring home something from an event whether they may be tokens, GCs, "envelopes" or "ampao", or even the excess food.

BTW, to those who intentionally get too much food from the buffet, or from wherever, and then end up only to request for them to be taken out, that is also quite "unethical." Still, that is your life. Your blog, your rules. But be prepared to expect a consequence out of that action.

To the bashers, it is much "classier" to wait for the organizers to come out with their official statement. Huwag laging nangunguna sa chismis lalo na kung wala naman pruweba. If all you have are hearsay, and you can't show any proof or evidence, better hold back on the rumor-mongering and wait until you could post a copy of that CCTV video footage, if ever there was really one that shows the true nature of the "crime."

Remember that all that negative talk will surely backfire at you. You may be able to persuade others to believe in you, but that would be limited among the weak-minded and gullible people. I am positive that the number of respectable and considerate people outnumber those who quickly judge people based from only a few facts.

Experience the Taste of Japanese Food with Buddha-Bar Manila's Corporate Chef Shigeki Iimura

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Buddha-Bar Manila, a world-class resto-bar-lounge that offers fine dining and entertainment experience, is bringing the best of contemporary Japanese cuisine as Chef Shigeki Iimura, Buddha-Bar’s Japanese Corporate Chef, visits Manila this July 7 for a meet-and-greet with lovers of good food and entertainment.

A night of gastronomical delight will follow on July 8 as the renowned executive chef showcases his culinary skills as he prepares choice Japanese dishes through a live kitchen demo.

The said event on July 8, dubbed as “Japanese Serenade,” features Chef Shigeki’s signature Japanese dishes that will be prepared right before a live crowd while a violinist plays a beautiful ensemble.

“We are glad to invite everyone who loves Japanese food for this once-in-a-year event. I know that they will get to enjoy and learn a lot from this spectacular night as Buddha-Bar Japanese Head Chef Shigeki Iimura  comes over to showcase his one-of-a-kind dishes,” said Bernadette Castillo, Sales and Marketing head of Buddha-Bar Manila.

For almost 35 years, Chef Shigeki was able to learn the different styles of Authentic Japanese cuisine from Kyoto-style to Kaga and Robata-style. With this, he achieved a reputation in the culinary world in Japan as he established a career in a top restaurant in Tokyo. After traveling and working in different parts of the world, he developed a passion for Western cuisine and its flavours.

“Beyond the passion for Continental and Japanese cuisine, Chef Shigeki is admired most because he is an artist whose talent gives people emotions displayed from the fusion of his different cooking styles,” added Castillo.

Venture Capital Cafe: Eat, Drink, Play, Meet, Collaborate and Get Funded

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Otherwise known as VC Cafe, the establishment has more than just coffee or pastries because it offers potential entrepreneurs (with great ideas) to be funded by the "venture capitalists" from the company that owns the cafe.

The place is actually dedicated for those who want to hang out, play video games, watch cartoons from the 80s, admire the toys or posters on display, while enjoying good food, and at the same time could present their ingenious ideas that are worth hearing out.

Who knows? You may have the next Google, or Facebook, or Uber, AirBnB or whatever idea. It doesn't even have to be an app or anything online. Just as long as you think you ideas have potential and sustainable, it may warrant a look from the people behind Venture Capital Cafe.

We will also focus our attention on the food available in their menu which is not limited to coffee or pastries. They have full meals with presentations that would beat those served at fine dining restaurants and hotels.

 We asked the Chef to bring out one food item per category so we could show you how their food looks like. We also had a short interview with the Chef so he could explain more about the food.

Below is the video interview we had with the Chef and the Managing Director, as well as another video showcasing the food. Also featured here are photos of the dishes from starter to pasta, salad, main entree, and drinks. We also had some dessert for sharing but it was not included on the video since it was just an additional order after everything else was done.

B&B Burgers & Brewskies: Definitely Big in Taste Even Without Beer

Wazzup Pilipinas!

As usual, I'm the early bird to come to the restaurant since I really hate to be late for a food tasting event. Just as how I hate people coming in late since if its this kind of event, the food is usually served ahead for photo (and video) before finally eating them all for tasting. So if you come in late, you'll end up eating left-overs, and worst is that you won't be having any good photos (and videos) of the food.

However, my experience at this restaurant is somewhat different because it let us order our own choice of burger (from between two selections only) and it just served what we normally call as the starters. Drinks could be cola, beer, or any liquor, but I chose a healthier drink of mango smoothie or shake since it was too early for alcoholic drinks.

I couldn't recall anymore how I got invited to this food tasting event but something tells me it must have been from a long-time sign-up opportunity looking for bloggers to try out restaurants. It's either my memory has defeated me or it was from a long time ago, and it is only now that they opted to invite us.

We were greeted by the organizer, Paulo, together with the owner and Chef who could be clearly known by the uniform he was wearing having the name tag of Marc. Chef Marc said they had a former branch at Capitol Commons but it had to close down. Right now he is concentrating on this only branch located at BGC which is now about to offer new menus for the restaurant.

We were told to bring in a plus one to join us for lunch but I completely forgot about it. Thus, I came there alone, while most of the attendees were with someone. But no worries since I left the resto smiling because of their delightful food.

Lunch with the Fambam at Red Ginger of City of Dreams Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It was a pleasant Sunday morning when my family visited the luxurious City of Dreams Manila to have lunch at one of its restaurants. An eye-catching and glimmering entrance welcomed us as we made our way into the opulent and marvelous casino and hotel complex.

We couldn’t help but utter “Wow” and wonder when we set our sights on the equally astonishing Red Ginger restaurant which was located on the second floor of the resort. As my brothers and I went in, the first thing we noticed were the sumptuous desserts elegantly lined up near the entrance of the restaurant, much to our eyes’ liking.

The atmosphere and service gave an elegant mien, and the crew were also very hospitable and tried their best to quickly establish rapport with their customers. There was even one who was very eager to chat with us, learn about our family, and even join our group photo. I couldn't recall her name but she definitely made our lunch time a lot more interesting.

We were seated on comfy chairs and presented with a menu which was already mouthwatering by means of words alone. My dad wanted a menu with pictures of the dishes but he instead asked a crew for her recommendations. We took our time to finalize our orders because of the variety of cuisines, and after a good wait, we got to admire the effort put into the presentation of the dishes. 

As an appetizer, we had the Vietnamese Caesar Salad. Nothing like the classics, as they say. The salad consists of Romaine lettuce, garlic croutons, parmesan cheese and a soft, poached egg. The first thing we noticed was that there was a poached egg in the salad, which was unusual compared to the salads we’ve tried in the past. My brother liked this menu item and found it very appetizing, as proven by the fact that he ate most of it. The salad costs an affordable 270 Pesos. 

Vietnamese Caesar Salad

Another starter was the Baby Squid in Lemongrass and Lime Soy. It was bathing in its pickled chili and served with soft-boiled egg, mustard greens and cherry tomatoes. The first for my palate to detect were the spices marinated into the squid. Coupled with rice, they made a delectable dish. This menu item costs 350 Pesos.

Baby Squid in Lemongrass and Lime Soy

Baby Squid in Lemongrass and Lime Soy

Topping my list of appetizers was the Popiah, a spring roll or something akin to our native Lumpia but stuffed with barbecued duck and eaten with iceberg lettuce, for us to dip into a vibrant and complementary chili garlic sauce. We were served four spring rolls and ate them by wrapping the spring roll with the lettuce, dipping both into the sauce and biting into their balancing flavors. The item costs 370 Pesos. 

Popiah

This is how you eat Popiah

As for the main, what I can recall first is the Singaporean Crispy Grouper. Southeast Asia is no stranger to seafood, and our Philippine palate just loved this menu item. We were served a whole fish was tender, well-seasoned with garlic peppercorns, brimming with flavor and spice from the chili. Most of us can say that this was one of their best especially when paired with rice. The grouper dish costs 990 Pesos. 

Singaporean Crispy Grouper

Next item for main was the Grilled King Prawns with Roasted Chili and Lemongrass. They were served with three sauces and presented us shelled prawns with soft flesh. The service mentioned that they base it on the weight of the catch of the day – always amounting 250g. It costs 960 Pesos.

Grilled King Prawns with Roasted Chili and Lemongrass

One of the most delectable items was a Double Rack of the Pork Baby Ribs with Sticky Palm Sugar Glaze. It was certainly a mouthwatering item on the menu because the meat was spot on. It was also flavorful and the meat just falls off the bone, ready for us to taste the time dedicated into preparing the ribs. Ribs plus the rice was a match made in heaven. A single rack costs 840 Pesos whereas a Double Rack costs 1600 Pesos.

Double Rack of the Pork Baby Ribs with Sticky Palm Sugar Glaze

Pork Baby Ribs with Sticky Palm Sugar Glaze

During the transition between main and dessert, we got to experience how accommodating the ambience and service were. We took pictures and established rapport with them by means of chatting and conversing about blogging, food and other relatable stuff like sharing experiences. 

All in all we ordered six (6) dishes. That's just like one dish for every member of our family composed of five. Which is the best dish among the six? I have to say the best for the main dishes are the Pork Baby Ribs and Singaporean Crispy Grouper, while for the starters, the Popiah. The Baby Squid is also good but is a bit of a runner-up to the Popiah. I would have picked the Grilled King Prawn as seafood dishes are my favorite, but the serving was just too little to appreciate because for a group of 5, there were only three pieces of prawn to share. 

Desserts for everyone

Finally, every member of the family had their own dessert. Mom had the Green Tea Chocolate Cake, Kyle had the Blackberry Vanilla Praline, I had Jar Mango Triffle, Kyro had the Crunch Caramel, and Dad had Jar Dark Choco Mousse. My youngest brother reckoned his dessert tasted too mature for his liking, since we three children all agreed that his had a strong coffee taste. My mango dessert was very sweet and had a jam-like texture to it, whereas dad’s chocolate dessert presented what it advertised: sumptuous dark chocolate. 

Green Tea Chocolate Cake

Crunch Caramel

Vanilla Praline

Jar Dark Choco Mousse

Jar Mango Triffle

While Kyle’s praline was nice, I barely got to comment on the rest of his dessert, for he had already finished it up before I could get a second taste. All of them were very delectable – Kyle was never too full to finish up what we couldn’t – but the dessert that won my taste buds over was mom’s Matcha Cake, which was not too bitter nor too sweet for my liking. I expected it to be bitter like how the Japanese prefer it, but of all the Matcha-themed food we’ve tasted during our family days out, I deem it the most enjoyable so far. All desserts were priced at 265 Pesos.

Lemongrass Iced Tea

The only negative I could say about the restaurant is that they don't serve fresh juices so we all ended up drinking Lemongrass Iced Tea. I try my best not to encourage the drinking of softdrinks or any sugary drinks which most of the ingredients are artificial or full of sugar that are unhealthy for everyone.

The Happy Fambam at Red Ginger of City of Dreams Manila

All in all, our trip to Red Ginger was fun, relaxing, and palatable. It brightened our mood and painted a glimpse of the luxuriant life in our minds. We reckon that it is of great quality and would love a second trip.

Michelle Tachiangco of Red Ginger at City of Dreams Manila

Be sure to watch our video interview with Michelle Tachiangco of Red Ginger. She explained what Red Ginger is all about and the recommended dishes to try when dining at their restaurant. Though I should have talked with her before ordering as she gave out suggestions from the menu that we have not tried during our visit.

I'll be sure to take down notes so I will be ready on our next visit to Red Ginger of City of Dreams Manila.

Written by Hannah Krystelle Del Rosario

Celebrate Special Occasions at Burgoo American Bar and Restaurant

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Be sure to check out Burgoo American Bar and Restaurant as they regularly come up with special meal combinations that allow you to save a lot. That's more value for your money when you partake of their special promo offers especially on special occasions like the recent Mother's Day where they had a special treat for moms celebrating the event with their families.

We recently announced their combo meals that was only worth P1,999, a definite big savings compared to buying the dishes individually. I believe the offer was now even worth every peso. So would they be offering another special combo on Father's Day? Wishful thinking!

My family and I have dine at Burgoo for a couple of times already and we find it really not just conducive to eating since they have plenty of tables and seats with enough space to feel more relaxed, but also because there's a lot of interesting stuff hanging on their walls showcasing american pop culture.

Their dishes are also very affordable that you don't really need to wait for any promos.

The spaghetti dish that came with the Mothers' Day Treat matched well everything else in the combo meal with rice, like the four-flavors of chicken, the fries,  and of course the ribs! There's also two liters of iced tea so it was really is a great deal.

Craving for Vigan Empanada from Ilocos Sur

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Bagnet, sinanglao, tinubong, okoy, ... are just some of the delicacies that can be found in Ilocos Sur. But I believe the real iconic food treat that is most famous aside from their longganisa is their empanada, one of the most favorite street food.

There may be many kinds of empanada, but the crescent moon-shaped empanada is made up of grated green or unripe papaya, mung bean sprouts, mung beans and shredded carrots.  It also shows the Vigan people’s love for vegetables in their cuisine. Its meat filing consist of whole egg and skinless Vigan longganisa which for me makes the empanada a winner.

There are actually two kinds of empanada from Ilocos. There is the light colored and crispier one from Ilocos Sur (Vigan); and also one from Ilocos Norte (Laoag) with the thicker crust and darker complexion due to the achuete added during preparation.
A walk along Calle Crisologo while eating some Vigan empanada (for either snacks, lunch, or dinner) completes an epic experience of Vigan. Well, maybe you could ride a calesa, but be careful that the horse might grab a bite of the empanada while you do your selfie or groupfie shoots.

The empanada was also among the dishes served to us when we got invited by former Governor Chavit Singson at his Baluarte property famous for its zoo where some animals could even roam around free. Nit to also forget his pet tigers where he personally has some at his home.

Five Incredible Mother’s Day Dishes from Locavore

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Mother’s Day is soon approaching and already, restaurants all over Manila are scrambling in order to provide mom with a well-deserved meal with her family on her special day.

While most establishments will offer your standard, Sunday fare of a respectable three-course meal, served with a light salad and glass of sparkling white wine, very few restaurants defy culinary conventions in order to serve mothers everywhere food they would actually want.

Enter: Locavore! Since its arrival to the Kapitolyo food scene just a couple years ago, Locavore has become a stand out in the community through its commitment to using locally grown and raised food, and most importantly, to its incredible menu that showcases re-imagined Filipino favorites.

What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than treating her with the dishes she loves the most? Let’s take a look at five great dishes from Locavore that are perfect for Mother’s Day!

Mother’s Day Indulgence at City of Dreams Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!
 

City of Dreams Manila pays tribute to moms with a variety of indulgent dining choices at its award-wining restaurants and special treats at DreamPlay, the DreamWorks-inspired interactive play space, in celebration of Mother’s Day.

At Nobu Manila, the entire family can indulge in a lavish Sunday brunch buffet on Mother’s Day highlighting Japanese spice-rubbed steamship round of Wagyu beef, lobster Miso Sinigang, baked salmon, Nobu-style Kare-kare and seafood fried rice. As an added treat, moms get a chance to win a Nobu spa for two in the Mother’s Day raffle draw. Nobu Mother’s Day brunch, inclusive of sodas, juices, mocktails, and iced tea is at P3,880++ per person. For an upgraded beverage package, P990++ and P1,990++ will be added for alcoholic drinks and premium champagne, respectively. Children ages six to 12 years old dine at half price while those five and below are free-of-charge.

Mothers and their families craving for premium Cantonese cuisine will be spoiled with ambrosial delicacies in the two Mother’s Day special set menus offered for lunch and dinner at Crystal Dragon from May 1 until May 14.

The six-course Munificent menu, offered for two to eight persons at P2,380++/person, consists of: the specialty appetizer platter of deep fried prawn balls with crab meat, chilled marinated spicy jelly fish, steamed abalone sio mai dumpling; braised seafood treasure with bird’s nest in superior broth; steamed cod fish fillet with cordyceps flower; sautéed fresh scallop with spicy XO sauce and celery; braised efu noodle with shredded pork and vegetables; and double boiled eight treasures with ginseng soup.

The eight-course Virtuous menu at P4,380++/person, an expression of fondness for maternal virtues, is good for eight to ten  persons and consists of: Cantonese “Four Seasons” combination platter of roasted duck rolls, deep-fried prawn balls, simmered shredded pork ear with spicy vinegar and marinated chilled smoked pork; home-style steamed tiger grouper with cordyceps flower; roasted U.S. duck in Cantonese style with plum sauce; wok-fried butter prawn with crispy pumpkin; braised abalone with mushroom, bean curd and broccoli; pan-fried egg noodles with seafood and baby cabbage; and a dessert platter of chilled mango puree, red bean snow skin and egg custard bun.

For an outdoor family affair on Mother’s Day, a barbecue buffet awaits at the beguiling resort ambiance of Wave poolside bar and restaurant from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Grilled prawns with lime, chicken Inasal, Lapu-lapu wrapped in banana leaves, black squid paella and aioli, oven-baked hickory-smoked Black Angus beef brisket and roasted chicken are on the buffet plus hot-off-the-grill Angus beef burgers, a selection of cheeses, dessert and crepes, and a Caesar salad station. The barbecue buffet is at P1,280.++ per person and includes one round of iced tea, soft drinks, fresh chilled juices or fruit shakes. Guests add P700++ per person for a selection of free-flowing non-alcoholic drinks, local beers and cocktails.

At Red Ginger restaurant, moms dining on May 12 to 14 for lunch or dinner can avail of a whole Ube Violet Velvet cake at a special rate of P800++.

Also from May 12 to 14, the Café Society offers Mother’s Day flowers as gift for moms, from potted orchids to bouquets of roses.

Families can opt for a fun-filled Mother’s day celebration at DreamPlay where one complimentary ticket is offered to moms if with at least two kids, and 50% discount on one ticket if with one child.

DreamPlay also offers a Mother’s Day VIP Package at P1,500 per person, which includes a DreamPlay Pass, DreamPlay t-shirt, complimentary souvenir photo, VIP access to all the attractions, and activity passes to create-your-own heart shaped gingerbread with dedication for mom and Dreamworks-inspired Mother’s Day card to be displayed at a special wall. A special dance number of Fiona with the Dreamers also awaits guests.

  

For inquiries and reservations, guests can call 8008080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com or visit www.cityofdreams.com.ph. 

Yokocho Japanese Food Court at Victory Food Market in Baclaran

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Ever since I turned into a blogger, my shirt size grew from a Medium to an Extra Large and my waistline probably turned double since I couldn't fit in my old, but still fine jeans, anymore. In my line of work, food is everywhere, and I just couldn't help but eat everything that's new for me or devour the tried and tested culinary greats.

All events would always have something served to its guests and thus the buffet spread has kept on calling me to please myself with all that they can offer. Even the pika-pika or finger foods would always have something tasty, and for the a la carte which I adore because of the creative plating, I couldn't resist trying everything on the menu.

May it be Chinese, American, Vietnamese, etc, or the local delicacies from the different provinces and regions of the Philippines, we Filipinos could not help ourselves taking pride of how we all love to eat. Adobo, Sisig, Sinigang, Litson, or whatever, we do think about what should be our national dish but why pick one when all of them are so yummy.

This is why we welcome all new and incoming restaurateurs or chefs who invest in the Philippines to tickle the fancy of Filipinos. Regardless if there are so many competitors, what is important is you have amazing recipe to come up with fabulous dishes that will surely impress the masses, or even the most critically-discerning foodies.

We definitely turned Japanese that one fine day at the Yokocho Japanese Food Court located at the 4th floor of Victory Food Market in Baclaran which is just opposite the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help also known as Redemptorist Church but we all love and know colloquially as the Baclaran Church.

A Family Staycation Weekend at Taal Vista Hotel

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Aside from the cold weather, Tagaytay city is famous for the picturesque sight of the Taal Lake. This is the in demand view that everyone looks forward to. This is also why most establishments offering a great view of the Taal Lake are benefiting a lot from the influx of tourists who want to take a gander of the magnificent postcard-like view of this amazing wonder of nature.

Everyone could not say that they have been truly to Tagaytay without that epic view of Taal Lake among their photos included in their selfies, groupfies and other photo ops may it be with their DSLRs, point and shoot or smartphone cameras. It is just an enigma that Tagaytay, a part of Cavite, is the city raking in tourism interest even though the place is part of Batangas.

But as they say, this is a beauty that is best seen from afar, and where we can marvel at the wonderful creation of nature bringing joy and fascination to everyone who sees it. Just be also sure that you are pointing at the correct Taal volcano as many are making mistakes on this particular fact. It becomes a laughing matter when even Filipinos themselves do not know the real one.

As mentioned earlier, the cold climate in Tagaytay is also a reason why people are coming there for vacation either during summer breaks or weekends. It is the next best choice of reaching a colder temperature compared to Baguio city.

This is why we were thrilled with our family weekend staycation scheduled on April 8 and 9, because we get to temporarily leave the hot and humid weather in Metro Manila, and experience a more bearable one in Tagaytay city. The best part of all is we get to stay at the Taal Vista Hotel which flaunts the best view of the Taal Lake. Besides that, the Sky Ranch is just right beside the hotel offering the Sky Eye and other park attractions that would surely entertain us during the weekend staycation.

An added bonus is the transportation service provided by the hotel where they got the Avis transports service  for our pick-up and drop-off from our residence in Pasig to the hotel and vice versa. The driver picked us up on the early morning of Saturday for an almost three hour travel to Tagaytay.

We also got to dine at their Veranda buffet restaurant for lunch on our first day and breakfast the following morning, and our first night a la carte dinner at their Taza Fresh Table, but we'll tell you all the details of our dining experience at both Veranda and Taza Fresh Table on a different blog post. It deserves their own separate stories so we could give you the magnificent and yummy details about our meals.

The game room had a billiard table and an air hockey table. We were also informed we could use an Xbox that they could put out if we want to play with it; however, we were informed that the games are also old ones. So they may be referring to the old Xbox version.

Aside from the two restaurant and the lounge where you can also order, the hotel also has a swimming pool, gym, game room, spa, business center and plenty of rooms of different sizes at both their Lake View and Mountain View hotels. They have a small section beside the Taza Fresh Table restaurant where you can buy souvenirs from a few stalls there. Not too many choices but there's bound to be something interesting among those items being sold there.

The Lake View part is the newer hotel that is right beside the Sky Ranch area. There's practically a gate between the two properties so I could imagine just walking through there. But I guess that gate is only used for special occasions as we don't see anybody entering or exiting via that way.

We had two rooms at the 4th floor of the Lake View part of Taal Vista Hotel. One for me and my wife, and another one for our three kids. This overjoyed my kids since they could have one room all for their own privacy. My wife and I can say the same thing and with smiles from ear to ear.

Both rooms have two beds, but we got the room with the grand view of the Taal Lake, while they got the one with a view of the Sky Ranch. The rooms were moderately decorated. It is not similar to the newer or top hotels way back in Metro Manila, but they are comfy and spacious enough to accommodate conveniently more than two people.

Our room had something extra - sweet treats compliments of the hotel. Our kids quickly devoured them even before we got all settled in.

The only difference from the Mountain View part of the hotel is that there is no bathtub on our rooms. The swimming pool, gym, entertainment center and spa are also located at the Mountain View part. But its a short walk from both ends of the hotel so there's no problem at all. But maybe they could build another pool at the Lake View portion since it the pool was already a bit crowded when we visited it before lunch time.

The gym had nobody there when we dropped by so it gave us an opportunity to try the equipment out. However, most were only on manual control and a bit outdated already.

At the game room, we tried both billiard and air hockey table where I won in billiards while my youngest kid emerged triumphant in air hockey.

The second day was a bit more relaxed as we enjoyed the comfy beds of the hotel. We went out of our rooms early in the morning to have breakfast at Veranda. When we were roaming around the hotel,  we discovered a mass ongoing at a ground floor function room that the hotel turned into a mini chapel. It was Palm Sunday so we always make it a point to attend church during that particular event where "palaspas" could be distinctively seen carried by church-goers.

The hotel allowed us to extend our check-out time until 4 pm so we could start traveling back home in better weather late in the afternoon. A different driver drove us back home, but we managed to go have some snacks first at Balay Dako where we had some Bibingka, Pancit Antonio and Lumpiang Sariwa. Afterwards, we stopped by The Pink Sisters church nearby to say a short prayer and explore the place in a quick tour, before going back to the van and finally returning home.

It was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments since it was our first time staying at Taal Vista Hotel. I have visited the hotel several times in the past but only to attend events there organized by the Department of Tourism so that kept me only seeing the lobby and grounds.

That weekend allowed us to explore every corner of the hotel and be amazed of how beautiful this property really is. If you are not aware yet, it is owned by the SM group of companies just as like the Sky Ranch. For me, this is very precious real estate property that many would want to own it just in case SM sells it, but I'm sure that would never happen since Taal Vista Hotel has become almost iconic in Tagaytay already.