tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66762925848503096802024-03-14T05:16:00.501+08:00Everyone's got an inner gourmandeGourmand ( \gu̇r-mänd, -mənd\).
In French, it means someone who loves to eat and drink in excess. In modern English, it means someone who is heartily interested in good food and drink. In Tagalog, matakaw.The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-86445745799049137102012-07-06T08:50:00.002+08:002012-07-06T17:47:26.846+08:00Best of Summer Part 1 - There's more to Boracay than just the beach<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">Oh how I’ve missed this. The last three months have left me
with very little time to sit down quietly in one corner to relive the recent
tasty meals I’ve indulge on and share my experience with you. Thanks to one of
my good friends who has been pressuring me to update my blog (yes, Minay, that's you!), I got reminded of
this one important aspect of my life that I didn’t realize I’ve been missing. A
lot.</span><br />
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Anyway, so much has happened in 3 months! Let’s backtrack, shall we?</div>
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Definitely one of the highlights of my summer was my Boracay
trip (or should I say, food trip) with my barkada where the months I spent in
the gym trying to tone my body were rendered immaterial in just a few days of
pigging out. Time and again, I have proven that there really is more to Boracay
than just the beautiful beach and the funtabulous night parties. This island is
home to some of the best dishes that I always look forward to every summer.</div>
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<u><b>Mañana Mexican Cuisine’s Burrito</b></u></div>
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<a href="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/254498_10150619170520523_3700790_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/254498_10150619170520523_3700790_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Because I love variety, I prefer ordering the combo burrito
meal with one chicken and one beef burrito. The rice is served outside so you
can manage how much you’d like to eat. It also comes with hot sauce, jalapeno
sauce, and salsa. If you’re still trying to stick to your diet, this meal can
be shared by two. </div>
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<u><b>Real Coffee's Jack's Omelette </b></u></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJax9DpKTdw/T_Wj5p8zejI/AAAAAAAABUk/2ALIHdqFMio/s1600/P1100963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJax9DpKTdw/T_Wj5p8zejI/AAAAAAAABUk/2ALIHdqFMio/s400/P1100963.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Waking up to a beautiful view of Boracay’s white beach can
be made even more perfect with delicious breakfast from Real Coffee. Aside from
the much in-demand Calamansi Muffins, their breakfast meals are also worth the
lack of sleep. One of my favorites would have to be Jack’s Omelette—made with
three well-cooked eggs and a generous serving of ham, onions, cheese and pesto,
served with buttered toast. Pair it with their signature coffee, and your
morning will not be less than wonderful.</div>
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<u><b>D’Talipapa’s Seafood Feast</b></u></div>
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Our trip to D’Talipapa was scheduled “strategically”. We
were already expecting to eat more than our fair share and so we made sure to
go there over lunch, so we have the afternoon to burn all the calories we’d
take in. It would also help to take a stroll back to the beach to burn the
calories faster :)</div>
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With the adjacent restaurants all inviting customers to have
their seafood cooked there, it was quite hard to choose which one to go to, so we
just picked the one that had a lot of people inside. </div>
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We went to the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">palengke
</i>(market) area to shop for seafood and decided on oysters, shrimp, crab and
squid. Everything was cooked really well and tasted so fresh—from the Oyster
Rockefeller, to the Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp, to the Butter Garlic Crab. We
didn’t even mind that the sauces tasted the same. I mean, who could go wrong
with lemon + butter + garlic right?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SoseV5dpUe8/T_WnLthCX-I/AAAAAAAABUw/ZiaXN5OrKUg/s1600/P1100948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SoseV5dpUe8/T_WnLthCX-I/AAAAAAAABUw/ZiaXN5OrKUg/s400/P1100948.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iSrSIGAfteg/T_WorrZo3XI/AAAAAAAABU8/Owx_J7rNM1Q/s1600/crab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iSrSIGAfteg/T_WorrZo3XI/AAAAAAAABU8/Owx_J7rNM1Q/s400/crab.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">Butter and Garlic Crab - Photo courtesy of <a href="http://pauguevarra.tumblr.com%20/" target="_blank">Pau Guevara </a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xcYNwf9y7_Q/T_WotJPcrWI/AAAAAAAABVE/AqytNZfA-x4/s1600/oysters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xcYNwf9y7_Q/T_WotJPcrWI/AAAAAAAABVE/AqytNZfA-x4/s400/oysters.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oyster Rockefeller - Photo courtesy of <a href="http://pauguevarra.tumblr.com%20/" target="_blank">Pau Guevara</a></td></tr>
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All in all, we spent around 400 per person for everything –
with the service, rice and soft drinks. Not bad at all, I would say.</div>
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Wow, thinking about all of this makes me wish it was summer all over again and I'm back in that island paradise feasting on delicious food. </div>
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Well, the long wait just means one thing. Nine months head start to get that elusive Boracay body I've always wished for, so I can have some room to spare for some more beach food tripping :)</div>
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</div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-63458216723432458052012-04-06T21:36:00.000+08:002012-04-06T21:36:05.546+08:00Satisfy your kebab craving at Persia Grill<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Wow, has it really been more than a month since my last post? Although it might seem like it, I assure you that my palate and my stomach have not taken a hiatus from glorious food. I've just had my hands tied the past few weeks because of a big change that I've decided to undergo. Yup, the gourmande is now officially a big girl living on her own (on weekdays anyway), to escape the daily 2-hour traffic I have to endure just to get to work. My friends and officemates were right when they said it would be life changing. For the better, of course. :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So anyway, I've been so busy with moving in and settling in that I've barely had the time to sit down and relish the delicious moments I've had doing what I love the most and sharing those with you. Hopefully this post would make up for lost time.</div><br />
This week, as we commemorate the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our family is celebrating another blessing -- the 4th birthday of my nephew, Tye. This is him trying to blow, well, eat, his birthday candle :)<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">My eldest brother had a sudden craving for Persian food. My other brother, who lives just across Greenbelt, suggested that we go to Persia Grill. None of us in the family have tried it there except for him, and so we all thought it would be good to try. It's owned by Kian Kazemi, a former PBB house mate. I believe he's half Iranian so he must know enough about what makes authentic Persian food.</div><br />
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Its interiors gave off that intimate and cozy feeling that's fit for both a family gathering and a date. I particularly liked the accents on the walls -- instruments on the left side and those beautiful lighted branches that swirled gracefully on the right.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I liked how they used instruments as accents</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spot those beautiful branches behind my beautiful mother :)</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">Persia Grills' menu had a much wider offering than most kebab places. Aside from the usual kebab that us Filipinos love eating for dinner or as an after party feast, they also serve grilled blue marlin, tuna belly, or norweigan salmon for those who are avoiding meat. And for those looking for a more interesting Persian dining experience, they offer Abghoust, Vegetable Mussaka, and Gormeh Sabzo, among others.</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">For our appetizer, we couldn't decide between Hummus and Baba Ganoush, and so we decided to go for the combination platter, Peshgahza. This dish gave us a taste of their 4 best dips, the two that I mentioned plus Must O'Khlar (Persian yogurt dip with cucumber) and Salad Oliveyeh (a mixture of potato, mayo, egg and chicken). All four dips were really good. My favorite would have to be Baba Ganoush or the eggplant dip. It had that strong and distinct yet creamy taste of eggplant that would have you craving for more. The pita bread was soft and slightly sweet, which complemented well the different flavors of the dips.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peshgahza - P345</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">For our main course, most of us went for the tried and tested Chelo Kebab Kobideh. It came with two sticks of charbroiled beef, long grain rice topped with a cube of butter, two pieces of grilled tomatoes, and yogurt dip. The beef was cooked just enough to give off that smoky taste but still keep its tenderness. Bottles of delicious white sauce and hot sauce that go perfectly with any kind of kebab were there at our table. Needless to say, moments later, our plates were swimming in these yummy sauces. The hot sauce was extra hot, which I definitely enjoyed. In fact, I enjoyed my whole meal that I didn't mind overindulging on rice :)</div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chelo Kebab Kobideh - P199</td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tye enjoyed taking bites of pita bread and some pieces of kebab while playing with his new hot wheels light speeders care of C and I. Even I was amazed at the new technology of toys nowadays. This came with a kind of flash light that would paint on the car when the light touches it.</div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A child's happiness is the most sincere of all</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">While Tye enjoyed playing with his new toys, me and my family enjoyed the delicious food and the great company. Being away from home for most of the week makes me cherish these moments even more. Seeing my family at the end of each week always gives me something to look forward to, and something to be extremely thankful for. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I guess this is the theme of my Lenten season this year. It's not just about Penance, but also Gratitude. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Being sorry for our sins and remembering that Christ died to save us is one side of it. The other is all about being thankful that Jesus came to this world to do just that.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Advanced Happy Easter, everyone! May yours be full of not only delicious food, but also delicious moments you can be truly thankful for.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>The Persia Grill branch featured in this post is located in Prince Plaza II, Makati City -- right across Greenbelt 5.</b></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-33781869112259326422012-02-19T23:47:00.001+08:002012-02-19T23:49:43.214+08:00Everyday should be Valentine's Day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Valentine's day may be over, but that doesn't mean boyfriends should stop taking their girlfriends out to a nice, sweet, but not necessarily expensive dinner. Since C and I are always on the look out for delicious dinners virtually every week, it really feels like Valentine's day all the time :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For all you couples out there, here are two date-worthy places we've visited in the past few weeks that you may want to check out when you feel like being extra sweet even during the most ordinary of days.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>1. Cafe Juanita - Kapitolyo</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I was surprised to find Café Juanita in a new and much better location, but still along West Capitol Drive in Kapitolyo. It had a fully refurbished exterior, looking much more modern than its previous old house-looking façade. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, before you can even begin to notice the food, the first thing that'll catch your attention in this restaurant is its very colorful interiors, with furniture and accessories coming from different inspirations--Asian, Filipino, and tribal to name a few.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Where else can you find a restaurant that will greet you with a colorful view like this...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Interest you with wall pieces like this...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ld7uHakSSc8/T0EGyQA9xaI/AAAAAAAAA6A/JFR8DFuu8r4/s1600/P1030834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ld7uHakSSc8/T0EGyQA9xaI/AAAAAAAAA6A/JFR8DFuu8r4/s400/P1030834.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Amaze you with artfully-made chandeliers like this...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21npw737I4w/T0EIMxvYwPI/AAAAAAAAA6I/Og80Z0yOWws/s1600/P1030835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21npw737I4w/T0EIMxvYwPI/AAAAAAAAA6I/Og80Z0yOWws/s400/P1030835.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And surprise you with giant bonggo-looking pieces like these...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-03GbCaASpaI/T0EJ5faLy9I/AAAAAAAAA6Q/WSFJj-qIFQI/s1600/P1030845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-03GbCaASpaI/T0EJ5faLy9I/AAAAAAAAA6Q/WSFJj-qIFQI/s400/P1030845.JPG" width="225" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Moving on to the food. This restaurant is famous for its Corned Beef Sinigang with Chorizo, which I’ve always wished we could cook at home. I liked how they would let their customers taste the soup of the sinigang before serving the full dish, just so they could assess if it had the right amount sourness that best suits their fancy. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The sinigang soup had that all-natural sour taste that can only come from fresh <i>sampaloc</i>, which I absolutely loved. I also like adding some spice to my sinigang and so I appreciated that there was a big piece of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sili </i>that you can opt to slice open to release the spicy juice, or just keep there for decoration. The beef was very tender, and there were fresh pieces of kangkong, eggplant and tomatoes. The only thing that was a bit disappointing was that there were only two pieces of chorizo in our bowl. We asked the waiter if this was really how the dish was served, and he very kindly uttered an apology and served us more chorizo pieces.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXLl2jKBfl0/T0ELIkfcn_I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/AKMjbLhDREo/s1600/P1030836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SXLl2jKBfl0/T0ELIkfcn_I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/AKMjbLhDREo/s400/P1030836.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corned Beef Sinigang with Chorizo</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal">We also ordered Bagnet, which C and I found to be very delightful because the pork was so crispy without being dry at all. It also had fresh wansuy and tomatoes for added flavor. My favorite part of this dish was the vinegar dressing, which tamed down the taste of wansuy that I’d rather have in moderation.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sbtTzLllS3Q/T0EME_sxKSI/AAAAAAAAA6g/p9YKdaVUGAE/s1600/P1030838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sbtTzLllS3Q/T0EME_sxKSI/AAAAAAAAA6g/p9YKdaVUGAE/s400/P1030838.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bagnet</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal">The pork of the Binagoongan had the same crispiness as the Bagnet, and the bagoong sauce was semi-sweet for a change :) All in all, I'm quite happy with dishes we ordered.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMssIbLwe0I/T0EOIG2I37I/AAAAAAAAA6o/dtqO1LJlld0/s1600/P1030839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMssIbLwe0I/T0EOIG2I37I/AAAAAAAAA6o/dtqO1LJlld0/s400/P1030839.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Binagoongan</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Needless to say, all of these dishes forced me to have more than my fair share of rice. There’s really something about Filipino food that makes you want to eat unlimited servings of rice. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">So if you and your beau love eating rice and want to be surrounded by an extraordinary ambience, then Café Juanita is a definite must-visit <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Cafe Juanita Kapitolyo branch is located along West Capitol Drive, Pasig City. For reservations, call 632-0357. The Taguig branch is located in Burgos Circle, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. For reservations, call 403-1952.</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>2. Aria Cucina Italiana - Bonifacio High Street</b></u></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Whenever I'm in Boracay, I make it a point to visit Aria for my dose of delicious Italian food, while enjoying the soft white sand in between my toes. And so I was so thrilled when I found out that they finally opened a branch in Manila, in a convenient location in the new wing of Bonifacio High Street. They had their soft opening last January 28, and two weeks after I was able to pay them a visit.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Word really does get around fast, because the place was packed. The turnover was also rather fast and so it felt a bit busy inside the restaurant. It was quite warm inside, I guess owing to the fact that they're still getting settled. The ambience was very different from the Boracay branch. While Aria Boracay was dominantly brown inside, the Manila branch had a very light color palette for its interiors, with both big and small abstract paintings decorating the walls. There was also an open kitchen where the delicious dishes came from.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TcWQvANVk14/T0ERs5z6RcI/AAAAAAAAA6w/G1eNA4YuX8U/s1600/P1100111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TcWQvANVk14/T0ERs5z6RcI/AAAAAAAAA6w/G1eNA4YuX8U/s400/P1100111.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I-2jqC2TagQ/T0ETN-ZaIyI/AAAAAAAAA64/gtv0fa568B8/s1600/P1100112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I-2jqC2TagQ/T0ETN-ZaIyI/AAAAAAAAA64/gtv0fa568B8/s400/P1100112.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">My all-time favorite Aria dish is the Tagliatelle con Tartufo Asparagi e Prosciutto di Parma. In short, pasta with white truffle, asparagus and parma ham. I think this was one of the places where I learned to love truffle as an ingredient in just about anything, and so I had quite high hopes for the dish. It was still good, although it wasn’t the same as the one in Boracay. For one, the serving was significantly less (in Bora, the pasta serving is good for sharing). I also wished there was more parma ham and more sauce. The noodles were slightly overcooked, too.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhLhvEJCDlg/T0EVvjcyUsI/AAAAAAAAA7A/evw7o0DbTds/s1600/P1100085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhLhvEJCDlg/T0EVvjcyUsI/AAAAAAAAA7A/evw7o0DbTds/s400/P1100085.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tagliatelle con Tartufo Asparagi e Prosciutto di Parma (P 460)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The pizza had a very thin crust and the toppings were almost falling off already <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span> I think this gave way for the tongue to taste more of the mouth-watering toppings. The edges were slightly thicker, which I liked very much because of its crunchy texture. It had a generous serving of toppings and the pizza went very well with the spicy olive oil that C and I thoroughly enjoyed. It was so subtle and smooth, but had the right kick of spiciness that I was looking for.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yMvNkp9uq88/T0EYiOoKD4I/AAAAAAAAA7I/rEBqTl56Rko/s1600/P1100087resized.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yMvNkp9uq88/T0EYiOoKD4I/AAAAAAAAA7I/rEBqTl56Rko/s400/P1100087resized.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quattro Stagioni (P 540)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eMzHEz0ryso/T0EY56ObFMI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/TsG-magEe0o/s1600/P1100090resized.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eMzHEz0ryso/T0EY56ObFMI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/TsG-magEe0o/s400/P1100090resized.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spicy Olive Oil (free!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Although the Manila branch might not be the same as Aria in Boracay, but I think it’s still worth trying out for dates. I think the other pasta dishes are worth trying as well, so go ahead and pay them a visit!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Aria (Manila) is located in East Superblock, 30th cor. 7th sts., Bonifacio High Street Central, Taguig. For reservations, call (0917) 519-5368.</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
--- </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Food has played a huge part in our love story, and it’s something that will always be part of both our special and day-to-day celebrations. It’s always a great time for us to sit down, talk, and strengthen our relationship over delicious meals.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">I think couples should treat themselves out to great meals from time to time (and maybe even everyday!). Again, they need not be expensive meals. What’s important is the quality of time that is spent and the memories that are made.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Belated Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone! Let's all make everyday like Valentine’s Day! :)<span style="font-family: Wingdings;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-79757022545982693752012-01-29T22:04:00.002+08:002012-01-31T18:58:26.857+08:00Lukewarm feelings for Wee Nam Kee<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Given the hype that this restaurant has received, and the long lines I would always see in every branch, I had rather high hopes for Wee Nam Kee. C and I decided to dismiss any negative feedback about the place and tried it for ourselves so we can once and for all prove them wrong (or right).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q_Sp3v_QbSQ/TyUzEztTaeI/AAAAAAAAA5A/4w62MtwsVnk/s400/P1030791.JPG" width="225" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">True enough, despite being there early, there were already people lining up to get a taste of their Singaporean dishes. I couldn't help wondering if these were regular customers or first-timers like us. I thought, if they have this many loyal customers, the food must be that good.<br />
<br />
After getting settled and getting a chance to look around the interiors of the restaurant, I noticed the set of light bulbs uniquely placed inside what seemed to be bird cages. I thought this was a very creative twist on the traditional chandelier. (I found this very interesting that I imagined replicating it in my own house in the future :))<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWRjBkerEPE/TyVH90gQkAI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/OKdifBhLew4/s1600/P1030776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWRjBkerEPE/TyVH90gQkAI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/OKdifBhLew4/s400/P1030776.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
One look on the menu and I immediately got the impression that Wee Nam Kee's dishes offered good value for money. The price range was definitely beyond reasonable, and this is perhaps one of the reasons why people flock to this restaurant.<br />
<br />
C and I ordered one dish each, plus some Hong Kong Style Birthday Noodles for sharing.<br />
<br />
What I liked about the noodles was that they didn't scrimp on the ingredients. In Filipino, it was <i>masahog. </i>There were generous pieces of mushroom, bell pepper, shrimp, onions, carrots, etc. It had a well-balanced seasoning -- not too salty and not bland either. It was good for 2 to 3 persons, so I think it was definitely good value for money. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2cjFn0wWrk/TyVGeo3wv0I/AAAAAAAAA5Q/NXM7s14IyKg/s1600/P1030788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2cjFn0wWrk/TyVGeo3wv0I/AAAAAAAAA5Q/NXM7s14IyKg/s400/P1030788.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HK Style Birthday Noodles (P 255)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I was pretty excited about the Hainanese Chicken (I ordered the Steamed Chicken Rice) because this was the dish that Wee Nam Kee was really known for. The chicken arrived at our table a bit too cold. Now, ultimately, I think what really completes this dish are the sauces and seasoning. And perhaps the reason why it's difficult to find outstanding Hainanese Chicken is the fact that the sauces taste practically the same. I mean, how many other different ways can hoisin sauce, chili sauce and ginger really taste, right? I guess that's the challenge for restaurants now -- how do you make YOUR version of Hainanese Chicken really stand out?<br />
<br />
So anyway, the Hainanese Chicken was good, but it wasn't exceptional. And I guess I was expecting it to be so because the restaurant is called "Wee Nam Kee - Hainanese Chicken Rice" after all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KANjSKYLDt4/TyVNTx1eCsI/AAAAAAAAA5g/bjIROwuydZw/s1600/P1030785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KANjSKYLDt4/TyVNTx1eCsI/AAAAAAAAA5g/bjIROwuydZw/s400/P1030785.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CvXCPA39zzc/TyVN601V7GI/AAAAAAAAA5o/7b-JPtI1w0U/s1600/P1030787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CvXCPA39zzc/TyVN601V7GI/AAAAAAAAA5o/7b-JPtI1w0U/s400/P1030787.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed Chicken Rice (P 168 - personal set)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>C thought the Wee Nam Kee Pork Chop Rice sounded very promising, and so he decided to have that as his order. However, when it arrived, it looked a lot less appetizing than how it sounded. It was just plain breaded pork with sweet and sour sauce poured over it. And as C put it, it looked and tasted like cafeteria food. Needless to say, we were quite disappointed with this one.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yObagwFnDjk/TyVPmhS8sdI/AAAAAAAAA5w/rj88N7sTn44/s1600/P1030789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yObagwFnDjk/TyVPmhS8sdI/AAAAAAAAA5w/rj88N7sTn44/s400/P1030789.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wee Nam Kee Pork Chop Rice (P 178)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After our meal, C and I ended up having lukewarm feelings for Wee Nam Kee. We weren't too satisfied with what we ate, although some dishes had some decent highs.<br />
<br />
I honestly feel that Shiok (read the post on Shiok <a href="http://thegorgeousgourmande.blogspot.com/2011/09/be-shiok-ed.html" target="_blank">here</a>) offers better tasting and better value dishes for those seeking a Singaporean dining experience.<br />
<br />
<br />
THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 3.5 out of 5 - <i>It was decent, but not a restaurant I would recommend</i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Wee Nam Kee is located in Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Telephone number: 846-8924.</b></span></div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-6950275516919693652012-01-15T14:00:00.001+08:002012-01-15T14:25:21.074+08:00I'll give Kenji Tei Ramen House a second chance<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">C and I have recently started our search for the best ramen in town. We crave for good ramen whenever we want to have good dinner, but one that wouldn’t necessarily leave us feeling guilty for eating far too much. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">On one of our dates, we chanced upon Kenji Tei Ramen House in Greenbelt 5. It was a Friday night, and not unexpectedly, it was packed! Good thing they had a table for two left for us. I liked the modern Japanese interiors of the place, although I felt that the tables were too near each other, not allowing enough space for private conversations. The slightly cramped space can also be a source of discomfort for diners like us who tend to order more than usual – and end up squeezing our bowls and plates in a small table.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8h9eoOHJRqI/TxJlzvLm0DI/AAAAAAAAA30/aSE6i7uE59E/s1600/P1030586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8h9eoOHJRqI/TxJlzvLm0DI/AAAAAAAAA30/aSE6i7uE59E/s400/P1030586.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TmCBNchWlGs/TxJl83dD7WI/AAAAAAAAA38/8V17Jvwhg1A/s1600/P1030579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TmCBNchWlGs/TxJl83dD7WI/AAAAAAAAA38/8V17Jvwhg1A/s400/P1030579.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought the logo was cute :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_qCZ2dWmgw/TxJmKyYsB2I/AAAAAAAAA4M/ONGYXcf1jck/s1600/P1030580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_qCZ2dWmgw/TxJmKyYsB2I/AAAAAAAAA4M/ONGYXcf1jck/s400/P1030580.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I liked the interiors, but I wish there was more space</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">For starters, to get our metabolism going while we waited for the ramen, we ordered the Crunchy Kani Maki. It was a very generous serving of gorgeous looking maki topped with crunchy bits of tempura breading, some strips of kani dipped in Japanese mayo, and roe. I loved the added texture coming from the tempura breading as well as the flavor coming from the mayo. Each piece was literally a mouthful. I had to think twice about how I would make it fit in my mouth. My only criticism about this dish is that it wasn’t too intact and would break apart fairly easily.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ekcvBIB21zc/TxJmhqSL6II/AAAAAAAAA4U/9tPXlAlBrb0/s1600/P1030589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ekcvBIB21zc/TxJmhqSL6II/AAAAAAAAA4U/9tPXlAlBrb0/s400/P1030589.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crunchy Kani Maki (P288)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Now, who would've thought cheese and gyoza would go well together? The Cheese Gyoza certainly put a cheesy twist to your ordinary gyoza. Inside the fried wrap was ground meat and cream cheese, which when dipped in the mayo dressing tasted delicious. It could use more cheese though, because I found myself having to take a couple of bites to get to the cheese.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7U5h09iNFY/TxJoRauRdoI/AAAAAAAAA4c/hR2MIKdM2bU/s1600/P1030591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7U5h09iNFY/TxJoRauRdoI/AAAAAAAAA4c/hR2MIKdM2bU/s400/P1030591.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese Gyoza (P198)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Finally, our ramen was served. The owner of Kenji Tei (who incidentally was C's acquaintance) humbly suggested to try any of the miso based ramens because these were specialties of the house. We ordered the Miso Butter Corn Ramen because after all, who could go wrong with butter? It completely slipped my mind that I don't like eating corn when it's mixed with other kinds of food. For me, it's best when eaten alone. In any case, I was willing to give it a try. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The bowl looked appetizing and smelled lovely when it arrived. C and I were quite disappointed with the taste, though. There were lots of different flavors coming from the dish, but they didn't quite mix well together. The miso base was decent but not so flavorful and so I expected the flavors of the other ingredients to compensate. But the combination of the subtle miso flavor, the taste of the corn, plus the flavor coming from the beansprouts and the other vegetables didn't sit well on my tongue. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKCN6kQmrk8/TxJqJmHHb5I/AAAAAAAAA4k/tjVCrBQs82Y/s1600/P1030593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKCN6kQmrk8/TxJqJmHHb5I/AAAAAAAAA4k/tjVCrBQs82Y/s400/P1030593.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miso Butter Corn Ramen (P348 - large)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Because I enjoyed the kani maki and the gyoza, I think this restaurant has potential. I dunno, maybe we just ordered the wrong dish. I'm willing to come back to try their other ramens. If it changes my first impression (or even if it doesn't), I will most definitely let you gourmandes know :)</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">For reservations, see below:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3eQiQejsYrQ/TxJrAHtyRhI/AAAAAAAAA4s/O-0Nd9rA84A/s1600/P1030587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3eQiQejsYrQ/TxJrAHtyRhI/AAAAAAAAA4s/O-0Nd9rA84A/s400/P1030587.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 3.5 out of 5 - <i>Great maki and gyoza, but the ramen could be so much better</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-78061929890836238172012-01-08T21:38:00.001+08:002012-01-08T21:40:07.190+08:00The Best of the Holidays 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3G9LzACW0o/Twkm2_ThJ8I/AAAAAAAAA2k/qasp3MMQVhQ/s1600/Happy+New+Year+2012+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3G9LzACW0o/Twkm2_ThJ8I/AAAAAAAAA2k/qasp3MMQVhQ/s400/Happy+New+Year+2012+%25286%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Happy New Year! My apologies for being MIA the past three weeks. The holiday festivities had me going from one reunion to the next, piling up calorie after calorie from all the delicious Christmas lunches and dinners. Despite the extra pounds, the great thing about all the holiday binging is that I got to try plenty of great dishes that I can share with you, my fellow gourmandes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What follows is a compilation of some of the best dishes that I enjoyed during the break. This is just one of the reasons why Christmas is my favorite time of the year :) Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>1. Seared Salmon - The Stock Market, Bonifacio High Street</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXEMJnG24R0/Twk9BxFBvqI/AAAAAAAAA2s/ai-VBU7hn34/s1600/P1020801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXEMJnG24R0/Twk9BxFBvqI/AAAAAAAAA2s/ai-VBU7hn34/s400/P1020801.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">P650</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">My team and I celebrated our 2011 wins with our agency partners over lunch at The Stock Market in BHS. This, I would have to say, was my favorite among all the dishes we ordered. The Stock Market takes pride in serving dishes with only the freshest ingredients and their Seared Salmon did not disappoint. Just by its look and fragrant smell, I knew it was going to be delicious. The salmon was cooked very well, with no trace of that fishy stench. It was tender but they managed to keep the fish meat intact. The salmon's flavor was brought out even more by the caper tomato sauce. The garlic mashed potatoes had small bits of garlic inside, which was absolutely yummy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>2. Mozzarella Toast and Pizza Margherita - Green Tomato, Shangri-La Mall</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ever since my friend Avery announced that she's having a baby, we all cannot wait for the little angel to come! And so when she revealed the news, we all agreed to organize a baby shower for her. This meant months of planning -- over food, of course :) We had our first planning meeting a few days before Christmas (which doubled as a Christmas reunion, too) in Green Tomato.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySE-xV6xbtc/TwmGLWF03zI/AAAAAAAAA28/qrzAZGbqUaA/s1600/P1020833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySE-xV6xbtc/TwmGLWF03zI/AAAAAAAAA28/qrzAZGbqUaA/s400/P1020833.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Mozzarella Toast was a great way to start our meal. Outside was a nicely toasted crust that was tasty and crispy. Inside was a delicious filling of mozzarella and tomatoes that went perfectly with the anchovy tomato sauce.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pgz3unUbac/TwmDO2KgdKI/AAAAAAAAA20/lnSyifB9Ip0/s1600/P1020828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pgz3unUbac/TwmDO2KgdKI/AAAAAAAAA20/lnSyifB9Ip0/s400/P1020828.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mozzarella Toast - P195</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Pizza Margherita is one of my favorite kinds of pizza because if its simplicity. Green Tomato's Pizza Margherita was delightfully simple, with generous amounts of cheese, fresh tomatoes and some pesto. The thin crust was just the right amount of crunchy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5g7WjJn4f8/TwmKro6WJbI/AAAAAAAAA3E/w1FuUR-qipk/s1600/P1020837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5g7WjJn4f8/TwmKro6WJbI/AAAAAAAAA3E/w1FuUR-qipk/s400/P1020837.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza Margherita - P190 for personal, P545 for large</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>3. Dimsum and Beef Curry - Choi Palace, Eastwood Mall </b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLZYrguOfuk/TwmSe-zI7jI/AAAAAAAAA3M/xppaDBejO4w/s1600/P1030119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLZYrguOfuk/TwmSe-zI7jI/AAAAAAAAA3M/xppaDBejO4w/s400/P1030119.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The day after Christmas, before my family and I went back home from our trip in Clark, we had a scrumptious dinner at Choi Palace in Eastwood. With the quality of Chinese food in this restaurant, it's like a more affordable version of Peking Garden. Below are, in my opinion, the highlights of our meal.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I enjoyed the dimsum in Choi Palace because I felt like we got our money's worth. The Pork and Shrimp Siomai and the Hakaw were packed and <i>siksik, </i>with no trace of extenders at all. Inside the Hakaw was a generously big piece of shrimp. Their Xiao Long Bao is one of the best ones I've tried. It was packed with meat and flavorful hot soup inside, and came with yummy black vinegar for even more flavor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyEfWUgDSE/TwmT9ZP1vyI/AAAAAAAAA3U/xd59cEAawjg/s1600/P1030136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zOlK5IJ5M9c/TwmVgpIQnGI/AAAAAAAAA3k/i4IHgsJqqGQ/s1600/P1030135.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zOlK5IJ5M9c/TwmVgpIQnGI/AAAAAAAAA3k/i4IHgsJqqGQ/s400/P1030135.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork and Shrimp Siomai</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QI4R6_nCZrY/TwmUxIiUufI/AAAAAAAAA3c/Q5DEflAk4_w/s1600/P1030138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QI4R6_nCZrY/TwmUxIiUufI/AAAAAAAAA3c/Q5DEflAk4_w/s400/P1030138.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hakaw</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyEfWUgDSE/TwmT9ZP1vyI/AAAAAAAAA3U/xd59cEAawjg/s1600/P1030136.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyEfWUgDSE/TwmT9ZP1vyI/AAAAAAAAA3U/xd59cEAawjg/s400/P1030136.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Xiao Long Bao</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
What I liked about the Beef Curry was that it had a very subtle curry flavor. The sauce was a lot more creamy than normal curry, which I think people who do not like the strong taste of curry would enjoy (like me and my dad). It also had a generous serving of beef, which again, I feel gave us good value for our money.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aPI25no-io8/TwmZB6YgzRI/AAAAAAAAA3s/0E_rRJQ_uXU/s1600/P1030143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aPI25no-io8/TwmZB6YgzRI/AAAAAAAAA3s/0E_rRJQ_uXU/s400/P1030143.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef Curry</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christmas season is always the perfect excuse to let go a little and feast on as much delicious food as we want. :) Best of all, it's the perfect time to spend meaningful moments with our family and friends, look back at the year that passed, be thankful for the many blessings we've received, and be hopeful for the many more blessings we know we will come our way in the new year.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Happy 2012, my fellow gourmandes. Cheers to more gourmandizing this year!</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-32762060851929689772011-12-20T18:40:00.001+08:002011-12-20T18:43:12.359+08:00Christmas food tripping begins in Lolo Dad's<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRYmvpCVksMAO_CbeXqZxGnDBLjm7Am9NS-JMQVhOrsu4eiWIHrFw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRYmvpCVksMAO_CbeXqZxGnDBLjm7Am9NS-JMQVhOrsu4eiWIHrFw" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The Christmas Tree is up. Gifts in all shapes and sizes fill up the bottom of the tree. Several versions of Santa Claus can be seen all around town. Colorful Christmas lights excite little kids and grown ups alike. Yes, it is Christmastime indeed.<br />
<br />
To echo the song, this is really the most wonderful time of the year for me. And yes, it's partly because of all the delicious food served in back to back Christmas parties and reunions. My first Christmas food trip began in Lolo Dad's with the most awesome officemates in the world.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(I think this was a special menu because I couldn't find most of these items on the regular menu. And so my apologies for not having the prices here)</i></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VasFvtKj7i4/TvBb6E-hQiI/AAAAAAAAAbM/knPBa587GNY/s1600/00000892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VasFvtKj7i4/TvBb6E-hQiI/AAAAAAAAAbM/knPBa587GNY/s400/00000892.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Judging from the menu, we knew we were in for a treat that night</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">For our starters, we were served Romain Caesar Salad. This is probably one of the prettiest salad presentations I have ever seen. The taste definitely lived up to the visual appeal of this dish. The lettuce tasted so fresh and juicy, as if it was just freshly picked from the garden. It was covered with slices of Parmesan cheese, had half of a soft-boiled egg on the side (see how perfectly runny the yolk is?), and was sprinkled with anchovies. As you can see from the photo below, the salad wasn't swimming in Caesar dressing, but the amount of it was just right to bring out the flavor of the entire dish.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XC7rePv0xIU/TvBdk_4j_GI/AAAAAAAAAbc/vmqUo6biUR0/s1600/00000907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XC7rePv0xIU/TvBdk_4j_GI/AAAAAAAAAbc/vmqUo6biUR0/s400/00000907.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Romain Caesar Salad</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Next came the soup. It was a very simple Mushroom Broth that warmed up my stomach for the more exciting part of the meal. It was alright, nothing too special, and I guess this was done on purpose so we can further appreciate the mains :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FjLpmKRHmzM/TvBe8-iZAPI/AAAAAAAAAbk/ftFMH2pBKDU/s1600/00000915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FjLpmKRHmzM/TvBe8-iZAPI/AAAAAAAAAbk/ftFMH2pBKDU/s400/00000915.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushroom Broth</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Now on to the main course. It was an "All you can surf and turf" main course and we had the choice of ordering unlimited servings of steak, prawns and starch. I picked the Tajima Wagyu Topside (medium well), Baked Prawns, and Mushroom Risotto.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There were two big slices of Wagyu on the plate, beside two big baked prawns. The meat of the steak was very tender and tasty up to the fatty part, even without the sauce. It was not the kind of Wagyu beef that melts in your mouth, but it was pretty close. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The prawns topped with cheese were the perfect complement to the meat. It was baked just right to make the prawn meat not too soft but instead very slightly crunchy. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-18eqtQObccs/TvBiQiJRWKI/AAAAAAAAAb0/2QTc2RujZAY/s1600/00000925.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-18eqtQObccs/TvBiQiJRWKI/AAAAAAAAAb0/2QTc2RujZAY/s400/00000925.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tajima Wagyu Topside with Baked Prawns</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oNgIzRinVgw/TvBiNSQrCMI/AAAAAAAAAbs/kPAGQ7nBIao/s1600/00000927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oNgIzRinVgw/TvBiNSQrCMI/AAAAAAAAAbs/kPAGQ7nBIao/s400/00000927.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For a closer look</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">I am not a huge fun of risotto (because it's still rice, after all), but I didn't mind feeling guilty after eating this particular one because it was just so good. It was so soft and creamy, with slices of mushrooms and grated cheese to add to the flavor. It almost looked like it was mashed potato!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7vCIwHW5ZOU/TvBjB8L1aNI/AAAAAAAAAb8/5XdutZ9_gk8/s1600/00000923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7vCIwHW5ZOU/TvBjB8L1aNI/AAAAAAAAAb8/5XdutZ9_gk8/s400/00000923.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushroom Risotto</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">By the time we got to the dessert, I was already so full. But I was not one to pass on dessert. The chocolate cake was quite good. I really like chocolate cakes that are not too sweet, just like this one. The scoop of vanilla ice cream sat prettily on a small piece of wafer. The sweet-with-sweet tandem of chocolate and ice cream always makes a great combination.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m1G8foG-wFk/TvBkMhLTPTI/AAAAAAAAAcE/8yObQrTfbsM/s1600/00001017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m1G8foG-wFk/TvBkMhLTPTI/AAAAAAAAAcE/8yObQrTfbsM/s400/00001017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Feasting on great food and enjoying the night with great company brought the Christmas spirit closer. I'm looking forward to the many more scrumptious meals to come, and to a season filled with nothing but hope and love for all of us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Happy Holidays!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRHMuBCZBrPM6iuO9dzGy4bj5_ut0UtpVux-rglypH8O6U4fv81hFBXrin7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRHMuBCZBrPM6iuO9dzGy4bj5_ut0UtpVux-rglypH8O6U4fv81hFBXrin7" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Lolo Dad's is located in the ground floor of 6750 Ayala Avenue, Makati City.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-77902863898166657182011-12-03T21:26:00.001+08:002011-12-03T21:36:43.751+08:00Bright lights and good food at Momo Cafe, Ayala Triangle<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmUXOs0JScY/TtoXl7dpWqI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/0LnRRYaeH_Y/s1600/P1000307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmUXOs0JScY/TtoXl7dpWqI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/0LnRRYaeH_Y/s400/P1000307.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Ever since C and I witnessed the beautiful lights of Ayala Triangle last Christmas season, we knew we had to go back this year. This time, they had a lot more in store for their audience as they included a full lights and sounds show that would play every 15 minutes or so. The garden was packed with families, children, couples and <i>barkadas </i>wanting to get a feel of Christmas as early as November.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PW4QVNyTOx4/TtoZGfQ_baI/AAAAAAAAAaA/8ie__uJp62k/s1600/P1000319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PW4QVNyTOx4/TtoZGfQ_baI/AAAAAAAAAaA/8ie__uJp62k/s400/P1000319.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">After watching the lights and sounds show, we walked down the line of restaurants to find a good place to have our dinner date. Just like two excited kids at the strike of midnight on Christmas day, we were so thrilled to find a branch of Momo Cafe in Ayala Triangle. We've been wanting to go back every since we tried their Eggs Benedict in Eastwood. It took us a while to get a table because it was full, but not as full as the other adjacent restaurants where hungry customers found themselves occupying #20 on the waiting list. Lucky for us, we made it to #2.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lVqtoFyapq0/Ttoca97XWQI/AAAAAAAAAaI/IBlqa09Wzyg/s1600/P1000322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lVqtoFyapq0/Ttoca97XWQI/AAAAAAAAAaI/IBlqa09Wzyg/s400/P1000322.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spot the cute snowman</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">I've always liked the warm ambiance inside Momo. I love the interesting little details on the walls - from the wallpapers to the lamps. The Christmas decors inside the restaurant added to the festive feel.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jgaTW7DP51g/TtoddlE4sYI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/u5gEChIadgw/s1600/P1000331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jgaTW7DP51g/TtoddlE4sYI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/u5gEChIadgw/s400/P1000331.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy customers enjoying their meal</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R5-YOl8Iht8/TtodwQY4o6I/AAAAAAAAAaY/KVzCxrMu_1c/s1600/P1000332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R5-YOl8Iht8/TtodwQY4o6I/AAAAAAAAAaY/KVzCxrMu_1c/s400/P1000332.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's Christmas in Momo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysMAppK0giQ/TtoeIvVKO8I/AAAAAAAAAag/B_OT3oEzs3c/s1600/P1000344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysMAppK0giQ/TtoeIvVKO8I/AAAAAAAAAag/B_OT3oEzs3c/s400/P1000344.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beauty is in the details</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, on to the food. Of course, we ordered what we came here for - the Eggs Benedict. I was slightly disappointed to see this branch's version of Momo's Eggs Benedict. I clearly remember it being a bigger serving, looking more tasty, with the poached eggs placed on English muffins instead of ordinary bread. While overall the combination of the eggs, bacon and hollandaise sauce still made a good dish, it just wasn't the same without the English muffins.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fg4OO0lptqA/Ttof8OcukJI/AAAAAAAAAao/DAYb3NM-JH8/s1600/P1000367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fg4OO0lptqA/Ttof8OcukJI/AAAAAAAAAao/DAYb3NM-JH8/s400/P1000367.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eggs Benedict (P 350)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The bigger highlight of our meal was the 3-inch Glazed Smoked Bacon. The thick pieces of bacon came with mashed potatoes, sweet corn and some veggies, which for me gave it better value. The bacon was so tender and tasted perfectly smoky and sweet. The layers of fat were so well-cooked, you would think it was still the meat. Take a look at our photos below, and drool.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eeGHOefSA_A/Ttohk6kdlHI/AAAAAAAAAaw/FroogIiRaN4/s1600/P1000366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ME6MtJnhREY/Ttohn81dI9I/AAAAAAAAAa4/qEfyI2F5rTk/s1600/P1000363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ME6MtJnhREY/Ttohn81dI9I/AAAAAAAAAa4/qEfyI2F5rTk/s400/P1000363.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glazed Smoked Bacon (P 350)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eT6u2JfngM/Ttohq-aHNdI/AAAAAAAAAbA/HGbgg-Nke5w/s1600/P1000364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eT6u2JfngM/Ttohq-aHNdI/AAAAAAAAAbA/HGbgg-Nke5w/s400/P1000364.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A closer look</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eeGHOefSA_A/Ttohk6kdlHI/AAAAAAAAAaw/FroogIiRaN4/s400/P1000366.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just so you can have a point of reference</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Momo Cafe will always be a comfort dining place for me and C. I just wish they can be more consistent with the quality of their dishes from branch to branch. I'm hoping this is just one of those fluke circumstances. Perhaps we'll try it out in Eastwood again to see if there really is a difference.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 4 out of 5</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>For reservations, call 621-6161.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eeGHOefSA_A/Ttohk6kdlHI/AAAAAAAAAaw/FroogIiRaN4/s1600/P1000366.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-15549315262198459952011-11-20T17:00:00.000+08:002011-11-20T17:00:39.542+08:00Mona Lisa's Panizza and Four Cheese Ravioli will surely make you smile<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Since I have lived in the North all my life, I am not at all familiar with the hidden food gems of the South. Just recently, a couple of office mates of mine who hail from the South recommended an Italian restaurant called Mona Lisa Ristorante that President Noynoy himself frequents for lunch with his family. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Apparently, Mona Lisa serves really great Panizzas, even better than the ones found in the ever so famous C! Italian restaurant in Pampanga. Of course, C and I wouldn't let ourselves be left behind. And so we headed down South to discover what Mona Lisa has to offer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KUHbcAJA9Ag/Tsi6HLChBbI/AAAAAAAAAYo/s2QwTm3mG20/s1600/P1000217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KUHbcAJA9Ag/Tsi6HLChBbI/AAAAAAAAAYo/s2QwTm3mG20/s400/P1000217.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">You wouldn't mistake Mona Lisa for any restaurant other than Italian because of its interiors beautifully inspired by Renaissance Italy. The ceiling featured lovely paintings that give you a taste of Renaissance art. I also loved the booths located around the perimeter of the restaurant, which offered a more private dining experience. Even the servers wore neckties with Mona Lisa's face as design on the fabric :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ripTzee9TWs/Tsi7JnwScCI/AAAAAAAAAYw/hUFLAB01zs0/s1600/P1000223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ripTzee9TWs/Tsi7JnwScCI/AAAAAAAAAYw/hUFLAB01zs0/s400/P1000223.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish I could have these in my room</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-aiNSNuVRg/Tsi7N57csMI/AAAAAAAAAY4/olUj3FtLJKY/s1600/P1000216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-aiNSNuVRg/Tsi7N57csMI/AAAAAAAAAY4/olUj3FtLJKY/s400/P1000216.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C and I were seated in one of those booths</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">The view was exquisite from where we were seated.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj2kMeV37TU/TsjBmYakgrI/AAAAAAAAAZw/lv0BF3eBWi4/s1600/P1000220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yj2kMeV37TU/TsjBmYakgrI/AAAAAAAAAZw/lv0BF3eBWi4/s400/P1000220.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While waiting for our order, we were served some crostini with pesto, butter and pasta as dip -- compliments of the house of course. As shallow as it may sound, I love it when restaurants serve complimentary bread :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MsXuEuYHa5A/Tsi8KOgodKI/AAAAAAAAAZA/zAQ1iboz2Ho/s1600/P1000224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MsXuEuYHa5A/Tsi8KOgodKI/AAAAAAAAAZA/zAQ1iboz2Ho/s400/P1000224.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free bread!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I decided to share a panizza and a pasta. Their panizzas come in big servings good for about three to four persons. I appreciated the fact that our server offered to give us half of the panizza we wanted (5 big strips), at half the price! We went for none other than the Mona Lisa Special. I think the trick to making a really good panizza is to not overdo the toppings to make way for the distinct taste of the arugula and alfalfa. The Mona Lisa Special was simply topped with tomato sauce, cheese, some shrimp, laid on a thin, crispy crust. I added in some fresh arugula leaves, alfalfa sprouts, chili oil and chili flakes -- and I almost melted because of the delicious flavors I could taste in my mouth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Was it better than C! Italian? They're both excellent and so it's hard to compare, really. So I'd say they're on the same level. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfkix_ckpdo/Tsi-CdnmL9I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ntp60YuqzDg/s1600/P1000227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfkix_ckpdo/Tsi-CdnmL9I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ntp60YuqzDg/s1600/P1000227.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfkix_ckpdo/Tsi-CdnmL9I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ntp60YuqzDg/s400/P1000227.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half serving of the Mona Lisa Special (P 355)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfkix_ckpdo/Tsi-CdnmL9I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ntp60YuqzDg/s1600/P1000227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zY29HPTV_lA/Tsi9-l9sjEI/AAAAAAAAAZI/eLb1ndWdsss/s1600/P1000230.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zY29HPTV_lA/Tsi9-l9sjEI/AAAAAAAAAZI/eLb1ndWdsss/s400/P1000230.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With arugula leaves and alfalfa sprouts<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfkix_ckpdo/Tsi-CdnmL9I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/ntp60YuqzDg/s1600/P1000227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">C's choice for our pasta was the Ravioli Formaggi. This was the first time I got to try ravioli in red sauce and I have to say, it's fast becoming a favorite of mine. This dish had a generous amount of creamy garlic tomato sauce, which was just slightly sour to add a subtle kick. Each ravioli piece was filled with a delicious mixture of four cheeses in the center, and it kept tasting better with every bite.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnLk1zqBEPI/Tsi_hXMLraI/AAAAAAAAAZY/0pZA6iqtczg/s1600/P1000228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnLk1zqBEPI/Tsi_hXMLraI/AAAAAAAAAZY/0pZA6iqtczg/s400/P1000228.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravioli Formaggi (P 475)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">To cap off an enjoyable meal, C and I made friends with this very cute and adorable little boy named Jacob, who reminded me of my lovely little nephew because of his hair. Jacob hung around our table for a while as he posed enthusiastically for the camera.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pkW6rgaPP1Q/TsjAKo1EXHI/AAAAAAAAAZo/r4UBxC1FDNA/s1600/P1000234.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pkW6rgaPP1Q/TsjAKo1EXHI/AAAAAAAAAZo/r4UBxC1FDNA/s400/P1000234.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacob, such an adorable little boy :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h42_bs2HjZ8/TsjAH5YSTmI/AAAAAAAAAZg/9oBBmiq-mD0/s1600/P1000235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h42_bs2HjZ8/TsjAH5YSTmI/AAAAAAAAAZg/9oBBmiq-mD0/s400/P1000235.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He insisted on this pose :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">When C and I were done, we said a quick goodbye to Jacob and gave him a soft pat on the head. He followed us to the door, as if sending us off, and before we could completely step out of the restaurant, he shouted out excitedly, "Come back soon, okay?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pkW6rgaPP1Q/TsjAKo1EXHI/AAAAAAAAAZo/r4UBxC1FDNA/s1600/P1000234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I had such a wonderful time in Mona Lisa, and we will definitely be back soon :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5 - Delicious Italian food that will surely make you smile</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Mona Lisa is located at the 2nd Floor of The Commerce Center, Commerce Avenue, Alabang. For reservations, call 556-0708</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-55429006269180528072011-11-14T17:34:00.000+08:002011-11-14T17:34:58.202+08:00Bawai's Kitchen: A True Taste of Vietnam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tc3rme7MlOE/TsDQVWPt-ZI/AAAAAAAAAXo/avObfpqfcdk/s1600/P1000123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tc3rme7MlOE/TsDQVWPt-ZI/AAAAAAAAAXo/avObfpqfcdk/s320/P1000123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Amidst the tranquility and cool breeze of Tagaytay during the Ber months lies a humble home that offers an experience of the true taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Upon arrival, C and I were greeted by their very courteous staff who assisted our car into their garage. In a shy voice, the girl confirmed our reservation and led us through a wooden door, up towards the restaurant.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gLDX-u8-ES0/TsDPxzpRf7I/AAAAAAAAAXg/se8_8k0habw/s1600/P1000151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gLDX-u8-ES0/TsDPxzpRf7I/AAAAAAAAAXg/se8_8k0habw/s400/P1000151.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance door</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Bawai's interiors looked rather modern, with some paintings showing Vietnamese women doing their daily tasks as accents. The mostly wooden furniture and neutral also added to the homey ambiance.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Mqj_GK16Lg/TsDRmg3NYeI/AAAAAAAAAXw/9zOVyGdnT7k/s1600/P1000131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Mqj_GK16Lg/TsDRmg3NYeI/AAAAAAAAAXw/9zOVyGdnT7k/s400/P1000131.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb2cRaOCu-A/TsDRqegxKaI/AAAAAAAAAX4/hZ3ReWYszms/s1600/P1000130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb2cRaOCu-A/TsDRqegxKaI/AAAAAAAAAX4/hZ3ReWYszms/s400/P1000130.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now on to the delicious food. We started off with <i>Cha Gio</i> (Vietnamese fried lumpia) for our appetizer. The spring rolls were fried well to make the wrap very crispy but not overcooked. Inside was a combination of fresh ingredients such as ground pork, vegetable bits and glass noodles. This was served with their signature dip made of fish sauce, coconut oil and garlic, which really added more flavor to the dish. This could be the Vietnamese version of our <i>toyo-suka-calamansi-sili </i>dip that goes well with almost everything.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FSdduGcIXak/TsDTKiUfetI/AAAAAAAAAYI/YC72NXWHFxA/s1600/P1000141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FSdduGcIXak/TsDTKiUfetI/AAAAAAAAAYI/YC72NXWHFxA/s400/P1000141.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cha Gio (P 165)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUdAYzgi7GA/TsDS-AGfSCI/AAAAAAAAAYA/DYWOiiHk4pk/s1600/P1000142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUdAYzgi7GA/TsDS-AGfSCI/AAAAAAAAAYA/DYWOiiHk4pk/s400/P1000142.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks so fresh inside, and tastes so fresh, too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">For our entree, we had one of their bestsellers, the <i>Com Suon Cha</i> (Grilled pork rib with omelet and rice). I liked how this dish looked colorful with greens and yellows contrasting with the pork. The pork meat was so tender that both C and I devoured it all the way to the skin. On its own, it had a smoky and slightly woody taste. The flavor of the pork was brought out even more by the fish sauce-coconut oil-garlic dip that also did it for the spring rolls. The creamy omelet provided a nice complement to the pork as well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqDtRdPS3ho/TsDaWJoJ7DI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/_w2vIXSYSJE/s1600/P1000144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqDtRdPS3ho/TsDaWJoJ7DI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/_w2vIXSYSJE/s400/P1000144.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Com Suon Cha (P 295)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">And of course, this Vietnamese experience wouldn't be complete without authentic Vietnamese noodles. We went for the <i>Bun Bo Hue</i> (Spicy beef and pork soup). It was served in a big bowl, with a size that's good for two. It had that distinct scent of fresh herbs and spices that was characteristic of Vietnamese food. Because of the chili, it had a beautiful red-orange color, but the spiciness was very mild. It had generous slices of beef and pork, deliciously firm noodles and different kinds of vegetables. The different flavors coming from the herbs were all in moderation and so it was not at all overpowering to the tongue. This is definitely what I'd remember most about this entire meal. :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2TN3xJbPUW8/TsDcyEq8hRI/AAAAAAAAAYY/6A-T4YigwzI/s1600/P1000149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2TN3xJbPUW8/TsDcyEq8hRI/AAAAAAAAAYY/6A-T4YigwzI/s400/P1000149.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bun Bo Hue (P 245)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">After a little less than an hour (we didn't realize we ate everything so quickly), C and I were more than satisfied and we were both smiling as we recalled the taste of the delicious dishes that were now sitting happily in our tummies. The quiet environment provided a romantic setting for C and I to have a meaningful conversation and simply enjoy the moment. C put it perfectly when he said that Bawai's dishes offered nothing fancy. Its charm stemmed from the simplicity of its purely authentic Vietnamese cuisine.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5 -<i> Simply-made but delicious Vietnamese cuisine</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Bawai's Kitchen is located in Hernandez Street, Purok 5, Silang Cavite. It comes right before Chateau Hestia. For reservations, call 09209722924.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-49993099451411318502011-11-08T20:39:00.000+08:002011-11-08T20:39:52.088+08:00A so-so experience with UCC's Tonkotsu Ramen<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Cool, drizzly evenings call for nice, hot, flavorful soup. In moments like this, C and I crave for a delicious bowl of wanton soup or a good serving of ramen. On the last day of the previous 4-day weekend, we decided to go for ramen. I heard that the one from UCC was worth visiting, and so we headed towards the Petron Gas Station along EDSA-Pasay to get our hot bowl of ramen.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">UCC's Tonkotsu Ramen describes itself as "noodle with a pork bone broth". There were three flavor options (the text below is taken from the poster on their wall):</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Shio ("salt")</b> - it is the lightest ramen, a pale, clear, yellowish broth using salt and any combination of chicken, vegetables, fish and seaweed.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Shoyu ("soy sauce") </b>- typically has a brown and clear color broth, based on a chicken and vegetable (or sometimes fish or beef) stock with plenty of soy sauce resulting in a soup that's tangy, salty, and savory yet still fairly light on the palate.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Miso ("soybean paste") </b>- this uniquely Japanese flavor, which was developed in Hokkaido, features a broth that combines copious amounts of miso and is blended with tonkotsu to create a thick, nutty, slightly sweet and very hearty soup. Miso ramen broth tends to have a robust, tangy flavor.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Our server said Shoyu was the best seller, and so that became our choice.<i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When the bowl arrived, C and I thought it looked very appetizing. The soup was thick and looked very tasty. I thought it had generous portions of pork (3 slices), vegetables and noodles. I particularly liked the taste and the texture of the egg. I liked chewing on the soft but firm noodles as well. </div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RBXHMyJ_qXk/Trkbvc5N6WI/AAAAAAAAAWI/VHJXGNM_OSc/s1600/DSC05323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RBXHMyJ_qXk/Trkbvc5N6WI/AAAAAAAAAWI/VHJXGNM_OSc/s400/DSC05323.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tonkotsu Ramen (P359)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">What disappointed me though was the actual taste of the soup. It was just way too porky. It literally tasted like melted pork. And while most of the time this should taste great, it didn't quite pull through with this ramen. C thought it was okay, but for me it was unsatisfactory. Maybe I should've tried the other flavors? I don't know. But I've definitely had better ones.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nevertheless, UCC still has great coffee, which is what they're known for anyway. But I do hope they can do something to improve on their ramen, especially when people make the effort to visit them to satisfy a ramen craving.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 2.5 out of 5 - <i>Just way to porky for me.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Click <a href="http://thegorgeousgourmande.blogspot.com/search/label/Va%20Bene">here </a>for the complete location of this Petron Gas Station, as well as to read my review of a very good Italian restaurant in the same location. </b></span><i><br />
</i></div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-42296934425499280342011-11-06T13:36:00.000+08:002011-11-06T13:36:15.567+08:00Simply Thai is simply the closest to authentic Thai cuisine<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.watchaobuddha.com/_pix/thai-flag-002_resize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.watchaobuddha.com/_pix/thai-flag-002_resize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.watchaobuddha.com/_pix/thai-flag-002_resize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.watchaobuddha.com/_pix/thai-flag-002_resize.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.watchaobuddha.com/_pix/thai-flag-002_resize.jpg" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the many things that C and I have in common is that we have a special place in our hearts for anything Thai. He spent his younger years living in Thailand with his family, while I spent two years of high school in Bangkok with my family as well. And so it's no coincidence that we both absolutely love Thai cuisine. I find it rather difficult to closely replicate the authentic flavor of Thai dishes, with all its spices and distinct flavors. Thankfully, Simply Thai was able to come very close, and minus the very European looking ambience, it felt (or should I say tasted?) like C and I were both back in our second home.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eG84iYC27o8/TrYMIKD70UI/AAAAAAAAAU4/GcbpnKF2vZs/s1600/DSC04181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eG84iYC27o8/TrYMIKD70UI/AAAAAAAAAU4/GcbpnKF2vZs/s400/DSC04181.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simply Thai's interiors were carried over from The Terrace, which used to be in this spot</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CmFREgzUSlk/TrYMxTsGpmI/AAAAAAAAAVA/nEilUKy5rgk/s1600/DSC05285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CmFREgzUSlk/TrYMxTsGpmI/AAAAAAAAAVA/nEilUKy5rgk/s400/DSC05285.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I liked the light feel and soft light green theme of the inside</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">First things first. We were starving, and we needed our staple Thai dish, Pad Thai, on our table first. Simply Thai's Pad Thai was served very creatively. The noodles were wrapped inside a mesh made of egg. The other ingredients were placed on the corners of the plate, such that we had to break through the mesh and mix everything before having a taste. It added a bit more to the whole experience. The noodles were perfect and I tasted a mixture of smoky and slightly tangy flavors, with the nuts adding some texture. I think this Pad Thai is really the closest to the ones I've tried in Bangkok. I will definitely come back for this.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpm-ilrKoPY/TrYSE1JZwjI/AAAAAAAAAVY/dOsg0098PlE/s1600/DSC05288.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpm-ilrKoPY/TrYSE1JZwjI/AAAAAAAAAVY/dOsg0098PlE/s400/DSC05288.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pad Thai</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6elkPlvzZc/TrYRYfybV8I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/MReJIgGSBSs/s1600/DSC05289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6elkPlvzZc/TrYRYfybV8I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/MReJIgGSBSs/s400/DSC05289.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A closer look</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">C wanted some hot soup, and of course Tom Yum Goong was the only choice. A lot of the kinds I've tasted are either too sour that it hurts my cheeks, or too spicy that it almost scalds my tongue. Simply Thai's Tom Yum was just the right balance. We had ours with fair servings of shrimp.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqyn68urg4U/TrYVf7ykOiI/AAAAAAAAAVw/s7jnpbTaLWw/s1600/DSC05287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqyn68urg4U/TrYVf7ykOiI/AAAAAAAAAVw/s7jnpbTaLWw/s400/DSC05287.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom Yum Goong</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next came our Beef Curry. This had a strong curry flavor, and not the creamy, less powerful curry dishes you usually find in other Thai restaurants. While I prefer my curry this way, I think most people would prefer theirs to be more on the creamy side. Like the Pad Thai, it was also served quite creatively and you'd know it's delicious just by looking at it.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MKfxd3bamFE/TrYVxVKNl5I/AAAAAAAAAV4/x4B2_NTHCCw/s1600/DSC05293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MKfxd3bamFE/TrYVxVKNl5I/AAAAAAAAAV4/x4B2_NTHCCw/s400/DSC05293.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef Curry</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We complemented our curry with the Black Pepper Soft Shell Crab. The crablets were very crunchy and again, was served beautifully with even a flower on the side. This was a good balance to the strong flavor of the curry.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK784NGZPps/TrYXNNF2X4I/AAAAAAAAAWA/f990HM4a24k/s1600/DSC05294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK784NGZPps/TrYXNNF2X4I/AAAAAAAAAWA/f990HM4a24k/s400/DSC05294.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Pepper Soft Shell Crab</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">A few months ago, my family and I celebrated my mom's birthday in Simply Thai and I just really have to include this in this post. Simply Thai offers Dungeness Crab, which is a huge crab flown from Thailand served in their delicious garlic butter sauce. It was enough for the seven of us to share. So if ever you're dining here in a big group, I highly suggest ordering this. Let the photos speak for themselves.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/294622_10150756489800523_659455522_20389331_5623767_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/294622_10150756489800523_659455522_20389331_5623767_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dungeness Crab</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/263257_10150756489995523_659455522_20389336_4669315_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/263257_10150756489995523_659455522_20389336_4669315_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/294752_10150756490210523_659455522_20389339_8098414_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/294752_10150756490210523_659455522_20389339_8098414_n.jpg" width="400" /> </a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The creativity in this restaurant never stops. Their takeout bags are made from the paper they use as placemats. :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/185216_10150756486410523_659455522_20389268_1409502_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/185216_10150756486410523_659455522_20389268_1409502_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's been almost 7 years since I last visited Thailand, and I really do miss its busy streets and wonderful, friendly people. But it's a comfort to know that without leaving Manila, I can be a little nostalgic and relive my authentic experience of this delicious cuisine in restaurants like Simply Thai.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out 5</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-72970703296606541622011-10-29T12:52:00.000+08:002011-10-29T12:52:50.458+08:00Getting acquainted with Korean Ice Cream<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">I should really visit Korean groceries more. Last night, C took me to a Korean grocery near his house where I discovered two kinds of yummy Korean ice cream. Never mind the fact that we couldn't understand what was written on the packaging. The image on the wrapper was enough for us to make a good guess of what to expect inside :)</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F5g_rbrc5T4/TquBakQq28I/AAAAAAAAAM8/PLMX5L0muxk/s1600/IMG_0599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F5g_rbrc5T4/TquBakQq28I/AAAAAAAAAM8/PLMX5L0muxk/s400/IMG_0599.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Bean + Vanilla Ice Cream + Mochi Sandwich</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">This first one is basically an ice cream sandwich, with a layer of red bean and mochi inside. The outer covering was a thin, crispy-soft layer of bread that reminded me of the taste of the host we receive during communion. After trying the red bean flavor of <a href="http://thegorgeousgourmande.blogspot.com/2011/10/mochi-mochi.html">Mochiko</a>, I instantly became a fan of anything red bean. This combination of the sweetness of the red bean, the chewiness of the mochi, and the sweet, creamy coldness of the ice cream was just perfect.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kar21zfdsSE/TquBjLTm9nI/AAAAAAAAANM/zupQ1R7uZlE/s1600/IMG_0602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kar21zfdsSE/TquBjLTm9nI/AAAAAAAAANM/zupQ1R7uZlE/s400/IMG_0602.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Tk0BcqyU2U/TquBmeF8fcI/AAAAAAAAANU/WnJFFJGwEnk/s1600/IMG_0603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Tk0BcqyU2U/TquBmeF8fcI/AAAAAAAAANU/WnJFFJGwEnk/s400/IMG_0603.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What you'll see once you bite into it</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">My second discovery was mochi-covered ice cream, again reminding me of <a href="http://thegorgeousgourmande.blogspot.com/2011/10/mochi-mochi.html">Mochiko</a>. I think the outer mochi layer was green tea flavored, and it complemented well the sweet vanilla and almond ice cream inside. I loved the added texture from the almond bits. I also enjoyed chewing on the mochi, which had a slightly gummy consistency.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cVletDXvTjI/TquBfXYouZI/AAAAAAAAANE/H7L7ccgCPKQ/s1600/IMG_0601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cVletDXvTjI/TquBfXYouZI/AAAAAAAAANE/H7L7ccgCPKQ/s400/IMG_0601.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Tea Mochi with Vanilla and Almond Ice Cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0cn2G4AEe0/TquBpms3SlI/AAAAAAAAANc/bSeO_paMPjQ/s1600/IMG_0604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d0cn2G4AEe0/TquBpms3SlI/AAAAAAAAANc/bSeO_paMPjQ/s400/IMG_0604.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, there are two pieces inside!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vPbrnEVfegE/TquBOaDMLTI/AAAAAAAAAM0/hnwXxRHyrKM/s1600/IMG_0607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vPbrnEVfegE/TquBOaDMLTI/AAAAAAAAAM0/hnwXxRHyrKM/s400/IMG_0607.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creamy vanilla and almond ice cream inside</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm pretty sure if I spend ten more minutes inside a Korean grocery, I'll be able to find plenty of other delicious discoveries. And when I do, I'll make sure to share them with you :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the meantime, enjoy your long Halloween weekend! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And in the midst of crazy costume preparations, let's not forget the real reason for the holidays - and that's to remember and pray for our loves ones who have gone before us. May they continue to rest in peace.</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-5937360639689143022011-10-24T23:40:00.000+08:002011-10-24T23:40:18.226+08:00The Best of Bacolod<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">This year, I was inspired by one of my projects at work to make a promise to myself that I will start exploring more of the beauty of the Philippines. And that meant more than just Boracay. Well, there was no better way to start than with The City of Smiles -- Bacolod -- for their annual Masskara Festival. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Besides their infamous street party, I've always known Bacolod for its friendly people and beautiful women. All I've ever known about the Negrense cuisine is its now very commercialized chicken inasal, which you can find in almost every corner of Metro Manila. But really, nothing beats the delicious treasures I discovered while enjoying the sights and sounds of Bacolod and the colorful Masskara Festival. Let me take you through the best of my mouthwatering Bacolod discoveries.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/314589_10150880015505523_659455522_21458362_1590256899_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/314589_10150880015505523_659455522_21458362_1590256899_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>1. Manokan Country for a taste of Authentic Chicken Inasal </b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The moment our plane landed in Silay Airport, we knew what the first order of business was. We were all starving, and our first meal in this city was waiting for us half an hour away. We instructed our cab driver to take us straight to Manokan Country so we could sample some authentic Bacolod chicken inasal.</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/320235_10150880017270523_659455522_21458382_1501241416_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/320235_10150880017270523_659455522_21458382_1501241416_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Manokan Country was a loooooooong stretch of adjacent carinderia-type restaurants serving the best of chicken inasal. Manong driver suggested that we eat in Nena's Beth. It was one of the bigger restaurants in the area, and due to intense hunger, we did not argue. It took us about five minutes to decide what to order. Four orders of paa, one pecho-pak (pecho and pakpak), 5 cups of garlic rice, and a very wise choice of two plates of oysters. Yes, oysters. More on that later.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The chicken arrived all in one plate, and just by looking at it I knew it had to be good. There were some parts highlighted by slightly burned chicken skin, and it was glowing with chicken oil. It was not as big as I expected it to be, though. I don't know if I was just really hungry, but I think I ate my meal too quickly. It was juicy, thanks to the additional chicken oil we ordered, and the <i>toyo</i>-<i>suka</i>-<i>calamansi</i>-<i>sili </i>was a perfect match. There's something about the vinegar in Bacolod. It tasted a bit like cider, which added an extra kick.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/306364_10150880020375523_659455522_21458423_149870235_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/306364_10150880020375523_659455522_21458423_149870235_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paa and Pecho-Pak (about P60 each)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, the oysters. First of all, I did NOT expect oysters in this restaurants. And definitely not for P35. This is the kind of food I only get to enjoy in buffets, rockefeller style. The oysters in Nena's Beth were steamed plain and simple, but coupled with our trusty <i>sawsawan</i> (dip), they were just delicious.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/315763_10150880020055523_659455522_21458418_1691493986_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/315763_10150880020055523_659455522_21458418_1691493986_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oysters (P35)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>2. Calea Pastries for the best cakes in town</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After resting a bit for the remainder of the afternoon, C and I decided to explore and walk down Lacson street to prep ourselves up for the crazy night of partying ahead. We enjoyed taking photos of the different colored masks that were being sold on the streets, the sponsored booths offering freebies and fun activities, and the beautiful costumes of some performers, so much so that we didn't realize we were already at Calea. We had probably walked about a kilometer, and we didn't even notice.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/305444_10150880025515523_659455522_21458516_420738224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/305444_10150880025515523_659455522_21458516_420738224_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Calea had such a homey feel inside that reminded me of the ambience in Mom and Tina's. C and I liked the details like the frame on the wall and the wooden entrance door. The place looked so clean despite having people flock into the restaurant minute after minute.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">They probably had every kind of cake you can possibly imagine - chocolate, vanilla, fruit based, with frosting, without frosting, ice cream cake, you name it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/319687_10150880027135523_659455522_21458549_1121273192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/319687_10150880027135523_659455522_21458549_1121273192_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But our top three Calea cakes would have to be the following:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Calea Chocolate Cake</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is Calea's signature cake. It's two layers of soft chocolate cake with caramel custard in between, topped with a thick, moist layer of chocolate. I liked the fact that it was not too sweet, and it went perfectly well with their Cafe Americano.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/304183_10150880030065523_659455522_21458622_953843947_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/304183_10150880030065523_659455522_21458622_953843947_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calea Chocolate Cake (P 85)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Pecan Caramel Cheesecake</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This one C really kept raving about. And for good reason. It was a great balance of sweetness coming from the top caramel layer, and slight sourness coming from the creamy cheese in the middle. Neither taste overpowered the other. It had a soft and tender texture, and was topped beautifully by a few pieces of pecan nuts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296045_10150880030475523_659455522_21458636_1761136138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296045_10150880030475523_659455522_21458636_1761136138_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pecan Caramel Cheesecake (P 85)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Chocolate Mud Pie</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This was a refreshing choice because of the chocolate ice cream that basically comprised 95% of the cake. So you have to eat it fast before it melts. It was generously sprinkled by what tasted like ground Oreos, plus some almonds. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/313575_10150880074205523_659455522_21458994_1223365565_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/313575_10150880074205523_659455522_21458994_1223365565_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>3. Cafe Bob's for pizza, pasta and gelato</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We started off our second day with a late lunch at Cafe Bob's. We ordered just two types of dishes. Their Spaghetti Carbonara and the Pizza Negrense, which my friend, Camille, recommended for us to try.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I absolutely loved the Carbonara. We liked the fact that it was swimming in delicious white sauce, unlike other kinds that are thick and dry. It was creamy with some bits of meat and lots of cheese. It was so good that we just to order another one after finishing our first plate.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/302592_10150880070805523_659455522_21458962_1930745195_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/302592_10150880070805523_659455522_21458962_1930745195_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spaghetti Carbonara (P 120)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">The Pizza Negrense was very interesting. It was a combination of chorizo, tomatoes, olive oil and mozzarella cheese. It was slightly sour because of the tomatoes, but balanced out by the salty goodness of the chorizo and the creaminess of the cheese. The crust was just the right thickness for us to enjoy the toppings without being overwhelmed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/317825_10150880071930523_659455522_21458973_701511888_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/317825_10150880071930523_659455522_21458973_701511888_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza Negrense (P 225)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Right beside our table stood the gelato station. Customers kept falling in line for this so I decided to give it a try. I ordered two kinds for us to try - the Ferrero flavored gelato and one with Vanilla and Almond flavor.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Ferrero-flavored one was very close to the original, which happens to be my favorite, too. It even had bits of chocolate that added some texture to the creamy gelato.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/307565_10150880072125523_659455522_21458976_1678140606_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/307565_10150880072125523_659455522_21458976_1678140606_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ferrero (P 75)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
The Vanilla and Almond-flavored gelato was good, too. It was far from the vanilla flavor you find in local ice cream brands. I wish it had actual almonds as toppings though!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/315745_10150880072260523_659455522_21458978_4073030_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/315745_10150880072260523_659455522_21458978_4073030_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At this point in the trip, C and I felt like we had consumed a week's worth of calories in just 24 hours. But this weekend was not the venue to worry about our diet, and so we continued our food tripping until the evening.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<b><u>4. Aboy's Restaurant for delicious fresh seafood</u></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After Cafe Bob's, we went back to Calea for some more sweet treats. For our last night in Bacolod, we decided to have a rather late dinner since we were still stuffed with everything that we ate during the day. But after seeing the bed of fresh seafood right after entering the restaurant, we suddenly had space for more food.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The winning dish in Aboy's would have to be their Scallops. Imagine soft pieces of fresh scallops still in their shells topped with plenty of garlic. It was such a treat for our tongues. And again, just like the oysters, having scallops on our table felt like we were eating in some fancy hotel buffet. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/298354_10150880079410523_659455522_21459054_1418138293_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/298354_10150880079410523_659455522_21459054_1418138293_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scallops (P 120)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">The other excellent dish in their menu was the Squid Fats. At first I thought it was impossible to have Squid Fats for our viande. But our friend Jeg suggested this, and we're just thankful that we did. True to its name, it had generous servings of squid fat submerged in the tasty squid ink. It went very, very well with the rice to make our version of sinfully yummy squid fats rice.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/319622_10150880077630523_659455522_21459034_476246394_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/319622_10150880077630523_659455522_21459034_476246394_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squid Fats (P 160)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/305177_10150880077975523_659455522_21459040_1621150540_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/305177_10150880077975523_659455522_21459040_1621150540_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squid fats mixed with rice</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Here's the rest of the items that we tried:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sizzling Scallops (P 200)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Relleno Crab (P 160)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Blue Marlin (P 170)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pork Belly (P 100)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilUa5WX8WUc/TqWCish2xqI/AAAAAAAAAMc/w2uo2zq18Ms/s1600/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilUa5WX8WUc/TqWCish2xqI/AAAAAAAAAMc/w2uo2zq18Ms/s400/Picture1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RihzZGe24uk/TqWBGZlG6zI/AAAAAAAAAMU/59UYZOd7cik/s1600/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For what we paid, this meal was more than worth it. It was the best way to culminate this awesome trip.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><b>5. Virgie's Napoleones for the best pasalubong</b></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I explored the city a little more as we searched for Virgie's. We decided to save up on transportation cost and take the jeepney instead. So from the other end of Lacson, we rode the jeepney until it turned to the street going to SM. We walked down a few more blocks until we reached the pedicab terminal. It was getting a little hot at this point so we decided to ask Manong to take us to our destination via his pedicab. He took us through the inner streets of the town where the less fortunate Negrenses lived. We got a glimpse of a small slum community on our way to Virgie's.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After a quick 3-minute ride, we got to Virgie's and thankfully there weren't that many people yet. I hurried to the counter and picked up six boxes of Napoleones to bring home to my family and my officemates. This was my first time to try Napoleones and boy were they goooood. The outside was slightly crispy, with a light sweet frosting on top. Once you bite into it, a soft custard filling will flow through to your mouth. It was just plain addicting. I think I can finish a box of 12 in one sitting.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I64q30owCaU/TqWFHlU-csI/AAAAAAAAAMs/hF4xIEKplPc/s1600/napoleones_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I64q30owCaU/TqWFHlU-csI/AAAAAAAAAMs/hF4xIEKplPc/s400/napoleones_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Napoleones (P 165 for a box of 12) - Photo courtesy of www.virgieshomemade.com</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqtf_2QJRzo/TqWFBixORnI/AAAAAAAAAMk/w1pUeKIdNU8/s1600/napoleones_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqtf_2QJRzo/TqWFBixORnI/AAAAAAAAAMk/w1pUeKIdNU8/s400/napoleones_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of www.virgieshomemade.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Writing about my entire Bacolod food trip feels pretty awesome. Not bad for my first published out-of-town food experience, yes? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hopefully, I'll get to have more of these explorations around the Philippines. Hmm... I wonder where I should go next?</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-888255663601070152011-10-20T21:23:00.003+08:002011-10-24T22:42:52.200+08:00A Mamou Birthday Celebration<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Birthday celebrations are always so magical to me. For one, it's such a happy celebration of a life that was so generously given to us by our Creator. And it's a sweet reminder to all of us that despite the many terrible things that may happen to us and to those around us, we are still much more fortunate and blessed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Last October 13th, my team and I put together a simple surprise for our big boss, Christine, who has worked so hard in the past months to ensure the bright future of our business. And so we thought it best to make her feel special and blessed on her hatch day, in an equally special place.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VzDhvRRepA0/TqASDHbCeGI/AAAAAAAAALk/SxaQ-bnJUps/s1600/DSC04994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VzDhvRRepA0/TqASDHbCeGI/AAAAAAAAALk/SxaQ-bnJUps/s400/DSC04994.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mamou had a laid back and homey feel that was perfect for an intimate gathering. I also noticed quite a number of foreigners clearly having a good time. The dim lighting added to the relaxed atmosphere, with the only bright lights coming from the semi-open kitchen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-snA0FcSw2Rk/TqATNIiibJI/AAAAAAAAALs/CanaBL3LbZQ/s1600/DSC04995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-snA0FcSw2Rk/TqATNIiibJI/AAAAAAAAALs/CanaBL3LbZQ/s400/DSC04995.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Mamou</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">The moment we sat down, the waiter served us a basket of bread. I know it's just bread, but for me this actually ushered in the delicious meal. I particularly loved the brown-colored one, which had slightly more flavor than the others.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mS197RUNhQ/TqAULaoyfmI/AAAAAAAAAL0/MTh-5aTboOY/s1600/DSC04998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mS197RUNhQ/TqAULaoyfmI/AAAAAAAAAL0/MTh-5aTboOY/s400/DSC04998.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bread started off the delicious meal</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the interesting items I found on the menu was the Tuyo Salad. It was a combination of fresh greens, brown rice, slices of fresh tomatoes and onions, and chopped tuyo. At first I feared the thought of putting brown rice in a salad, but this one turned out to be a good combination as the rice added more texture to the salad. Having the salty taste of tuyo, the sour taste of the tomatoes and the bite from the onions was a nice complement to the rice and the vegetables.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHzOHKqZ5w8/TqAVsjBmKCI/AAAAAAAAAL8/URm7AQkCRTA/s1600/DSC05000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHzOHKqZ5w8/TqAVsjBmKCI/AAAAAAAAAL8/URm7AQkCRTA/s400/DSC05000.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuyo Salad (P155)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Mamou's Greens Salad was already a visual treat with the bright green color of the leafy vegetables. It had fresh pieces of small-sized tomatoes and was topped with grated parmesan cheese. The dressing was just right, not too tangy and not bland either. Enjoying this healthy dish prepared us all for the delicious meal ahead.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/304063_2155874096783_1244386994_32092027_1435019690_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/304063_2155874096783_1244386994_32092027_1435019690_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mamou's Greens Salad (P295)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">After the salads, we went straight to the pastas. Oh, the pastas. The Lorenzo's Truffle Cream pasta was just mouthwatering. The moment the waiter laid down the plate on the table, the fragrant smell of truffle excited our noses. It looked so simple - just the pasta and the cream sauce. No other sophisticated toppings. Just plain truffle goodness. The taste of the truffle was not overpowering at all, and made us all come back for seconds. Whoever Lorenzo is, and if this dish was his brainchild, I hope to meet him someday. :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/296346_2155875176810_1244386994_32092030_1855677434_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/296346_2155875176810_1244386994_32092030_1855677434_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lorenzo's Truffle Cream (P335)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For our red sauce pasta we ordered the Pasta Andrada Bolognese, which was also very good. Like the truffle cream, this dish was also quite simple with just small chunks of tomatoes and some cheese as toppings. Most bolognese pastas I've tried in the past were not so differentiated, but this one had more character. Out of the two pastas, though, the truffle cream obviously gets my vote.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/313375_2155871336714_1244386994_32092017_423486550_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/313375_2155871336714_1244386994_32092017_423486550_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pasta Andrada Bolognese (P390)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">After two delicious dishes of pasta, it was time for the main event. And this one definitely has to be the highlight of the evening, next to our birthday celebrant. Steak always makes any meal special, and so we just couldn't skip ordering Mamou's Angus Ribeye USDA Prime Grade Steak, done medium well. The steak came in a hot plate, already sliced into pieces so it's ready for sharing. It wasn't served flat, and instead was tilted at an angle to separate the oil from the steak. I regret not asking why they did this, but our theory was that so they could offer a choice for those who like their steak oily and those who don't. The meat was extra tender and juicy in the mouth. I opted not to use any other sauce other than the flavorful oil that came with the steak. I also liked the fact that there were some very, very slightly burnt parts in the meat. Even the parts with the meat fat were to-die-for. It looks a bit pricey on the menu but it's good to share for 4 persons, so I think it was quite a good deal.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The steak comes with your choice of two side dishes, and we had the yummy Corn Pudding and Creamed Spinach.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/320872_2155871576720_1244386994_32092018_972512729_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/320872_2155871576720_1244386994_32092018_972512729_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angus Ribeye USDA Prime Grade Steak (P2,800 for the Twin size [approx. 800g])</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/310118_2155871816726_1244386994_32092019_1219534324_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/310118_2155871816726_1244386994_32092019_1219534324_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corn Pudding and Creamed Spinach for sides</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">After reveling at how great the steak was, we decided to order dessert. I thought the Frozen Hot Chocolate was an interesting and innovative creation. When it arrived, all we could see was whipped cream, but under the thick creamy layer was a scoop of chocolate ice cream swimming in hot chocolate. Thankfully it didn't taste like chocolate overload, with the clashing of hot and cold being a surprisingly good combination.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N6eTDCqIE8A/TqAcry-hy-I/AAAAAAAAAME/CFQWx2CbwN0/s1600/DSC05006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N6eTDCqIE8A/TqAcry-hy-I/AAAAAAAAAME/CFQWx2CbwN0/s400/DSC05006.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frozen Hot Chocolate (P185)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LlYecYJhUIE/TqAdJRTyU2I/AAAAAAAAAMM/KSOUpAHJaBM/s1600/DSC05007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LlYecYJhUIE/TqAdJRTyU2I/AAAAAAAAAMM/KSOUpAHJaBM/s400/DSC05007.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You have to dig through the cream to reveal the chocolate ice cream and hot chocolate</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">We also tried two of their cakes - the New York Cheesecake and the Pecan Pie with "Schlagsanhe". I found the cheesecake a little dry, and I thought the sour taste of the cheesecake contrasted too much with the sweet crust. I liked the pecan pie better, with the pecan nuts adding some crunchy texture to the cake.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296158_2155873616771_1244386994_32092025_2042420313_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296158_2155873616771_1244386994_32092025_2042420313_n.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New York Cheesecake (P285) and Pecan Pie (P180)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">And of course, we couldn't end the night without wishing Christine a very happy birthday with a red velvet cupcake courtesy of Mamou (and a very similar looking red velvet cake from Sonja's care of the team). As an extra treat, our waiter, Jov, even sang "happy birthday" especially for Christine. Notice the "kilig" in Jov's face below :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/315914_2155872296738_1244386994_32092021_288541945_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/315914_2155872296738_1244386994_32092021_288541945_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At the end of a night that was filled with plenty of delicious food and heartfelt, laughter-filled conversations, we could only hope that Christine felt how special she was to the whole team. More than that, every one of us felt just as special and just as blessed to be working with such a wonderful team, led by such an inspiring lady.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cheers to another year, Christine! Happy birthday!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>*Photos are courtesy of Jerome Go</b></span><br />
<br />
THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 4.5 out of 5 - The steak and the truffle cream pasta are definitely worth going back for.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Mamou is located in Serendra, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. For reservations, call 856-3569.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-33824683764635543692011-10-18T21:54:00.002+08:002011-10-20T17:04:13.325+08:00Be in Dimsum Heaven in Xin Tian Di<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">In the past 365 days that C and I have been together, we’ve come to realize that food has served as a critical foundation of our relationship. From the first few days that we started hanging out with each other, to our weekly “foodtripping dates”, our dating life has revolved around food. And so to celebrate our first anniversary together, we decided to indulge. And there’s no better way to do that than to treat ourselves to a delicious dimsum buffet in Xin Tian Di!</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dz8Q28EF-2k/Tp1a95HuWAI/AAAAAAAAAKM/sFfz1rD9OR4/s1600/Ambience.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dz8Q28EF-2k/Tp1a95HuWAI/AAAAAAAAAKM/sFfz1rD9OR4/s400/Ambience.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">One step into the restaurant and we knew we made the right choice. The ambience was perfect for a date, with seats that have high back support that serve as dividers as well for a more intimate feel. And because we wanted to feel like we were in our own world for that meal, that was where we were seated.</div><div></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Upon arrival, our very friendly server, Marlon, handed us the menu. It felt like we were on a dimsum shopping spree as we ticked our choices for the first round. C and I promised to reach until around round 4 to maximize the meal. What I appreciated the most about the service here was that Marlon was so attentive and would always check on us to see if we're ready for our next order. And he would advise against ordering too much for one round so we could try more dishes, which I found to be such a kind gesture :)</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">The menu had a total of 55 items that seriously made us crazy we had to fight the urge to tick everything in one go. Thankfully we mustered the discipline to choose wisely so we could try as many dishes as we could.</div><div></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">I won’t bore you with a long list of descriptions of each of the dishes we tried, but let me take you through the top 3 choices on the list that made this whole experience simply unforgettable.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"> <b><u>1. Raddish Cake</u></b></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">This was a very pleasant surprise for me because I haven’t really found a raddish cake that suited my taste. Xin Tian Di’s raddish cake resembled the texture of hashbrown – crispy on the outside but soft and warm on the inside. The spicy sauce that came with it complemented it perfectly.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKnaE6aVxNY/Tp1-agh6WvI/AAAAAAAAAKU/VgTu2wuPeKk/s1600/DSC04855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKnaE6aVxNY/Tp1-agh6WvI/AAAAAAAAAKU/VgTu2wuPeKk/s400/DSC04855.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raddish Cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<u><b>2. Salmon Taro Puff</b></u><br />
<br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">The Salmon Taro Puff was just an explosion of sweet and slightly salty flavors in my mouth. Combine that with the sweet and spicy sauce and you will spell a-w-e-s-o-m-e. The outside covering was also crispy, but when you bite into it you’ll feel a soft, juicy filling slowly being released in your mouth. The added layers of batter gave this dimsum a more interesting texture. This is possibly one of the best taro puffs that C and I have ever tasted.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-or5ch3CghHg/Tp1_fV0GI6I/AAAAAAAAAKc/Q8Lt73e5Uik/s1600/DSC04862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-or5ch3CghHg/Tp1_fV0GI6I/AAAAAAAAAKc/Q8Lt73e5Uik/s400/DSC04862.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon Taro Puff</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STK6UV2G3-g/Tp2ADZOZqiI/AAAAAAAAAKk/6PZtKB8VbKk/s1600/DSC04865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STK6UV2G3-g/Tp2ADZOZqiI/AAAAAAAAAKk/6PZtKB8VbKk/s400/DSC04865.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a beauty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<u><b><br />
</b></u><br />
<u><b>3. Steamed Crystal Prawns Hakao</b></u><br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">They certainly did not scrimp on the prawns in their hakao. It had a generous serving of fresh prawns inside, and was simply delicious combined with the trademark X.O. sauce. I wanted to order this again in one of the succeeding rounds but I was just too full already. But it’s okay, at least I’ll always have this in my memory. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rQxb01RQMaA/Tp2Aj6l_XnI/AAAAAAAAAKs/yB-XIabjwag/s1600/DSC04861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rQxb01RQMaA/Tp2Aj6l_XnI/AAAAAAAAAKs/yB-XIabjwag/s400/DSC04861.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed Crystal Prawns Hakao</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">All in all, this was all the 19 dishes that we ordered. – 17 kinds of dimsum and 2 desserts.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">1)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Seafood Dumplings in Superior Stock</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">2)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Crystal Prawns Hakao</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">3)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Siomai Pork Dumplings</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">4)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Xiao Long Pao Shanghai Style</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">5)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Glutinous Rice Dumplings Stuffed with Duck Meat, Mushrooms and Egg Yolk in Lotus Leaf</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">6)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Pork Ribs in XO Sauce</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">7)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Fresh Squid with Garlic</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">8)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Chili Dumpling</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">9)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Stone Fish Dumpling</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">10)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Raddish Cake</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">11)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Glutinous Pork Puff</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">12)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Crispy Wonton Teochew Style</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">13)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Salmon Taro Puff</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">14)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Deep-fried Buns</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">15)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Pork Dumpling</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">16)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Steamed Michael Roll with Raddish</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">17)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Pan-fried Shrimp Roll wrapped in Soya Wrapper</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">18)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Sweet Egg Custard</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">19)<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Sesame Buchi</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Check out the photos below for the entire “collection”, hopefully you’ll get inspired to try and experience dimsum heaven for yourselves <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1P-aKRJVCc8/Tp2Bk2eTKlI/AAAAAAAAAK8/FddObRh4RaY/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1P-aKRJVCc8/Tp2Bk2eTKlI/AAAAAAAAAK8/FddObRh4RaY/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9qtm3EA-lnc/Tp2BmGkojJI/AAAAAAAAALE/j04j5LTEdJQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9qtm3EA-lnc/Tp2BmGkojJI/AAAAAAAAALE/j04j5LTEdJQ/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XAN3rdjsfrY/Tp2Bop2GP0I/AAAAAAAAALM/7xMERdUbhOw/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XAN3rdjsfrY/Tp2Bop2GP0I/AAAAAAAAALM/7xMERdUbhOw/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6OqZU0G6Eyo/Tp2BpnJDbYI/AAAAAAAAALU/w9T7uQ1WEIs/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6OqZU0G6Eyo/Tp2BpnJDbYI/AAAAAAAAALU/w9T7uQ1WEIs/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lPk1Nb_omI/Tp2BrJf6ZKI/AAAAAAAAALc/oPiqvAbDZe4/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lPk1Nb_omI/Tp2BrJf6ZKI/AAAAAAAAALc/oPiqvAbDZe4/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5 - You can never go wrong with unlimited dimsum :)</span></div></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: xx-small;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>The meal cost P888 only from <a href="http://www.dealgrocer.com/">Deal Grocer</a> (from the original P1,188).</b><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Xin Tian Di is located in Crowne Plaza, Ortigas, Pasig. For reservations, call 633-7222 local 7240.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-27272793488289227922011-10-11T09:00:00.058+08:002011-10-11T09:00:02.195+08:00Be Sinfully Satisfied with Aysee's Sisig and Crispy Pork<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Along the steep inclined road that takes you from Lanuza street to the Philippine Sports Arena (formerly ULTRA) lies a hole-in-the-wall carinderia-type restaurant that serves the best sisig and crispy pork I have ever tasted. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fellow gourmandes, meet Aysee.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r084_GI8FA0/TpF48VfDFaI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/bH3X9ZslOcs/s1600/DSC04892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r084_GI8FA0/TpF48VfDFaI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/bH3X9ZslOcs/s400/DSC04892.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">From the looks of the happy customers in Aysee, it attracts people from all walks of life. At one table, there was a group of people wearing department store-employee uniforms having a good conversation. Beside them there was a couple who seemed to be enjoying their budget-friendly date. And on another table was seated a man chowing down his rice meal with so much gusto, probably waiting before it was time pick up his employer from a friend's house in a nearby exclusive village.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Aysee's menu had everything that would make any hungry person extremely happy, from sizzling plates to short orders. If you're on a rice diet, you shouldn't even attempt to go here.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_e80VZdNyA/TpF9OdI9PTI/AAAAAAAAAKA/nK8ShTNaDF8/s1600/DSC04890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_e80VZdNyA/TpF9OdI9PTI/AAAAAAAAAKA/nK8ShTNaDF8/s400/DSC04890.JPG" width="300" /> </a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We heard that what makes Aysee popular is their sisig and crispy pork, and so C and I just had to give those a try. For me, the sisig was the clear winner between the two. It was a generous serving of chopped pork parts (I'd rather not know which part of the pig it came from), mixed with egg. Each spoonful had that delicious buttery and margarine-like taste that I have never tasted in any other kind of sisig I've tried. It was just so good and drool-worthy that I myself had to break my no rice diet (we ordered 2 cups of rice, at 10 pesos each). Until now, I can't forget how good that sisig was.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zc2zbfZIkK8/TpF-rOaUg1I/AAAAAAAAAKE/EOiz-JVgCbs/s1600/DSC04896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zc2zbfZIkK8/TpF-rOaUg1I/AAAAAAAAAKE/EOiz-JVgCbs/s400/DSC04896.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sisig with egg - P100</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">The crispy pork was, true to its name, very crispy. From the pork meat, down to the fat layer. And I appreciated the fact that it wasn't oily at all despite it being deep fried. It also went very well with the soy sauce mixture that came with it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mt3OKpEQdlI/TpGBg7yykgI/AAAAAAAAAKI/4AT6fnPe-HE/s1600/DSC04894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mt3OKpEQdlI/TpGBg7yykgI/AAAAAAAAAKI/4AT6fnPe-HE/s400/DSC04894.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crispy Pork - P100</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I thoroughly enjoyed these two dishes that we just had to eat with our hands! It was definitely worth the calories, the cholesterol, and the smell of sisig and soy sauce that lingered in our fingers for the next few days :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5 -<i> A sinfully satisfying meal, all for 220 pesos</i>!</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-52188587924448310222011-10-09T18:17:00.002+08:002011-10-09T18:19:26.457+08:00Mochi Mochi!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Dessert world has just been shaken. Well, at least my dessert world. If you think about it, putting mochi and ice cream together doesn't really seem too far fetched. I mean, mochi is already a popular topping on yogurt and it was my love for yogurt that actually got me acquainted with the goodness of mochi. Ice cream has obviously always been a dessert staple. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so the innovation of Mochiko's mochi-covered ice cream was such a brilliant, natural combination that any dessert lover has to try.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_8Vc8kBfJ8o/TpFsn0sfyUI/AAAAAAAAAJg/pyzn0PyMgyU/s1600/roz+dots2+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_8Vc8kBfJ8o/TpFsn0sfyUI/AAAAAAAAAJg/pyzn0PyMgyU/s400/roz+dots2+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mochiko - P40 each</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">One delicious scoop of ice cream from FIC plus a soft, chewy layer of mochi surrounding it are the two ingredients that make Mochiko so addicting. I like the fact that the dessert experience begins with a short wait. When you buy your mochi ice cream, the packaging would remind you that "Good things come to those who wait. Please wait a few minutes or when the mochi is soft to the touch before biting into it." Beyond the taste, it also teaches us an important life lesson. :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was too excited to give it a taste that every 5 seconds I would give the mochi a little pinch to see if it was soft enough. And once I knew it was ready, I bit into the chewy layer of mochi and I was instantly in mochi heaven. The mochi layer felt like <i>palitaw</i>, and it wasn't too sweet to overpower the flavor of the ice cream.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Gupk57T1N4/TpFvc4UC_mI/AAAAAAAAAJk/EOGjriBeF_w/s1600/roz+dots2+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Gupk57T1N4/TpFvc4UC_mI/AAAAAAAAAJk/EOGjriBeF_w/s400/roz+dots2+005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I got to try two of their bestselling flavors - Azuki, with red bean ice cream, and Black Sesame. Both ice cream flavors were good, but I liked Azuki better. It was just the right amount of sweetness with real bits of red beans to give it extra texture. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz8VrXFDV7Q/TpFylSm7-6I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/zcs6acCUB20/s1600/red+bean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz8VrXFDV7Q/TpFylSm7-6I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/zcs6acCUB20/s400/red+bean.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Azuki</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Whether as a nice dessert to cap off any meal, or even as a quick snack, Mochiko is perfect for anyone who loves a sweet treat. I won't be surprised if in a few months, new brands of mochi ice cream would spring up all over the city. A little bit of healthy competition wouldn't hurt. I'm excited to see what other mochi innovations Filipinos can make happen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8JgjEWXL5Ik/TpF0FquYK0I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/EJjzhEpa72c/s1600/IMG_0579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8JgjEWXL5Ik/TpF0FquYK0I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/EJjzhEpa72c/s400/IMG_0579.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mochiko is located in Eastwood Mall, right in front of Italianni's restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<br />
THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5 - <i>A sweet, innovative treat for dessert lovers</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-60594120458603367282011-10-04T18:44:00.000+08:002011-10-04T18:44:53.831+08:00Regis Center is Katipunan's Newest Place to Be<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">I have to say, Katipunan Avenue continues to surprise me with each passing day. Like I mentioned in a previous post, it’s been quite a while since I last visited the street where my alma matter resides. I’m no longer up to date with the new places that have opened up, and the old ones that have unfortunately closed down.</div><div> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Not too long ago, a new two-storey building sprung up right across KFC, and is budding to be the next best hang out place for Katipunan-raised high school and college students alike. Regis Center is what it’s called. And I hate the fact that it decided to open up 2 years too late. ENVIOUS doesn’t even come close.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">At the ground floor of Regis Center, you’ll find the Katipunan branch of Fullybooked (finally, a bookstore with a more reader-friendly ambience) and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (a nice break from the 3 Starbucks branches along Katipunan), among others. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Go up the escalator (yes, there’s an escalator. Sosyal.) and you’ll reach a line of restaurants that breaks the monotony of the available dining places along the old Katipunan. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">My high school girlfriends and I were set to eat at Bon Chon. I got there early so I made a quick stop at Peanut Butter Company to take out one of their pastas. The first time I tried PB Co. I only got to taste their roast beef sandwich (with peanut butter of course). It was great, but this time I wanted to see if peanut butter and pasta can actually go together.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvI89fhJR14/TordlOteGpI/AAAAAAAAAIw/KABspDMlWT4/s1600/DSC04763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvI89fhJR14/TordlOteGpI/AAAAAAAAAIw/KABspDMlWT4/s400/DSC04763.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">The classic spaghetti reminded me of the peanut buttery-taste that I love about Kare Kare, while still keeping to the identity of Bolognese pasta. It was so flavorful and creamy that I didn’t mind the absence of meat or any other toppings.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8702cB_08C8/Tord9881z1I/AAAAAAAAAI0/qOBxsdVRkdE/s1600/DSC04767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8702cB_08C8/Tord9881z1I/AAAAAAAAAI0/qOBxsdVRkdE/s400/DSC04767.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic Spaghetti - P125</td></tr>
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Once I got my take out, I headed to Bon Chon. It was PACKED. The line starts once you enter the door. You’d have to wait a while to be seated, but the good news is that the waiters were nice enough to actually help you look for a table. The line moves pretty quickly, too. We went there on a Saturday, and so I couldn't really tell if it would be more full on weekdays when there are classes.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LIa0sA-t-V8/TorecQqreuI/AAAAAAAAAI4/snJ8qEMeTkE/s1600/DSC04782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LIa0sA-t-V8/TorecQqreuI/AAAAAAAAAI4/snJ8qEMeTkE/s400/DSC04782.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Anyway, my first encounter with Bon Chon was not so spectacular. I expected a lot from their chicken given the amount of publicity they’ve been getting. But I thought, okay, I’ll give it another shot. C and I had separate orders of wings of drumsticks because we were just that hungry. Even though the wings were a bit small, I thought the flavor of the spicy wings were better this time around. Although the sauce didn’t manage to seep through the chicken skin and into the meat. Once I got to the inside, the flavor was gone. Thankfully, the size of the drumsticks was much more generous than the wings.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3e1VfNFmjk/ToreywunORI/AAAAAAAAAI8/0EvRhQwU7Ck/s1600/DSC04768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3e1VfNFmjk/ToreywunORI/AAAAAAAAAI8/0EvRhQwU7Ck/s400/DSC04768.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Wings (3pcs) - P185</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TRH4TaHBviM/TorfF8t5U0I/AAAAAAAAAJA/KLRTq9YoRNY/s1600/DSC04777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TRH4TaHBviM/TorfF8t5U0I/AAAAAAAAAJA/KLRTq9YoRNY/s400/DSC04777.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drumsticks (6 pcs.) - P365</td></tr>
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The calamares was rather tempting, and so I gave it a shot as well. In fairness to the calamares, it was pretty decent for a restaurant specializing in chicken. The breading was crunchy and the squid was pretty big. I was quite happy with this one.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJa1of0oq14/TorfXwUOGEI/AAAAAAAAAJE/ueZ3TV03E2I/s1600/DSC04773.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJa1of0oq14/TorfXwUOGEI/AAAAAAAAAJE/ueZ3TV03E2I/s400/DSC04773.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamares - P125<br />
</td></tr>
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">While my girlfriends and I were exchanging stories, I noticed how this branch’s interiors were customized for the majority of its customers. I spotted the oblation statue and that mighty blue eagle on the wall behind us.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">After our hearty dinner, we continued our restaurant hopping. And since we were feeling in the mood for some milk tea, our next stop was Saint's Alp Teahouse. It was my first time to see experience Saint’s Alp, which was 2 doors away from Bon Chon. Their milk tea choices were slightly more adventurous than the usual, and my pick was the Black Sesame Milk Tea. I had it with just 50% sugar, and so I could really taste the sesame seeds. It was almost like drinking buchi. I liked the fact that the sesame added texture to the drink, but I don’t think the majority would feel the same way.</div> <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qxyf1boHMtA/Torg3dBM0GI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/yq91HRlx8xk/s1600/DSC04785.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qxyf1boHMtA/Torg3dBM0GI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/yq91HRlx8xk/s400/DSC04785.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Sesame Milk Tea<br />
</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">For those who like the taste of ube in tea, they have Taro Milk Tea. I found this a bit too sweet for my taste, but I think ube-lovers would like it.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xhqjCB-kUAw/TorhhJtvpTI/AAAAAAAAAJU/DRCYgOJKTNs/s1600/DSC04798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xhqjCB-kUAw/TorhhJtvpTI/AAAAAAAAAJU/DRCYgOJKTNs/s400/DSC04798.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taro Milk Tea</td></tr>
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">They also offer other non-tea drinks like Chocolate Shake, for those who would rather be on the safe side. It can double as dessert, too.</div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Milk Shake</td></tr>
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">We also got to try one of their food items – the shrimp balls – which I really liked! It was soft and a bit sweet. I think it’s a match for the famous Katipunan fish balls :)<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"></span></span></div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimp Balls</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">The food choices at Regis Center offer the kind of variety that any student would look for after maybe a year or so of exhausting the restaurant selection along Katipunan.</div><div> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">Sigh. It really is a shame that we can no longer enjoy these perks as students. Oh how time flies, indeed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">But, the great thing about it is that whenever my barkada and I are together, it feels like nothing has changed. We’re still the same little girls chit-chatting non-stop about everything and anything. We’re still the same girls whose colorful past paved the way for an even more colorful present. And we’re still the same girls who swore that no matter what happens, no matter where life takes us, we will always find our way back to this precious, comforting circle of the bestest friends one can ever have.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Regis Center is located on Katipunan cor. F.B. Dela Rosa Sts. (beside KFC, across Ateneo Gate 3). Parking is not a problem because the building has a basement parking area. </b></span></div><br />
</div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-56219296382102872172011-09-18T15:43:00.000+08:002011-09-18T15:43:01.946+08:00Be Shiok-ed!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">According to <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/">Urban Dictionary</a>, the word "Shiok" is commonly used in Malaysia and Singapore to convey a feeling of sheer pleasure and happiness. It's usually used in the context of food. And when you visit Shiok restaurant in The Fort, it's the exact feeling that you can expect -- to be pleasured and happy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've always been interested in hawker-style dining that's deeply ingrained in Singaporean culture, and Shiok had a good attempt to bring this experience to Manila and remain well within your budget.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When it comes to Singaporean cuisine, Hainanese Chicken is always top of mind. I think Shiok's Hainanese Chicken comes pretty close to being authentic. From the tender chicken strips to my favorite chili, ginger and hoisin sauces, to the soup and even the rice, this was a very satisfying meal.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LwcACDo0NFo/TnWaWL8R3aI/AAAAAAAAAIM/wIQtQH-UN2M/s1600/DSC04732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LwcACDo0NFo/TnWaWL8R3aI/AAAAAAAAAIM/wIQtQH-UN2M/s400/DSC04732.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The complete Hainanese Chicken meal (P 245)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bdo0UWMYLw/TnWaZVjyFLI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/pu1sufEWsow/s1600/DSC04733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bdo0UWMYLw/TnWaZVjyFLI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/pu1sufEWsow/s400/DSC04733.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A closer look at the chicken</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erlFxllFo6c/TnWaPin9xyI/AAAAAAAAAII/FkpJTLPYQSY/s1600/DSC04734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erlFxllFo6c/TnWaPin9xyI/AAAAAAAAAII/FkpJTLPYQSY/s400/DSC04734.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The yummy sauces</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Their Char Kway Teow likewise did not disappoint. It had firm flat rice noodles, beansprouts, chorizo, and other various ingredients that blended nicely together in the Char Kway Teow's savory sauce. The serving is good enough to be shared by two.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-614y6n9Ui1I/TnWcN8Oot6I/AAAAAAAAAIU/zNl1MIDETZY/s1600/DSC04728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-614y6n9Ui1I/TnWcN8Oot6I/AAAAAAAAAIU/zNl1MIDETZY/s400/DSC04728.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Char Kway Teow (P 160)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"> C was excited to give the Baked Luncheon Meat Curry a try. After all, you can never go wrong with luncheon meat. I'm not a big fan of curry so I just took a bite. While C was raving about it, I thought it was fairly decent. Again, I'm a bit biased, but I probably wouldn't be ordering this for myself.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeMmBaZown4/TnWdSvFEZSI/AAAAAAAAAIY/8jXW_n3J5v8/s1600/DSC04738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeMmBaZown4/TnWdSvFEZSI/AAAAAAAAAIY/8jXW_n3J5v8/s400/DSC04738.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked Luncheon Meat Curry (P 160)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">And of course, what really made our meal perfect and complete was Shiok's Milo Dinosaur. I don't think this drink needs much explanation. All I can say is that whoever invented this drink deserves to be recognized. It's pure genius.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW8SGkHLDik/TnWe1QdInbI/AAAAAAAAAIc/AYJH0tnMG8k/s1600/DSC04736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW8SGkHLDik/TnWe1QdInbI/AAAAAAAAAIc/AYJH0tnMG8k/s400/DSC04736.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milo Dinosaur (P 60)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">So, were we filled with sheer pleasure and happiness after dining in Shiok? I believe so! For what we paid for, I think we got more than our money's worth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 4 out of 5 <i>- A budget friendly Singaporean dining experience</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Shiok is located in The Fort, Taguig city, inside the parking lot beside the Shell Station along 32nd street. </b></span></div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-25607305921160483242011-09-17T11:54:00.000+08:002011-09-17T11:54:25.342+08:00A different kind of Japanese at Nomama<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">The restaurant name itself already speaks of Nomama's unique and highly different concept that's sure to catch anyone's attention. Barely a week old, Chef Him's new creation boasts of industrially-inspired interiors with wooden counters and table tops, as well as hanging bulbs. Plus, from securing your parking space up to the time you ask for your bill, their friendly service crew are always on their toes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6bfPZNLuB2I/TnQK8rqzG-I/AAAAAAAAAHo/WYoZRmjJdNU/s1600/DSC04601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6bfPZNLuB2I/TnQK8rqzG-I/AAAAAAAAAHo/WYoZRmjJdNU/s400/DSC04601.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2afK4rXdyYY/TnQLE5ULSkI/AAAAAAAAAHw/wSdCuTxb7D4/s1600/DSC04605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2afK4rXdyYY/TnQLE5ULSkI/AAAAAAAAAHw/wSdCuTxb7D4/s400/DSC04605.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the view that greets you as you walk in</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1Hc0WoaS2U/TnQLAKrfZoI/AAAAAAAAAHs/aLe-adho4w8/s1600/DSC04604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1Hc0WoaS2U/TnQLAKrfZoI/AAAAAAAAAHs/aLe-adho4w8/s400/DSC04604.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I like the shape of these stools. Hope they're comfortable!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">To help me and my best friend Kat decide on what to order, Chef Him took time out to explain their menu. I found it quite interesting that Nomama does not have your usual sashimis and makis on their menu. Rather, they have what Chef calls "raw compositions" with choices of tuna, kilawin, or seared wagyu beef. They also offer salads, steaks, tempura, and sides to go with the entrees. And of course, the Nomama Ramen is a must-try. More on that in a bit.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We started our meal with the tuna and avocado dish, made up of sushi grade tuna loin, small cubes of avocado, edameme beans, and topped with arugula leaves. This one instantly caught my eye because I wanted to see how the combination of raw tuna and avocado would turn out. The tuna was soft and fresh, and the texture of the avocado complemented it well. The taste of the avocado was very, very subtle and did not overpower at all. The arugula leaves added more kick, plus I loved the added texture from the edameme beans. And I give this an A for presentation.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f9N7DDdk3ZA/TnQOFStn2JI/AAAAAAAAAH0/XNOF50wttmk/s1600/DSC04614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f9N7DDdk3ZA/TnQOFStn2JI/AAAAAAAAAH0/XNOF50wttmk/s400/DSC04614.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuna and Avocado (P 330)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the items that I think people would come here for is the Nomama Ramen. Chef Him shared that this is a uniquely organic ramen that combines their house pork stock, a blend of miso and sesame, seaweed, vegetables and slices of pork, and hard boiled egg. We had expected for the serving to be big, and so Kat and I decided to split one order. Even the half order was filling enough. Aside from the firm noodles, what I appreciated most about this ramen was that it wasn't oily at all. In fact, it even felt healthy :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IzhelRscTvU/TnQQDscugwI/AAAAAAAAAH4/zFjhQwXlwOc/s1600/DSC04617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IzhelRscTvU/TnQQDscugwI/AAAAAAAAAH4/zFjhQwXlwOc/s400/DSC04617.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half of the Nomama Ramen (P 290 for one full order)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Another item that tickled my fancy was the Twice Cooked Pork Belly Teriyaki. The pork belly was served in a plate covered with cling wrap, which was removed right in front of us. Once the wrap was lifted, waves of smoke escaped from the plate. That made me more excited to take a bite.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jy0QzJsadNY/TnQSCq5TUnI/AAAAAAAAAH8/CkvJpt4u-1o/s1600/DSC04620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jy0QzJsadNY/TnQSCq5TUnI/AAAAAAAAAH8/CkvJpt4u-1o/s400/DSC04620.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The sweet teriyaki sauce blended well with the small apple cubes. All three pieces of pork belly were tender and cooked well. Chef Him humbly said they still want to make the meat even more tender. As is, I think it's something you'd savor right down to the crispy pork skin.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAIvwjXQRqQ/TnQSnavNGTI/AAAAAAAAAIA/dNFLMrIckRw/s1600/DSC04624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAIvwjXQRqQ/TnQSnavNGTI/AAAAAAAAAIA/dNFLMrIckRw/s400/DSC04624.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twice Cooked Pork Belly Teriyaki (P 410)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kat and I were so full after our feast, but when we were offered dessert, we simply couldn't resist. The featured dessert of the day was the Whoopie Cookie (at least I think this was what the waiter called it) - two pieces of white chocolate chip cookie with wasabi sauce, topped with shavings of white chocolate. The taste reminded me of the wasabi-flavored Kitkat. The top of the cookie was soft while the crust was crunchy. The second piece, which was upside-down with the crust on top, was a bit hard to slice though. All in all, it's the kind of dessert that grows on you. Perhaps adding a scoop of ice cream would make it grow on you sooner? I don't know, just a thought :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DB-luiYI-c/TnQZD0_0OsI/AAAAAAAAAIE/gbgg5TIn3v8/s1600/DSC04625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DB-luiYI-c/TnQZD0_0OsI/AAAAAAAAAIE/gbgg5TIn3v8/s400/DSC04625.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Overall, I think Nomama has a really huge potential to be the next talk of the town. I think that because they offer very unique items, having beautiful photos on the menu to visually describe their dishes would greatly help. I hope that as time passes, the waiters would remain as friendly and alert as how they were when we visited. I am very excited to hear about the big success of Nomama, and I'd definitely go back to try the rest of the deliciously different items on their menu.<br />
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THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 4 out of 5 - <i>A different and fresh twist on Japanese cuisine </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Nomama is located at the Ground Floor of FSS Building II, 18 Sct. Tuazon cor. Sct. Castor Streets, Quezon City. It's right in front of Max's Restaurant. Telephone numbers: 542-2558 and 0916-5504373.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-72696248264853182352011-09-13T22:54:00.000+08:002011-09-13T22:54:50.479+08:00Say Opa! in Cyma<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Cyma is one of those restaurants that I appreciate the most because of the fact that I only eat there occasionally. And quite literally, the times I've dined in Cyma are momentous occasions in my life such as my college graduation, my birthday, or small celebrations with friends. I don't think these were deliberate, but I suppose underneath my subconscious lies the thought that this restaurant is reserved for occasions that are a little more special, a little less everyday.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">By pure coincidence, my friends decided to eat in Cyma to celebrate the despedida of our dear friend Ben, who will be leaving for Japan for work. Greek food is probably something he wouldn't get to eat often in Japan, and so I believe it was only apt that we make his last weekend in Manila special, over a special Greek meal, with very special people.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vuVfVh1GMuo/Tm9azHiO_BI/AAAAAAAAAHI/y6lDoepnUI8/s1600/DSC04576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vuVfVh1GMuo/Tm9azHiO_BI/AAAAAAAAAHI/y6lDoepnUI8/s400/DSC04576.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">It was a full house at Cyma that night, and the waiter kindly asked us to wait outside for a short while, while one table bills out and we could take over their table. After about 10 minutes, we were given our table and each one ordered their Cyma favorites, as well as tried some new dishes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I went for my personal favorite, the Spinach and Artichoke Fondue. I think they tweaked this item a bit, because we noticed a slight sour taste that was added to the creamy fondue, which came from the sundried tomatoes. The usual pieces of toasted garlic bread and soft pita bread were present. I still very much enjoyed the combination of spinach and artichoke with the soft cubes of feta cheese. The slightly burnt top layer reminded me of why I like this dish so much. While I think I like the old version more, this one wasn't bad at all.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LYakB9uEJfI/Tm9cRdkmu7I/AAAAAAAAAHM/7WyM2gv3_Fs/s1600/DSC04583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LYakB9uEJfI/Tm9cRdkmu7I/AAAAAAAAAHM/7WyM2gv3_Fs/s400/DSC04583.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spinach and Artichoke Fondue (P 350)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">What came as a delicious surprise for me was the Kalamarakia, which Yosu and Nica ordered. The squid was cooked just right, and the breading itself already had a slightly sweet flavor, which complemented the citrus flavor of the lemon. The Kalamarakia came with a dip the taste of which I couldn't quite make out. It was sour and a little bitter, and so I thought the squid was perfect on its own.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2XresWXjjPA/Tm9eS6-9fQI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/TRhwdfz76GI/s1600/DSC04582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2XresWXjjPA/Tm9eS6-9fQI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/TRhwdfz76GI/s400/DSC04582.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalamarakia (P 300)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Any meal in Cyma wouldn't be complete without ordering their Roka Salata, and is perfect for health buffs like Nica. The yummy combination of fresh romaine and arugula, sundried tomatoes, walnuts, shredded parmesan cheese, and that traditional Greek vinaigrette dressing makes this one a classic at Cyma, and is something regular customers really go back for.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D5wOXBp4TLI/Tm9oNSloVvI/AAAAAAAAAHc/YNqED1J7yFA/s1600/DSC04581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D5wOXBp4TLI/Tm9oNSloVvI/AAAAAAAAAHc/YNqED1J7yFA/s400/DSC04581.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roka Salata (P 330)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I felt in the mood for good meat, and so I ordered the Lamb Gyro - a first for me. Ito ordered the same dish as well. The cubes of tender lamb went all the way from the top until the bottom of the wrap. Fresh slices of onions and tomatoes topped the gyro. It came with chili sauce, which I didn't use much. I felt like relishing the flavor of the lamb and everything else without tainting the taste with something spicy. The pita bread was a little toasted but still soft, and the thickness of it made me quite full half way through my gyro. I felt, though, that the dish could have been better with some sides - like sliced potatoes maybe.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XuPurTvB_gs/Tm9iVl4SzWI/AAAAAAAAAHU/r6_61JOpj9o/s1600/DSC04586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XuPurTvB_gs/Tm9iVl4SzWI/AAAAAAAAAHU/r6_61JOpj9o/s400/DSC04586.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb Gyro (P 220)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">C was feeling carnivorous himself and opted for the Greek Burger, which consisted of a thick patty of Wagyu burger (done medium), 2 rectangular pieces of feta cheese that were a centimeter thick each, and fresh vegetables. It was served open, with slices of potato on the side (as if they read my mind!). The burger was decent thanks to the salty goodness of the feta cheese, although we had high expectations for the taste and texture of the patty, being the Wagyu type. But I guess it was too much to expect this specific one to melt in your mouth. C seemed to enjoy it despite the shortcoming of the beef, so it was all good.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-libqr2wQkX8/Tm9kYsJH5HI/AAAAAAAAAHY/rvk3YnStj8w/s1600/DSC04589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-libqr2wQkX8/Tm9kYsJH5HI/AAAAAAAAAHY/rvk3YnStj8w/s400/DSC04589.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greek Burger (P 390)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Yosu had the biggest meal of all, and it was all in one plate! The Kotopoulo Lemonato was huge! I think it was almost half a chicken. It was topped with pieces of feta cheese, and the sauce had hints of lemon. I think this was supposed to taste like Adobo, although the Adobo that I know is more on the salty-soury side. This one was a little more sour, and I suppose a little more Greek. The chicken was tender and the sauce seemed to have seeped into the meat. I appreciate the fact that they tried to merge Filipino taste into their menu.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ClB3yqHxjVI/Tm9ou3b5RBI/AAAAAAAAAHg/eSlfyMW7pcQ/s1600/DSC04591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ClB3yqHxjVI/Tm9ou3b5RBI/AAAAAAAAAHg/eSlfyMW7pcQ/s400/DSC04591.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kotopoulo Lemonato (P 410)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>And then there was Ben. This was only Ben's second time in Cyma. His first was in the original Cyma branch in Boracay. He decided to go with pasta, and the Pastisado was definitely a viable choice. I told him that servings in Cyma were more than enough for one person even if the menu says it's "solo", but being a gourmande himself, he thought it was going to be just right for him. Well, well, half way through the meal he started to feel full -- proof that Cyma's portions are indeed very generous. The sauce of the Pastisado resembled the taste of Bolognese. I found it interesting that the pasta used was Bucatini. It was my first time to try hollow noodles, and I think the "architecture" of the pasta helped highlight the sauce. Consistent with Cyma's generous servings, the Osso Bucco portion was more than enough, and we all got to give it a try. Osso Buco tends to taste like <i>kaldereta</i>, and this one wasn't so different, but I think the Greek tomato sauce gave it a little more identity.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vkcZHcM-hqg/Tm9sWitSbnI/AAAAAAAAAHk/l6J35tJSh8w/s1600/DSC04593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vkcZHcM-hqg/Tm9sWitSbnI/AAAAAAAAAHk/l6J35tJSh8w/s400/DSC04593.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pastisado (P 380)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Yet again, Cyma became witness to another special occasion in my life. While this one wasn't such a happy one because a good friend of ours is leaving (even if it's just for 2 months, we will miss him!), we enjoyed this special night because the delicious food we shared, the stories we told, and the people we enjoyed these with, were equally as special.<br />
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It was definitely a night worthy of a resounding "Opa!" <br />
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THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-63870339044882668232011-09-11T22:54:00.002+08:002011-09-11T23:07:16.959+08:00Sam Won, Anyone?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">With the influx of Korean nationals to the Philippines not so long ago also came the popularity of Korean cuisine. I, however, was a late bloomer when it came to appreciating Korean food. I remember tasting bulgogi for the first time in 2007 while I was in Singapore with some friends. It was quite a traumatic experience, as I vividly remember not enjoying that meal very much. It probably wasn't the best place to experiment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so even when Korean restaurants sprung up one by one in Manila, I never felt the urge to try any of them. Until I met Sam Won. C has been talking about Sam Won for quite some time now and when he finally took me there, I somehow regretted not having met her sooner.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqT4c9Scjrk/Tmy2RqIjbGI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/fHTU7hRjvOY/s1600/DSC04541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqT4c9Scjrk/Tmy2RqIjbGI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/fHTU7hRjvOY/s400/DSC04541.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKznV1ejkic/TmzLZjIeIZI/AAAAAAAAAHA/McaIA0m63BM/s1600/DSC04539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKznV1ejkic/TmzLZjIeIZI/AAAAAAAAAHA/McaIA0m63BM/s400/DSC04539.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Upon entering the restaurant, we were greeted by two friendly Korean ladies who immediately took us to our table. After giving our order, our assigned server quickly arranged the cooking area to mark the start of our sumptuous meal.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--VL0t9K8wk4/Tmy5z_benzI/AAAAAAAAAGU/8cK9SJn7q0I/s1600/DSC04549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--VL0t9K8wk4/Tmy5z_benzI/AAAAAAAAAGU/8cK9SJn7q0I/s400/DSC04549.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal is always good :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oMuoPSvePec/Tmy54Ra8BMI/AAAAAAAAAGY/iLSDKnv0QNs/s1600/DSC04551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oMuoPSvePec/Tmy54Ra8BMI/AAAAAAAAAGY/iLSDKnv0QNs/s400/DSC04551.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All set!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Before our actual orders arrived, our server brought in the entourage of Korean appetizers ranging from sweetened peanuts, beansprouts, kimchi, fish cake, raddish, shrimp cake, and boiled potatoes. Each one offered a unique taste in my mouth - sour, sweet, spicy, tangy.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCsT9aREd2g/Tmy8dQ46xEI/AAAAAAAAAGc/4Bv--Gr9-ks/s1600/DSC04553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCsT9aREd2g/Tmy8dQ46xEI/AAAAAAAAAGc/4Bv--Gr9-ks/s400/DSC04553.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious appetizers to start off the meal (free!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">We ordered beef belly (Usamgyup) and pork belly (Samgyupsal) for the grill, which our very helpful server cooked right in front of us. There really is something about having your food cooked in front of you - it kind of makes it more delicious, because you're being served something literally fresh off the grill.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PrZ4t64upY/Tmy-YEluV6I/AAAAAAAAAGg/Yqnq2yycDZ4/s1600/DSC04564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PrZ4t64upY/Tmy-YEluV6I/AAAAAAAAAGg/Yqnq2yycDZ4/s400/DSC04564.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our pork belly (P270) and beef belly (P330)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">We were given a variety of leaves for our pork and beef wrap, as well as chilli sauce and sesame oil (my favorite!), and chilli paste and garlic (describing these items is making me drool at this very moment).</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVUGPhZITUI/TmzBI_GMEsI/AAAAAAAAAGs/CmnuBQ9q-D4/s1600/DSC04554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVUGPhZITUI/TmzBI_GMEsI/AAAAAAAAAGs/CmnuBQ9q-D4/s400/DSC04554.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh leafy veggies</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zt7SYgcmcFM/Tmy_oqVcd7I/AAAAAAAAAGk/uEh4OfZ6FDM/s1600/DSC04559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zt7SYgcmcFM/Tmy_oqVcd7I/AAAAAAAAAGk/uEh4OfZ6FDM/s400/DSC04559.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chilli paste and garlic</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0solbYt7PX8/Tmy_s1b5-0I/AAAAAAAAAGo/Qi0JqqszHaQ/s1600/DSC04556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0solbYt7PX8/Tmy_s1b5-0I/AAAAAAAAAGo/Qi0JqqszHaQ/s400/DSC04556.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chilli sauce and sesame oil</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Biting into the wrap released a dozen different flavors in my mouth. There was salty from the meat, spicy from the sauces, the taste of garlic from the fresh garlic pieces, and the sour-sweet-spicy taste of kimchi, too. For each wrap, I would try to add in something different so I could get a variety of flavors each time. </div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OP6YOhyOxck/TmzCVFnyE_I/AAAAAAAAAGw/GdIyg7138ZQ/s1600/DSC04566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OP6YOhyOxck/TmzCVFnyE_I/AAAAAAAAAGw/GdIyg7138ZQ/s400/DSC04566.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C's wrap. At this point we almost finished the appetizers, hence the scarcity of toppings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RpWAK0eZc8Q/TmzCZGQIUqI/AAAAAAAAAG0/bmscyKSwyhc/s1600/DSC04567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RpWAK0eZc8Q/TmzCZGQIUqI/AAAAAAAAAG0/bmscyKSwyhc/s400/DSC04567.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OP6YOhyOxck/TmzCVFnyE_I/AAAAAAAAAGw/GdIyg7138ZQ/s1600/DSC04566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Making the wraps would get your hands a little dirty, so if you're going on a date for the first time and you're out to make a really good and neat first impression, well, I'm not sure if you should take your date here. But, if on your first date you wanna have lots of fun getting your fingers messy while enjoying the delicious meal, then by all means, go on and get to know each other in Sam Won. :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyway, what went really well with the meat was their Jap Chae. I absolutely loved their Jap Chae. The glass noodles were so firm that even I chewed on it for two minutes, I didn't feel the noodles break at all. I obviously didn't have a problem chowing down the well-cooked noodles. The meat and vegetable toppings were served generously, too. It was the right blend of sweet and salty, plus it wasn't dry at all. </div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03JpvIbiE0U/TmzEgrSOsRI/AAAAAAAAAG4/zp2hl7N7HkQ/s1600/DSC04562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03JpvIbiE0U/TmzEgrSOsRI/AAAAAAAAAG4/zp2hl7N7HkQ/s400/DSC04562.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy Jap Chae (P330)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">For refreshments, they served us cold tea, which I think is their version of water. Even though it was virtually tasteless, it somehow added a kick to the entire meal.</span></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBcodvY1XwQ/TmzIMUopiVI/AAAAAAAAAG8/83kDEml5P9o/s1600/DSC04545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBcodvY1XwQ/TmzIMUopiVI/AAAAAAAAAG8/83kDEml5P9o/s400/DSC04545.JPG" width="400" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold tea</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That day that we went to Sam Won, I was suffering from a bad case of cough and colds. And while Korean food wouldn't be my go-to comfort food whenever I'm sick (that would probably be fast food most of the time), I was quite happy with how Sam Won temporarily relieved my bad health day. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And having a delicious meal is always a great way to start an even better weekend :)<br />
<br />
THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5 </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Sam Won Garden is located in Aguirre Avenue corner Ramirez, B.F. Homes, Paranaque. For reservations, call 825-1144.</b></span></div><br />
</div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-65964101061637159722011-09-09T17:30:00.001+08:002011-09-09T17:32:42.798+08:00Tasting India in Assad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">Whenever I think of the next best food adventure, the top of mind cuisines would always be fail-safe Japanese, homemade Italian, comforting Chinese, or sometimes when I feel slightly adventurous--French food. But perhaps due to lack of exposure, Indian cuisine would rarely make it to my list.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Come to think of it, where in Manila can you find a place that serves authentic Indian food that would allow you to keep within your budget?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, lucky for me, I finally gave my palate a fresh taste of Indian food in Assad!</div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: Apologies for the resolution of the photos. I forgot to bring my camera so I had to make do with my iPhone.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewe28uFPrns/TmnFWu6Jf-I/AAAAAAAAAF4/U2KD8KWDcVQ/s1600/assad+menu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewe28uFPrns/TmnFWu6Jf-I/AAAAAAAAAF4/U2KD8KWDcVQ/s400/assad+menu.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8CfMsxVrRn8/TmnEXOhPcKI/AAAAAAAAAFs/XoaDA67_-mQ/s1600/Assad+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Actually, the menu above is from Assad Cafe, which is the restaurant where you can dine. Apparently, the owners of Assad bought the Chinese restaurant that used to own the location, and they decided to keep the Chinese menu. And Assad Cafe today serves both Indian and Chinese food. Odd combination? Well, with what I experienced, I would say they make a good match.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6n4uWJIQKTk/TmnEppLN3VI/AAAAAAAAAFw/NTyIXK3M4fE/s1600/Assad+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6n4uWJIQKTk/TmnEppLN3VI/AAAAAAAAAFw/NTyIXK3M4fE/s400/Assad+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside Assad Cafe</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Now, what really caught my interest was Assad Mini Mart, located a few doors down from the restaurant. The moment I stepped in, I smelled a mix of Indian flavors, spices and fragrances all at the same time. The grocery was maybe twice the size of your regular convenience store. By looking at the long line at the counter plus the constant opening of the door, it was pretty clear to me that a lot of Indian nationals really frequent this place to get reminded of what it feels like to be back home.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I was in awe just looking at shelf after shelf of spices, colorful ingredients, and refreshments from India. I wish we had spent a little bit more time inside so I could explore more, I'm sure there were tons more I could discover. But we were in a bit of a hurry, and so C just made sure I got to taste some of their specialties.</div><br />
The first one being the Samosa.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dG2cImxVr8/TmnIyl5j3vI/AAAAAAAAAF8/iWLxtOIcp0g/s320/samosa.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samosa (P15 each)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">At first glance, you'd think it looks like your usual empanada. But I did a little bit of research and found that Samosa is actually one of the most popular vegetarian Indian appetizers. You can also find it being sold in the streets of not just India, but the whole Indian subcontinent (info courtesy of <a href="http://www.food-india.com/recipe/R026_050/R032.htm">food-india.com</a>). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This Samosa was stuffed with soft boiled pototoes, with a slightly spicy filling that tasted like curry. The outside complemented the inside with its crunchy texture. I first tried it without the sauce to really get a taste of the filling. It was good without the sauce, but even better with it. It was such a fresh and exciting taste in my mouth that after a few bites, I found myself wanting more. This one's got addictive potential, I must say.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lj_-OOLwano/TmnKToT7WqI/AAAAAAAAAGA/cZCRstWN83c/s1600/inside+samosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lj_-OOLwano/TmnKToT7WqI/AAAAAAAAAGA/cZCRstWN83c/s400/inside+samosa.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft boiled potato and curry filling inside</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another Indian delicacy I really enjoyed was Paratha--leavened Indian flat bread that has a sweet taste that reminded me of pancakes. It's sliced thinner than the pita bread used in shawarmas. It comes with sauce as well, but it's already great to munch on on its own. According to <a href="http://indianfood.about.com/od/breadrecipes/ig/How-to-Make-Parathas/">about.com</a>, Paratha goes well with any Indian dish. It's that good, you can eat it with anything. As for me, I am very much happy having it on its own.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cQ6jYQ3Vs4/TmnQAFRbgwI/AAAAAAAAAGE/KINtf56JvCc/s1600/pita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cQ6jYQ3Vs4/TmnQAFRbgwI/AAAAAAAAAGE/KINtf56JvCc/s320/pita.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paratha (P 25)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
There were other pastries available in Assad Mini Mart which I vow to try next time. But I'm quite happy with these new discoveries.<br />
<br />
After buying our appetizers, we went back to Assad Cafe to get our soup and main course. At first glance, I wasn't so excited to try the Seafood Green Soup, because, well, it looked more like vegetable soup. But the delicious taste washed away all that false judgement. I loved the consistency of the soup, which resembled that of Bird's Nest soup, and how it was just the right kind of salty. It had pieces of shrimp and squid inside, too. The serving was very generous, too. C and I shared one order and it filled us up quite unexpectedly.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RX3OsDOYs5M/TmnUOgKZcSI/AAAAAAAAAGI/N8wXXazQf-4/s1600/green+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RX3OsDOYs5M/TmnUOgKZcSI/AAAAAAAAAGI/N8wXXazQf-4/s400/green+soup.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seafood Green Soup (P 118)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Lastly, we also shared a main course, this time taking from Assad's Chinese menu. The Spicy Squid Rice definitely did not scrimp on the spicy part, with fresh chopped chili generously sprinkled over the squid. The deep fried squid was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The order came with sweet sauce to perhaps add more flavor. And of course, one cup of rice, which you would really need to temper the spiciness exploding in your mouth. I seldom eat rice nowadays, but I just had to break that rule this time around.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9uDSy5n4HQ/TmnWXRwBtRI/AAAAAAAAAGM/xwhCUD8rvb8/s1600/spicy+squid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9uDSy5n4HQ/TmnWXRwBtRI/AAAAAAAAAGM/xwhCUD8rvb8/s400/spicy+squid.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spicy Squid Rice (P129)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">To sum it all, this meal was fresh on the tongue and friendly on the wallet. Best of all, it opened my eyes to Indian cuisine, which I think really deserves more attention and praise than what it's currently getting. Oh, and did I mention that we got all of these for take out? It's perfect to bring home to your family, too!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so if you ever find yourself in the busy streets of Manila, searching for good food that will give your taste buds a fresh perspective, then you might want to make a quick detour along U.N. Avenue and explore the flavors of India right at the heart of Manila.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Assad Mini Mart and Assad Cafe are located in 1268 - D. Midtown Executive Homes U.N. Avenue, Paco Manila. For delivery, call 521-4996 or 404-0319.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>You can also find Assad Mini Mart in the following addresses:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Eurocrest Building, Jupiter Street, Bel-Air Village, Makati</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Door # 5 Thaddeus Arcade Along Gil Fernando Ave., San Roque, Marikina City </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6676292584850309680.post-61600508988301888732011-09-04T13:56:00.000+08:002011-09-04T13:56:58.272+08:00Experience the real Japan in Nihonbashitei<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">When you enter a Japanese restaurant and see groups of Japanese nationals happily enjoying their meals, then you know you've come to the right place. This is the common scene you'll find in Little Tokyo in Makati, where you'll be greeted by a long line up of Japanese restaurants offering authentic Japanese cuisine. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But you see, Little Tokyo is not the only place where you can find the best Japanese restaurants in the city. A few kilometers further down the street of Amorsolo (at the corner of Amorsolo and the stoplight before the entrance to the Skyway) lies a humble Japanese restaurant, which has become a comfort dining place for me and C.</div><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlEabj9B2ps/TmMErLkchkI/AAAAAAAAAFM/tNwHVpWFGqg/s1600/DSC04530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlEabj9B2ps/TmMErLkchkI/AAAAAAAAAFM/tNwHVpWFGqg/s400/DSC04530.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nihonbashitei has become our go-to place for yummy Japanese comfort food</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Upon entering the restaurant, you'll instantly get a feel of real Japan - from the simple interiors in neutral colors, to the Japanese chefs by the sushi bar, to the Japanese customers in intense conversations (in pure Japanese, of course). If you get lucky, you'll even chance upon a friendly Japanese server.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ARQslqaIM04/TmMGOgw4oeI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/aazTjnKUVyM/s1600/DSC04531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ARQslqaIM04/TmMGOgw4oeI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/aazTjnKUVyM/s400/DSC04531.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The simple interiors make you feel like you're in a restaurant in Tokyo</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoSCrAOlwzg/TmMHB0IsIBI/AAAAAAAAAFU/cABGTe6h9cY/s1600/DSC04532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoSCrAOlwzg/TmMHB0IsIBI/AAAAAAAAAFU/cABGTe6h9cY/s400/DSC04532.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="justify"><td class="tr-caption">You can reserve one of these rooms for more privacy. Usually, Japanese businessmen have meetings here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">C and I already have a list of our favorites in Nihonbashitei. I, for one, go gaga over their salmon sashimi. Their sashimi is always served fresh, and you can tell from the nice salmon pink color of the thick slices. Once you dip the salmon sashimi in Kikkoman mixed with wasabi, you'll be in salmon sashimi heaven.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-omYzC2_7e1E/TmMIKV7SnVI/AAAAAAAAAFY/POW1r0AkUwM/s1600/DSC04535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-omYzC2_7e1E/TmMIKV7SnVI/AAAAAAAAAFY/POW1r0AkUwM/s400/DSC04535.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh Salmon Sashimi (P280)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Another item worth ordering again and again in Nihonbashitei is their Toro Spicy Sashimi. You can opt for salmon, but I highly suggest ordering the tuna. Imagine cubes of fresh tuna tossed in spicy and slightly sweet sauce topped with crunchy tempura bits - you don't even need soy sauce and wasabi anymore. You can eat this as is!</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ktLiyexVBGg/TmMJr3_C8LI/AAAAAAAAAFc/je0q8ECKmEU/s1600/DSC04534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ktLiyexVBGg/TmMJr3_C8LI/AAAAAAAAAFc/je0q8ECKmEU/s400/DSC04534.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="center"><td class="tr-caption">Toro Spicy Sashimi (P220)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">And because C is such a fan of Unagi, his top picks would always include the Unagi rice meal that comes with two huge pieces of deliciously-cooked unagi on top of a box of rice. It comes with miso soup, too. And as if this much unagi wasn't enough, C would partner this with Unagi rolls. The unagi slice in each roll is big enough in proportion to the rice.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mFwG0CIDDXk/TmMM1hPJRxI/AAAAAAAAAFg/YjYOhGbk1qA/s1600/13042011029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mFwG0CIDDXk/TmMM1hPJRxI/AAAAAAAAAFg/YjYOhGbk1qA/s400/13042011029.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unagi Rice (P550) - comes with miso soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">My favorite item on the menu is also one of the cheapest. Three pieces of grilled Enoki Bacon, each one with a generous serving of thin and firm enoki mushrooms, wrapped in soft and smoky bacon -- definitely drool worthy. We suggest to get the salted version of this.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pM1DUV5uATs/TmMOGC7pm3I/AAAAAAAAAFk/IK8v3UsP1lU/s1600/DSC04538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pM1DUV5uATs/TmMOGC7pm3I/AAAAAAAAAFk/IK8v3UsP1lU/s400/DSC04538.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can never go wrong with bacon - Enoki Bacon (P65 per stick)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">And aside from the great-tasting food, the service is something really noteworthy about this restaurant. Servers are almost always running from one table to the other to ensure that you get your orders in no time. At first glance you'd think parking is a problem, but they offer valet services for those who don't want to stress themselves out in finding a decent parking slot.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so whether it's after a long, tiring day at work, a steady weekend with friends, or simple celebrations like a successful presentation to our bosses, we always find reasons to go back to Nihonbashitei. Give it a try, and maybe you'll find comfort in their authentic Japanese menu, just like we did. :)</div><br />
THE GOURMANDE'S SCORE: 5 out of 5<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Nihonbashitei is located at the corner of Pasay Road (Arnaiz) and Amorsolo. It's right by the stoplight before the entrance to the Skyway. You can call for reservations at </b></span><span class="st"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>818-8893 / 818-8894. Open from 11am to 2am, Mondays to Sundays. </b></span></span></div>The Gorgeous Gourmandehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05166335417822206965noreply@blogger.com0