Sing U Me Restaurant: Hide n’ Dine

(We only spent 3,000 Php on our Brunei trip! Find out how HERE!)

One of the best thrills of travelling is eating! You get to know a country’s characteristic better through their food, and I can attest to that. However, during our visit in Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei we were not able to indulge to the fullest. It was Ramadan and though we were not Muslims, we had to comply out of respect.

Good thing our host referred us to Sing U. Me restaurant. It is located in Warisan Complex in Jalan Gadong, right beside our homestay. They serve breakfast and we were very lucky to have found it since we had a long day scheduled ahead.

Warisan Complex

Upon arriving, we noticed that all the windows were covered with newspaper that day. According to our host, this is to hide the people inside, not because they’re breaking the rules but to not tempt those who are fasting. Sing U Me Restaurant’s patrons were all Chinese or those not fasting that day.

The morning after Raya!

Before Raya, all the windows were covered with paper!

It was also nice to meet fellow Filipinos in the restaurant. Most of Sing U Me’s staff were Pinoys and we were given a bigger serving because of it (I really love how we get to enjoy this treat from our Kababayans anywhere!). We ordered Bah Ku Teh (which has become my favorite food of that trip). Generally, Bah Ku Teh is a pork rib dish in herbal soup usually made of star anise, cinnamon, fennel seeds, and garlic. They add other meat variants to make different types of Bah Ku Teh and at Sing U Me Restaurant, I ordered one with pork intestines!

Bak Kut Teh!!!!

We also ordered a shrimp dish that was to die for! It was coated in garlic and rosemary and was deep fried to perfection! It was served with white rice which is perfect in complimenting the strong taste of the shrimp.

We also ordered 2 sets of dimsums because our appetite was triggered big time! I know this isn’t really something adventurous but we needed to taste something familiar! To top it all off, my partner and I each ordered Kopi C or coffee with evaporated milk.

Overall, we spent 19 BND at Sing U Me. That’s around 900 Php. We went overboard, I know, and it’s because we were very pleased with the experience and the taste of their food. No regrets! Besides, we had to eat to last us the whole day!

Dining at Sing U Me Restaurant was a pleasant and palatable experience. It was different because we had to go in hiding just to eat. It was sort of a thrill. We got to understand Brunei’s culture through this experience. I also had a new found appreciation at how people adapt to each other’s differences in order to leave harmoniously.

Here is how you find Sing U Me Restaurant in Brunei 🙂

 

Ten Cents to Heaven:When It’s Cold, You Gotta Eat

The rainy season can be a bummer sometimes but since we live in a tropical country, we really don’t have any choice but adapt. That’s the good thing about us locals. We can still find good places to travel to regardless of the season. By the same virtue did we end up at Ten Cents to Heaven one rainy morning.

Monsoon rains got nothing on us. We wanted to go on a food trip and we have our sights on the beautiful Marilaque Road. We knew that with the rain, food trips are more meaningful in a place that amplifies the cold weather.

After some twists and turns, and the heavenly sight of Rizal’s mountains, we found Ten Cents to Heaven. The place was more of a resort/recreational facility than a restaurant. We arrived together with a couple of families planning to check-in and indulge on the weather.

We headed first to their admin office to get a brochure and check what more is in store for us. It turns out, Ten Cents to Heaven isn’t just a resort but also a team building venue. They have obstacle courses, zip line, even a hanging bridge! Wait hold it…they also have a rappelling tower! It was just a shame that it was raining that day and some of the activities weren’t available for safety reasons.

Their restaurant, Camp Cafe Resto Bar, is located at the end of the trail on the entrance’s left side. Along the path were beautiful trees which added to the cool, provincial feel. It was as if we were strolling along Camp John Hay in Baguio! If you like taking photos or selfies, then this place is for you too! Everything is just picturesque!

When we arrived at the restaurant, we were pleased with the view! This was exactly how we pictured our food trip session: overlooking the world below, chilly, and comfortable! Their menu is also extensive! From an array of local main courses, down to dessert and coffee!

We ordered Pork Steak and Fish in Soy and Garlic, and we weren’t disappointed! The fish was superb and tasty. It was soft and could seemingly melt in your mouth! The oriental flavor of the soy lingers longer in your mouth and the garlic compliments it without taking the spotlight off the fish! The Pork Steak was good too. I like that it was fried to the core, first before it was cooked in steak sauce. It was crunchy and it has a Filipino-style kind of sweetness because of the sauce. The sabaw, by the way, is great over steamed rice!

After dining, a curious cat approached us and asked for attention. Who are we to deny him of that?! Plus he was clean and super cute! According to the staff, there is someone who takes care of stray cats like him who happened to found home within Ten Cents to Heaven’s premise. The place just got more beautiful in our eyes!!!

Ten Cents to Heaven is indeed a good place to visit with your family. Heck, you can even bring your whole  work department here for some adrenaline pumping activities! If you just needed to relax and take the time off from the busy city, then this is the pill for your weariness. Ten Cents to Heaven can also replenish bonds too with their team building facilities. Or if you’re like us who are just looking for places to satisfy our hunger, then Camp Cafe and Resto should be your next destination!

Camp Cafe is located at Sitio Mayagay II, Brgy. Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal. Below is where to find them on Google Maps!

Lampara Cafe & Restaurant: Cubao’s Home-cooking Heaven

Tired of your usual fast food and to-go meals?

Nestled in the heart of Cubao, Quezon City is a small, familiar shack that calls out to those who seek culinary goodness. Lampara, though, is not your typical carinderia. It promises you not just savory meals, but a home to consume your order. I have been fan since 2010 and for an eatery to not lose its magic through the years, you might be curious how they do it.

The place prides itself with newly prepared meals. No matter what time of day you drop by, there is something just-cooked to eat. Their serving is generous and they are always ready to answer you should you ask their recommendation.

I would always order sisig and lechon kawali. Their sisig is a play of flavors. It is moist, creamy, and a play between saltiness and zest. Their lechon kawali is not to be outdone. The crisp of the pork rind is just commendable. It is dry and does not swim in oil. What fascinates me is that the meat of the lechon kawali does not lose its elasticity no matter what time of the day it is served. As you bite through it, you will wonder how did they manage to crispy fry the rind but maintain the meat tender.

Lampara is not an enclosed venue. It has a good ventilation and perhaps that’s the reason why dining here is more appetizing. The place is like a reminiscent of those lunches you took in the province. You might get the impression, though, that since it is located in one of the insets of Aurora Boulevard, pollution is terrible. Honestly, no. It’s as tranquil as it can get. Lampara is located at the backdoor of Cubao Expo and since it is a dead end, there is a very minimal crowd and vehicles around.

There is so much to love about the place. Something that I might just actually want to suggest is to further beautify the front of the eatery to attract more customers. Making it more noticeable will definitely lure more passers-by to have a taste of this treasure. Aside from this, I am in love with Lampara: good eats, relaxing ambiance.

How to go to Lampara Cafe & Restaurant

1. Ride the MRT3 and alight at Cubao Station.
2. From Farmers Plaza, walk your way through Cubao Yale.
3. Walk pass Sogo Hotel until you see Angel’s Burger at the end of the street. You will soon see Lampara Cafe and Restaurant just after Mariposa Hotel.

Budget of a Typical HUNGRY Wanderlust (Public Transpo + Tipid Tips):

MRT3 fare from North Ave to Araneta Center Cubao Station =  16.00 Php x 2

A typical meal + Rice = 50 – 70 Php

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Total: 66 Php – 86 Php + the unparalleled goodness of home-cooking! 

**Lampara Cafe and Restaurant is located at 28 Stanford st. Cubao, Quezon City

 

The Aristocrat Restaurant: Unli-Almusal and a Cup of History

 

The Aristocrat Restaurant is one of the many things that define Philippine culture. Since 1928, it has been serving Filipinos from all walks of life the traditional cuisine that we have learned to love and long for.

It all started when Engracia Cruz-Reyes, more popularly known as Aling Asiang, decided that their family of 14 (12 children and the family’s foundation) should not be the only people enjoying her home-cooked meals. She had converted their home to an eatery and thus, history was made. Her ever famous Pancit Luglog, Arroz Caldo, Adobo Sandwich, and Chicken Barbecue  became the exquisite cravings of almost everyone Pinoy.

Image from notey.com

Also, a fun fact, Aristocrat pioneered the food-cart industry in the country in 1940 when they have converted a Ford to a rolling canteen. This used to make rounds from Luneta to Roxas Boulevard and has served as the forefather of the elegant Aristocrat Malate Branch.

Image from Aristocrat.com.ph

If you think that something this advanced in years would end up forgotten, then you’re making a mistake. Just recently, Aristocrat Malate has launched their promo “Almusal-All-You-Can”  and we knew instantaneously that, this, we had got to experience!

Image from Aristocrat.com.ph

The promo runs from October 21, 2016 to December 31, 2016 within the hours of 1:00 AM to 6:00 AM. For 200 Php you get to experience the lavish breakfast menu of Philippine’s finest.

Now, you might ask what sets this buffet apart from all those who have managed to sprung out in the Metro. Honestly speaking, the number of their dishes aren’t as many compared to Something Fishy, Finio, or Bigoli. It’s the quality that actually knocked these buffet joints down. Aristocrat, contrary to the principle of most all-you-can-eat joints,  prioritizes quality over quantity.

The instance Aristocrat’s friendly staff ushered us to the dining hall, we were greeted by an array of hearty ulams. You can only imagine how joyous I was when I saw the Java Rice and their praise-worthy Sinigang! If only words can describe how delectable the thick soup submerging the pork and vegetables is, you would get what this raving is all about.

Tapa and Longganisa are not to be missed, as well. They go very well with their flavorful Garlic Rice! It was a feast to the palette. It was every foodie’s happiness actualized. To make things even better, they served a complimentary roll of Mango Delight! It was just tragic that the moment it was laid on the buffet table, it heralded a hungry pack of fans that we were not able to get a slice…I have to confess, though. My friends and I, out of desperation, took the cake packaging and lived with what was left of the beauty. The icing sufficed!

I had to say, Aristocrat felt like home. The menu is a reminiscent of a Sunday visit to your Lola’s house. Aling Asiang’s legacy lived with every satisfied customer who came out of their restaurant doors. The staff were very accommodating and friendly and were very festive despite the ungodly hour to which their jobs begin. I was even to the point of dancing with one of them to the tune of the jovial music (let me call him “mem” and if ever you get the chance to read this, you were that one happy pill that completed our visit)

My friends and I were beyond satisfaction. Your family and friends will definitely enjoy the experience too!

How to go to The Aristocrat Restaurant, Malate Branch:

1. From Cubao, you can ride the LRT 2 Station to Recto.
2. After alighting from the station, walk to the direction of Divisoria until you reach Avenida.
3. Hail a jeepney with the signage “Mabini/Baclaran/M.H. Del Pilar”
4. Ask to be dropped near to Rajah Sulayman Park or Malate Church.
5. Walk to the direction of Baywalk and you are not to miss the restaurant!

Budget of a Typical Wanderlust (Public Transpo + Tipid Tips):

LRT (Araneta Center to Recto): 20.00 Php x 2 = 40.00 Php

Jeepney Fare: 10 Php x 2 = 20.00 Php

Buffet: 200.00 Php

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Total: 260.00 Php + Free strolling along Roxas Blvd/Baywalk ヽ(・∀・)ﾉ

**The Aristocrat Restaurant Malate is located at 423 San Andres Street Malate Manila, Philippines. Contact number is (02) 524-7671 to 80

Puerto Galera: Discovering Inland Galera Part 1

The majority sees Puerto Galera as an island of booze, party, and finding destiny. This was the reason why we challenged ourselves to look at it at a different light. Last Summer, we tried staying at  Galera, but this time away from the renowned White Beach.

Finding a place was difficult at first since the World Wide Web would dictate about 340,000 results in 0.51 seconds rooms located in White Beach and at Sabang Village. We wanted something serene and far from the merriment. It was difficult at first until we chanced upon Bamboo Beach Resort.

Located at Dalaruan, Puerto Galera, the vacation spot was made for those who value tranquility and seek peace in the waters of the island. The place was strategically built far from the hustle and bustle of the city so you get to appreciate the rawness of the island and the real beauty it can offer.

When we arrived at Muelle Port, we were delighted that the owners were waiting for us with the whole family. Turns out, we would have to ride another boat to the resort. It was such a thrill! Everyone said their hellos and we didn’t feel like we were mere guests. The initial experience made us feel like we’re home.

Once we arrived, they served us coffee and juice to our hearts’ content. The owner, Ms. Cherrie, sat with us and shared with us how they were able to establish the resort. She was very warm and accommodating and she made sure that whenever we would need something, all we had to do was ask.

The room was very cozy. If you are looking for air-conditioned, top of the line rooms, this is not for you. Bamboo Beach Resort was made as a getaway from the overly urbanized city. Part of the package is for you to breathe fresh air. However, if you fear mosquito bites, they have that taken care of with the mosquito nets and electric fans in every room.  This does not compromise the comfort, nor the beauty of the place, though.

Come morning we had our quick breakfast and headed out the road to see the rest of Puerto Galera. We went to Tamaraw Falls but were deeply disappointed as it has been swarmed by tourists. The falls was already blocked from public access but you can still bathe in the river on the other end.

We decided to just go to AJ Lomi House which is a ride from the location. I must say that the view there is breathtaking! We sat on the bar facing the beach and the height provided such wonder. It was heavenly! For 50.00 Php, their Lomi is worth every munch. We also tried their Chicken Finger with Mozzarella and were pleased as well.

You can really tell how the place had become a tourist attraction! People from different races and walks of life would come and enjoy what the shack had to offer.

A few bottles of Coca Colas and jump shots at their viewing deck after, we decided to just discover what this side of Puerto Galera had to offer. We rode another jeepney until we saw a group of people heading towards another beach. The beach had rock formations on it so we decided it must be worth the visit.

The name of the place is Aplayang Munti. We payed around 10.00 Php entrance fee to get to roam the area. It was filled with beach goers to the point that it was chaotic so we decided to climb the grotto and go to the other side of the rock instead.

It was a different story altogether. The surrounding was again serene and as we walked farther, the fewer people were hanging about. Here, we met 3 quirky kids (Heart, Julia, and Billy) playing with their Labrador Retriever best friend, Shamcey. We were astonished how well the dog took care of these young kids that we stayed and played with them longer. The kids’ mother were also very nice to us and introduced us to more furkids, Balbon and Shiny. It was a very good and fulfilling encounter.

Just before sunset we bid our farewells to our new found friends. We thanked them graciously for being nice to us. My partner and I soon hailed a jeepney on the main road and headed to the city.

We talked about how people fail to see the simplicity and beauty of the real Puerto Galera. We realized that there is more to the place than a big rave fever. The locals were not greedy as some people find them, taking advantage of tourists. A lot of them are hospitable and trustworthy!

While it is true that Puerto Galera had become a major tourist destination, the responsibility and love of most of the people residing in the island is evident. I would like to take this chance to express how happy I am to have met the Ghosn family of Bamboo Beach Resort, the kids of Aplayang Munti, and few other locals we met.

Our inland adventure did not end here, though. Please read the next part by clicking this LINK. ♪（*●´▽）ノ

**For more information about Bamboo Beach Resort, you can visit their WEBSITE or like their FACEBOOK PAGE.

Park, Rest, and Dine: Nature’s Canopy

It was around 2 years ago when I first read about Park, Rest, and Dine at the border of Antipolo and Baras, Rizal. I couldn’t say if it was curiosity or the thought of an all-day unlimited coffee that caught my attention, but I swore to visit the place as soon as possible! Sadly, it took me a couple of years to make it happen. Yes, with all the changes in my professional standing (NUKS!) it was only now I got the chance to see the place myself.

We were on our usual backpacking adventure, me and my partner, to Palo Alto Falls and I thought that the best place to take five would be this ever-longed place. We were so ecstatic when we saw the sign outside, you could just imagine! According to the write-up on one of the blogs I read, Park, Rest, and Dine is an ideal place should you wish to commune with nature. Having breakfast or lunch under the canopy of trees, amid the melodic orchestra of birds and insects, is one paradise for the nature lovers.

Kuya Dodong greeted us as soon as we climbed up the restaurant and although I could sense that he was busy, he made sure we feel right at home. He offered us a good seat and gave us the menu. We also asked politely if we can smoke, considering that the place is environment friendly, he answered yes as long as we throw our cigarette butts on the ash tray (thank you for understanding!!!).

When the food arrived, I was a bit overwhelmed as the servings were huge! I thought that every dish was good for just 1-2 persons and was taken aback on how generous it was. I ordered Bulalo while my partner ordered Lechon Kawali. The Bulalo was exceptional! It was even on a gourmet level with the variations of vegetables in it. It was nothing like your typical Bulalo with cabbage. It has potatoes, carrots, onion leeks, corn, and others which I don’t know the name of, but extremely delightful to the pallet. If you think that this could have been a marketing technique wherein there’s more veggies and less meat, you’re wrong! The beef was anything but quaint. I tell you, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth!

The Lechon Kawali is also something to rave about. Here in Manila, Lechon Kawalis are fatty, oily, and super salty. At Park, Rest, and Dine, their Lechon Kawali practices moderation to the dangers of cardiac arrest. We enjoyed it very much since it comes with potatoes which you can wolf on when “umay” comes knocking at your intestines.

Our stomachs were filled with the good food and our senses were pleased. We also adored how Kuya Dodong took care of us whenever ice would run out, he would come along and bring us some and water without being hailed. He even told us stories about the place and how their visitors were allowed to go around the lot and harvest vegetables and fruits. The place was comfortably home!

If it couldn’t get any better, we were greeted by their resident fur babies! Four cute doggies came and said hi and we knew that they were the owners’ beloved by how nice they were. We gave them vegetables and promised to return with vaccines to help out.

As we were about to leave, a woman came by and greeted us. We were pleased to know that she was one of the owners. Her name was Meludy Sayaman and she was very welcoming. She thanked us for dropping by and the small talk escalated to a friendly chatter. We told her how beautiful the place was and she mentioned that they valued the place very much, she and her family. She said that the place started out simple but through time, they were inspired to beautify and enrich the nature surrounding it. Visitors would drop by and they would treat everyone with trust and the hearth of home, and it simply brought success to the business.

Below are the lovely owners of Park, Rest and Dine ♪~♪ d(⌒o⌒)b♪~♪

Ms. Meludy

Ms. Ruth

Ms. Meludy also mentioned how grateful she was with Kara Santos (she is the blogger we learned Park, Rest, and Dine from! ❤ You can visit her blog HERE ) as she had given the place a chance to be discovered by the travelers and foodies alike. I, for one, was thankful as well!

Park, Rest, and Dine is as glorious as it can get. With the rural feel paired with bohemian interiors and furniture, everything was well thought of! The place was an inspiration and a refreshing idea that not just because you’re nestled in the mountains, you can’t share your craft (arts and cooking) to the world. In fact, celebrities has crawled up their wonderful place. Talk about Sonny Parsons and various famous motorcycle and cycling clubs!

Visit the place and know exactly what we are talking about and I kid you not, you will be raving like us!

How to go to Park, Rest, and Dine:

1. From Cubao, ride a jeepney or FX to Cogeo and alight at Gate 2 = 35.00 Php (FX)
2. Once at Cogeo, cross the street and walk to CMA Market and ask where to ride the Sampaloc, Tanay jeep.
3. Take the said jeepney and asked to be alighted at Park, Rest, and Dine. Fare would vary from 20.00 – 35.00 Php. Don’t worry, it’s not a rip off. It’s just that it’s really far! (^○^)／

**Park, Rest, and Dine is located at 4 Provincial Road, San Jose, Antipolo, Rizal. You can check their FACEBOOK PAGE for inspiration and information ♪♪

Ramada Manila Central: Business x Relaxation

Sometimes the best  vacations are those which doesn’t require you to leave town. Yeah, I know this may sound like a lame excuse from someone who’s almost out of budget but I kid you not when I say that I found this staycation package unlike no other!

I was browsing through the net and was surprised to see that Ramada Manila Central in Binondo offers hotel accommodations with Binondo Wok Tour. This happened when our reservation on a resort out of town was cancelled and we were desperate to look for an alternative. Luckily for us, Sydney Tan, the Senior Corporate and Marketing Manager, patiently assisted us by letting us know that the said deal was offered exclusively through DealGrocer (a voucher buying site) and we can do backward booking instead.

We hurriedly arranged for the payment and sent the bank forms to ensure that everything would be set by the next day. I would like to take this opportunity as well to send a big, fat KUDOS to Ms. Tan for helping us out despite the time constraints and we also would like to apologize for putting you through this.

Giddy and excited, we showed up at the hotel earlier than the check-in time the next day for our Binondo Wok Tour (to read about this delightful field trip, click HERE). The receptionist offered to house our luggage until we returned and we were quite overwhelmed by their hospitality and friendliness despite our usual rugged, casual look. We were treated without discrimination, which is rare on hotels.

When we arrived after, we were assisted to our room and they sent our bags shortly. We were even given a phone call just to ensure that we were settled in just fine. Our room was commendable! It was an executive room and it was clean and elegant. I was even surprised that the view from our room was that of the Binondo Church! I went around, snapping away and ensuring that I document the room while it’s still untouched. My partner, on the other hand, flopped in the King Bed and decided to nap.

The room has an office area where you can work during your stay (not advisable!) and it has a lazy chair where you can just sink away and indulge on your favorite TV show. They also offer free coffee and tea, and bottled water which I immediately took advantage of.

Their toilet and bath is a whole new paradise! The hotel does not have a pool but our room has a bath tub fully equipped with a heater just in case you’re like me who despise cold water. Their bathroom accessories were all too chic and complete from your usual toothbrush to their mini sewing pack! It was too good to be true!  Their shower area is also nestled on the other end of the bathroom, separated by a glass cubicle to avoid the messy, wet chaos shower areas are prone of.

As soon as my partner woke up, we went out and had our dinner. We were told that if we wanted to get our money’s worth when it comes to food, the Estero Fast Food is the best place to be. Just to set your expectation, the place isn’t for the delicate. If you are the type who does not get bothered by the location and simply cares about the food quality, then this is for you. The place was named Estero for the obvious reason that it’s situated near an inlet. Estero is Spanish for marsh, by the way, and the scent of the water can be pretty strong on rainy days. Good thing it wasn’t raining that night!

We ordered Beef in Satay Sauce and Scallops in Oyster Sauce. No words can describe the flavor! Each serving is good for two and costs no more than 300! We also ordered Yang Chow Rice to top it all of. We were sooo satisfied and to think that our bill never crossed the 1000 Php mark! Free tea was also available to wash all the food down.

After our hearty meal, we walked around looking for good coffee. We passed by Cafe France and Starbucks but decided that we ought to try something far from usual. Cafe Mezzanine was our best bet. It was located next to our hotel on the second floor of Mr. Ube

What sets this cafe apart is that Cafe Mezzanine was originally established to pay tribute to our fearless fire fighters of Binondo. The place originally served as their lounge where they can relax, have good coffee, and eat their stress away. Another cool fact is that all revenues from this cafe is donated to the Binondo Paco Fire Search and Rescue Brigade! Near the entrance, you can even view their plaques of bravery and newspaper clippings that proves how valiant they are.

If you are to end up here one day, please do try their Iced Coffee Jelly and Black Forest Coffee. Aside from it being meticulously presented, the taste is something worth raving about!

The evening was too good to end so we took advantage of the hotel’s lounge and had our usual late night talk. We marveled at the artsy lamps and how elegant the place is, although not that big. The concierge were all polite and greeted us whenever they pass by. They also didn’t miss the chance to ask if we were enjoying our stay.

Come the morning, we headed to News Cafe and had our buffet breakfast. Although the selection is not that extensive, the dishes were cooked well and were very much scrumptious. They have siomai, of course! They also have an egg station where I simply adored the chef for making my omelette moist, just the way I preferred it to be!

 

We were impressed by the interior of the place, too. It wasn’t that spacious but every corner would have a classy piece you’d most likely love looking at. We took the seat next to the window and chowed down our breakfast.

When it was time to leave, unexpectedly, rain poured and we were too late for the shuttle heading to Mall of Asia. We saw that there were 2 umbrellas in our closet and embarrassingly asked the front desk personnel if we can have one so we don’t end up getting wet. She instantly approved and we were so grateful to this act of kindness!

Overall, we had such a precious time staying in Ramada Manila Central. If I would be asked if I would stay here even without the Binondo Wok Tour, I will not bat an eyelash and instantly say yes. The hotel offers so much comfort! Whether you wish to stay here for relaxation or for business, Ramada Manila Central ensures that you get your needs accommodated. Thank you for such a wonderful time!

How to go to Binondo:

If you are using a private vehicle, you can click this LINK for the best route courtesy of Google Maps.

Should you wish to take the public transport:

1. Ride the MRT to Edsa Station.
2. Walk your way through Metropoint Mall until your reach LRT1 Edsa Station and ride the train to Carriedo Station
3. Turn left at Rizal Avenue, and walk past Sta. Cruz Church towards Bustos.
4. Turn left at Bustos, and walk a block until you get to Ongpin. 

 

**Ramada Manila Central is located at Quintin Paredes Rd, Binondo, Manila. You can check their official website HERE for more information. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tsokolateria: Offering the Diverse and Versatile Tablea

We, Filipinos, are very creative when it comes to food. You can easily tell from our dishes like Lechon, Balut, Dinakdakan, and so much more. We are fond of innovating the traditional ingredients and creating a delicacy we call our own. One of which is the Tablea.

Cocoa Beans is not fairly new. However, Cocoa Beans roasted and molded into tablets only to be diluted at the time of consumption, is unique. Yes, you get the traditional hot chocolate…but there’s something more to it: a twist of taste that is utterly Filipino.

Being in Baguio proposes such good opportunity to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. The smooth and rich taste complements the cruel cold really well. Tsokolateria, located at the Igorot Stairs, has taken advantage of this whim. With a trusty batirol to whisk the creaminess out of the chocolate, you can never go wrong in paying this restaurant a visit.

If you think the Tablea is unique, you have got to hear how-rather- how many ways, they serve it! The first night we visited, we ordered the Sili Labuyo Tsoko Blend and Tsoko Barako.  The Sili Labuyo Tsoko Blend is Tablea and Siling Labuyo served separately. What you have to do is put the sili (red/green hot chili peppers) in your cup and crush it well with the batirol. After which, you pour the hot choco on the cup and whisk well. This will give your senses a party. Just imagine: sweet, bitter (tablea), and spicy (sili), all present in one impressive concoction! Tsoko Barako is for the more serious people. With Batangas’ commendably strong Kapeng Barako blended well with Tablea, you would have that expectation met on how good a possible local signature espresso would turn out.

After that night, Tsokolateria became our every evening destination.We have tried the Tostadong Yema con Tsokolate which is Tablea with Milk Bud in it. I also fell in love with Tsoko Mallow and how the marshmallow is a solid reminiscent of an exaggerated Swiss Miss. From the Dulce de Leche, up to the Tsokolate Eh! (sweet) and the Tsokolate-ah! (bitter), believe me when I say, we tried all of it!

Although the location is somewhat bordering healthy to health hazard because of the numerous flights of stairs, you can’t help but adore the cafe. The design is well- conceptualized: with the cottages that are all native and elegant with its touch of wood and sheer draperies, making a romantic effect over candlelight–it’s such a sight!

And imagine how fun it is looking at the humongous Igorot statues while you’re having a relaxing time! It’s definitely a wonder!

The staff were all nice and accommodating! There was one point when rain started pouring and we didn’t bring any umbrella with us.  We asked if we can borrow theirs and return it the next day. They refused and offered to walk us home instead! What fine gentlemen! If you guys are reading this, or if your managers are, everyone at Tsokolateria deserves a raise!

It is a sad lot that all good things must come to an end and we must go home to Manila. I could only wish that there is a branch of Tsokolateria even as close as Tagaytay. I will definitely go back to Baguio City and when I do, Tsokolateria would be my first destination!

**Tsokolateria is located at Igorot Stairs, Upper Session Rod, Baguio City, Baguio. It is near the foot of SM Baguio and is passable by the Trancoville Jeepney.

Java Jazz: Coffee and the Local Artistry

Art and Coffee go particularly well with each other– this is the reason why Java Jazz is such a hit!

 

To prove my point, let me just say that most of the museums I’ve been to has an in-house coffee shop where you can lounge and digest the abstract epiphanies you have just experienced.

This one is different, though. Java Jazz is a coffee shop that houses art made by the locals. Along the Tagaytay-Calamba road, this simple yet alluring cafe is bound to mesmerize you by its simplicity in design, yet distinct taste of craft.

We were pleasantly surprised when we checked the menu. Their coffee-based beverages were all less than 100 Php! Wonders would definitely never cease as we read it further and saw the Java Specials for Two. You are given a choice between a) 2 cups Kapeng Pinoy + Chocolate Coffee Cake; b) 2 cups Kapeng Pinoy + 4 pcs Pandesal + Quesong Puti c) 2 cups Kapeng Pinoy + Malagkit with Latik…they are all for 199.00 Php per combination! I had a very hard time deciding! I eventually ended up with choice A though, since I just couldn’t resist the moistness of Chocolate Cakes!

I was also satisfied when our order was served. It was a hearty and generous serving for that price!

After consuming our merienda over a good intellectual exchange, we decided to look at the art displays closely. It was a comfort knowing that the kids of this generation still rely on the traditional visual art of canvas x paint to express themselves. It was an amusing discovery that for them, art is not just Photoshop filters but also paint brushes. Yes, some art works featured that time were from children!

There was also an area for crafts. I adored the recycled products that kids made to aid their schooling such as notebooks, bags, and bookmarks. There is hope for humanity!!!

We left the cafe feeling all lighthearted and contented. We did have our usual doze of coffee but added to that, we had a spark of hope brought about the art that we just witnessed. Hooray for the locals of Tagaytay!!!

**Java Jazz Coffee is located at 442 Tagaytay-Calamba Road, Sungay West,Tagaytay City. You can check their ZOMATO page for more information 🙂

Miners’ Cabin: Bulalo Up North

It is mandatory that if you are to stay in a cold province here in the Philippines, you would have to eat anything with sabaw, particularly Bulalo.

For those of you who do not know what Bulalo is (I sure hope there’s close to none), it’s beef shanks and bone marrow in clear soup, cooked with vegetables like cabbage, corn, potato, and the like. Since it is boiled over long amounts of time, the fats of the beef would soon be infused in the soup releasing such distinct flavors that fit perfectly alongside a serving of rice, in a marriage of sheer flavor. Hungry now? I know I am! 🙂

Baguio is no excuse to tradition. Although Bulalo is a delicacy of the Southern Tagalogs, the weather and the love of food brought the dish to the North. As we were walking to Mines View Park, we happen to stumble upon a glorious luck–Miners’ Cabin— and guess what their specialty is? BULALO!

The place seemed like a simple shack from the outside but as we stepped inside, we were greeted by Golf trophies, collection of rock specimens, and some mining gear.  It was a homey place and the staff, together with the owner, rushed in greeting us. We felt appreciated!

We immediately felt the need to order as the aroma of boiling Bulalo soup was taking over our olfactory senses. We went for the Spicy Bulalo, Sizzling Bulalo in Mushroom Gravy, and Lechon Kawali. Forgive me father for I have sinned! Too much fatty food! But, hey, we only live once!

While we were waiting for our food my partner and I walked around and discovered their balcony area. It was probably the best part of the cabin, after the food. The balcony area was overlooking the lush greens of the City of Pines. The place was cold and windy but the air was clean. By the right, we even saw an ethnic tree carving that added such beauty and exquisiteness to the place! And boy, did I took pictures! It was too good to entrust it simply to my memory!

The food was served as instantly as it was consumed. We asked for extra soup which they willingly gave. The spicy bulalo was to die for and the lechon kawali was beyond our expectations. I could not say one bit of a bad word!

The Miners’ Cabin is a good place for the family. They offer good food, good atmosphere. All dishes are affordable and the warmth of the people running the place is incomparable. Make it your stop in Baguio!

**Miners’ Cabin is located at Outlook Drive Mines View, Baguio City. If you’re heading to Mines View Park, you’re not going to miss it! It’s at the southbound area.