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 🙂

 

Ethnic Boutique, Tabuk: An Oasis in the Mountains

Tabuk, Kalinga is known to be the portal to the ever so famous Buscalan. Many tourists roam around the town, all excited to their soon encounter with the legendary Whang Od or the country’s oldest mambabatok (traditional art of tattooing using bamboo stick and pomelo thorn. Ash is used as ink). Not known to the public, Tabuk has its own charm.

 

One of Tabuk’s hidden treasure is Ethnic Boutique, located at FF Cruz, Bulanao Centro. My partner and I were looking for places to hang out the afternoon before my cousin’s wedding day when we accidentally stumbled upon the place. We were expecting to have the famed Kalinga Coffee over our usual musings. What we didn’t expect was how beautiful the place is.

Everything was on point. It was Ethnic, alright! In every corner of Ethnic Boutique you will see the customary Igorot tapestry. The lush vegetation enveloping the cafe is a treat to the senses. It made the place an oasis to weary travelers. We arrived just right after lunch and there were no dishes left to prepare probably because of the influx of people dining. We waited for their merienda instead which is all good because the view is stunning.

We stationed at the farthest corner of Ethnic Boutique, closest to the open view of the farmlands. The mountain seemed so near and smelled so near. It was something you would want to hold on to after being in the city for the longest time. The air was the freshest I have ever been exposed to. It was the antithesis to my usual toxicity of Aurora Boulevard.

There were also different variations of native wines displayed. You can opt to buy from them and have it served with your meal. Their specialty wine is the Bugnay Wine or wine made from fermented wild berries. Pineapple wine and Guava wine were also available. We didn’t buy though. There’s a good place near the market that sells them cheaper.

Ethnic Boutique serves unlimited Kalinga Coffee! While waiting for their afternoon serving, we indulged ourselves to the unlikely combination of coffee and cucumber iced tea. I know, I know. We were very hydrated and happy. We also got to meet the dogs and cats in the area. There was even a mama dog with her puppies. All were friendly and tamed.

We ordered their buttered chicken and organic rice. It was so good, in fact, that after finishing our meal, we ordered a round of fries. Our palettes were not disappointed. If it was something about the cool weather that made us extra hungry, or the welcoming scenery, or their meals were just scrumptious to the core, we will never know. All we knew at that time is that Ethnic Boutique made us warm in delight.

Ethnic Boutique is one of the places that gave us the full Tabuk experience. We were fortunate that we’ll always have the comfort of returning since my relatives are from the area. I would suggest that should you visit the cafe when you happen to make Tabuk your stopover or destination, better come on time for lunch. You will be able to choose more from their menu!

Here’s a rough map to Ethnic Boutique. If all else fails, you can ask the townsfolk where Ethnic Boutique is!

 

Cafe Aquatica Greenhills: Not An Elegy

If there’s one thing I regret as a writer, it’s not being able to create pieces on time. They say that for your compositions to be effective, it has to be timely. The notorious procrastinator that I am tend to challenge this principle nonsensically. I delay write-ups until they pile up or worse, until such time that it’s too late. This is the situation with Cafe Aquatica.

Cafe Aquatica was then located at Greenhills Promenade. It’s a themed cafe that sets the bar high for other themed cafes in the Metro. By its name you can tell that it has to do with water and probably fishes, but while this is true, Cafe Aquatica isn’t just a cafe that provides Instagrammers the perfect ocean backdrop. It does not even put glittery thingamajigs on your food to make it glow as if underwater. It’s a hobbyist’s sanctuary.

You can tell by look of the aquariums that were meticulously designed from the lights to the aquascaping that Cafe Aquatica was a masterpiece by a hobbyist. It’s not something that was just put up out of need to keep up with the market. The place was elegant in its own right and while others rant about the rather expensive prices of the food, the Cafe gives you the experience that has the tendency to be ignored by regular coffee goers who has probably tunnel-visioned in on the price.

The aquariums were all set up exquisitely, each one having a theme fit for its inhabitants. We were seated on a booth with an aquarium next to it and we can’t help but marvel at the beauty. Of course, something delicate needs to be protected. Each aquarium has a price on it just in case your clumsiness gets the best of you or you were enthralled that you wanted to purchase it out of a whim.

When it comes to credibility, several awards were displayed in one corner of the cafe. This is actually a good strategy and if you share the same interest, you knew that the owner means business when it comes to his avocation.

We tried several offers on the menu. From the pasta, to the sandwich, to pastries, and definitely, their coffee. We also tried their Blue Butterfly Pea Drink which changes color from purple to blue when infused with lemon. It’s a type of tea that is charged with antioxidants that promises to give you healthier hair, better eyesight, and strengthens your immune system. Interesting? Not as intriguing as it looks! It’s mesmerizing how the hue changes!

The staff were nice and attentive. They gave us sensible answers to our questions and satisfied our curiosity about the aquariums and the Blue Butterfly Pea Drink. My family and I had a good merienda and went home satisfied. Yes, we got our money’s worth. We had a great, quality time.

This is the reason why I regret not having to write about Cafe Aquatica sooner. You might think this write-up is already useless but I pray it’s not too late to give them this. I hate to call this an elegy because my memory of the cafe is still fresh and pleasant. Also, based on my Internet wanderings, they still have their Binondo branch open. I sincerely hope I can visit soon and I promise that I’ll update immediately this time around!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wolf & Bear: My Furry Tradition

The country is now more appreciative of pets. Compared before, almost 8 out of 10 households has a furry friend in them! The other 2 homes probably have people living with a love for animals but have valid reasons why they can’t house one. Good thing, pet cafes such as Wolf and Bear and Bengal Brew (twin pet cafes!!!) in Cubao were established!

Living in Cubao, visiting Wolf & Bear is something I would not miss for the world! I may be a part of that 8 out of 10 household but that simply was never enough! Every dog is a friend you have to meet!

My first visit was during their first year of operation. I met their Alaskan Malamute family lead by their alpha, Sumo! I saw how Betty the St. Bernard outgrew her leg issue through therapy which the owner and staff had lovingly supported. I saw the then puppies Greywind, Ghost, and Nymeria plus the gentle giants magkumare, Summer and Winter which I lovingly hugged and clung onto the majority of my stay there.

Over the years, I visited 2 more times and saw many addition and changes to the family. Bella who was a constant buddy of Inigo had her hair trimmed but still showed a familiar love for my partner. We met Kaos, the shib who I had fun hugging and protecting because hey, it’s not easy being the new kid! Danielle the great dane, although new, was the exact opposite! She ensured she greeted everyone and shared a little bit of her busy schedule with them. Coby is also a sight to see and knowing he can devour tennis balls is amazing! Did you know that he can fit up to 4 balls in his mouth?!

It was also delightful meeting Sari’s new litter which is like a set of cotton balls! Sumo was on a break during my latest visit, though, I guess it’s tough being a father!

Everytime I visit, I have sunk deeper into fondness of them. I love their stories and seeing them grow! The food is great too! Their Cafe Bengal is something that you will take time consuming and enjoying despite the inevitably cute distraction. The snacks are good too!

The handlers are friendly! Unlike reviews over the social media platforms where they were called masungit, they weren’t any hint of that. They may come of as strong but that’s perfectly understandable. You have got to impose authority when you’re handling bears or big dogs for that matter! More than being handlers, their trainers as well. So for those of you who complained, please get over yourself and try to understand!

I will continue coming back to Wolf and Bear! It’s Bengal Brew Cat Cafe’s twin sister so I always get my money’s worth. They have a membership card that is packed with rebates and discounts and this is further pushing their good customer service to a higher tier! I’ll let you guys know if I’ve used every perk! See you there and I hope going here becomes your tradition too!

Kaffeeklatsch: Let’s Talk Over Koffee

All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are not really ideal days to go and search for an adventure. As Filipinos, we find ourselves paying our respects to our faithful departed. We, however, were in Baguio in a quest for good coffee!

My aunt and I discovered a humble treasure cove in the form of Kaffeeklatsch. It’s really by pleasant accident that we stumbled upon the place. Our initial plan was to go to Session Road and look for the more popular and easy to find places. Thank goodness the altitude got the best of us, having to ascend 800 meters on the streets of Middle Quarry. Had we taken the cab, chances were we might’ve overlooked this hole in the wall!

First thing I noticed was their live band! During the time we visited, they were celebrating Halloween! The staff were all in costume and the place was fully decorated with cobwebs, skeletons…you name it! The cafe emanates this relaxed, modern vibe as their dim yellow lights complement the acoustic set and the chill of November. There is also something with half-muted lights that makes you want to share your thoughts. Kaffeeklatsch invited guests to do so.

Their coffee selection was extensive too! I had a very hard time deciding between their Flavored Koffees and Drip Brew. Not to mention their Chilled Klassiks (ice blended) choices were impressive as well! I ended up ordering their Iced Kaffee Latte and I did not regret it!

I also love the fact that they have an al fresco area. Should you wish to indulge in that Baguio weather, you can choose to sit outside and enjoy your coffee amidst the crisp mountain air. YEP, THIS IS HEAVEN FOR THE SMOKERS! There. I said it. LOL.

Now if you are wondering what this peculiar word means: talking or gossip at an informal gathering where coffee is served. The place really lived up to its name! You can see from the crowd the place attracts a variation of personalities wanting to gab. In every corner of the place, people talk and probably share a fraction of their time with each other. That we did as well.

It’s such a shame though that we didn’t know the place was holding a Halloween Party or else, we would have participated! Baguio is a place that you really cannot get enough of. My relatives are from Baguio and no matter how often I visit, there is always something new to discover — for instance, Kaffeeklatsch!

**Here’s how you get to Kaffeeklatsch! You can also check their FB PAGE HERE!

 

Starbucks 2017 Planner Unboxing and Review

One of the known, ongoing traditions every holiday is the race to obtain the annual Starbucks Planner. This year, Starbucks Philippines is presenting something different: the planner in full color!

With a total of 18 stickers (that’s 9 holiday drinks + 9 drinks of your choice), you will not only get the planner itself but a pouch, an erasable pen, stickers, and, yes, discount vouchers that promises to give you treats almost every month!

For a closer look at the Starbucks 2017  Planner, do check my video below ^___^:

 

As promised, here are the photos of the vouchers that goes along with the planner. Again, remember, each voucher has a particular month to use it on (I arranged it from top to bottom, left and then right). If you probably noticed, there are only 10 vouchers on the Starbucks Planner 2017–November and December aren’t included. My best bet would be that the 2018 planner will be launched by that time, this year.

 

 

Highlights of the Planner:

• Discounts! Free stuff! –and that’s throughout the year!
• Collectors Item: colored, finally.
• Lots of things that comes along with it (e.g. erasable pen, pouch, stickers, magnetic bookmark).
• You get to help charities Teach for the Philippines & Philippine Educational Theater Association.

Flip Side:

• If you are not really a coffee drinker, the vouchers have no use.
• Paper thickness is not so much compared to last year. Be careful in using heavy-tinted pens as it may blot the next page
• You have to spend around 2,000 Php to get this planner or a go-big-or-go-home 7,000 Php on a single purchase receipt.

 

The issuing of stickers is only until January 8, 2016 so if you have not yet completed your card,  it’s time to call for backup!

I sure hope I helped you decide whether you are getting the Starbucks Planner 2017! Let me know what you think on the comment section below ^_^

 

 

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

 

Bengal Brew Cat Cafe: Wild Cattery

You have got to admit that cats are majestic. Even if you see an ordinary alley cat, the finesse and grace can be detected on their every conserved and measured gait.Over the years, I have come to appreciate them due to this and it amazes me to no end just watching them curl, snap, groom themselves, and sleep to no end.

It was only recently that we visited Bengal Brew. Although it is around my neighborhood and I would pass by their cafe almost everyday to say hi to the cats by the window,  it is just lately that I have decided that I really need to give in to the need to cuddle these cats!

Before we went inside, the staff guided us through the waiver and some safety precautions to ensure that no one will get hurt –neither me nor the cats. As we were doing that in the receiving area, I couldn’t help but look around because everything was interesting! From their menu which was delicately etched on the black board, to the pastries that were presented on their display case. I couldn’t help, as well, but admire the fact that there were no stinky smell detected. I am a pet owner, so I would know ~(=^・・^). How do you guys do it?!

Quick Note: If you are planning to visit Bengal Brew, bring socks! This is for sanitation purposes. 

Now, imagine stepping into the Amazon…that was how I felt upon entering the cat area. The interior was just intricate. You can see how good the management maintains the place. Like cats, the place was feral and wild, but stylish and sophisticated.

The cats were being cats and lazing around, enjoying the tropical forest which was brought to their paws by the owner, Don Michael Perez. According to what I have read, the passion for Bengal Cats started when he chanced upon owning Amir. Amir is a lone, long-haired Bengal which was the first of its kind here in the Philippines. I could only imagine him falling in love with the breed! They’re all too stunning!

They were everywhere I looked! Some cats were near my seat, others were on the table, one is on top of the AC, and it was hilariously appealing. I have even accidentally tapped on one sleeping kitty because she had managed to camouflage among the hats neatly placed on the table!

I read somewhere that Bengals love high places. The cafe satisfy this whim of theirs by having a hanging ramp and all-natural tree trunks. There was also an artificial falls and a pond where guests can climb and take a picture. However, I felt like it was more for the cats since 3 or 4 of them were lounging on it. I couldn’t blame them! The area was relaxing!

My partner had to go to the bathroom at one point and I was left playing with the kitties. Soon, I noticed a fat, fluffy cat slowly following his steps. I followed the two of them and stalked what that cat was doing and found out that he was just standing outside the closed door of the comfort room where my partner was in! He just stared! When my partner came out, the cat just looked at him and asked to be petted. Wow. Talk about being selected!

Responsible ownership was also displayed. The obvious proof of it was how the cats were treated like royalty. More than that though, it is such a comfort knowing that all of them has been spayed or neutered. I also read that they were being raw-fed which is highly suggested since they’re carnivores after all.

My visit to Bengal Brew was satisfying. The cats were all cute and engaging. They were very much well-maintained. The food was not to be overlooked too. I ordered an Iced Cafe Bengal and Ham and Cheese roll and it was hearty! The Iced Cafe Bengal has this exotic lingering taste that goes well with ice. It was amazing how it did not lose its flavor considering the time we spent playing with the felines. The Ham and Cheese roll was delightful, too! I am a lover of cheese and this has a lot on it!

To tell you guys honestly, I saw a crazy negative review about Bengal Brew before. I was intimidated to visit the place at first. Trust me when I say  now that the review is all bullcrap! The staff were all accommodating. They were very patient as we stepped out the first time just to buy socks and when we couldn’t decide what to order. The cats were, well, just being cats. I couldn’t comment about the owner as he wasn’t there when we visited but I guess that was his family that we met. There was a little girl who was entertaining the newly-arrived visitors and there was a woman who was taking care of a little boy, all of whom have taken time to nod and smile at us. The little boy even grabbed my arm for me to notice him. ヘ(^_^ヘ)(ノ^_^)ノ

Come by and enjoy the love. The cats are to die for!

How to go to Bengal Brew Cat Cafe

1. Ride the MRT3 and alight at Cubao Station.
2. From Farmers Plaza, walk your way through Gateway Mall, passing the connecting bridge.
3. Exit Gateway Mall and walk toward Isetan Plaza. From there, you will see Manhattan Garden and Bengal Brew Cat Cafe.

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

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

Cat Cafe on a weekday w/ free drink for an hour = 199 Php

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Total: 231.00 Php + Unlimited love from the Bengals!!!

**Bengal Brew Cat Cafe is located at Ground Floor, Manhattan Parkview, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City. Visit their Facebook Page for more information~~

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 ♪♪