The newest standalone restaurant of Above Sea Level is now open! Last May 4, 2018, I had the opportunity to enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch when I attended the Bloggers Conference held by Above Sea Level to celebrate the opening of its newest yet standalone restaurant at 120 Maginhawa Street, UP Teachers Village, Diliman, Quezon City.
Above Sea Level’s newest standalone restaurant is located at 120 Maginhawa Street, UP Teachers Village, Diliman, Quezon City.
Above Sea Level’s newest standalone restaurant has a seating capacity of more than fifty customers. It sports Above Sea Level’s distinct branding of white and blue. The interior appropriately gives one a feeling of being inside a ship’s mess hall.
Above Sea Level Maginhawa
Above Sea Level Maginhawa
Above Sea Level Maginhawa
Above Sea Level Maginhawa
Above Sea Level Maginhawa
While waiting for our food, I went to visit where the magic happens… their kitchen! Above Sea Level Maginhawa’s kitchen was clean and in order. Ate (sister) and Kuya (brother) were busy cooking a string of orders of the famous Giant Butterfly Squid and Seafood Festival.
Above Sea Level Maginhawa Kitchen
Above Sea Level Maginhawa Kitchen
Above Sea Level’s Seafood Festival
Above Sea Level’s Seafood FestivalAbove Sea Level’s Giant Butterfly Squid coated in batter and deep-fried
Deep-fried Giant Butterfly Squid
Above Sea Level’s Giant Butterfly Squid
Above Sea Level’s Squid Fries
Above Sea Level’s bestseller is the Giant Butterfly Squid. Above Sea Level was the first to introduce the Giant Butterfly Squid, an innovative way of serving a huge yet tender deep-fried squid in the Philippine market. The giant squids are fresh and 100% preservative free, delivered daily vacuum sealed from Romblon.
The bestselling Giant Butterfly Squid of Above Sea LevelAbove Sea Level’s Seafood Festival consists of specially seasoned chunks of crab, shrimp, clams, corn on the cob and Java riceAbove Sea Level’s Seafood FestivalAbove Sea Level’s MenuAbove Sea Level’s Bucket Promo
After a while, the food was served! I wore the gloves and ate away, tearing the Giant Butterfly Squid piece by piece while munching on the shrimps, crabs, clams, corn on the cob and Java rice of the Seafood Festival.
Above Sea Level;s Giant Butterfly Squid
Above Sea Level’s Seafood Festival
After eating, Mr. Polsan Pangindian, the thirty year old founder and owner of Above Sea Level, shared to us a little bit of Above Sea Level’s history, milestones and his visions for the company.
Selfie with Mr. Polsan Pangindian, founder and owner of Above Sea Level.Mr. Polsan Pangindian, founder and owner of Above Sea Level, sharing a little bit of the company’s history, milestones and future plans.
Mr. Polsan Pangindian, founder and owner of Above Sea Level, sharing a little bit of the company’s history, milestones and future plans.
Mr. Polsan Pangindian, founder and owner of Above Sea Level, sharing a little bit of the company’s history, milestones and future plans.
Above Sea Level, established in January 2017, now has 70 branches, 63 of which are franchises. Mr. Polsan Pangindian shared that based on experience, return on investment maybe achieved in less than a month to six months. For franchise inquiries, please contact:
Watch the video below where Above Sea Level was featured by Karen Davila’s show on ABS CBN, My Puhunan.
Come and visit the newest standalone restaurant of Above Sea Level in Maginhawa Street, UP Diliman, Quezon City. They are open till dawn. For reservations, call +639564036488 or +639323641755 and look for Mr. Mark Tinte.
“EAT PUSIT WITH A TWIST” Visit Above Sea Level: “Home of the Giant Butterfly Squid”
Visit any of their branches below:
METRO MANILA
-Above Sea Level Main Branch (120 Maginhawa St, UP Village)
– Fusebox Lifestyle Complex (Near UST)
– Streat Maginhawa Food Park (91 Maginhawa St Up Village)
– Casa Blanco Resto Hub (Congressional Ave, Qc Near Mang Inasal)
– The Yard Underground Pasig (Oranbo Pasig)
– The Yard StreetFood Cinema (Timog QC, Infront of Laffline)
– Streat: Maginhawa Food Park (Maginhawa St. UP Village)
– Container Turf (Bf Homes Aguirre ave)
– Devourph (E. Rodriguez QC)
– Terminal 8 Food Park & Lifestyle Hub (Marikina)
– Borderline Food Park (Kalentong)
– Yvan Navy Hub (Barangka Drive Mandaluyong)
– Millenial Food Park (Brgy Villamor Pasay)
– Pioneer Street Market (Pioneer Near TV5)
– Caruncho Ave Pasig (Beside Fariñas Empanada & KFC)
TARLAC CITY
– City Walk Food Avenue (Tarlac City near TSU)
BULACAN
– Gourmet Food Park – Baliuag, Bulacan PH
SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA
– Yatu-Taste the WORLD Food Hall (Dolores San Fernando Pampanga)
ANGELES CITY , PAMPANGA
– Kalye 86 Food Market (KM86 Beside Gerry’s Grill)
BALANGA CITY BATAAN
– The Bataan Food Park (Capitol Drive Balanga City)
SAN JUAN, LA UNION
– 2/F, LU Tower Center
ANTIPOLO
– Backyard Eats Antipolo (ML Quezon Near SSS)
BATANGAS
– 3:16 Food & Chill Out Park (Diversion, Batangas)
Is it EAT or EEK? EAT! I had a grand time eating seafood while mingling with fellow bloggers. I will surely come back with my family for more! Signing out for now. Peace!
Hungry? Download the Eatigo App now and enjoy 50% all day at your favorite restaurants like Barcino, Dillingers 1903, Alta at Ascott BGC, Gelatofix, Vengo and so many more. Check out the app now.
To all food lovers out there, this is not a drill! No need to blow your budget to enjoy sumptuous, mouth-watering dishes as the newest, revolutionary dining app brings you WOW Wednesday! Starting this summer, Eatigo offers you 50% discounts ALL DAY at your favorite restaurants one Wednesday of each month.
Dine at 50% off at the metro’s best-selling dining places:
Barcino, the home of authentic Spanish cuisines;
Dillingers 1903, where steaks and pasta reign supreme;
Alta at Ascott BGC, an American and Italian restaurant helmed by world-famous Chef Margarita Fores;
Gelatofix, a lifestyle café specializing on a spectrum of dishes that complement their vast gelato flavors; and,
Vengo, where you can find the marriage of a taqueria and coffee shop in one shop
The impressive list of brands goes on! Check it out on the dedicated WOW Wednesday panel on the Eatigo app.
WOW Wednesday will certainly give you something to beat that midweek slump! WOW Wednesday kicks off this month on April 18. But seats can be reserved as early as 12 midnight of April 16!
So hurry up! Download the Eatigo App now, browse and take your pick from the participating restaurants and experience half-price treats on your eats with Eatigo’s WOW Wednesday! Also make sure to keep tabs of Eatigo’s Facebook page so you don’t miss out on the next schedules of WOW Wednesday!
About Eatigo
Founded in 2013, Eatigo’s mission is to connect empty tables with empty stomachs by offering time-based discounts of up to 50% every day at all of its participating restaurants through its online website and mobile applications. Having seated over 5 million diners at more than 2,000 venues across the region, eatigo is the leading online reservations platform for restaurants in Asia, downloaded by more than 1.5 million users. Backed by TripAdvisor with total up to date funding of US$15.5 million, eatigo is available in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, India & Manila and is looking to expand to more countries. Users can choose to dine anywhere, from upscale hotels to popular food chains, and enjoy the same discounts with no strings attached, while restaurants get to fill their empty seats during off-peak hours.
The opinions, representations and statements made within this press release are those of the author and not of http://www.joelandrada.com as a whole. Any copyright remains with the author and any liability with regard to infringement of intellectual property rights remain with them. This blog site accepts no liability for any errors, omissions or representations.
Are you looking for a place for that much awaited family outing, couple getaway or team building? Well, Olivia’s The Coffee Estate might be a good choice for you.
The Coffee Estate is a family-owned-and-operated townhouse located in Amadeo, Cavite, Philippines.
Irah Espiritu and Jomar Lansang of The Coffee Estate
Guy Lansang of The Coffee Estate
The Coffee Estate is located in the Coffee Capital of the Philippines, Amadeo, Cavite. Five minutes away from Tagaytay.
Amadeo, Cavite is the Coffee Capital of the Philippines.
Here is what I like about The Coffee Estate:
Free freshly ground coffee
Five minutes away from Tagaytay
Family-owned-and-operated
Hospitable room accommodations
Cottages
Sumptuous affordable gourmet food
Relaxing wellness spa
Outdoor jacuzzi and swimming pool
Spacious activity area (2nd and 3rd floors)
Basketball court
Pasalubong center
Videoke (until 10 PM per city ordinance)
Me enjoying the aroma of freshly ground coffee of Olivia’s Coffee
Below is a short video showcasing why I love Olivia’s The Coffee Estate and why I can not wait to be back with my family.
RESORT PACKAGES
The Coffee Estate offers the following packages:
Family Room- P 12,500.00
Check-in is at 2 PM and check-out is 12 noon the next day
Already includes entrance fees for twenty (20) persons
Includes two (2) Family Rooms. Each room has two (2) Queen Size beds and two (2) extra mattresses
Includes complimentary use of the terrace
Lola Pinang Family Room
Lolo Pepe Family Room
Toilet and Bath
Me enjoying the cool Tagaytay breeze at the Terrace of The Coffee Estate
Day Swimming- P 2,000.00
From 8 AM to 8 PM
Already includes entrance fees for ten (10) persons
Outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi of The Coffee Estate
Garden Room- P 2,500.00
Already includes entrance fees for two (2) persons
Should you wish to extend, extension fee is P 300 per hour. There is also an additional fee of P 150 per extra person.
If you prefer to bring your own food, you may do so. They offer complimentary use of gas stove, griller and refrigerator.
Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, Amadeo, Cavite
Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, Amadeo, Cavite
Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, Amadeo, Cavite
Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, Amadeo, Cavite
Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, Amadeo, Cavite
However, I would recommend that you try their affordable gourmet food prepared by the Celebrity Chef himself, AJ Senido, no less.
Visiting Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, a stone’s throw away from The Coffee Estate, completed my coffee experience. I learned so much about coffee, its origin and its varieties. Thanks to Nathaniel Tolentino for generously sharing his expertise.
What I enjoyed the most during my stay in this cozy nook was their Wellness Spa. I got to relax in the pampering aroma and goodness of a full-body coffee scrub.
Me enjoying the relaxing coffee scrub at the Wellness Spa of The Coffee Estate
Me enjoying the relaxing coffee scrub at the Wellness Spa of The Coffee Estate
They have the following spa services:
Shiatsu Massage for one (1) hour- P 350.00
Swedish Massage for one (1) hour- P 300.00
Combination Massage for one (1) hour- P 500.00
Add-on’s: Ventosa- P 50.00; Stone- P 100.00
Body Scrub- P 600.00
Face Mask- P350.00
Or, you may get the Special Package for only P 1,350.00 which includes Combination Massage, Face Mask and Body Scrub.
PASALUBONG CENTER
Within the compound of The Coffee Estate is a Pasalubong Center where you can buy Olivia’s Coffee and other Filipino delicacies and snacks.
Filipino delicacies for sale on site at The Coffee Estate
Filipino delicacies for sale on site at The Coffee Estate
Filipino delicacies for sale on site at The Coffee Estate
Olivia’s Coffee for sale at The Coffee Estate
VENUE FOR EVENTS
The Coffee Estate is also a perfect venue for events like weddings, debuts and birthday parties. They have the following available packages so you can create lasting and beautiful memories with your loved ones:
Event Venue- P 25,000
Includes the garden and pool side as venues
Complimentary use of parking
Overnight stay for the bride and groom
Complimentary use of the swimming pool for ten (10) persons
Venue with Aisle On Pool- P 50,000.00
Includes a wedding aisle in the middle of the pool
Includes the garden and pool side as venues
Complimentary use of parking
Overnight stay for the bride and groom
Complimentary use of the swimming pool for ten (10) persons
Venue with Buffet- P 1,000 per head
Minimum of 100 guests
Buffet menu selection
Includes the garden and pool side as venues
Complimentary use of parking
Overnight stay for the bride and groom
Complimentary use of the swimming pool for ten (10) persons
Special Package- P 1,300 per head
Minimum of 100 guests
Includes a wedding aisle in the middle of the pool
Buffet menu selection
Includes the garden and pool side as venues
Complimentary use of parking
Wedding gifts for the Bride and Groom
A bottle of sparkling wine
Three-tier wedding cake
Wedding venue set-up including decorative cage and a pair of doves
The Coffee Estate Resort Packages
The Coffee Estate Resort Packages
HOW TO GET THERE:
I stayed at The Coffee Estate last February 24, 2018. I went with my fellow Travel Bloggers Karla and Rona. We met up in SM Light Mall in EDSA-Boni.
Along EDSA-Boni, we took the bus going to Dasmarinas. Bus fare was P58.00. You may opt to take the bus heading towards Trece Martirez or Indang.
After two hours of bus ride, we got off at McDonald’s Pala-Pala and rode a jeepney to take us to Manggahan. The jeepney fare was P10.00 per head. We met up with the rest, Jerny, Franco and Thea, at KFC Manggahan, General Trias, Cavite and rode The Coffee Estate’s van going to The Coffee Estate.
In case no van is picking you up, just look for a jeepney heading to Amadeo and tell the driver to drop you off at Olivia’s Coffee Shop in Bucal, Amadeo, Cavite. Enter the coffee shop and tell the restaurant staff that you are checking in. A ride will come pick you up. The ride to the resort will take no more than five minutes.
For bookings, call +63-925-6866363 or email olivias_coffee@yahoo.com. They also have a Facebook Page.
Me, Rona and Jerny enjoying our cups of freshly ground Olivia’s Coffee at The Coffee Estate one fine morning
Special shout out to Jomar Lansang for taking amazing photos during our stay. Here’s one:
If you are into authentic Japanese cuisine, then you have to try Nobu Restaurant located at the Level 1 of Nobu South Tower, City of Dreams Manila, Aseana Boulevard corner Macapagal Avenue Brgy.Tambo, Paranaque City. They serve Nobu-unique modern Japanese dishes fused with Peruvian influences.
On February 21, 2018, I had the most wonderful opportunity to feast on a specially prepared seven-course meal comprised of both cold and hot dishes at the world’s most recognized Japanese restaurant Nobu Restaurant . Thanks to Blogapalooza for inviting me to dine and meet with fellow Travel and Lifestyle bloggers.
Me having a blast and fantastic food at the world famous Nobu Restaurant
I arrived with fellow travel blogger Erica Poyauan of thegirlwiththemujihat.com. We met up in the SM Mall of Asia and grabbed a cab to get to the City Of Dreams.
Selfie with Erica Poyauan by the Sushi Bar of the Nobu Restaurant.
At the reception area, we were welcomed with the usual Japanese greeting “Irasshaimase!” or “welcome to the store” in English by the accommodating staff.
The Nobu Restaurant Staff, all clad in black with warm smiles, gladly posing for the camera.
Nobu Restaurant’s classic and orderly ambiance coupled with the fine luxuries of a five-star hotel no less got me transported back in time when I last visited Japan in May 2016.
Erica and I were then escorted by the Restaurant Manager, Ms. Melanie Dimayuga, to the patio area to meet the rest.
Nobu Restaurant’s Constant Haloot (Assistant Restaurant Manager) and Melanie Dimayuga (Restaurant Manager) posing for the camera
Al fresco Dining Area of the Nobu Restaurant Manila
Al fresco Dining Area of the Nobu Restaurant Manila
Diners may also opt for al fresco at the Nobu Restaurant Manila
In no time, we were asked to proceed inside where a private dining area was reserved for us. I found the chefs at the sushi bar busy preparing the meals for the guests. Despite that, they agreed to pause and pose for a photo opportunity.
Sushi Bar, Nobu Restaurant ManilaSushi Bar, Nobu Restaurant ManilaSushi Bar and Dining Area, Nobu Restaurant ManilaChefs at work, Nobu Restaurant ManilaChefs pausing and posing for a photo opportunity
Nobu Restaurant Manila has a total seating capacity of two hundred ninety one (291) people. They have two (2) private dining rooms and two (2) Teppanyaki tables.
Dining Area near the entrance of the Nobu Restaurant ManilaNobu Restaurant Manila has a total seating capacity of two hundred ninety one (291) people.Dining area of the Nobu Restaurant ManilaTeppanyaki table, Nobu Restaurant ManilaNobu Restaurant Manila also has a separate bar where guests can order sake and other alcoholic beverages
They are open daily and below are their operating hours:
Breakfast
6:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Monday to Saturday
6:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Sunday
Sunday Brunch
11:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Sunday
Happy Hour
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Everyday
Dinner
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Monday to Thursday
6:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Friday to Sunday
Photo opportunity with fellow travel and lifestyle bloggers and friends from Blogapalooza.
To me, the seating arrangement was impeccable because we all got to sit next to someone whom we were meeting for the first time. It was a riot sitting between Me-An Clemente and Janelle Lazo Tee as we indulged our way to the very end of this seven-course meal. I might just post a vlog soon.
Nobu Manila’s Seven-Course Meal Menu. IMPRESSIVE. Got my taste buds all excited!
Each one of us got an Origami bird placed next to the menu of the seven-course meal. I must say that the meal selection consisted of seafood, vegetables and Wagyu meat to name a few got me and my taste buds excited! I am no food connoisseur and I will not pretend to be one. Hence, I will be sharing with you how I visualized my taste buds’ reactions to the food assuming that my taste buds had a mind of their own. So here it goes…
ZENSAI
We started with Zensai or hors d’oeuvre in Nihon-go. Do not be deceived. This small and seemingly simple “taco” dish was explosive. The adage “size does not matter” seemed appropriate to describe it. It prepared my taste buds for what was to come. My taste buds were pretty much warmed-up for some jumping-for-joy moments! #smallbutyummy
Zensai or hors d’oeuvre in Nihon-go. Do not be deceived. This small and seemingly simple “taco” was explosive. It prepared my taste buds for what it was to come.
FIRST COURSE: SASHIMI DUO
The first course consisted of two equally strong dishes, the Yellow Tail Jalapeno & the Oyster New Style. #notonebuttwo
First Course: SASHIMI DUO Those oysters were to die for from slurp to burp. The yellow tail jalapeno was spot on. Naks parang #masterchef
Oyster New Style
I had second thoughts of eating the oysters out of fear of getting an upset stomach. I first sniffed one oyster. The aroma that filled my nostrils was reminiscent of my growing up years in the province of Pangasinan. And the next practical step for me was to open my mouth and succumb to it. Me-An told me that the best way to eat it is to suck and slurp. So I slurped the second one till I burped as my taste buds swayed to some calming music. #maalaalamokaya
By the way, the Kumamoto Oysters originated from Japan. They were brought to and raised in Australia just to end up in my mouth. #yunlang
Oyster New StyleJanelle and me doing the slurp-to-burp
Yellow Tail Jalapeno
Next stop was the Yellow Tail Jalapeno. Oh, did I mention that this was just the first course? LOL.
The Yellow Tail or Dalagang Bukid in Filipino melted in my mouth. It was that good that my taste buds were in full synchronicity bowing their heads while chanting in complete unison “we are not worthy” as this world famous sashimi blanketed my palette. #grabesya
Yellow Tail Jalapeno
Further, the first course came with a pickled relish that cleansed and prepared my palette for the next course.
Me about to devour this pickled relish to cleanse the palette
SECOND COURSE: CHEF’S CHOICE SUSHI
The second course was composed of assorted Nigiri and Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice placed on a rectangular plate that was almost two feet in length.
From left to right: Tamago or egg omelette with white fish and shrimp, Anago (sea water eel) cooked tempura-style, Tasmanian salmon sushi, Lapu-lapu sushi and crispy sticky rice topped with spicy tuna.Me and Me-An showing off the length of the plate
I asked the waiter where to begin. Do I start from the left to right or otherwise? No further instructions were given. I guess I just got to trust my gut on this one. My taste buds could not agree more as they prepared for this delightful marathon. My taste buds said, “STOP over thinking and just get one ASAP!” #nowna #walanaakongmasabi #bastamasarap
Second Course: CHEF’S CHOICE SUSHIMe-An looking so excited to munch on that crispy sticky rice topped with spicy tuna
THIRD COURSE: SASHIMI SALAD
The last of the cold dishes, this salad was composed of a lightly sheared big-eyed tuna with mixed greens and Matsuhisa dressing. People close to me know that I am not fond of eating just raw fish. I have always preferred Sushi over Sashimi. But my taste buds told my eyes to close and leave the tasting to them and told my mouth to shut up and partake! And I did… happy I did. That Matsuhisa dressing complemented the tuna.
Third Course: SASHIMI SALADSharing is caring. Ace Gapuz of Blogapalooza getting a piece of Lee Rosales’s (not in photo) Tuna Tataki as Zandy Palisoc hands over the plate while Kenneth Surat looks on and is just having a grand time enjoying his meal.Susi Chef Kirika Oi of Nobu Restaurant Manila briefly discussing his selection of cold dishes
FOURTH COURSE: PAN ROASTED SNAPPER
The fourth course introduced us to the first hot dish. The perfectly pan-roasted Snapper or Maya-maya in Filipino resting on that golden stash of Miso butter and mixed vegetables such as bok choy, baby corn and shitake star drizzled with sweet chili cilantro sauce on top was a bomb!
Fourth Course: PAN ROASTED SNAPPER
“Aaaawww, poor little fish looks so unhappy”, I said. My taste buds did not care and by this time decided to do the Zumba with zest!
Fourth Course: PAN ROASTED SNAPPER Miso butter, sweet chili cilantro sauce, bok choy, baby corn, shitake star Hot meal time! That perfectly cooked fish resting on that golden stash of goodness was a bomb! “Aaaawww, poor little fish looks so unhappy”, I said. My taste buds did not care and were doing the Zumba.
FIFTH COURSE: AKA MISO BRAISED WAGYU CHEEKS
The fifth course was Aka Miso Braised Wagyu Cheeks with Soba noodles, onsen egg and Kizami nori. After devouring the succulent pan-roasted Maya-maya, I was already full to the brim. But my taste buds were now out of control and mounting a mass picket.
“Wag you ako pigilan… wag ako… “, they clamored.
“Besides, wagyu is wagyu so why not?”, they added.
#Nagwawalanasila #paEDSAnasila
Fifth Course: AKA MISO BRAISED WAGYU CHEEKS Soba noodles, onsen egg, kizami dori By this time, I was full to the brim. Wag you ako pigilan… wag ako… sabi ng taste buds ko. Besides, wagyu is wagyu so why not? Nagwawala na sila!
SIXTH COURSE: BLACK COD HOT POT
This clear soup looked all too simple but this sixth course cannot be undermined. I thought it was going to be bland and boring. Well, I thought wrong. As always, when it comes to food, the final verdict rests on the sense of taste and not of sight. The perfect blend of tofu, mixed mushrooms and negi was just right to settle down the joyous chaos experienced by my taste buds from the first course to the fifth. The sixth course also made sure that my taste buds had a good cool down, ready for dessert.
Sixth Course: BLACK COD HOT POT tofu, mixed mushrooms, negi. Again… DECEPTIVE. This clear soup looked too simple. I thought it was going to be bland and boring. I thought wrong. #akonalanglagi By this time gusto ko na matuto ng Nihongo
SEVENTH COURSE: MISO CAPPUCCINO
Delightfully satisfied with the six courses I just had, I thought that there was nothing better to cap the night than a cup of coffee to get me going on my way home.
And so I picked up the spoon intending to mix that cappuccino.
“This cup of coffee is too small for me”, I thought.
Lo and behold, it was not a coffee beverage. I guess I was not being attentive to John Christian Ochoa when he served the last course. Or was it Fidel Cebreros? I can not recall. I was too engrossed sipping my soup that I missed the detailed introduction and whoever delivered it. LOL.
Being a sweet-tooth myself, I must say that this Miso Cappuccino is probably one of the best desserts I have ever had. The candied pecan loaded at the bottom of that vanilla miso custard revved up my already calm taste buds. They stood at attention as they crazily waited for that spoonful to land in my mouth. I finished this last course in less than two minutes! We (my taste buds and I) wanted to ask for seconds. LOL.
Seventh Course: MISO CAPPUCCINO candied pecan, vanilla miso custard I thought I was having only coffee to cap the 7-course meal… again… I was wrong… #akalamolang mali na naman ako… ang sarap nito!!! nasa loob ang kulo kumbaga! You gotta dig deep!
Truth be told, this Miso Cappuccino got us all energized that we just kept on and on with our exchanges. We went around the restaurant to take more selfies and photos of the place, too.
Maddie Cruz
Inna Paredes
Sara Paredes
Lee Rosales
Check out our Instagram and Facebook accounts for more. LOL.
Nobu Restaurant’s Head Chef Michael De Jesus paying us a visit to make sure that we enjoyed the seven-course meal specially prepared for us (Video Screen Shot)
It was already past 10:30 in the evening when we decided to call it a night. We started dinner at seven. We had so much fun that I lost track of time. I did not expect that this was going to be a seven-to-eleven seven-course dinner affair.
Erica and I were among the last ones to leave the venue. We took the 11 PM City Of Dreams bus en route to the SM Mall of Asia and went our separate ways. I got home feeling great and not overfed. Tucking into bed, I messaged my brother in Dubai who is a big fan of Japanese cuisine to tell him that we visit Nobu Restaurant Manila the next time he comes home. He said yes and even commented on my Facebook post that featured the photos of the seven-course meal.
This is part one of my travel vlog about my recent visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to have a quick meeting and, of course, to see, taste and feel what Kuala Lumpur has to offer. The last time I visited Kuala Lumpur was in 2016 to attend a major meeting of the company that I used to work for and I did not have the opportunity to experience what they call the country that is ‘Truly Asia’, Malaysia.
The video below is a special episode of EAT OR EEK?, my version of a food review, where I tried and tasted LIQALIC Fruit Popsicles by M FRUITS (a product of Malaysia). Is it EAT or EEK? Watch the video to find out. Have you tasted this yet? Did you like it? Let me know in the comments below.
It was a quick visit and unfortunately I did not get to see the outskirts or the countryside of Malaysia. I will be posting Part 2 (blog and vlog) soon to share with you the tourist spots that I was able to visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
What comes to mind when you hear the word Malabon? Quite honestly, aside from the famous Pancit Malabon, to me and I think to most people I know, Malabon is that city sandwiched between Navotas and Caloocan. I forget that Malabon holds a rich history… that it is a city where there is so much to see, learn and taste.
Thanks to the Department of Tourism for tagging me along to explore Malabon in this media familiarization tour and help promote emerging tourist destinations in Metro Manila. The tour was led by the Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo, Malabon Mayor Antolin “Len Len” Oreta and wife Chef Melissa Oreta no less.
Malabon K-Trike Electronic Tricycle donated by the Awesome Gratitude Foundation (AGF), a Non-Governmental Organization in Malabon
Malabon K-Trike Electronic Tricycle donated by the Awesome Gratitude Foundation (AGF), a Non-Governmental Organization in Malabon
Malabon K-Trike Electronic Tricycle donated by the Awesome Gratitude Foundation (AGF), a Non-Governmental Organization in Malabon
Because of the narrow streets, touring Malabon in a four-wheeled vehicle is impractical, almost impossible even. So we mazed through Malabon using tricycles to conveniently reach earmarked destinations. Yes, you read it right! The Malabon Tricycle Tours.
The Malabon Tricycle Tours does not only help promote local tourism but more importantly it serves as a livelihood for the local community.
The tour includes ancestral structures, old churches and Filipino Food places. They offer the following tour packages:
Package A- Heritage Tour P 250 per person
Destinations:
San Bartolome Parish
Sy Juco Mansion
Nepomuceno Ancestral House
Concepcion Market and Plaza
Artes de Paseo Art Gallery
El Casa Katipunero
Ibaviosa Ancestral House
Angel Cacnio Art Gallery
Rivera Ancestral House
Raymundo Ancestral House
Package B- Food Trip Special P 750 per person
Destinations:
San Bartolome Parish
Lugaw Experience
Hazel’s Puto
Jamico’s Restaurant
Dolor’s Kakanin
Concepcion Market and Plaza
Nanay’s Pancit Malabon
Betsy’s Cake Center
Package C- Food and Heritage Tour P 900 per person
Destinations:
San Bartolome Parish
Sy Juco Mansion
Lugaw Experience
Ibaviosa Ancestral House
Hazel’s Puto and Puto Pao
Jamico’s Restaurant
Nepomuceno Ancestral House
Concepcion Market and Plaza
Dolor’s Kakanin
El Casa Katipunero
Nanay’s Pancit Malabon
Angel Cacnio Art Gallery
Rivera House
Raymundo Ancestral House
Betsy’s Cake Center
San Bartolome Parish
At half-past nine in the morning, we started the tour and our first stop was the San Bartolome Church. Built in 1564, the San Bartolome Church’s unique Baroque architecture has been stunningly maintained over the years.
The San Bartolome Church was built in 1564 and declared an independent parish from Tondo on May 17, 1614San Bartolome ParishSan Bartolome Parish ArcSan Bartolome Parish facadeThe meticulously carved doors of the San Bartolome Parish welcome all devotees and visitors.Two rows of chandeliers light up the interior of the San Bartolome Parish.The inside walls showcase paintings of San Bartolome Church over the years.Paintings on the inside walls depict biblical characters and events.The San Barlolome Parish Altar.The San Bartolome Parish dome looks like heaven’s gates.
I boarded Kuya (Brother) Merlin’s tricycle and we proceeded to visiting the ancestral Sy Juco House built in 1869. Over the years, this heritage house once served as a school and then as a tobacco factory before it became a private residence of a Swiss Filipino Family. I was not able to take a lot of photos but was able to take a lot of videos here. I will upload a vlog soon so stay tuned.
From left to right: Ms. Concepcion Sy Juco showing the Secretary of the Department of Tourism Wanda Teo around the Sy Juco Ancestral HouseOne of the many religious artifacts displayed in the Sy Juco Ancestral HouseThe Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo boarding a tricycle in front of the Sy Juco Ancestral House in Malabon City.
Ibaviosa House and Patis Factory, Brgy. Flores
Ibaviosa House and Patis Factory
Then, we visited the Ibaviosa House and Patis Factory. Built in the 1940’s, this heritage house endured the Filipino- Japanese War and is still standing up to now. It also served as a set location of one of the films of the comedian Ai Ai Delas Alas entitled “Ang Cute Ng Ina Mo” where Ai Ai played the role of a Filipina patis (fish sauce) manufacturer.
Adjacent to the Ibaviosa Heritage House is Lugaw Experience where we got to taste the famous Malabon lugaw (porridge). The 1984 original recipe was by Narcisa Domondon Pangan and the same recipe has been passed on from generation to generation.
Lugaw Experience in Brgy. FloresLugaw Experience with Chef Melissa Oreta, Secretary Wanda Teo and Mayor Len Len Oreta
Angel Cacnio’s House and Art Gallery
With our tummies full, we boarded our tricycles and went to the art gallery of Mr. Angel Cacnio who is famous for his paintings and for designing the Philippine 100 and 20 peso bills. The gallery also showcased some of his sons’ paintings and his wife’s art collection.
Angel Cacnio’s House and Art GalleryArt pieces displayed in Mr. Angel Cacnio’s Art GalleryMore art pieces displayed in Mr. Angel Cacnio’s Art GallerySome of Mr. Angel Cacnio’s Masterpieces
We were lucky that day because Mr. Angel Cacnio was around to welcome us. In the photo below, he was vividly recalling and sharing to us the beautiful and rich history of Malabon.
Born in Malabon on June 6, 1931, Angel Cacnio is famous for designing the P 100 and P 20 bills.
He even more than willingly signed a hundred peso bill of one of our companions.
Cacnio signing a P 100 billThis version of the 100 peso bill was designed and signed by Mr. Angel Cacnio.
Dra. Gonzales’ Heritage House, General Luna Avenue
The next stop was Dra. Gonzales’ Heritage House for lunch. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by two talented young people gracefully swaying to the music of a folk dance song.
Two kids welcomed us at Dra. Gonzales’ Heritage House through a folk dance
We were served some of the best flavors of Malabon City: Pancit Malabon, Crispy Pata, and Kikiam. Aside from Mommy Dolor’s Kakanin (native cakes) for dessert, we were served Valencia Trianggulo, Malabon’s version of turon (fritters in lumpiya wrapper). Valencia Trianggulo is a Malabon delicacy and instead of the usual turon stuffed with just banana and langka, Valencia Trianggulo is stuffed bananas, langka and pinipig in a lumpiya wrapper formed into a triangle and deep-fried.
Pancit Malabon
Crispy Pata
Fried Rice
Kikiam
Valencia Trianggulo
Dolor’s Kakanin, Escanilla Street
After lunch, the food trip was not yet over. It just went on and on. LOL. Truly #eatsmorefuninMalabon. From Dra. Gonzales’ Heritage House, we walked for around five minutes to visit Dolor’s Kakanin Shop along Escanilla Street and have some more dessert! We were told that they have been using the same secret recipe since 1930. They showed us how their famous sapin-sapin is made. Sapin-sapin is a Filipino dessert made of glutinous rice and coconut.
Sapin-sapin is a Filipino dessert made of glutinous rice and coconut.
One of my blogger friends, Maddie, even got the chance to plate one.
Maddie showing off the sapin-sapin that she helped prepare with fellow bloggers Richard, Erica and Carmela all smiles in the background.
Aside from sapin-sapin, they have other offerings that are just as good.
Immaculate Conception Parish, General Luna Avenue
The last stop was the Immaculate Conception Parish right across Dra. Gonzales’ Heritage House. The ceiling has paintings of biblical characters and events.
Immaculate Conception Parish, Malabon
Immaculate Conception Parish, Malabon
Immaculate Conception Parish, Malabon
Immaculate Conception Parish, Malabon
Immaculate Conception Parish, Malabon
Immaculate Conception Parish, Malabon
The tour took about four hours. Short and sweet (literally with all the kakanin and Valencia Trianggulo that I ate). At about half past one in the afternoon, we left Malabon not just with full tummies but more importantly with better appreciation of our Filipino culture which revolves around our Faith, food and families. We only got to visit a few of the destinations but it was enough to make me excited to come back and visit the ones we missed.
The next time you plan your staycation, get up and book that Malabon Tricycle Tour with your loved ones. You will surely be pleasantly surprised that there is so much to see, learn and taste in a city sandwiched between Navotas and Caloocan.
For only P199, enjoy a single trip to Wendy’s SM North EDSA Annex Salad Bar and get to choose (or not) from the following in filling your plate and appetite:
1. Russian Salad
2. Chicken Macaroni Salad
3. Pandan-flavored gelatin
4. Strawberry-flavored gelatin
5. Fruit cocktail
6. Cucumber
7. Lettuce
8. Tomatoes
9. Carrots
10. Cheese
11. Hard-boiled eggs
Get to choose from the following salad dressings:
1. Honey mustard
2. Ceasar
3. Thousand island
This is a one-trip, dine-in only deal and food should be placed inside the plate (and not the tray) provided or you will be charged for another serving. Sharing is allowed but only one plate will be provided so better assign the “master builder” in the group to fit in all your salad cravings.
Assign the “master builder” in the group to the salad bar. Make sure food is placed inside the plate or you will be charged another serving.
No leftovers and not for take away. The salad bar attendees regularly refill the bar. The last salad bar refill is two (2) hours before closing.
Me by the Salad Bar with Cristina and Mavs of Wendy’s SM North EDSA Annex branchFrom top to bottom: Thousand Island Dressing, pandan-flavored gelatin and tomatoesFrom top to bottom: grated cheese, carrots and honey-mustard dressingFrom top to bottom: hard-boiled eggs, Russian Salad and cucumbersFrom top to bottom: fruit cocktail, strawberry-flavored gelatin and Ceasar salad dressingFrom top to bottom: chicken macaroni salad, lettuce and chicken macaroni salad
ETCETERA
I went to SM City North EDSA today to meet my loyal customer of AP 24 Whitening Toothpaste. I love this Whitening Tootpaste so much that I decided to become a distributor. Here is a short video on how effective it is with just one use.
After meeting my loyal customer who ordered five (5) tubes of AP 24 Whitening Toothpaste (P380 each), I decided to have lunch and found myself inside Wendy’s to order salad, perfect for my 2018 New Year’s resolution of #roadtofitness.
Congratulations to Roselyn P. Dela Fuente. Please do get in touch with me on Facebook and tell me your shipping address so I can send you this special gift pack from Uni-Pak.
Remember, “hindi basta nakasanayan the best na yan kaya basta Mackerel dapat tatak Unipak!”
Read post here for the announcement of this giveaway alert. I regularly conduct giveaways so do stay tuned for more. Thanks to the different brands who believe in me and support my blog.
The Zark’s Classic Burger priced at P 109 a piece is probably the biggest P 109 Cheeseburger I have ever seen! The burger bun comes with a quarter pound of ground beef, melted cheese and fresh lettuce and tomatoes.
The Zark’s Classic Cheeseburger is bigger than my Ray-Ban Aviator SunglassesAdd P 60.00 to get a large fries and a cup of blue lemonade
Now, I understand the reason for all the pandemonium in malls during Zark’s Burgers’ Eighth Anniversary last August 2017. Hahaha talk about being a late adopter when it comes to food. More about Zark’s Burgers’ Eighth Anniversary here as reported by CNN Philippines.
Zark’s Burgers also has other equally satisfying offerings. Below are photos of Zark’s Burgers’ menu:
Photo of Zark’s Burgers’ menu of their “regular” burgersPhoto of Zark’s Burgers’ menu of appetizersReady for bigger burgers? Try Zark’s Burgers’ Challenge Burgers!
My brother and I visited Zark’s Burgers Cubao branch. Thanks to Mr. Drew Bonifacio, Branch Supervisor, for welcoming us and to the whole crew for the efficient service.
Me with my brother Jem Mark while waiting for our orders to be served in Zark’s Burgers in Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon CityMe with Drew Bonifacio (Branch Supervisor) and Gladys Oreta of Zark’s Burgers Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City.
To me, Zark’s Burger Cubao Branch is what a burger joint should be. No frills. Just honest-to-goodness burgers at affordable prices. I wonder if the other branches also exude the same ambience. Perhaps, I should visit other branches soon.
Zark’s Burgers Cubao exudes a ‘burger-joint’ ambianceZark’s Burger’s red and black interiorZark’s Burgers also provides complimentary disposable glovesMe enjoying my Zark’s Burgers Classic Cheese Burger
For only P295.00, you will get a decent slice of pork meat, refillable Japanese rice and cabbage at Watami.
Pork Katsu by Watami
ETCETERA
Fresh from the province for the Christmas holidays, my brother Jem and I stormed our way to Makati on a rainy Wednesday afternoon to exchange my good old magnetic striped Banco De Oro (BDO) Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card for an EMV ATM card. EMV stands for Europay, Mastercard, Visa, the original developers of the chip technology to minimize fraud. For more information about EMV, click here.
You can no longer use your old ATM card after January 31, 2018. Go to your Banco De Oro branch to claim your EMV ATM Debit Card.
Apparently, my old ATM card will work only until the end of January 2018 and we do not want to start the year with a near expiry ATM card, do we?
Screenshot of Banco De Oro’s text reminder to claim the new BDO EMV ATM card.
After BDO, we were famished and we went around Greenbelt 2 to look for Japanese cuisine. We ended up in Watami.
If you are looking for a Japanese casual restaurant in Greenbelt, i.e., a Japanese restaurant that serves authentic Japanese food sans the usual “formalities” of a Japanese restaurant, then you might want to try Watami.
Me and my brother Jem while waiting for our food in Watami
Watami is located on the ground floor of Greenbelt 2.
The crew was friendly and attentive. Walang suot na ‘horseblinds’ in short (they were not wearing horseblinders) Don’t we all just hate it when they pretend to be busy and blind? Lol. Overall, service was good. The manager even approached us to check if we needed anything else.
Jem ordered salmon sashimi and Watami salad, too. Based on the munch rate that he was going, I could say that he enjoyed both.
Watami Salad P255. Serves two.Watami’s menu for saladsSalmon Sashimi P375Watami’s menu for sashimiJem enjoying his Watami salad and Salmon Sashimi
We capped the day off with a lively conversation and coffee.
Me enjoying my cup of coffee. Thanks Jem for the treat!Jem busy on his phone while walking in Greenbelt 2
The crew was friendly and attentive. Walang suot na ‘horseblinds’ in short (they were not wearing horseblinders) Don’t we all just hate it when they pretend to be busy and blind? Lol. Overall, service was good. The manager even approached us to check if we needed anything else.
