Tucked inside San Juan’s Little Baguio, is a charming garden resto named Maimee’s Garden Café.

You can opt to dine in the air-conditioned area or the garden… Hubby and I chose to have dinner at the gazebo.

We ordered a bottle of wine and gambas for starters.  For our entrees we got the Boneless Barbeque (USDA) Short Ribs, Chicken Cordon Blue and Callos.

Gambas al Ajillo ( Php 320) - shrimps sauteed in olive oil, garlic, bell peppers, and dried chili flakes

Chicken Cordon Bleu (php 260) - Rolled chicken fillet stuffed with ham, cheese & herbs; served with mushroom gravy.

This was just so-so for me, as I found the chicken to be quite dry.

Boneless Barbeque Short Ribs (USDA) Php 390 - Grilled boneless beef short ribs basted in special marinade sauce.

This tasted really good, although some parts can be tough because of the ligaments.  The meat was very flavorful and the sauce really complemented it.  The yellow/java rice completes the dish.

This was my favorite!  Generous servings of tender tripe, sausages and garbanzos simmered in this deep flavorful sauce.  Yummy!

Fro dessert, we had Chocolate Cake drizzled with caramel and cherry syrup (php 120).-

Overall, it was a nice dining experience… Would definitely go back to try their other dishes.  

This would be a nice date place… and also a nice place for Mother’s date lunch or dinner.

Traveling is a must for our family every summer.  Be it out of the country or just going out of town… the most important thing is that it is a Family Friendly place where we can bond and enjoy each other’s company. 

There are a lot of resorts offering multiple pools and different water activities, but these are no longer enough to make a resort a top pick for discerning families. 

Most important factors and features for me when choosing a resort destination are as follows:

1. Ideal Location

2. First Rate Accommodations – Room size & design

3. Lots of Kid’s Amenities & Activities

4. Security & Safety – the presence of Security guards and Lifeguards

5. Family Features and Activities – things we can do together as a family

6. Parent’s Perks – such as daycare, spa etc. 

7. Good Dining Options

8. Value

Parent’s Perks and Kiddie activities are very important.  Mommies & daddies want to relax too, and u won’t be getting any quality time if your kids are bored and you have to babysit and entertain them during the entire vacation.

Last week, we decided to visit Pico de Loro in Hamilo Coast and I must say, I was impressed.  And my kids loved it so much, they don’t want to leave.  :)  It is indeed one of the best family destinations we’ve been to here in the Philippines.

And the best part is it’s just about 3 hours away from the Metro.  While the roads leading to the resort are good, it is quite winding and curvy….. So moms, if your kids are prone to motion sickness, have a barf bag ready in the car… or better yet let them take a motion sickness tablet.  Also make sure hubby takes the car for a checkup before embarking on your trip. But for those who do not want a long road trip, the resort has a ferry service, which takes only 90 mins.

Pico Sands Hotel: Premiere Lagoon View - our room was spacious, has 2 queen size beds, a terrace, nice batroom and strong wifi connection.

Aa soon as we checked in, we headed to the Pico de Loro Beach Club’s Sun Coral Cafe for lunch.

Adobo Mambo - Chicken Pork Adobo. This is really yummy The pork and chicken pieces for very tasty and tender. It also has a piece of boiled egg, cherry tomatoes and bits of Kangkong.

Pinaputok na Tilapia

Baked Lasagna - so good My daughter had this for 3 days straight.:)

Our tummies full, we changed into our suits and went to the Pico de Loro Country Club for an afternoon swim.   The resort has shuttles that can ferry guests around, so you don’t need to walk nor drive your car. 

I love this

Chillaxing in the pool

After swimming, my toddler (with her yaya) decided to play in the air-conditioned playground for the entire afternoon, while my other 2 daughters spetd the rest of the day in the Wii Room.

Indoor kiddie playground

Wii

We then had an early dinner at the hotel coffee shop  

Creamy Carbonara - I loved this

Pizza - thin crust, also yummy! The kids liked the pizzas very much.

Roast Chicken w/ Mashed Potatoes - hubby liked this.

The next morning, we woke up early for their Buffet Breakfast and to have more fun in the sun at the Beach Club.

Buffet Breakfast

The Beach

My view from the Beach Club pool

We had a late lunch again at Sun Coral Cafe.   We ordered Crispy Pork Belly and Kare Kare.  Both were really good, but I wasn’t able to take photos, as my camera was low on power and I was enjoying too much and also too lazy to go back to the room to get my spare batteries.  

I loved that the Kare Kare had generous portions of tender tripe, meat and veggies…and the peanut sauce was very tasty and had the right consistency.  The Crispy Pork Belly was also good, the skin was crunchy and the meat was tender.

After lunch, we lazed around the pool some more, then headed back to our room to shower and change.  My toddler took her nap and headed again to the playground.  My other daughter went back to the Wii room, while my hubby and eldest daughter decided to play billiards.  I on the other hand explored the resort.

Billiards

Bowling

Pico de Loro is a member’s only resort club in Hamilo Coast.  You can visit the place if a member sponsors you.  Or you can choose to buy a membership or a condo/property there.  I decided to look at the condos for sale… They have 1 bedroom to 3 bedroom units.  I looooved the 2 bedroom loft style unit.

cards room

Videoke room

Exploring some more, I saw that they also have a card/game room, a library, bowling lanes, videoke rooms, basketball court, table tennis, badminton, squash and tennis courts.  You really won’t run out of things to do in this place.  There’s also a lot of water activities like snorkeling, diving, wing-surfing and kayaking.  You can also go cove-hopping aboard a speed boat! They also have a jogging path and a gym where you can burn off the calories you have ingested.  The sales person also informed me that developments for a golf course have already started.  There’s really something for everyone!

Gym - overlooking the pools and the lagoon

The resort also has their own chapel which overlooks the entire beach cove.  Mass is held every Sunday at 11am.

Chapel - perfect place to meditate and pray

View from the chapel

After a few hours, the whole family met up for dinner  We had salad, southern fried chicken, spinach & artichoke dip (w/ nachos & bread), and again the adobo mambo and lasagna

Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Caesar Salad - refreshing & good. A perfecr summer meal

Southern Fried Chicken

After dinner, the kids and yaya rode the shuttle back to the hotel…while, hubby and I decided to have a few drinks and relax by the beach  

The next day, the kids woke up early, had their breakfast and decided to enjoy the pools one last time. They then had a light lunch of pizza and a club sandwich…all the while they were asking me if we can stay for another day.  :)  Guess they really had fun!

Club Sandwich

But alas, we have to pack our bags and check out…  But we will be back… definitely…we will be back.

Hong Kong is one of our favorite destinations, besides being near, it has something for everyone.  There’s Ocean Park and Disney for the kids, shopping for the trendsetters or bargain hunters and of course, lots of yummy food options for the food lovers.

And since summer is upon us, I am sure a lot of moms out there are already planning their HK itineraries… with this in mind, I would like to share with you my favorite dishes and restos in Hong Kong.

KO LAU WAN  HOT POT - 1/F, 21-23 Hillwood Road, Tsim Sha Tsui (They also have a branch in Jordan Hong Kong side)    

This is by far the best hot pot experience I’ve ever had.  None of the usual doughy squid balls or meatballs…

DELICIOUS KITCHEN - I go there just to have their pork-rib rice. Yum!                                                                                              

G/F 20-20A Ashley Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon (They also have a branch in Causeway Bay)

Pork Rib with Vegetable Rice

CHUK YUEN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT- My absolute fave Chinese Restaurant in Hong Kong.  They have seafood, dimsum and other yummy dishes     One meal in this resto is not enough… I love their dimsum, but the main dishes are worth going back for.    They also gave us free orange juice and fresh fruits for dessert:)    

Pacific centre, 28 Hankow Road,Tsim Sha Tsui

Steamed Spareribs

Fried Shrimp Salad

Pork Siomai with Roe

Stir Fried Soy Noodles - Kinda oily, but yummy

Yang Chow Fried Rice

Ox Brisket Curry - This is the bomb! Tender meat and tendon that melts in your mouth...perfectly complemented by the creamy curry sauce. Best accompanied by a bowl of steamed rice Super! Just writing about it now, is making me want to book the first flight to Hong Kong!

Pan-fried Turnip Cake with XO Sauce - Thumbs-up! Very Tasty!

Steamed Sharkfin Dumpling in Soup - Look at the size of that dumpling (compared to my spoon). The broth is rich and yet refreshing and the huge dumpling was full of mushrooms, sharksfin and pork. Perfect!

DIN TAI FUNG – The famous  Siao Long Bao from Taiwan is now in Hong Kong.            

Silvercord Branch -Shop 130, 3F, Silvercord, No.30, Canton Rd., Tsimshatsui          

The best Siao Long Bao! Just be ready for long lines during peak hours.

YUNG KEE - The best roast goose.  Better to have reservations or avoid going during peak hours, as you would have to wait a long time for a table…                                                                                                                                                                                         

32-40 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong

yummy Roast Goose

SUPERSTAR SEAFOOD -  4/F, Gateway, Harbour City (Above City’super food court), Tsim Sha Tsui

Hot & Sour Soup - I love this... Perfect balance of taste, not too sour.

Roast Duck

Beef with Broccoli

I cant remember the name but I really liked this. Dioffernt kinds of mushrooms...Yummy...

I cant remember the name too - but its a spicy squid dish... squid was cooked perfectly and not overcooked, liked this too.

CAFE LANDMARK - Looove their food…Plus its already inside Landmark mall!  Excellent service                                

1/F, The Landmark, 16 Des Voeux Road, Central

Pan Fried Foie Gras - My favorite... Its so flavorful, creamy and ... sensual... Perfectly sinful & heavenly at the same time!

U.S. Prime Rib-eye Steak Hubby loved it

Lobster Linguine - I am sooo craving this right now! Generous servings of lobster with linguine in creamy lobster sauce.

Now, for Cheap Eats/Quick Bites:

Tsui Wah - Best midnight snack after bar hopping                                                                                                                                            

G-2/F, 15-19 Wellington Street, Central (In case you miss it, they also have a branch inside the airport)

Beef Noodle Soup - The rich beefy broth is perfect for an after drinking snack.

Fish Ball Noodle Soup

City Super Food Court - They have rice meals & noodles… Also Indian, Japanese and Korean dishes                                     3/F, Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, 18 Canton Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui

Cafe de Coral - Large Chinese Fast food chain.  Serves breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner.                                             

Chinese and also Continental dishes. Rice Toppings, Steak, Milk Coffee etc.  Branches can be found all over Hong Kong.

Fastfood chain in Hong Kong

Typical breakfast

Barbecued pork rice

7/11 – They also have frozen food that you can just pop in the microwave

Hot Soup and curried fish balls - Can be a light afternoon snack or midnight snack

So there u go folks, a list of some of my fave restos in Hong Kong.  Happy Eating!

Summer is here once again!

We’re excited to travel to different places  and indulge in our fave summer activities.  But we also want to make it a fun yet productive time for our kids.    To help you along, here’s a list of summer workshops around the metro:

Sports:

Milo Sports Clinic: http://www.nestle.com.ph/milo/

Futbol Funatics: www.futbolfunatics.com

The Younghusband Football academy: www.theyounghusbandfootballacademy.com/

Xavier School: Basketball, Swimming, Taekwondo, Fencing, Soccer(Football), Badminton, etc.
Tel. 723-0481

Aqualogic Swim Co.: Swimming for 6 months and up
Tel. 703-6386 / 0917-858-2782

http://www.aqualogicswimco.com/what_we_do.php

Bert Lozada Swim School:

http://www.bertlozadaswimschool.com

Figure Skating / Ice Hockey: www.smiceskating.com

Fencing: www.ezkrima.com

Bowling: smbowling.com

Sailing: http://www.manilayachtclub.com.ph/?p=sailing

Surfing: infor@philippinessurfingacademy.com

Taekwondo Training Centre: www.monsourdelrosario.com

Music / Voice / Theater / Dance:

Gymboree Play and Music: For 0 – 5 y.o.
www.gymboree-ph.com
Tel. 910-7529

Kindermusik, Philippines: For 0 – 7 y.o.
www.kindermusik.com.ph
Tel. 913-5124

World of Music: Drums, guitar, etc.
Gen. Lim St., San Juan
Tel. 724-6291

Greenhills Music Studio:
Connecticut Street, Greenhills
Tel. 724-0705

Yamaha School of Music:  http://yamahaschool.webs.com/
Make Believe Productions:  www.makebelieve.com.ph

Tel. No.: 729-5899

Basic acting workshops for print ads and TV commercials

Basic acting workshops for TV, Film & Radio For teens

http://www.aciateam.net/ , Tel No. 585-6344

The Camp Art, a musical theater workshop

Call (02) 750 1551.
Text (0915) 447 8959 or (0919) 433 8565.
Email kidsactsphilippines@yahoo.com

Trumpets Playshop:

http://www.facebook.com/playshop

http://www.trumpetsplayshop.com/playshop/schedule/

Spotlight Artist Centre: www.spotlightartistscentre.com/

Repertory Philippines:

Tel:  571-6926, www.repertory.ph/

Steps Dance Studio: http://www.stepsdancestudio.ph/workshop.html

Danspace: http://10fingersdesigns.com/danspace/sched.html

Manila Polo Club,ForbesPark,Makati

Arts & Crafts / Writing / Story Telling:

Little Painter: March 20 onwards (10 sessions), Tuesdays & Thursdays, Valle Verde 1  http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150463160753525.364324.692693524&type=3

Art Camp Bezalel: www.artcampbezalel.com
Tel. 722-1434 / 414-2044
Text/Call: (63919) 3284531

GlobalArt:

G/F Sekai Building, Ortigas Avenue, Greenhills, San Juan
Tel. 515-7005 / +63915-8747747 / 404-4399

Winged Wonder Learning Center:  (Winged wonder crafts) www.wingedwonder.org.

Museo Pambata: http://www.museopambata.org/

My Masterpiece Movement: http://welovemymasterpiece.com/

National Library of the Philippines in cooperation with Children’s Literature Association of the Philippines invite kids ages 7-12 for a Summer Workshop on Stroytelling, Puppet making and Arts and Craft activities.   For inquiries, please call the Reference Division at 310-5033/528-1972 and look for Melai/Kristin.

Cooking / Baking:

Junior Chefs Cooking Workshop: Tel No. 6337222 loc. 7220

Center for Asian Culinary Studies: www.cacschef.com
3/F The Promenade, Wilson cor. P. Guevarra Streets, San Juan
Tel. 725-5089

Tiny Kitchen: http://www.tinykitchen.com.ph/index_home.html

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiny-Kitchen/123909400969973?sk=info 

CCA : http://www.cca-manila.com/blog/?p=416

The Maya Kitchen: http://www.themayakitchen.com/index.php?view=185

Academics:

E-nopi: http://www.enopi.com/Main/Main_Local.aspx?CountryCd=Philippines&HMAC=Uz3ecjK76vAraoUdxUDQUaMQvvI=

Tel. (632) 706-1670

Singapore Math: http://mathemagis.com/

Kumon: ph.kumonglobal.com/

Aloha Mental Arithmetic: 7212039

The Learning Library: http://www.learninglibraries.com/

Reading, Writing & Comprehension (English)

Wika’y Galing (understanding, speaking, reading Filipino)

Writing & Public Speaking Workshop

Tutoring Club: http://www.tutoringclub.com/why_tutoring_club.php/tcphilippines

Media / Photography:

Photography: http://pcci.com.ph/Courses/Photography/Kids.html

Essential Photoshop for Kids:  http://pcci.com.ph/Courses/Photography/Kids.html

Kid entrepreneurship: 

http://eaa.edu.ph/is-your-child-a-budding-entrepreneur/

Tel. No.:(632) 576 4423 | (632) 310.1301
http://eaa.edu.ph/
Email: info@eaa.edu.ph

Others:

McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Workshop: www.mcdonalds.com.ph.
The McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Workshop is a yearly event specially designed for kids to learn the values of hard work, friendship, team work, self-confidence and cleanliness while having fun.

I came across this before, don’t know if still available - Summer Nature and Arts Camp for Kids (SNACK):

Ibsy M. Carballo, SNACK CampOrganizer
Tel. Nos. (632) 7210801, (632) 7267164, eve_cay@pacific.net.ph

m

Christmas for children means no school,  Christmas  trees, decors, Santa and most of all…GIFTS!

And as parents we want our children to see and feel the magic of Christmas.  Here are some places you can take your kids for some good family bonding and great photo-ops!

Miniature Nativity Exhibits at the Holy Family Chapel (Exhibit Hall) in Greenhills Shopping Center

This is to remind us that Christmas is celebrating the birth of Christ

The Christmas COD Display – Greenhills

Growing up, our parents would bring us to watch the moving Christmas display at COD.  Now you can replicate this practice with your own kids at Greenhills  For me, the best vantage point is the parking lot fronting unimart.

Light Show at the Ayala Triangle Gardens

They have hourly shows daily for the whole of December.  My kids loved it, even my toddler was mesmerized by all the lights.  Plus there are a lot of restaurants within the area where you can have a nice family dinner before or after watching the show.  Our faves are BonChon Chicken, Kanin Club and Wee Nam Kee.  Then for dessert, there’s Golden Spoon.

Synchronized lights & sounds show

Christmas Village & Snow Shower at Eastwood City

We went on a Sunday.  Had mass and an early dinner, then we headed to the Christmas Village around 7:30.  The “snow” shower started at 8pm and lasted a couple of minutes.  We then went back to the main mall just in time to catch the fireworks display at around 8:30.

Christmas Village

Snow Shower: all Saturdays & Sundays of December, 6pm and 8pm

My toddler catching the "snow"

Santa visits in malls around the Metro

Christmas is really one of the busiest times for parents, but it’s also when we can capture most wonderful memories with our children.  Seeing the awe and delight in their faces is really priceless.

Still thinking of what to serve for Christmas Dinner or what to bring for a potluck dinner?  Here’s a list of some places where you can order special and yummy dishes and desserts.   I also included my favorite food discoveries from the recently concluded Ultimate Taste Test. 

Pepitas (stuffed) Lechon - last years Ultimate Taste Test winner

Pepita’s Lechon de Leche -with different kinds of stuffing

Filipino – sisig rice or binagoongan rice

French – truffle mushroom rice

Chinese – chestnut & mushroom, machang

German – potatoes, herbs and roasted garlic

Christmas – rice, chestnuts & cashew

Hawaiian – w/ mango & pineapple

Contact: Dedet Santos - 4254605 / 0917-8660662

Sabroso Lechon

What makes Sabroso Lechon so fragrant and flavorful

Lechon by Sabroso – very flavorful!

Contact: 515 8253 / 515 8259 / 357 0659 / 0922 8416220  

5-hr roasted crispy Japanese Lechon  by The Specialty Kitchen

Contact: 09178911013; 2113993

Home Cooked Pates by Carol Jorge

Pate in Snowman jar - perfect christmas gifts. Even comes with a pate spreader.

Carol’s Home Cooked Pates – So rich & creamy…Yummy!

Contact: 0917-8955306 / 6723432

Smoked Salmon & Caviar

Bizu’s Smoked Salmon & Caviar - Comes with Melba Toast
(Size 5″ Diameter) 1,800

Contact: 812-6451 / 812-6027 / 893-4645

Deliciosos Caviar Pie

Delicioso’s Caviar Pie

Contact: 9100301 / 6873698 / 0917-8983619 /0926-4735264

Contis Baked Salmon

Baked Salmon by Conti’s –

Php995 – 1,495

Log on to their site: http://www.contis.ph/store-locator.asp

Pork Crown Roast

Bizu’s Pork Crown Roast - comes with a hearty stuffing of apples, chestnuts, and sausages.
14 piece ribs.  Good for approx. 15-20 persons.  5,800

Contact: 812-6451 / 812-6027 / 893-4645

Roast Turkey –with your choice of sides from The Commissary of  Margarita Fores

Each turkey weighs a minimum of 5.5 – 6 kilos and serves 20-25 persons.

Contact: Anna Lopez at 729-0030 or (0917) 513-8945 (lead time: 2 days)

Shrimp & Uni Pasta -Dulcelin

Delicate and luscious uni with shrimp on spaghettini noodles.  A must for Uni lovers.

Contact: 374-2165 / 3742167
36 Times St. West Triangle,Quezon City

One of my Favorites at the Ultimate Taste Test - Shrimp & Uni Pasta

Paella Negra

Paella Negra by Marge Sy

Soft, flavorful rice mixed with the freshest seafood and meat, topped with swirls of creamy lemon sauce.

Contact: 0918 945-8845

Risotto di Mare

Amici’s Risotto di Mare

Amici’s Risotto di Mare is served in their special party tray and loaded with fresh seafood. Amici can deliver your order straight to your doorstep, so this is a great, hassle-free way to prepare for Christmas dinner.

Contact: 747-1111 (lead time 24 hours)

Crab Sotanghon

Crab Sotanghon by King Crab

Serving crabs makes the meal more fun since everyone has to use their hands. In this dish, the fresh crabs are cooked in a pot with spices and sotanghon.

Contact:  7238820 /  7238821 /  723-8823

Best Birthday Misua Ive ever had, so flavorful and not greasy - discovered this at the Ultimate Taste Test.

Chinese Birthday Misua by Green Pigs Kitchen

Contact: 0917-8425659; 2160262; 2160267

Salt and pepper spareribs

Salt & Pepper Spareribs

P1,800 per tray food for 20 persons

Contact: Eleanor Ty of Kitchen Hobbies Cooking Center

7765373 /09088687473 / 09209204822

Chef Mitchie Sison’s Lasagna

P1,500 per order

Contact: Chef Mitchie Sison – 5198905 / 09178206435

Four cheese lasagna

Four Cheese Lasagna by Qitchen 

2,200

Contact: 721-5360 / 0917-8312238 / 0922-8380308

Chicken Galantina

P900/1.25 k chicken. It comes with a gravy or bechamel sauce.
Contact: Fely Evangelista of Mary’s Kitchen – 7114475 / 09053422227

Callos

P640 for 6-8 servings; P940 for 10-12 servings
Contact: Ditas Dizon of Geraldo’s – 09178465399 or email gersison2003@yahoo.com

Dulcelin Gourmet’s American Wagyu Tri-tip Tender and bursting with beef flavor - Served with Japanese Steak sauce or gravy.

P2,200.00.

Contact: 374-2165 / 3742167
36 Times St. West Triangle,Quezon City

Dulcelins Wagyu tri-tip

Dulcelin’s Hickory Smoked Pork Belly - Smoky Pork Belly with zesty Barbecue Sauce

P1,600.00

Contact: 374-2165 / 3742167

Cote de Boeuf USDA Rib Eye Roast Beef

USDA Rib Eye Roast Beef – Bizu 

Comes with an array of grilled vegetables and a tasty mushroom gravy.

Good for approx. 12-15 persons

Contact: 812-6451 / 812-6027 / 893-4645

Bagwang

Manila Q’s Bagwang  –  A combination of three pork favorites (kawali, bagnet and chicharon)

Contact: Cha Morados – 0917 835-8361. Email: cha@joaxingredients.com

Sirloin Steak and Saikoro - another UTT discovery

Sirloin Steak and Saikoro  from Mediado

Contact: 0915-6347272

assorted mini quiches from simply pie

Mini Quiches and Baby Pies from Simply Pie

I love their quiche lorraine, shrimp & garlic quiche and the quiche w/ spinach, feta and sundried tomatoes

Contact: 3412238 / 09228822194

www.facebook.com/simplypie

Foie Gras - Farah Ylagan – 722-4234, 0918-9264671

Lamb Lechon – Robert 0906-8404323

Fresh Seafood -  Mida Food Distibutors Inc.

They have Seabass,Halibut, Gindara, and Salmon.  Also Scallops, Crabs, shells, octopus, squid etc.  They now deliver, seafood products are packed in styro boxes.

Contact: 5240006 / 0917-8902327
Email: sales@midafood.com

La Comida – reasonably priced caterer, puto bumbong and bibingka

Contact: 4260471

Amber’s Pichi-pichi, pancit malabon, spaghetti, pork barbeque, fried chicken

Contact: http://www.amber.com.ph/

Flavored Taho by the bucket – 0917 – 814120o

Dimpys Frozen Brazo

Dimpy’s frozen Brazo – 843-8086

Karens frozen brazo trio

Trio of Frozen Brazos from Karen’s Kitchen - Manila Vanilla (Original), Green Tea & Strawberry

Contact: 898-2280 * Telefax (632)898-2880

red velvet

Karen’s Kitchen Red Velvet Cake P650

Contact: 898-2280 * Telefax (632)898-2880

Pistachio Sans Rival – Delize by Jill Sanduque

33 Sunrise Drive, Cubao, Quezon City
721-7022 (ask for Lea, Mimi, or Vangie)

Conti’s Mango Bravo  - http://www.contis.ph/store-locator.asp

Caramel Cake  by Costa Brava

12 Polaris St.
Bel-Air Village 3, Makati
896-6872 / 896-1267

Mango Torte

Dulcelin’s Mango Torte 

Contact: 374-2165 / 3742167

Jack Daniels and Absolut vodka Brownies (UTT discovery)

Jack Daniel’s and Absolut vodka Brownies – Blackinese Brownies

Contact: 09228352482 http://facebook.com/blackinesebrownies

Cupcake de Mercedes (UTT discovery)

Cupcake de Mercedes - Joanie’s Cupcakes

Contact: 09175272671/ 2160289

Custard Cake

Custard Cake - Joan and Jane Cake Bites

Contact: 4486454/ 0922-8245579 (Cathleen) 5422168 / 0922-8246822 (Michelle)

Local delicacy Inutak

Inutak - M Siblings

Contact: 09199917989

I have been a fan of Chef Ariel Manuel of Lolo Dad’s, so when I heard that he opened an Asian resto, I jumped at the chance to try it out.

Phat Wong is located on the the ground floor of  LRI Business Plaza in N. Garcia St. (formerlyReposo St.) Makati.

My hubby,  mom-in-law, and I went early on a Monday night.  We started out with an appetizer of Blue Crab with Crab Fat on Lemongrass Dumpling  served with a yummy roasted garlic aioli dip.  I loved it.  It was soooo delicious, and savory.  We also tried the Deep-Fried Adobo and Menudo Pao, soft semi-sweet buns stuffed with either adobo or menudo.  My hubby liked the adobo better, but I preferred the menudo

Blue Crab with Crab Fat on Lemongrass Dumpling

Deep-Fried Adobo and Menudo Pao

Shrimps, Pomelo and Young Coconut

We also ordered the Shrimps, Pomelo and Young Coconut.  What an innovative presentation!   It has generous servings of succulent prawns, pomelo and lettuce inside.  It was refreshing!  The freshness of the young coconut meat was perfectly complemented by subtle hints of Kaffir Lime and coconut milk.   This was my mom-in-law’s favorite.  This dish is sheer ingenuity and loaded with fantastic flavors!

For our main entrees, we had Bistek U.S. Rib-Eye, Hainanese Fish and Sesame Battered Deep-Fried Prawns. 

Bistek U.S. Rib-Eye

Hainanese Fish

Sesame Battered Deep-Fried Prawns

Now, Bistek is a typical Filipino favorite but Phat Wong ‘s version is tender U.S. rib eye topped with lots of caramelized onions.  My hubby really loved it and couldn’t get enough of it.  The Fried prawns were also very tasty but I personally would have preferred it to be more garlicky.

My favorite is the Hainanese Fish.  I have tried so many versions of Hainanese Chicken both here and abroad, but this is the first time I tried hainanese fish and I must say, I made the right decision.  The dish was served with plain soup and hainanese rice.  I was pleasantly surprised by the soup.  I expected it to be the usual bland variety, but surprise, surprise!  The broth was so flavorful and had a deep earthy flavor to it.  And the hainanese rice was not greasy at all!  The fish itself was so fresh and served with 3 kinds of sauces.  First is the ginger sauce, which had macadamia nuts in it.  The sauce was wonderful and did not taste nutty.  Instead, the nuts gave it just a hint of sweetness.  Next is the kecap manis, a reduction of palm sugar, star anise and soy – a delightful blend indeed! .  Lastly, they served the super spicy chili sauce.  Together, the elements of this dish is a great symphony of flavors!  Gosh, I don’t mind eating this everyday.

Hainanese Fish (with soup rice & sauces)

Of course, we can’t let the evening end without dessert so we ordered the Baked Meringue.  It came on top of fresh mangoes & bananas, bathed in fresh Pandan cream.  It is light, fragrant and just the perfect dessert to cap our dinner.  At this point, my pant buttons were already threatening to pop out.  Yet we just couldn’t resist trying the dessert Chef Margie sent over.  It was Asian Pannacotta with Mangoes and Thai Basil syrup. The Thai basil cream and syrup provided a perfect contrast to the tartness of the mango panacotta.  This is truly a refreshing and satisfying dessert.  I learned that this comes with their daily Bento special (see menu below).  And for those looking for a great coffee experience, they serve great Vietnamese Iced Coffee w/ Milk at only 85 pesos!

Baked Meringue

Asian Pannacotta with Mangoes and Thai Basil syrup

Overall, it was a great dining experience.  I would definitely go back soon!  And for those entertaining balikbayan friends, tourists or expats, Phat Wong is definitely a very good alternative to the usual Filipino or Chinese restaurant.  The proof is in definitely in the eating!!!

Phat Wong Menu

Bento Specials

Adhering to age-old circus tradition, Cirque du Soleil’s Varekai is aptly staged in a huge air-conditioned circus tent in the Quirino Grandstand.

We arrived early and were surprised to see most of the seats were already occupied.  The atmosphere was abuzz with excitement, in anticipation of the most talked about show in town.

Varekai’s story is about the Fall of Icarus – a young man who plummets from the sky and is parachuted into the shadows of a magical forest.  In a kaleidoscopic world populated by fantastical creatures, this young man sets off on an extraordinary adventure. On this day at the edge of time, in this place of all possibilities, begins an inspired incantation to life rediscovered.

The word Varekai means “wherever” in the Romany language of the gypsies, the universal wanderers. This production pays tribute to the nomadic soul, the spirit and art of the circus tradition, and the infinite passion of those who journey along the path that leads to Varekai. 

The show area is fairly small, which makes it more intimate and envelops us into the mystery of the show.  With the beautiful costumes, dramatic set design and lighting, haunting music and the mystifying acts, I was swooning with awe and delight.

Of course, a circus act would not be complete without a clown.  In this show, they have a man and a woman who performed funny, absurd skits.  Not your typical circus clowns, they had everyone laughing and provided light moments in the show.

But of course, the highlights of Verakai are the acrobatic acts.  Let me share with you some of my favorite scenes from the show:

Flight of Icarus – I loved the drama and agility of Icarus as he elegantly flies, swings and dives in his net.  It showed the sensitivity and vulnerability of the character.

Water Meteors – These 3 young acrobats were just amazing.  They whirl, toss and catch these ropes with metal meteors attached to the ends, while performing daring acrobatic acts.  It was fascinating to watch them, which made me wonder how early these kids started their training.

Aerial Straps – Two remarkable men, suspended by wrist straps, glide gracefully, while doing exciting acrobatics with precision and power.  With a double strap, they meld in mid-air, united in a series of striking acrobatic silhouettes.

The Finale (Russian Swings) – This impressive act was so heart thumping and breathtaking!  Two Russian swings hurl the acrobats high into the air, and they are caught by their partners or land into billowing fabrics.  The audacity and sheer daring of this act had everybody shouting.  The jumps got higher and bigger, with men soaring mid-air to land from one moving swing to the other!  It was surely an unforgettable scene.

Overall the show is a feast for the senses.  With its sensual fusion of drama, contrasting colors, astonishing stunts and stunning acrobatics, this spectacular show is a definite must see!

PERFORMANCES FROM JUNE 22 TO JULY 24, 2011

Tuesday thru Friday Matinee

Friday Eve thru Sunday Evening

• Arrive early.  The show starts on time and latecomers are admitted only during a suitable break in the performance.
• Mobile phones must be turned off during the show.
• Videotaping &  photography are prohibited

Dress Code – Smart Casual

Food & Beverages - Refreshments and snacks are available in the entrance tent

Merchandise - available at the Cirque du Soleil store in the entrance tent.

Cirque de Soleil’s Varekai

Quirino Grandstand,RizalPark,Manila

http://www.hoopla.ph/

We decided to stay in Manila this past Holy Week.

Maundy Thursday – Visita Iglesia

Christ the King

Monastery of St. Claire

Holy Family Church

at Sta. Maria Della Strada Parish, stations were outside

Our Lady of Pentecost

Mt. Carmel

Sacred Heart

Since it was Holy Week, I only served non-meat and seafood dishes.

Inihaw na Boneless Bangus

Adobong Pusit

Palabok

Spicy Fish Head (ordered from Top Spice restaurant)

Steamed Crabs

Halabos na Hipon

Ginataan with bilo-bilo, langka, kamote, saba and sago

Aligue Pasta

This was also family bonding time for us, we played various board games (like Hollywood Movie Trivia and Boggle) and even had our household staff join us for other games such as Pinoy Henyo and “Pinoy” charades.

Easter  Sunday – Kid’s are rejoicing coz meat is back in the menu.:)   Served them brunch.  Then in the afternoon, we had mass and dinner at Eastwood.

Easter Brunch - pancakes, hotdogs, spam, eggs and english sausages

Have you ever noticed that kids now are turning into mall rats?  Well, nothing wrong with family bonding in malls.  I myself, love walking around the mall, discovering new products, dining in the restos and catching a movie during weekends.  But I wouldn’t want to limit our family bonding to just going to the malls, especially now that summer is here.  There’s always the beach or some nearby resorts.  I also want family bonding to not just be fun but also educational for the kids.   Museums are a nice start, they are fun and educational…  and my 2 older kids love our museum dates.

Here our some pics from our museum trips:

Casa Manila – Discover here how the the illustrado class used to live

Casa Manila

Picture taking is not allowed within the museum itself

Location: Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila

Open Daily except Mondays from 8:00am to 6:00pm

ENTRANCE FEES:

Adults                                         Php  50.00
Children / Students / Teachers /   Php  25.00
Senior Citizens / Disabled
(Students and teachers subject to presentation of school i.d. )
(Senior citizens subject to the presentation of senior citizen i.d.)

Bahay Tsinoy : a Museum of the Chinese in Philippine Life

Address: KAISA-ANGELO KING HERITAGE CENTER #32 Anda cor. Cabildo Streets, Intramuros, Manila

Phone: (632) 5276083, (632) 5266796Fax: (632) 5276085 E-mail: info@bahaytsinoy.org

Museum Hours:
Tuesdays-Sundays: 1:00-5:00 p.m., Closed on Mondays.

Entrance Fees:
Adults: Php100.00; Students and children: Php60.00

Museo Pambata – a hands-on discovery museum for children

Location: Roxas Boulevard corner South Drive
Manila

Telephone: (632) 523.1797 to 98, 536-0595

Museum Hours

Tuesday – Saturday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Sep – Mar)
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Apr – Aug)

Sunday
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

The museum is closed on Mondays and other official holidays.

Museum Fees

Streetchildren, infants (under 2 years), museum workers, teachers (with valid ID) FREE

Children and Adults P100.00

Manila residents (with valid ID)
50% discount