Food Cravings
Night out in Banchetto
Banchetto, read: Food Fest – is a pile of food stalls are packed along the street of F.Ortigas Avenue and is open to the public from 11PM every Friday and will close Saturday (following day) at 11AM.
Visit it one Friday night and you'll find yourself craving the whole night!
Update:
A few weeks ago I've heard that Banchetto Emerald Ave. in Ortigas, Pasig City closed for some reason and will be coming back soon. Though I don't know how long that "soon" will be, there's nothing to fret since Banchetto has opened to three other locations in the metro. That means that there are more places to pig out! 
1. BANCHETTO-MEGATENT along Meralco Avenue on Friday & Saturday nights from 9pm till 7am the next day
2. BANCHETTO-FORUM @Pioneer on Wednesdays & Thursdays 8.30pm-6am
3. BANCHETTO-LIBIS @Shopwise on Tuesdays 6pm-4am
For updates, visit their Facebook page here.
Sweet Cakes by Sweet Marys
In the previous post (Banchetto), I mentioned that I got a free Blueberry Cheesecake. It’s from Sweet Marys’ (apostrophe is at the end because it’s a family business with her sisters and all of them have Mary in their names). It’s very unexpectedly. Before that I was just taking pictures of all the food I see without minding everybody else. Walang paki kung siksikan, basta makapicture! 
Before I ended up here, I was just looking for the rest of the gang. It’s 2AM and my tummy’s crumbling. I checked my phone but no text from them so I decided to text Eric (na naka-globe. 
). No reply after a few minutes so I decided to look for them while taking pictures. Then, I saw this attractive Salmon Belly served along with other special dishes. I pointed my camera and took some snaps because it’s irresistible.
Looks and tastes good
Pinkish na Orange-ish na Salmon Belly!
Then I heard a lady telling me to make those shots good.. She’s the owner of the stall. Miss Mary asked me what’s the purpose of taking pictures. I simply said it’s for my blog. Then in her delight, she shared a story where their business was featured in one blog. Our conversation continued because she’s really curious why blogging is a trend nowadays and what do I get from it. She handed me crinkles and asked to taste it. Syempre hindi na ko nahiya.. hehe
Crinkles by Sweet Mary
I noticed that they offer free taste as well. Ayos nga naman para may preview ung mga bibili of what it taste like. There’s crinkles, dark chocolate cake, brownie oatmeal and the blueberry cheesecake that are free to try. All tasted good though I’m not a fan of chocolate cakes, tamang-tama lang ang tamis but I fell for the blueberry cheesecake. That’s why I ordered a slice for 85Php. Miss Mary excused herself for a while because of an incoming call. I checked out other cakes while waiting for my order.
Chocolate Decadence
Oreo Cheesecake
Carrot Cake
I handed out my payment but Miss Mary told me to keep it. She’s giving it to me for FREE!.. I was really surprised because it’s very unexpected. It’s not everyday that I get something I want for free that’s why it’s very much appreciated.
The sweet slice..
Sweet Marys’ Cakeshop (Commissary) is located at #1 Clarinda Soriano cor. Aurora Pijuan St. GF Resort Village, Talon Dos, Las Piñas. You can also check out their stall in Banchetto Food Market, every Friday night at F. Ortigas Jr. Ave, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.
For orders, please call: 02-3830044
Late Night Cravings: Banchetto
Late Friday night is Banchetto night!. At last I was able to go here after weeks of planning. Thanks to the birthday boy, JanAc! kahit hindi nya libre, kunwari handa nya yung andun, KKB nga lang.. Kanya-kanyang Bayad!
Banchetto is an Italian word which literally means food fest. I’m quite puzzled what will I be able to see here though I’ve read blogs about it. From RBC Ortigas, we walked our way to F. Ortigas Ave. (fka Emerald Ave.) where people our starting to satisfy their late night food cravings.
Throw all your food cravings here..
I decided not to buy my food yet but instead took pictures of the food served in every stall. Though there’s a lot of people (Merck: Konti pa nga yan.. ) picking their choices, I didn’t bother. Literally, a FOOD FEST it is!.. Nadaig pa ang mga piyesta na pinuntahan ko.. With a very wide variety of choices, you’ll definitely have a hard time choosing what to eat. Bon Appetit!
Dessert comes after every meal but this is the first in line..
Mukhang masarap no? sana hindi lang mukha..
More and more cakes...
Sansrival is one of my favorites. Sabi ko kay Ateng nagtitinda, babalikan ko pero after 2 hours ng paikot-ikot nakalimutan ko na..
Ex-PBB Housemate/Dancer Mickey Perz in the haus..
Mawawala ba sa kainan ang Lechon?
Mga Lutuing bahay
Malinamnam ngunit “nakakabinging” tahong.. hehe joke lang..
Cheesy Baked Tahong..
For pasta lovers..
- Street food won’t be far behind as well..
At ang famous kebab na hindi ko pa natitikman kahit kelan.
- Persian or Pinoy Kebab?
- Sisig Tuna – *drools*
- Meron ding Breakfast Meals..
Hindi uso ang rice cooker sa pagluluto ng kanin.. Isang Kawa dapat!
Fried Rice for 15-20 people?
Earlier you saw the food served in single-serving plates, now see this!
Pasta, Pansit and baked potatoes in bigger basins..
Other home-cooked favorites..
Fruits are also available to balance the nutrition..
If you haven’t chosen what to eat yet, then I think this would help. Packed meals!
Packed Meals for the budget-conscious
At first glance, it doesn't look like pizza..
Pizza ala Sbarro.. will try that next time! Not only you can find chicken, pork and beef. Seafood is also served in packed meals.
Oha.. ang lalaki ng hipon!
Nung makita ko ‘to, nagdalawa na agad ang paningin ko..
Cholesterol overload - sabay tapik sa batok..
Ate and her daughter posed as they saw me taking pictures. Wacky shot daw at hanapin raw nila sa Facebook.
Wacky shot!
And here’s the famous Monster Burger, 120php for one. Monster sa size, monster rin ang price..
Monster Patties for the Monster Burger
Carrot Cake
I’ve always wondered how does this carrot cake taste like. Like a carrot? or like a cake?.. lol
Sweet slice of blueberry cheesecake
This slice of blueberry cheesecake has a story. It came from Sweet Marys’ Cakes stall and I got it for FREE. I’ll tell more of the story on a separate blog post, probably right after this.
I didn’t notice that almost an hour had passed with me just taking pictures. What’s worse is that I haven’t bought myself something to eat!.. But feasting my eyes on these meals made my tummy full already so “quits lang”.. (especially right after seeing my shots!.. *burp*)
Yung ibang food masarap pero meron din iba na hanggang sa itsura lang masarap.. We concluded the day by having our regular coffee session at Starbucks.
TIPS:
1. If you want to try as many food as you can, make sure to get small servings of each so that you won’t end up throwing up. Or ask your friends to get different kinds so that you can get to taste all.
2. Sweet Mary’s Cakes are delicious and cheaper compared to others.
3. Don’t be deceived by what you see, some of the food served only looks good but doesn’t taste as good.
4. The crowd gets thick (read: Kumakapal ang tao.. lol ) at around 12am-1am. Better go there early to roam around and see what other stalls offer.
5. There are limited tables and seats available so expect to eat either standing or sitting on the street gutters.
6. Be courteous and still ask if you can take pictures. Though it’s not prohibited, asking the stall keeper politely might lead you to having a FREE slice of blueberry cheesecake.. Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!
Banchetto is open every Friday starting at 11PM and ends 11AM, Saturday at F. Ortigas Jr. Avenue (formerly Emerald Ave.) Ortigas Center, Pasig City.
To get there, Google Maps will help you. Click here.
Lunch @ The Pavilion in MMLDC
I had the chance to visit The Pavillion, MMLDC’s food hall (I stand corrected, read the rest for the correction), through the invitation of Ms. Peng. Besides, it’s lunch time (and it’s her treat.. thanks Mam!) “The Pavilion” is a Balinese-inspired Al Fresco restaurant within the lush facilities of The Meralco Development Center or MMLDC. It is a deli, bar and restaurant that offers an a la carte menu of fusion and Filipino favorites, including grilled specialties. Pizza, pasta, salads and sandwiches round out the offerings, with delight dessert options to complete your savory meals.
Before we go to the details, some of you might be asking what’s MMLDC and what was I doing there?
MMLDC’s Institutional Profile
MMLDC is an Educational Foundation that specializes in providing training solutions within a total learning ambience. The success of our business activities helps us to give back to society through the provision of training and development interventions in our advocacies of Technical Expertise, Environmental Stewardship and Responsible leadership.
Inaugurated in 1999, MMLDC opened its Academic and Residence Halls nestled in the natural rolling terrain, densely covered with more than 3,000 trees of an Antipolo property. From year 2000 onwards, various facilities were added to expand the capacity of the Center. This includes:
- a Food Hall to accommodate 325 diners
- the Creativity Hall for upgraded dormitory accommodations,
- the Rainforest, MMLDC’s unique and complete team building facility
- the Paintball area which now also offers Laser Tag Combat
A total of fourteen classrooms, ranging in capacity from 15 for small planning sessions to 200 participants for general assemblies. Various break out rooms and outdoor areas are also available for out-of-the box learning activities. It has also a library, a business center and a multi-purpose hall. Comfortable accommodations for 239 guests are available in either the hotel-like Residence Hall or at the Creativity Hall. The Center also features a pavilion with an adjacent swimming pool, a grotto with an image of the Virgin of Antipolo, an aviary of rare and exotic birds, a chapel, a lounge, a clinic and a gym. For more info, please visit the official website.
I’ll take a look at the different facilities once I go back (hopefully.. )
I’ve heard quite a few positive feedback about the Pavilion’s food offerings and this already made me curious if this will satisfy my palate. Apparently, it did! With a selection of pizzas, salads, cakes and sandwiches in their menu, the Pavilion is also a place to chill-out either with a bottle of beer in your left (hand) or a cup of coffee in the other. I just didn’t notice the presence of WiFi but their site tells it has. Ms. Peng asked me what do I like to order and the “shy-type” me said the typical, ANYTHING. But I think it’s very inappropriate to say so that’s why I just asked what’s the Pavilion’s best-sellers. And here comes what landed on our table:
Diablo, Solo: 150Php; To Share: 205Php
Okay, why Diablo? – I don’t know Probably because this kind of oil based fettuccine with shrimp and bacon is so spicy that you’ll feel you’re in hell in total hotness. At least I was able to get Ms. Peng affirm it hehe just kidding. Aside from being HOT and STRONG, I still wonder what’s in it that made it a best-seller. I’m not a fan of spicy food but I don’t hate it as well. Normally if it’s pasta you can have it in white or red sauce and it only taste either a bit sour (bcoz of the tomato sauce) or a bit sweet and salty (bcoz of the cream). But this one has a unique taste which is not bad at all. The parmesan cheese helped lessen the piquant taste. To share is good to up to 3 people.
All Meat Lovers Pizza, 205Php
It’s not a family-sized pizza but the serving is good to up to 4 people already. Topped with ground beef, pepperoni and chopped ham, this pizza is very flavorsome which could make your stomach full in just minutes. Indeed, one of their best-sellers.
Strawberry Milk, 75Php
This strawberry milk shake is a knock-out! The creamy taste of milk blended well with the strawberry. Indeed another best-seller in the refreshments category, it will never fail to satisfy your healthy cold drink craving. I’m now thinking of substituting it to our frequent Starbucks Coffee frap sessions – lol.
I’ll definitely go back and try out other selections in the menu. A 10-minute ride from home when going there won’t hurt . After all, the food is reasonably priced plus you can roam around to see the aviary, the rain forest and the chapel after a heavy meal with your friends, family or loved one.
P.S. The shots were c/o my Nokia 5800 Xpress Music smartphone, will do better next time using my real camera
Ready… Eat and Go!
It’s Friday and I need to give myself a treat. Yeah, this past week’s been exhausting and I did not have time to do something I want for myself – going out. Just felt the need to go out and explore and I brought my SLR with me. While waiting for Harriet and Taning, Mitch and I decided to eat dahil hindi pa rin ako nagla-lunch. I’m looking for a good place to dine in the Atrium and there we found this pretty young lady in a chef outfit holding the menu smiling at us while convincing us to try out their promo (pero hindi ko nakunan ng picture, na-hypnotize na nya ata kami the moment na lumapit sya.. hehe ). It’s Eat and Go.
Eat and Go in SM Megamall Atrium
Let's go inside..
Eat and Go offers a wide variety of food selections from sandwiches, London Pies, salads, pasta, pizza, hot and cold beverages up to main courses of Italian and Filipino delicacies – thanks to munchpunch.com hehe. This lady was of course promoting their 369Php meal (good for two peeps.. ) which includes two choices of their platter (worth 175php each) plus 1 serving of salad (of your choice) and 2 drinks. Obviously, we gave in. I think it’s worth the try and so we ordered.
Fish Scallopini, 175Php (Regular Price)
Fish Scallopini – Pan-seared cream dory and topped with lemon butter sauce, served with two side dishes of your choice from roasted pepper rice, pasta of the day, corn and carrots or baked beans.
I preferred pasta in white sauce to go with it. The creamy sauce blended well with the breaded fish. I must say that it’s very delicious and it became my favorite! The roasted pepper rice is simply a java rice.
Chicken Saltimbocca, 175Php (Regular Price)
Chicken Saltimbocca – Oven-baked chicken fillet stuffed with ham and cheese. With Saltimbocca sauce, served with two side dishes of your choice from roasted pepper rice, pasta of the day, corn and carrots or baked beans.
The chicken looked fried to me but it didn’t taste bad. They’ve really stuffed it with a generous amount of ham and cheese that would go along with the taste of chicken. The Saltimbocca sauce is new to me but I’d go for KFC’s gravy sauce :) This pasta in red sauce topped with parmesan cheese is tasteful, nothing different with other Italian Pastas.
Chef Salad, 155Php (Regular Price)
Chef Salad – Lettuce, egg slices, cucumber, cheddar cheese, ham, TID dressing.
This is a good catalyst to balance out the carbo intake when you’re in total hunger (in short, pag naparami ng KANIN, este KAIN.. ) All you get is a plate of fresh veggies with seasoning to taste. The serving is good for two B-T-W.
As promised, we only paid 369Php. If you sum up all the regular prices, it would cost around 625Php. At this point I realized that this resto is a bit expensive! but with their promo, it’ll attract more food junkies. It’s a good deal if you’re looking for ”sulit” and “budget” meals. As the name of the store suggests, we ATE but stayed for a while (enjoying Harriet’s Lumix Camera – picture-picture muna dahil ngayon lang din ulit kami nagkita-kita after 5 months).. then GONE..
El Buono’s 36-inch Pizza
Define Humongous?! El Buono Pizza
It was a very special day yesterday.. – nothing could be more special than your birthday right? Because of peer pressure, I got my team 36″ pizza from El Buono – (with the help of Kantotandangsora.blogspot.com). Delivery will take 1.5 hours, the nearest branch is in Pioneer, Mandaluyong.
@ exactly 15 minutes past 6pm, it arrived. Kuya Delivery Boy sliced the pizza in front of us which I think is part of their service (or did they just forget to slice it beforehand?.. hehe) And now.. presenting… the Asia’s Finest and Biggest Pizza!
the 36-inch pizza!
El Buono offers the following size categories – of course, there’s the slice (69Php), Medium (10″ @ 265Php), Large (12″ @ 395Php), Giant (22″ @ 795Php), the Celebrity Pizza (36″ @ 1,695Php) and the 45 -inch pizza which is beyond 2,000Php I think. We just settled for the Celebrity Pizza with 4 flavours, El Buono Special, Il Tonno, Il Hawaii and Le Verdure - after all I am a celebrity, este celebrant (for today only! lol ).
The Celebrity este Celebrant pala and the Pizza... nyahaha
Surprisingly, the crust is not that thick nor thin, does not get hard and not as oily just like other regular pizzas or should I say, other Monster Pizzas we’ve tried before. It doesn’t become crunchy even if you left it on the table for a few hours. The pizza came with its own hot sauce and 5% service charge! – WTF? The WTF part won’t be present if I was told right away. I confirmed the total price twice before I hang up the phone with the lady and she just said, “Total is 1,999Php). Mabuti na lang at masarap yung pizza, I forgave.. hehe Naisip ko rin na mahirap magbitbit ng 36-in na kahon along the highway habang nakaangkas sa motor. Buti na lang din at hindi naulan..
- Biggest and finest indeed..
They said that the biggest pizza they have is a 45-incher. Now I wonder how will they ever deliver it?
Branches:
500 Boni Avenue, cor. San Rafael St. Mandaluyong City, please contact: 533-3018
Makati Cinema Square, please contact: 403-1575 and 403-1528
visit their site: thebiggestpizza.multiply.com
Ravioli: The Goodness of Fresh Pasta
Ravioli in Robinson's Galleria Foodcourt
Dinner was supposed to be with rice and ulam but for a change we tried pasta ( I was with Kem BTW). After walking around Robinson’s Foodcourt, we found Ravioli. Sounds very new to me and the name has something interesting in it. I first checked the order of the lady in front of us and I noticed that the serving is reasonable for its price.
My friend WIKIPEDIA told me:
“Ravioli (plural; singular: raviolo) are a type of filled pasta composed of a filling sealed between two layers of thin pasta dough. The word ravioli is reminiscent of the Italian verb riavvolgere (“to wrap”), though the two words are not etymologically connected.”
So much info for that . I tried Bacon Carbonara and Kem ordered Spaghetti Bolognese. How much? Later..
Spaghetti Bolognese, 85Php
The serving is already good for two except if you really have a big appetite. I bet the sauce is Italian so its not sweet but the taste is good. I am a Jolly Spaghetti baby so this is something that I really don’t get to eat often but again, it tastes good. Usually, spaghetti is made by pouring the sauce on top of the noodle. This time, the noodle is cooked with the sauce and other ingredients. Cooking time is less than 5 minutes plus another minute for garnishings. Plus points to the presentation and the garlic bread – I like et!..
Bacon Carbonara, 85Php
Just like Spaghetti Bolognese, it took less than 5 minutes to prepare. This one tastes good as well and has a bigger serving. They also cooked the pasta along with the bacon bits and other ingredients. This what sets them apart from others. Since it’s only like a kiosk (in a foodcourt) it didn’t bother to show their customers how the pastas are made – from the pan to the plate. I still wonder why chefs need to have the pan fire-filled while cooking (Yung mag-aapoy talaga ung kawali habang andun yung mga niluluto.. ). Does it add taste? or just a way of cooking? Or probably just to impress? One of the crew (there’s only two of them – the cashier and the chef) is generous enough to add another teaspoon of Parmesan Cheese on my carbonara.
Ravioli can also be found in SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, Manila and their operations commenced just a year ago. I’ll better check out the Bistro in MOA and try their baked pizzas.
Bon Appetit!
and yes it is indeed fresh and good..
Food Trip: Kimono Ken
Yesterday after shift, I felt my stomach was craving for some food. After a couple of minutes discussing, oh we didn’t have an actual discussion.. We just had the usual:
JanAc: “O San tayo kakain?… ”
Ako: ” hmmmmm…” Mcdo?
MarkBel: “Ang Layo!.. dyan na lang..”
JanAc: ” O san nga?..”
Ako: “hmmmm…”
MarkBel: #$%$*&%$&*&($!#$
JanAc: Okay..
There, NO discussion.. lol We just decided to go home. haha
But upon walking through the hallway outside.. *boom* KIMONO KEN!.. then we got ourselves in..
No one was there except for the crew who were all sitting at the corner chit chatting about something. One of them approached us and handed over the Menu. While waiting for the food, I took pictures inside for my blog. (yeah, first time ko.. hehe ). It’s always been a good feeling to eat in a Japanese resto. I’m a fan of Japanese food but not with WASABI..
The place has enough space for group dinners or casual lunch meetings. Their crew are all dressed up like japanese (of course!) and greet like japanese.
No other customers.. just us.. and oh, the two students just arrived..
In no less than 10 minutes, the food was served. Here’s what we had on our table.
Gomoku Ramen, 200Php
Order ni MarkBel. Dahil nagda-diet raw sya (at isang certified GWAPO!) yan lang ang kakainin nya. Lasang Lucky Me Chicken noodles daw pero naenjoy naman nya. May kamahalan ang presyo marahil dahil sa location ng resto (Rockwell Business Center) at syempre Kimono Ken.
Asparagus Mayo Spaghetti, 190Php
Eto ang order ko! Mas pinili ko munang mag-pasta kesa ang the-usual rice toppings (katsudon to be specific hehe). Sa picture pa lang mukhang masarap – pero masarap nga naman. May bacon toppings, parsely and asparagus. Hindi ko lang masyado nagustuhan ung mayonnaise dahil parang noodle with lady’s choice mayo ang lasa. Nakakaumay at may after taste kaya nag candy ako pagkatapos.
Chicken Cheese Roll, 160php
This kind does not fail me – plus the dip? very tasteful! 6 pieces is not bad for 160Php. Order ni Billy with Gohan (rice, 40Php) on the side. (ang mahal nung rice!)
Pork Shogadon, 175php
Eto naman order ni JanAc. Una akala ko beef pero PORK nga eh. hindi ko natikman kasi hindi nang alok tong batang to.. hehe mukhang gutom at hindi naisip mag share.. haha kungsabagay ako rin naman.. lol Ako lang ang naumay sa mayo filled pasta..
Philadelphia Roll, 165php
Sa lahat ng MAKI na nakain ko, eto na ang pinakapanalo sa lahat. Hindi naman ako madalas kumain ng maki pero sa lahat ng nakain ko, eto pinakamasarap.. (OO na nga.. kulit! ) Hindi rin ako madalas kumain ng mga hilaw pero nagustuhan ko to. Curious question: Bakit ba Philadelphia Roll at California Maki ang tawag sa ganitong klase samantalang sa Japan naman nag-originate to?
Time to bill out. Umabot ng 979.82php ang total bill. Unang reaction? MAHAAAAAL! apat lang kami pero umabot ng halos isang libo. Sadya lang siguro akong kuripot kaya ganyan ang reaction ko.. May Service charge rin na 6% kaya hindi na kami nag-tip.
Okay naman ang service, very accommodating ang crew at mabilis ma-serve ang food. I’d still prefer Teriyaki Boy over Kimono Ken when it comes to food selections and the taste.
Time to explore other restos in RBC Ortigas..
Ang Pulo – Food Selections
Here it is.. este here they are! As a follow up to the previous blog entry, Ang Pulo – a new hangout in Ortigas may I now present to you the things that we put in our stomachs to satisfy our cravings.
1. Puto Rice – tawag ko lang yan sa kanin na inorder namin.. Wala syang halong puto – mukhang puto lang kasi.. Hindi mawawala ang kanin sa bawat piging (read: pagititipon, tipar) ng pinoy.
Puto Rice
2. Onion Rings – not your ordinary Onion Rings! Bakit kanyo? may topping na hotdog. Mas iisipin ko pang Sweet and Sour hotdog to with onion ring toppings Masarap at kakaiba sa paningin. Maganda ang presentation – dagdag pulutan rin.
Onion Rings with Hotdog Toppings
3. Baked Tahong – ako ang promotor kung bakit nasa mesa ang pagkaing yan. Dahil gusto kong matikman halos lahat ng nasa menu, pinili ko to kahit medyo may kamahalan (chip in naman kami kaya oks lang.. hehe) Mukhang magagaling ang chef nila dahil masarap rin ang pagkakaluto. Hindi oily at lasap na lasap ang melted cheese .
Baked Tahong
4. Crispy Pata – walang tatalo dito dahil isa to sa mga masasarap na crispy pata na nakain ko. Maliban sa highblood na makukuha mo, may french fries toppings pa. Mahilig sila maglagay ng toppings sa mga sineserve na food – na pandagdag attraction sa pagkain. Kudos!
Crispy ni Pata
5. Sizzling Pork Sisig – Ang hindi pwedeng mawala sa inuman at casual na kainan. Ang napansin ko lang eh hindi sya purong lamang loob at parte ng tenga ng baboy. Malaman ang sisig na hinaluan ng white onions as toppings.
Sizzling Pork Sisig
5. Inihaw na Tilapia – Boneless kaya walang masasayang na laman. May kasamang itlog (hindi ko lang sigurado kung maalat o hard boiled) na toppings.
Inihaw na Tilapia
6. (Inihaw or Pritong) Daing na Bangus – Again, hindi ko na matandaan kung prito or inihaw pero base sa picture, mukhang pinirito Hindi oily yung isda kaya masarap kainin – di ka magwoworry sa cholesterol level mo (kasi isinabay pa sa crispy pata at sisig lol) May fried bawang na toppings at boneless rin. Mas malaki pa sya sa pinggang pinaglagyan nya at lampas pa ng isang dangkal ang sukat. Huwaw!
Daing na Bangus
7. Nilagang Baboy – Mahiyain yung baboy kaya hindi kita sa picture. Tamang-tama ang timpla ng sabaw. Hindi lang masyado napansin dahil pangtanghalian ang ulam na to pero naubos pa rin. Yun nga lang, mas naunang naubos ang mga pagkain sa itaas.
Nilagang Baboy
8. Eto ang pinaka-angat sa lahat at walang tulak kabigin – ang Potato Chips. Hindi yan galing sa binuksang chichiria. Authentic na patatas na pangdagdag pulutan. At sa muling pagkakataon, hindi nagtagal ang buhay nyan sa lamesa.
Hulaan nyo...
9. Tempura – Sa di inaasahang pagkakataon ay wala akong nakuhang litrato nito. Naghintay pa naman kami ng 45 minutes dahil matagal raw talaga iprepare at lutuin ang tempura. Paglapag sa lamesa, limas! Wala pang 5 minutes ay parang bulang biglang naglaho ang mga breaded hipon. Swerte ko na rin pala dahil kung kinuha ko ang camera ni Merck (salamat pala sa pagpapahiram sa akin ) ay baka bakas na lang ng breadings ang nakain ko..
Paumanhin lang dahil hindi ko na matandaan ang mga presyo nyan pero affordable naman. Kasyang kasya na sa 15-17 katao na hindi ko sasabihin na ang ilan ay may katumbas na dalawang tao. lol (pero sinabi ko pa rin. hehe).
Ang Pulo – a new hangout in Ortigas
It’s Tuesday that we (along with my team) decided to unwind and have some time to bond outside the excruciating life at the office.. – that was exaggerated I know.. And our destination – Ang Pulo – dunno what’s with the name but we’re about to find it out.
located near Smashville, at the back of Autocamp in Ortigas Ave. Pasig City
The place is not that hard to find. It’s just a few meters away from Meralco in Ortigas, Pasig. Ang Pulo has two floors but looks three. Their first floor looks the second and the second looks third. Confused? kasi elevated ung first floor kaya ganun.. They have enough space in both levels so it won’t look crowded. The place has a different feel at first glance and I tell you – it’s good. It’s an open area by the way and you may overlook some houses in the nearby subdivision or the Ortigas Home Depot complex. It has a spacious parking area as well but I forgot to ask about the rate. So instead of walking towards the place from Ortigas Avenue, you might as well bring your wheels.
Ang Pulo, Second Level
My teammates.. selecting the songs to sing already.. demmit..
We stayed at the second level because of the Big Videoke Room – (and why am I not so excited? it’s Videoke time?! lol) We’re 15 plus and the room is just enough for all of us. It’s airconditioned but we’re seen from outside. Its walls are glass.. but that’s okay, we’re not hiding from someone or anyone. The sound system is okay, it has only one mic and one LCD screen.
See other photos of the place:
that's the 2nd level counter.. and still a lot of vacant seats..
..still at the second level.. at night..
If you wonder what time does it open:
..hours of operation..
This is definitely a new hangout to those who work or study or reside near Ortigas Avenue. The food is awesome! but the pictures are not yet ready – still waiting for the upload.. Will blog about it on my next post. In the meantime, please read my other blog posts or my photostream.
Supersized Calda Pizza
Our cravings for pizza were granted one day in our office. Meeting ata namin at tulad ng nakagawian, kelangan may food na pagsasalu-saluhan. TARAN! – ayan CALDA PIZZA.
Bakit CALDA PIZZA? – wala na kasing Yellow Cab, Shakey’s at Pizza Hut na malapit.
Anonymous 1: “Eh delivery naman ah.. ”
Anonymous 2: “Try natin yung Calda Pizza.. MALAKI yun.. Monster Pizza.. Masarap rin..”
Anonymous 1: “Never heard.. Okay whatever basta lamang tyan.. ”
Nagoopen ang store nila at 10AM at 12:30 pa raw darating ang delivery. Wala naman kami magagawa kungdi maghintay. Ang akala naming libre ay chip-in chip-in pala. 100Php each and we ordered 1 Super Trevi PIzza (30 inches — huwaw!) at isang Margherita Pizza (ata?) na Family. Dapat at yung XtraSuper (36 inches – super huwaw!) na Pizza pero wala raw available na kahon for delivery.
Take a look at their menu:
Calda Pizza Menu (got it from their FB page but I think it's not yet updated)
Just call ‘em up to ask for the updated price of the pizzas.
36" and 15" Calda Pizza - fits Jonah's workstation..
Super Trevi
VERDICT: Hindi ko masyadong nagustuhan pero dahil sa gutom, natripan ko na rin It’s not as bad. Siguro hindi ko lang nagustuhan yung lasa ng olives. Thin crust lang na hindi timitigas pag nahanginan tulad ng sa Jugno’s Pizza. Though pag umabot pa ng mga 30 minutes to 1 hour, magiging piyaya na yung crust.
Margherita
VERDICT: Eto na lang dapat yung Super na inorder dahil hindi nagdamot sa mozarella cheese. Mas nagustuhan ko to at dahil ilang slices lang, dito ako nagfocus. hehe (takaw mode)
Umabot lang ng 1150Php yung bill and it’s a good choice of pizza kung may birthday na biglang naubusan ng handa. What more pa kung yung XtraSuper na pizza na good for 20 peeps siguro, mabobochog ang mga kakain.
Crepes and Creams Cravings
After getting myself dizzy from the Travel Expo dahil sa dami ng tao, we decided to chill and take some snacks. We landed at Crepes and Creams – and yes, ’twas my first time.. It’s always exciting when it’s your first time.
Crepes and Creams
Salamat sa Picassa at nagawa kong collage ang mga pictures – kesa paisa isa pa..
Banana Chocolate Temptation, 109Php
Pangalan pa lang matetempt ka na talaga.. for the nth time, hindi ako fan ng chocolates pero masarap to.. (at parang nagiging fan na ako – pero HINDI! ) Masarap na kasi sa panlasa ung combination ng chocolate syrup with chocolate ice cream at nung crepe. Si Gepay at Joan ang umorder pero nakitikim lang ako.. hehe 109Php (hindi 99Php sabi ni Geps.. hehe) nga lang pero sulit na kasi masarap. Malagkit lang sa kamay pag natuluan ka ng ice cream kaya kainin mo na ng kainin..
Banana de Leche, 99Php
Eto ang inorder ko at hindi naman ka-leche-leche.. haha Mapapaleche ka lang sa sarap kasi may nuts (pistachio ba un? – di ko lang sure eh… ) at banana toppings. May Vanilla ice cream na isang scoop. Dun ko lang narealize na masarap ang combination ng nuts (unsalted) sa vanilla ice cream.
Cheesy Hotdog - asan ang cheese? asan ang hotdog?..
Walang price na nakalagay kasi hindi ako sure.. Tatanong ko pa kay Merck dahil sya ang umorder nyan. Malamang ay nagutom si Merck dahil gusto nya ng hotdog. Hindi nga lang kita ung hotdog dahil nasa loob pa. Mejo maasim raw yung catsup na ginamit kaya hindi nya naubos at pinabalot na lang.
Malamang ay mabalik ako dito dahil masarap na merienda ang crepe. It made me think na i-try rin gumawa nyan sa bahay, only time will tell… haha
RECOMMENDED ang Crepe!
Banapple at last!
Eto na ang pinakahihintay na Banapple. Kwento muna bago makarating dun. Galing akong Antipolo at ang lakas ko magyaya pero hindi ko pa naman napupuntahan to. Galing Marcos Highway-Katipunan intersection, nilakad ko hanggang Ateneo (kasi akala ko malapit dun kasi along Katipunan) kasi traffic na rin. Wala namang problema kung maglalakad, mas trip ko pa un kesa matagal na nakaupo sa sasakyan. Pero naalala kong pagkalampas lang pala ng tunnel from Libis yun. So mali ang pinuntahan ko hehe Taxi ang solusyon dahil naghihintay na si Mere. hehe
Banapple Katipunan (going to UP side)
Maliit lang pala talaga ung Banapple na parang bahay pero maganda ang itsura sa labas. Maliit nga lang ba or dahil lang sa maraming tao?.. hmmm.. baka nga..
Unang order: Banoffee Pie at Dark Chocolate Tiramisu Cheesecake.
Dark Chocolate Tiramisu Cheesecake
Maraming masarap na cakes at sa murang halaga lang talaga. Pinili namin ang Banofee at Dark Chocolate Tiramisu Cheesecake dahil enticing talaga ang itsura at malaki rin ang slice (100Php lang, 960Php ang isang buo – not bad!). Masarap naman ang Tiramisu Cheesecake pero hindi talaga ako fanatic ng chocolate, dark chocolate pa man din yan pero tinry ko pa rin (for the sake of blogging.. haha). Hindi rin namin naubos kasi malaki ung serving, pwede ng pang dalawang tao.
Banoffee Pie
Eto ang gusto ko. Banana at Cofee in one. Masarap – Panalo – Sulit! 85php lang per slice at malaki rin ang serving at 650Php ang isang buo – not bad ulit! Siksik-liglig ang saging bandang ilalim. Pangdalawang tao na rin ang serving kaya busog talaga. Hindi nga lang namin naubos kasi parehas na kaming nabusog Umorder pa ng Baked Creamy Cheese Penne si Mere na NAPAKASARAP. Con-todo melted cheese na creamy talaga. Yan pa naman ang weakness ko ung UBOD ng dami ng cheese tas melted pa. Eto un oh:
Baked Creamy Cheese Penne
Pagpsensyahan na ang shots ko dahil ung 5800 ko gamit ko. Hindi ko na dinala si D40 dahil wala pa syang bag na matino-tino.. Mas marami pa akong nakain na pasta kesa sa cake haha.. Di ko talaga napigilan iendulge ng sarili ko sa melted cheese na nakita ko. Isang bowl yun at pang dalawang tao na rin. Ang halaga, 175Php – Not bad para sa dalawang taong kakain!
Inside Banapple
Relaxing rin ang ambiance sa loob. Isa sa mga napansin ko eh yung hindi nawawalan ng tao ang kainan na to. Habang papagabi, (mga 6pm-7pm siguro) lalong dinadagsa ng tao. Hindi ko nakitang walang pila sa cashier at hindi pumetix ang mga crew. Isa pa pala, lahat ng servers ay BABAE. Hindi naman siksiksan sa loob pero marami lang tao. Ang mga pumipila lagi, estudyante, employee, kolekiyala, barkada, pamilya, lahat na. Hit na hit talaga tong Banapple. At nung lumabas kami, mas marami pang naghihintay – kaya kelangan pumunta ng maaga para hindi mawalan ng parking at ng pwesto
Official website: http://www.banapplekitchen.com/
Manila Scramble chills
Ang Iskramol ng Bayan
This is one of the newest food carts I’ve seen in a mall. Usually kasi puro siomai, empanada, pizza, fruitaz, etc. Though hindi naman bago tong scramble pero I was surprised na napenetrate na rin nya ang malls and street food pa ang concept. Andyan na rin sa malls ang other street foods like fish balls, squid balls, chicken balls, kikiam, atbp. No wonder na baka magkaron na rin ng mga banana-q, kamote-q, turon, palitaw, mangga na may bagoong, singkamas na nakalublob sa tubig sa garapon, pinya na ganun din ang lalagyan, at iba pa.
In fairness pag nagagawi ako sa stall nila sa Robinson’s Galleria ay tinatao palagi. Katabi nya yung Quickly kung ikukumpura ay marami laging bumibili sa Manila Scramble. Una, dahil mura. Biruin mong 7php lang to! (small) iisipin mong nasa labas ka lang ng eskuwelahan mo nung elementary at bumibili ng iskrambol.
Mura ngang talaga!
May mga toppings rin pandagdag sarap pero may dagdag bayad rin.
May toppings na choco krunchies
Masarap at kuhang kuha talaga ang lasa ng iskrambol. Maganda pa ung lalagyan at makakasigurong malinis. Panawid uhaw at lamig. Tapos habang kumakain ka nito maaalala mo ung elementary days mo, na habang sumusubo ka ng iskrambol eh naghihintay ka ng service tapos pag hindi dumating maiiwan ka sa may gate kasi hindi ka pa marunong mag commute!..
Chill-ing @ Red Mango
After manuod ng STEP Up 3D tinry namin ang Red Mango. It’s located at 2F Eastwood Mall at nasa medyo kasuluk- sulukan.
Red Mango in Eastwood Mall
Puro yogurt pala ang sineserve dito na akala ko ay ice cream. Gusto kong itry ung MANGO BERRY CRUSH, 155php – may KAMAHALAN lang talaga. Si Mere, tinry ang FROZEN YOGURT with CHEESECAKE, 135php. 
Mango Berry Crush
) Hindi naman kasi ako fan ng yogurt, ang alam ko lang na yogurt eh ung Nestle Fruit Selection Yogurt. Panalo yung mangga sa TAMIS at mejo frozen rin. Masarap ung combination, nakakarefresh talaga lalo na kung masarap rin ang kwentuhan.
Frozen Yogurt with Cheesecake
Dalawang pirasong CHEESECAKE! – parang ga-cheese stick lang.. Kung sabagay sa halagang 20php na topping eh yan ang makukuha mo.. Sampung Piso isang piraso!.. haha Medium Yogurt for 115php – MAHAL pa din! Natawa pa sa amin ung cashier, kasi pinipintasan namin ung CHEESECAKE na topping..
Pero kung kaya naman ng bulsa mo at hindi ka nag titipir, okay lang naman. Gusto ko yung ambiance sa loob, malinis walang masyadong abubot. Tamang-tama ang tagline ng store nila, TREAT YOURSELF WELL.. – oo nga naman!
A day @ Conti’s
After my craving for Paella (because of Babaeng Lakwatsera’s Conti’s blog), I decided to try it and asked my fellow bloggers - SpiderHam, Kwatro kanto and Babaeng Lakwatsera to come with me. We communicated thru YM and boom! – I’ll meet them at 2PM since I was at home and I’m on leave
However, I fell asleep at around 12:30PM and woke up at around 2PM because Babaeng Lakwatsera is calling. I ran to the bathroom and in 15 minutes, I left home. Supposedly, we’ll go to Conti’s in Serendra (The Fort, Taguig) but we settle for branch in Greenhills.
I arrived 4PM due to heavy traffic in La Salle Greenhills. They should have a HUGE car park inside so they can accommodate all the vehicles coming in to fetch the students – after all, lahat naman ata ng estudyante nila ay may sasakyan.
ALAY LAKAD ang nangyari from Robinson’s Galleria to La Salle Greenhills then Greenhills Shopping Center hanggang Conti’s. Guess what, naliligo lang naman ako sa pawis pagdating ko at tamang tama na ginutom ako. Pagdating ko, nakaorder na sila mukhang GUTOM na GUTOM na haha.. Sabi ko kasi, I’ll take a picture muna ng mga pagkain bago nila galawin – ang malas lang, na traffic ako.. hehe
Eto na, presenting… (photos courtesy of my D40 Camera by yours truly.. ehem.. )
Baked Macaroni
Panalo ang Baked Macaroni nila. Tamang- tama ang timpla. Mas nakagutom tignan dahil sa melted cheese.
Chicken Tocino
Akala ko nung una BABOY.. Tocino pala! hehe Order ni Kwatro Khanto pero nakitikim ako at swak na swak lang din sa panlasa. MASARAP!
Linguine in Pesto Sauce
May kasama pang garlic bread on the side. Hindi ako fan ng Pesto Pasta kasi para akong kumakain ng damo pero masarap naman daw sabi ni Babaeng Lakwatsera. 195Php ang presyo.
Chicken Pastel
At eto naman ang inorder ko dahil sa inabot kong GUTOM sa paglalakad. Dapat, Paella kaso bigla akong nagcrave sa manok kaya eto ang naglanding sa mesa ko. Swak na swak lang at SOLB na SOLB.. Yun na. Akala ko ay hindi ako mabubusog sa serving na nakita ko, 195Php ata yan – may kamahalan (o kuripot lang ako?.. ) Pero mabigat sa tiyan. Hindi lang MASARAP – tiyak na mabubusog ka pa.
Desserts:
Oreo Cheesecake
Isa pang masarap na cake na tamang tama lang – hindi masyadong matamis. 70php isang slice.
Moist Chocolate Cake
Hindi rin ako fan ng chocolate cakes – para kasing ang tamis tamis at sasakit ang lalamunan ko. Tinikman ko rin at tama lang naman pala. Pero hindi na nasundan at sabi naman ni Spiderham, MASARAP 70Php isang slice.
Mango Bravo Frozen Cake
At eto na.. ang pinakahihintay ng lahat – MANGO BRAVO! Sulit na sulit ang 120Php/slice na presyo. Good for 4 people na, san ka pa!? Maraming layers, may sans rival na may parang merenggue na may frozen mango syempre. Hindi nakakaumay at nakakabusog rin.
Makikita ang Conti’s Restaurant sa Connecticut Street, Greenhills in San Juan Metro Manila. Maliit lang ang loob ng restaurant at medyo masikip. They also have other branches in The Fort (Taguig), Greenbelt (Makati), Parañaque City, Trinoma Mall, Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Alabang Town Center at Katipunan (Soon to open). Please visit: http://www.contis.ph/store-locator.asp for more details.
Waiying Part 2
After walking and shooting and clicking for more than 4 hours, we dined at Waiying since it’s just a few minutes away from Recto Avenue. Waiying is our favorite Chinese Fastfood located in Benavides Street in Binondo, Manila. I was with Boggs and Taj and the three of us are all STARVING – literally.
I ordered SOY CHICKEN RICE and the two ordered STEAMED CHICKEN MUSHROOM.
The Soy Chicken Rice is one of Waiying’s best because no words can explain how delicious it is – OA! yeah I know. It doesn’t taste like soy sauce if that’s what you think it’s made of. It’s sweet and juicy. Please be enticed by the pictures below.
Soy Chicken Rice
We added HAKAW and HOT SALAD as side orders. Hakaw is a soft dumpling with shrimp inside. Hot Salad, on the other hand contains pineapple and apple tidbits covered just like a hot pie.
Hakaw (Shrimp Dumpling)
Hot Salad
Hakaw and the Hot Salad are best-sellers and at the same time affordable. They just cost 60Php and around 68Php respectively. I’ll try other side dishes the next time we visit and I’ll make sure that there’s enough room in my stomach to consume all of those. My next target is their BUKO PANDAN!
Food Trip: Wai Ying
On July 3, we had a sidetrip in Binondo, Manila to do a photowalk. But nothing interesting caught my eye and lens aside from the Binondo Church and Chinatown. Later that day, I realized that we should’ve gotten there when there’s an event, counting in Chinese New Year. After an hour of endless walking, we found Wai Ying – a Chinese Fastfood Restaurant that I have been missing for months.
Wai Ying was introduced to me by my friend Xtian way back college days – okay it was in 2003, I think. The foods served are really delicious and the prices are very affordable. Each item on the menu are enticing.
We still waited for a few minutes because there’s no vacant table. People really love to dine here because of its affordable menu. When I held the menu, I missed the taste of the Soy Chicken Mushroom but I want to taste Curry Beef Brisket so I ordered one. Gelo ordered the “duck” one (I forgot what it’s called.. hehe) and Gepay ordered the same as mine and one order of steamed siomai.
Does it look like a duck? but tastes much of a chicken..
Curry Beef Brisket
Steamed Siomai
As expected, our stomachs are once again full and more than satisfied. The prices are higher as compared 7 years ago (of course.. it only costs around 72Php) but still within reach. Their rice toppings (the ones mentioned above) cost 110Php-120Php. I plan to go back with my college friends and try out that Steamed Chicken Mushroom which is my Wai Ying all-time favorite.
Mushroom Burger: A New “kid” on the block
Right after a sweaty 6K run and small chit-chats in UP Diliman, we decided to transfer because the sun’s hitting on us already. We remembered that Mark mentioned last week about this new fastfood chain called Mushroom Burger along Katipunan. It’s past 10 in the morning already and we need a place to continue chit-chatting so we decided to check it out.
Obviously, Mushroom Burger is a burger house and I thought that it only offers burgers, nothing more. The place looks new because it is really new. I just read from a page that this was the same spot where Jollibee stood. It’s probably a few months old only and was only the second branch – first is in Tagaytay.
It’s logo has the same colors as McDonald’s but just inverted. The letter “M” is red and the rest is yellow.
Mushroom Burger in Katipunan
I haven’t thought of taking a picture of how it looks inside. The place is clean and what I liked most about it is… *drum rolls….* FREE WI-FI… lol The first thing I look for when we got in is the price of their burgers. My wallet’s only got 200php so it’s pretty obvious why. They don’t offer just burgers but rice meals, breakfast meals and halo-halo as well. This is where I understand that it’s not like Brother’s Burgers because the prices are very affordable. I tried Mushroom Burger Royal. I got it for only 95Php and comes along with a regular sized fries and drink. Taj and Boggs ordered the regular Mushroom Burger and I told them I’ll take a picture of it first before it’s gone in a minute.
Regular Mushroom Burger
It’s plainly served. It’s surprising that the patty does not even match the circumference of the bun. And the bun is only about the size of the ketchup cup. I did not intend to compare the size when I took the picture. I just noticed it when I’m uploading the pictures. I did not ask Taj and Boggs how did it taste like but I presume it was okay since I did not hear anything violent from them. hehe It’s just the patty that awed me. haha
It’s my turn. Mushroom Burger Royal – looks yummy, seriously. When I opened it, here’s how it looked like:
Mushroom Burger Royal
When I saw it, “oh.. OKAY..” It has an omelette with cheese, mushroom patty under with pickles and of course the burger dressing. It tasted okay for me though the bun looks like less ordinary. I just expected it to be bigger. Their fries tastes good just like other fries, hehe. It’s firm and authentic.
Aside from the affordable price (and free wi-fi of course..), nothing really special caught my attention on our first visit. We might still pay a visit again and try other burgers only if we’re on a very tight budget hehe
Chillax at Seisha
We just had our dose of caffeine in Seisha Coffee in Antipolo. After endulging ourselves to loads of carbohydrates, (thanks to the town fiesta) and playing Tekken 5 in Ynares Center Bazzaar, Marie asked for a sip of coffee. Seisha Coffee (near Antipolo Cathedral) is one of the many coffee shops in Antipolo offering caffeine beverages, teas, fruit juices and pastries. It’s located in a new commercial building in P. Oliveros Street and can be easily recognized. The look seems relaxing and vibrant because of the combination of lights and the interior design is appealing.
The paintings on the wall added appeal to its overall look. I just don’t know if the paintings are for sale because most of them have price tags The restroom is well organized and clean as well. By the way, this is the first thing I checked because it’s one of the most neglected and taken for granted in an establishment. Good thing theirs is not stinky.
Enough of what the eye says, it’s the tongue’s turn. Marie ordered Triple-berry mocha frap (raspberry, strawberry and blueberry – that’s what makes it triple.. yey ), Caramel frap for Gelow and Capuccino for Rodemp. The tripleberry frap does not taste very berry – it tastes something else. More like an alcoholic drink as Marie says so. I ordered Strawberry-banana smoothie which by the way made me think if strawberries nowadays are already pink and not red. I hope it’s due to the banana effect only that’s why it’s pink. In all fairness, it tastes good though I didn’t capture the presence of strawberry in my smoothie though it’s still refreshing.
Their Seisha Clubhouse is not bad at all and also reasonably priced. On the cakes and pastries shelf, I first noticed that their cheaper than other coffee shops. For example, the blueberry cheesecake costs 80Php only per slice. The one displayed is bigger than I expected – that’s why I thought it was cheaper. But wait until you ordered it and you’ll notice that the slice you saw displayed is not the one you’ll get. They displayed 2 slices and make it look like one so that the customer will think that it’s bigger – nice marketing strategy but definitely a turn-off.
