December 2023 – Jellybeans in the City

Novotel’s Prana Indian Cuisine hosts Taj Uncorked: An Indian Champagne Dinner

Indian food has long been celebrated for its creative use of healthy ingredients including aromatic spices, as well as its rich and diverse flavors.

However, there is one aspect of this exotic cuisine that is largely unexplored: how it pairs with western wines.

Well, Novotel Manila Araneta City’s Executive Chef Massimiliano Pauletto recently brought this extraordinary experience to selected guests with Taj Uncorked: An Indian Champagne Dinner held at the hotel’s restaurant, Prana Indian Cuisine.

Together with my husband (an avid lover of Indian food!), I was able to join this gastronomic exploration consisting of dishes especially crafted by Prana’s very own Indian Masterchef Rajan Veeranan and variants of Champagne Deutz Ram’s House of Wine.

Champagne does significantly add to the enjoyment of Indian cuisine, thanks to its versatility; its acidity and bubbly nature complements the complex flavors and contrasts with the rich and creamy textures of various Indian dishes. It also acting as a palate cleanser in between bites, allowing diners to fully savor and appreciate the nuances of every dish. Champagne’s fruity tones also harmonize well with the aromatic herbs and spices used in Indian cooking.

Chef Rajan’s multi-course dinner included these masterpieces:

Cocktails

Served at the restaurant’s anteroom with generous refills of Deutz Brut Classic, these whetted our appetites for the rest of Prana’s culinary creations yet to be unveiled.

Appetizer (Kshudaavardhak)

Panch Phoran Tandoori Jhinga. Succulent tandoori prawns, marinated in a blend of yogurt, five aromatic spices, and fragrant herbs and expertly cooked in a traditional clay oven, resulting in a delightful combination of smokiness and tenderness on a bed ofluscious broccoli cashew nut puree.

Afghani Murgh Kebab. Tender grilled chicken, meticulously cooked in a clay oven and served accompanied by a velvety blend of mashed chickpeas and a decadent mix of cream infused with cashew, pepper, melon, and poppy seeds.

Paired with Deutz Brut Classic.

Soup (Shoraba)

Murgh Makhanwala. Tandoori chicken bathed in a luxurious buttery gravy, enriched with cream and an array of aromatic spices and served in a velvety almond broth together with freshly made naan.

Paired with Amour de Deutz Brut Millesime 2011.

Main Course (Men Kors)

Lamb Nihari with Saffron Biryani Rice. Slow-cooked meat stew, delicately infused with a medley of aromatic spices and Indian-style durum whole wheat flour accompanied by fragrant saffron-infused biryani rice.

Paired with Amour de Deutz Brut Millesime 2011.

Dessert (Mithaee)

Sweet endings to a wonderful meal which includes a White Chocolate Gelato garnished with saffron and cardamon and Petit Fours consisting of filled white chocolate dome and French Macarons and Italian-style Dark Chocolate Cookie.

Ready to explore the bold flavors and textures of Indian cuisine? Be sure to drop by Prana Indian Cuisine located at the Ground Floor of Novotel Manila Araneta City, General Aguinaldo Avenue, Araneta City, Quezon City. For inquiries, call +63 2 89907888 or email H7090@accor.com.

Know more about the hotel and its restaurants by visiting its website or following Novotel Manila Araneta City on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Novotel Manila Araneta City:

5 reasons why Novotel is your family’s staycation destination

Four reasons to gather and celebrate at Food Exchange Manila, Novotel Manila Araneta

Ice cream indulgence at Indulge, Novotel Manila Araneta

Weekly Italian gastronomic treats from Novotel’s “secret ingredient”: Chef Massi Pauletto

Elevate your celebrations with the irresistible flavors of Chowking CHOWLEBRATION Big Order Packages

In the spirit of joy and festivity, Chowking introduces the perfect way to elevate your celebrations – the Chowking Holiday Chowlebration! Whether it’s a colleague’s achievement at work or a holiday gathering with loved ones, make every moment memorable with an abundance of good cheer and, of course, great food.

Bulk Orders for Every Occasion

Chowking’s Holiday Chowlebration packages allow you to order your favorite Chinese-style dishes in generous quantities. Ideal for family reunions, barkada hang-outs, or your next office party, these packages offer a delectable spread of Chowking’s best-selling delights. From the beloved Chinese-Style Fried Chicken Lauriat to the flavorful Siomai Chao Fan, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

A Feast for Everyone

What can be better than a party featuring everyone’s favorite Chinese-style food? That’s what the Holiday Chowlebration promises. Whether you’re craving the savory notes of Pancit Canton, the filling Chao Fan or the delightful bites of Dimsum and the Chinese-Style Fried Chicken, Chowking ensures there’s enough to go around for everyone to enjoy.

How to Chowlebrate

To partake in the Chowking Holiday Chowlebration, simply place an order for a minimum of Php 3000. Visit a Chowking store near you to place your order or make inquiries online through their email or social media channels. The process is convenient, ensuring you can focus on the celebration while Chowking takes care of the delicious details.

About Chowking

Chowking, established in 1985, has been the #1 Chinese restaurant in the Philippines. In 2000, it became part of the Jollibee Group, a globally recognized restaurant company. Under the Fresh N’ Famous Foods subsidiary, Chowking continues to captivate taste buds with its authentic Chinese flavors and remains a go-to destination for those seeking a delightful culinary experience.

Make your celebrations extraordinary with Chowking’s Holiday Chowlebration. Order now and let the flavors of China enhance your joyous moments!

Details provided in a recent press release.

Ombu Kusina ushers in the season of feasting with 4 flavors of its Thrice-Cooked Crispy Pata

There’s no doubt that for most people, the most wonderful time of the year is defined by feasting and merry-making. Of course, a great part of any festivity is the food served.

Filipino holiday parties always have that centerpiece dish: a show-stopping viand that excites guests and hosts alike.

And just in time for this season of feasting, Ombu Kusina re-introduces its Thrice-Cooked Crispy Pata, now with four flavors to titillate the taste buds of true-blue Pinoy food lovers!

The destination for modern Filipino cuisine

For quite some time, Ombu Kusina has been championing “modern Filipino cuisine.” It takes the flavors that we have grown up with, then breaks the rules in preparation and cooking, even incorporating foreign influences, resulting to new and exciting experiences with tastes and textures that are quite familiar to us.

Having discovered for myself Ombu Kusina’s tasty offerings five years ago, I found myself returning time and again to enjoy new ways to enjoy Filipino food. Whether I’m with my coworkers, family or foodie friends, I know that a meal shared at Ombu Kusina will always be memorable.

Ombu Kusina, Tomas Morato — Foodie Friends

Thrice-Cooked Crispy Pata in Four Flavors

Crispy Pata holds a special place in many a Pinoy’s heart (and taste buds!), wouldn’t you agree?

Seeing this flavorful dish on a party spread ensures a happy and festive meal that can be thoroughly enjoyed by everyone at the table. After all, with its crispy skin giving way to tender and savory meat, accompanied by dipping sauces that allow diners to customize every bite, Crispy Pata can be counted on to bring people together while sharing their favorite Pinoy flavors.

Ombu Kusina takes this much-loved Filipino dish to the next level by marinating then deep-frying the succulent pork leg three times, locking in the meat’s rich flavors and creating that perfect crunchy texture on the skin.

This holiday season, Ombu Kusina showcases new facets to this dish by offering it in four flavors:

Whether you prefer to stick to the classic or venture to new flavors, you can be sure that Crispy Pata will always be a welcome addition to your table.

Want to bring its flavorful and crispy goodness to your home or office parties? the good news is that it’s available for delivery and pick-up. Ombu Kusina’s Thrice-Cooked Crispy Pata comes in a specially designed packaging that seals in its flavors and freshness and makes it handy to carry to your shindig. The box also includes easy-to-follow reheating instructions so you can enjoy your crispy pata hot and delicious. Adding a show-stopping dish to your potluck has never been easier, right?

Make any of its variants a part of your holiday meal for just Php895!

A celebration of Pinoy flavors

At Ombu Kusina, you can enjoy an array of Filipino flavors, all lovingly prepared with your enjoyment in mind. Whether you’re game for a quick snack, meeting up for a meal or gathering for a big celebration, you can sate your appetite for Pinoy food here.

With such a mouthwatering celebration of the myriad possibilities inherent in Filipino cuisine available here, is it any wonder that it has remained among my favorite restaurants for the past few years?

So celebrate the great flavors of Pinoy food at Ombu Kusina. Don’t miss the chance to experience the goodness of modern Filipino cuisine with your family and friends through intimate meals or large, boisterous gatherings.

Ombu Kusina is located at Ground Floor, Sequioa Hotel, 91-93 Mother Ignacia Street, Brgy. South Triangle, Quezon City, open daily from 7am to 9pm. For reservations and inquiries, call +63 2 84410518 or +63 969 5972249, or email omburestaurant@yahoo.com.

Disclosure: Together with other food content creators, I attended a food tasting event held at this restaurant. All the food items mentioned here were served to allow us to sample the fare in exchange for honest feedback.

Check out my previous posts about Ombu Kusina:

Modern Filipino Cuisine at Ombu Kusina, Tomas Morato

Say hello to a great summer with Ombu Kusina’s Flavored Ice Halo-Halo

Revitalizing the #ReturnToOffice day with lunch at Ombu Kusina

Escape the holiday rush at The Cabean Cafe

With the Christmas season now in full swing, the mad rush to finish pending year-end work and holiday shopping do seem overwhelming. At times like this, wouldn’t you appreciate the chance to just sit back and sip some good brews or munch on some tasty chews and just pass the time?

If that’s the case, this quiet haven for coffee and comfort in Quezon City called The Cabean Cafe should be right up your alley.

Coffee and Comfort

Named after a play on the word “cabin” – a type of lodging constructed from logs that provide a restful abode for settlers in the American wilderness – this Quezon City coffee destination brings forth a feeling of calmness and serenity amidst the wild and chaotic goings-on in the metro.

Thanks to its minimalist design given warmth by wooden furnishings, books and knick-knacks and other homey accents, along with free WiFi and power outlets to keep your devices connected and charged up, The Cabean Cafe is the perfect venue for some alone time – whether for studying or resting – or for intimate gatherings with friends or family, all while enjoying your favorite brew.

And if you want to peek out into the wider world outside its walls, you can always choose a spot in The Cabean Cafe’s al fresco veranda.

Handcrafted Brews

Despite its relaxing ambiance, The Cabean Cafe certainly takes its brews seriously. Its fresh and high-quality Arabica coffee beans are purely local, ethically sourced from farmers in Sagada. These are then carefully selected and expertly roasted to bring that fullness of flavor that coffee lovers look for.

Taking its theme of sustainability to heart, the cafe employs environment-friendly packaging from biodegradable dining ware down to sugarcane straws.

So go ahead and take your pick among The Cabean Cafe’s handcrafted beverage creations for something to perk you up for the day or to soothe and relax you after your work is done.

Tasty and healthy bites

Should your appetite kick in while you’re holing up here, there’s no need to worry: The Cabean Cafe serves up yummy meals and snacks, along with delectable desserts, to give you fuel you up or give you that much-needed energy boost.

So if you’re looking for a place to enjoy some peace and quiet along with a good ole’ cuppa and some bites, be sure to check out The Cabean Cafe!

PS: Want to perk up your events? If you’re planning a workplace meeting or a casual get-together, why not bring Coffee Everywhere? The Cabean Cafe’s Mobile Coffee Cart can serve up heartwarming brews starting at Php7,700 (for 50 cups and 3 hours of service.

PPS: If you’ve taken your love for coffee to the next level and have become an aspiring barista, you can brush up on your coffee knowledge at The Cabean Cafe’s Barista Workshops held every Friday and Saturday. Learn the art of making premium brews from the masters and you just might get started on your own coffee business for just Php5,000 (or take advantage of the promo price of Php3,500 when you scan the QR code below).

The Cabean Cafe is located at 131 D. Tuazon Street, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 9pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 3pm to 11pm. For inquiries, call +63 2 70066598 or email thecabeancafe@gmail.com.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting event held at The Cabean Cafe. Food and beverage items were served in exchange for honest feedback.

Unwrapping Togetherness: Locavore’s Holiday Handaan

Embrace the spirit of the season with Locavore’s festive handaan, redefining your Noche Buena classics. Dive into the warmth of cherished holiday memories as Locavore crafts an expanded menu and exclusive dishes, promising a celebration that captures the essence of Filipino Christmas traditions.

Crafting Culinary Connections

“At Locavore, we believe good food brings people together, and great food enhances the experience,” shares Mikel Zaguirre, Chef and Locavore Co-founder. This holiday season, Locavore aims to share joy and warmth through specially crafted dishes, combining the nostalgia of at-home handaans with a modern twist.

Gourmet Filipino Noche Buena

For a memorable family feast, indulge in Locavore’s Estancia-exclusive menu. Delight in succulent Bulalo Pintxos and Bistek Pintxos, paired with housemade Bagnet Chips for a crispy, zesty treat even the kids will savor. Elevate the experience with the crowd-favorite Bagnet Buro Mustasa, featuring roasted bone marrow, pickled Labanos, and Pares Jam.

Sip and Savor

Locavore introduces new gin-based fruity cocktails for the titas and titos at the table. From the lively Hardin to the fiery Antibayotiko, each Filipino fusion cocktail is designed to have you dancing the night away. Don’t miss the Melona high ball, a vodka-based spritzer for a refreshing kick.

Shared Moments, Lasting Memories

“We believe that great food has the power to bring people closer, to create lasting memories,” says Zaguirre. Locavore’s expanded menu is currently available at the Estancia branch and will soon be served at Locavore BGC, Eastwood, and S Maison branches.

Finding Joy Together

Celebrate the holidays at various Locavore branches across Manila. Whether at Brixton Barrio Kapitolyo, Forbestown Taguig, Valero St. Makati, or SM City Bacoor, Locavore ensures your festive moments are filled with good food and laughter. For added convenience, order your Locavore favorites through Grab Food and Pickaroo.

About Locavore

Founded by a group of friends passionate about food, Locavore offers a unique take on classic Filipino staples. Using locally produced ingredients, Locavore combines tradition with a playful and modern twist, bringing people together through the joy of shared meals.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.