The perfect gift for foodie moms: Ka Tunying’s Ma’s the Chef Pasta Set

Mother’s Day is already here, and what better way to celebrate this special occasion than by giving Mom a gift that she will love? If, for some reason, you’re still looking for that special something that will make her heart skip a beat, consider gifting mom with the Ma’s the Chef (Pasta Set) from Ka Tunying’s.

Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
From Ka Tunying himself

Ka Tunying’s is the casual “tambayan” and “restoran” in one that caters to the #PanlasangMakabayan. It is named after its founder, veteran broadcaster, TV personality, and radio commentator, Anthony Taberna.

In the media, Ka Tunying may be known for his hard-hitting opinions on the topics of the day, but we can’t deny that he serves up sweet and savory delights (and everything in between) at his namesake restaurant. With branches located in Quezon City and Tagaytay, Ka Tunying’s has been serving affordable, no-frills yet delicious Pinoy dishes such as Kaldereta, Arroz Caldo, and Sisig to satisfy the Pinoy food cravings of urbanites, families, barkadas, travelers, balikbayans, and more for the past seven years and counting.

For Mother’s Day this year, it curated its top picks for moms, which include the following:

Ka Tunying's Mom's Cookie Jar
Cookie Jars
Ka Tunying's Special MOMents
Mother’s Day-Themed Cakes
Ka Tunying's Mama's Tea Kit
Tea Kit
Ka Tunying's Ma's The Chef
Pasta Set
The perfect gift for foodie moms

As a true-blue foodie, is there any wonder why I would just love the Ma’s The Chef Pasta Set? I’m certain your foodie mom would love it, too, especially if she’s the type who likes to whip up something fancy in the kitchen but not necessarily have to slave all day making it.

It includes all the ingredients that Mom needs to make her special tinapa pasta:

Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Two 250g packs of penne pasta
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
One 60g pack of breadsticks
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
10g oregano
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
10g basil

Plus, she also gets a set of wooden utensils and a chopping board can be used for both preparation and serving. Also, the gift bag is beautifully packaged with a pretty pink bow and flowers that Mom will surely appreciate.

Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s original gourmet tinapa
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Chopping board
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Wooden utensils
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Gift bag

You know what? Family members can make this gift even more special by cooking the pasta themselves and presenting the fruit of their labor to Mom as her special meal on Mother’s Day. This is a great way to bond with Mom and show her how much she is loved and appreciated.

So do present your foodie mom with this special treat for Mother’s Day. It’s beautifully packaged and comes with all the essentials that Mom (or the fam!) needs to make her special tinapa pasta dish in a jiffy.

Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day
Ka Tunying’s Mother’s Day

You may order Mom’s Ma’s the Chef gift bag online, by messaging Ka Tunying’s on Facebook or by calling +63 917 1038673 or +63 995 2376684. The gift bag will be available until May 31, 2023, so you still have time to surprise Mom with this special gift.

Disclosure: Product sample was provided to facilitate this feature.

Check out my previous posts about Ka Tunying’s:

Red Ribbon’s New Mango-Choco Marjolaine Cake: A unique and delectable twist on a classic French dessert

Cakes have been a timeless dessert, serving as a sweet and indulgent treat to celebrate life’s special moments. From birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, to any other milestone, cakes symbolize happiness, love, and joy, adding an extra layer of excitement to any occasion. The most popular reason why cakes are always welcome is that they can be customized to suit any taste or preference, making them a unique and special addition to any celebration. They also serve as a centerpiece that sparks joy and excitement among guests, especially children, who eagerly wait for the moment they get to take a slice.

Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Every Occasion Calls for Cake

Cakes are not only delicious but also an essential element that creates memorable moments. They serve as a perfect focal point for photo opportunities, capturing those special memories that last a lifetime. With a range of flavors to choose from, ranging from the classic chocolate to fruity flavors like strawberry and mango, there is a cake for everyone. Cakes can also be decorated with personalized messages or intricate designs, making them unique and special to the occasion.

And some cakes can be adapted with a twist on ingredients or presentation, making them a totally new and exciting experience altogether. Such is the case for Red Ribbon’s New Choco-Mango Marjolaine Cake.

Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
The Marjolaine, a Classic French Dessert

The Marjolaine is a classic French dessert made up of layers of nutty meringue and buttercream. The dessert is named after Marie-Josephine, daughter of French diplomat Pauline Borghese, a prominent figure in the French court during the 19th century. The dessert is said to have been created in her honor by the famous French chef, Fernand Point.

Traditionally, the Marjolaine is made by layering sheets of meringue with a filling made of buttercream flavored with ground nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios. Over time, the Marjolaine has evolved to include variations such as chocolate or fruit-flavored fillings.

Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon’s New Mango-Choco Marjolaine Cake

Red Ribbon recently launched its New Mango-Choco Marjolaine Cake, a modern twist on the classic French dessert. It combines the richness of chocolate with the tropical sweetness of mango, providing a unique and delectable experience. The cake is made up of layers of crunchy-chewy wafer layers, refreshingly sweet mangoes, and rich chocolate filling, together with praline cream, which adds a nutty and creamy element to the dessert. The roasted cashew nuts provide the perfect finish to the cake, bringing a satisfying crunch and nuttiness to the sweetness. Really, Red Ribbon’s New Mango-Choco Marjolaine Cake is a heavenly delight that is perfect for any occasion and a must-try for all cake lovers!

Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Make it a part of your special occasions

So go ahead and bring it to your celebrations – whether as your contribution to the office potluck, a birthday cake for someone’s special day, or to mark special milestones such as anniversaries, graduations or promotions.

Every occasion becomes extra special with this new sweet creation from Red Ribbon.

Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine
Red Ribbon Mango-Choco Marjolaine

The New Mango-Choco Marjolaine Cake is now available in participating stores for Php899 (Junior Size) and Php1,299 (Regular Size). Order now via the Red Ribbon app, the Red Ribbon delivery website, Red Ribbon on Facebook Messenger, or by calling the #87777 hotline. You may also place your order via GrabFood or FoodPanda.

Disclosure: Product sample was provided to facilitate this feature.

Check out my previous posts about Red Ribbon Bakeshop:

Discover new delicious Indonesian street food possibilities at Bhoy Martabak, Cainta

Did you know that martabak is a much-beloved Indonesian street food? It is a kind of stuffed pancake that can be sweet or savory, sold by street vendors and food stalls in cities such as Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya. It is also commonly found in night markets and food courts, as well in some bakeries and coffee shops.

Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Types of Martabak

There are two main types of martabak: the sweet variant (martabak manis) and the savory one (martabak telur).

Martabak Manis is usually served as a sweet snack or a dessert. It consists of a thick pancake made with condensed milk, crushed peanuts and sesame seeds.

Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak

I had my first taste (and several since then!) of this sweet delicacy, thanks to Sammy’s Restaurant where I developed a strong liking for the Choco-Cheese Martabak Manis variant, so much so that during the quarantine lockdowns, I ordered some for my kiddos and gave one to my officemate for her birthday. It is usually presented divided in two with the halves on top of each other, making a sort of sandwich which is then cut into serving pieces. It can also be served open-faced to showcase the sweet fillings. It’s quite an unusual yet so tasty dessert that will make for a pleasant surprise for anyone receiving it.

Sammy’s, Cainta
Sammy’s, Cainta
Sammy’s, Cainta
Sammy’s, Cainta

The Cheese-Corn Martabak Manis, on the other hand, is not as sweet as the chocolate variant, so it’s perfect for those who are not so much into sweets.

The savory type, on the other hand – Martabak Telur – consist of spiced minced meat and egg filling which is cooked in the griddle along with a thin dough which is fried to crispiness. When paired with rice, it’s great as a light meal while on its own, it is tasty snack to tide you over until lunch or dinner time.

Martabak Origins

Martabak is believed to have originated in the Middle East, specifically in Yemen or Saudi Arabia, and was introduced to Indonesia by Arab traders. The name “martabak” is thought to come from the Arabic word “mutabbaq,” which means “folded.”

Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak

Over time, the dish has evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, resulting in the many variations of martabak that are popular in Indonesia today. Martabak has become a beloved street food in Indonesia, and it is often associated with late-night snacking or as a breakfast food. It is also enjoyed in other parts of Southeast Asia and has gained popularity in other countries as well.

And now, thanks to Bhoy Martabak, the delicious possibilities that this delicacy offers is now more immediately accessible to foodies east of Manila.

Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak now open

This new food stall concept is owned and operated by the same husband-and-wife team behind Sammy’s Restaurant and Sammy’s Cookin’ – Chef Sammy and Dorothy Isidro – who parlayed their experiences as musical performers in top hotels in Indonesia into food businesses.

Bhoy Martabak brings different flavors of this Indonesian delicacy – even including yummy Pinoy touches!

Check them out:

Martabak Telur

Bhoy Martabak
Tuna (₱75)
Bhoy Martabak
Beef Rending (₱79)
Bhoy Martabak
Chicken Sausage (₱65)
Bhoy Martabak
Bicol Express (₱79)

Another Martabak Telur variant you might want to try is Corned Beef (₱70). Boy Martabak serves these savory snackables with your choice between spicy and non-spicy mayo-based sauce. You can also make a complete meal with your Martabak Telur by adding ₱20 for rice and bottled water.

Martabak Manis

Bhoy Martabak
Choco Cheese (₱185)
Bhoy Martabak
Corn Cheese (₱195)

Cheese (₱165) and Chocolate (₱145) Martabak Manis are also available. You may also opt for single topping miniature versions of this dessert for ₱70 and just go for add-ons such as chocolate (₱7), cheese (₱10) or corn (₱10).

Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak

So if you’re in the mood for something special and unique – whether sweet or savory – drop by the Bhoy Martabak stall at Decoro Building (same building as Angel’s Pizza), Bonifacio corner L. Santos Street, Cainta, Rizal, open daily from 10am to 9pm. For inquiries and orders, call +63 947 7201401.

Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak
Bhoy Martabak

Know more about its products and promos by following Bhoy Martabak on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Disclosure: I attended the opening of this new stall together with my fellow foodies. Food items mentioned here were served at no cost to facilitate this feature.

Check out my previous posts about Chef Sammy:

Max’s Restaurant reopens in Forbes Town: A must-try destination for BGC Denizens

Max’s Restaurant, the home of the famous Sarap-to-the-Bones® Fried Chicken, recently reopened its Forbes Town branch in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). The iconic Filipino restaurant chain well-loved for its delicious food and excellent service, is now ready to provide those residing or working in BGC the perfect place to visit for a satisfying meal any time of the day.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant: A Proud Filipino Tradition

Max’s Restaurant started in 1945 thanks to Maximo Gimenez, who opened his home together with his niece, Ruby, serving the now-famous Sarap-To-The-Bones® Fried Chicken. Since then, Max’s Restaurant has established itself as a household name, an institution, and a proud Filipino tradition.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Start Your Day with Max’s Restaurant

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town is now open for breakfast, offering an extensive selection of sumptuous meals, baked products, and coffee. The branch recently collaborated with local coffee brand, Yardstick, to offer its special Max’s Medium Roast Blend. Customers can choose from a range of specialty coffee drinks, including Double Espresso, Cappuccino, Americano, Mocha, Spanish Latte, or the Classic Iced/Hot Latte. Pair your coffee with Max’s Corner Bakery’s Pandesal for a great start to your day.

Al Fresco Dining Area for Nature Lovers

Max’s Restaurant has also built a new al fresco pet-friendly dining area for those who prefer to dine outside. The breezy outdoor space gives a casual vibe and is best enjoyed during the summer months or days with favorable weather. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
For the Busy Bees: Take-Out Nook

Max’s Restaurant has created a take-out nook for those on the go. Located beside the entrance door, this take-out nook offers a more convenient way to place orders and grab meals when in a rush. Whether you’re a resident or an office worker in BGC, Max’s Restaurant has got you covered.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Enjoy Filipino food favorites

One of the reasons why Max’s Restaurant has become an institution in the Philippines is because of its classic Filipino dishes. The most popular dish is, of course, its Sarap-To-The-Bones® Fried Chicken, which has crispy skin and juicy meat that Filipinos have come to love. This dish is best enjoyed with a side of sweet potato fries and banana ketchup.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens

For those who want a taste of different Filipino flavors, Max’s also offers a variety of classic dishes such as Lumpia (spring rolls), Chicken Sisig (a sizzling dish made with minced chicken, onions, and chili peppers), and Crispy Pata (deep-fried pork knuckles). These dishes are perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially when paired with Garlic Fried Rice.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens

For those who are looking for a vegetarian option, Max’s Restaurant also offers a variety of dishes such as Sizzling Tofu, which is a sizzling dish made with soft tofu, onions, and bell peppers. Lastly, Buko Pandan, a sweet dessert made with young coconut and pandan-flavored gelatin, provides a sweet cap to the meal.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
The Perfect Venue for Functions and Events

Max’s Restaurant has always been a go-to place for catering to functions and events. At the second floor of Max’s Forbes Town, you’ll find newly renovated sound-proof function rooms that can accommodate company meetings, birthday parties, baptisms, and other events. Max’s Restaurant provides excellent service and high-quality food, making it the perfect venue for any occasion.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Visit Max’s Restaurant in Forbes Town

Max’s Restaurant in Forbes Town is located at 26th Street corner Forbes Town Road, Forbes Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, open daily from 7am to 11pm. Come and enjoy the delicious food, excellent service, and welcoming ambiance of Max’s Restaurant.

Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens
Max’s Restaurant Forbes Town Reopens

For more information, visit the official Facebook page @MaxsRestaurant or call +63 2 88461652.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting event held at this restaurant. Food items featured here were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts about Max’s Restaurant:

Make Mother’s Day berry-luscious with Inang Charing’s newest cake creation

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and what better way to show love and appreciation to our moms than through a delicious cake? Luckily, Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries, an online bakeshop, has just the perfect treat for this special occasion.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
The business inspired by Grandma and adapted during lockdowns

Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries was named after the owner’s grandma, who instilled in her a passion for baking. Mylene Capili, the entrepreneur behind the business, started as Dress Up Brownies, selling pastries and cakes to her BPO officemates. Prior to the onset of quarantine lockdowns, Mylene and her partner Bem successfully adapted their enterprise to accept online orders, allowing them to cater to the increasing demand for desserts available for delivery.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
From brownies and cakes to custom cakes and more

Today, Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries offers a wide range of desserts, including brownies, revel bars, cookies, cakes, cheesecakes, and custom cakes. Mylene’s baking skills have even led her to create her very first three-tiered wedding cake.

These confectionery creations showcase Mylene’s baking prowess, as well as her creativity in crafting intricate cake designs.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
The berry-luscious chocolatey Mother’s Day treat

For Mother’s Day this year, Mylene has whipped up a special creation, the Berry Choco Luscious Cake. This delectable cake features a six-inch, three-layer chocolate cake filled with rich chocolate ganache and topped with fresh strawberries accented with edible gold leaf and a gold Mother’s Day cake topper. It’s designed as a naked cake, making it easy to transport via motorcycles for delivery all over the metro.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
A perfect cake for moms who don’t like it too sweet

One of the best things about the Berry Choco Luscious Cake is that it’s not too sweet. Mylene made sure to balance the filling-to-cake ratio to ensure that the overall flavor is not overwhelmingly sweet, perfect for those who want to savor the chocolate and berry goodness.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Order now before it’s too late

Cake reservations for the Berry Choco Luscious Cake (available for Php1,250) are only accepted until May 7, so make sure to send a message to Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries on Instagram or Facebook as soon as possible. Give your mom the sweetest treat this Mother’s Day with Inang Charing’s newest cake creation.

Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing
Inang Charing

Disclosure: Product sample was provided to facilitate this feature.

Check out my previous posts about Inang Charing’s Cakes and Pastries:

Indulge in delicious comfort food at Mom & Tina’s

During a #ReturnToOffice day when our boss (also known as #FearlessLeader) was on leave, my coworkers and I consoled ourselves by having lunch at the Mom & Tina’s branch located a short walking distance from our building.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe is a popular restaurant concept named after the mother-daughter duo who founded it a few years ago. Its branches have since become beloved destinations for those looking for delicious baked goods and hearty comfort food.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

These establishments are marked by their cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and mouthwatering menu comfort food that includes breakfast items, main dishes, sandwiches, pasta dishes, salads, and cakes, pies, and other baked goods. Mom & Tina’s takes pride in its heirloom dishes, all made from scratch using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

During our lunch time foray, we feasted on Mom & Tina’s savory viands such as:

US Roast Beef (Php645). Tender slices of beef slow-roasted to perfection, served with gravy, mixed vegetables and fluffy mashed potatoes, definitely a must-try for meat lovers.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Paella Valenciana (Php495). Mom & Tina’s take on the classic Spanish dish, featuring saffron-infused rice cooked with chicken, seafood, and vegetables sautéed in oil with garlic, tomatoes and chorizo. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for sharing, which is what I did with one of my officemate.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Barbecued Chicken Fillet (Php395). Juicy and succulent deboned chicken leg quarter marinated in a special barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection and served with java rice and atchara.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Barbecued Pork Belly (Php395). A Filipino favorite, Mom & Tina’s version of this dish features pork belly marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to perfection. It’s served with rice and your choice of sides.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Pasta Carbonara (Php365). A classic pasta dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Mom & Tina’s version features al dente spaghetti tossed in a creamy sauce with bacon and grated Parmesan cheese and served with freshly baked rolls.

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

Thanks to our #HappyLunch at Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe, we cheerfully faced the rest of our workday, even if #FearlessLeader was not with us. (Well, we made sure to share our lunch pics to make her miss us all the more, hehehehe!)

Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe
Mom & Tina’s Bakery Cafe

This Mom & Tina’s branch is located at Across ABS-CBN Main Building, 58 Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City, open for dine-in, takeout and delivery weekdays from 8am to 10pm and weekends from 7am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, contact +63 2 83323579 or 63 999 8859254.

Other branches are located at:

  • S&R Libis, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue corner Calle Industria, Bagumbayan, Quezon City (Tel: +63 2 82568611 or +63 999 8850092)
  • Tropical Palms Condominium, 103 De la Rosa Street corner Perea Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City (Tel: +63 2 88943598 or +63 999 8859252)

Know more about Mom & Tina’s by visiting its website or following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Mom & Tina’s:

HAPAG: Your destination for comforting Filipino food during your Manila Ocean Park adventure

If you’re on your way to enjoy the exciting attractions at Manila Ocean Park with your friends and family in tow, food should be the least of your worries.

After all, Manila Ocean Park is home to quite a number of gourmet eateries, the latest of which is its Filipino restaurant, HAPAG.

The restaurant’s name is derived from Tagalog word which translates to “table” in English. In Filipino culture, the table holds a special significance as it is often the focal point of gatherings and celebrations, where families and friends come together to share meals and create cherished memories.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Just like its name suggests, HAPAG at Manila Ocean Park aims to be a place where people can gather around the table and indulge in the comfort of Filipino cuisine, creating a sense of warmth, togetherness, and hospitality. Its name not only pays homage to Filipino traditions but also reflects the restaurant’s commitment to providing a welcoming and memorable dining experience for its guests.

Ready for your foray into Filipino comfort food? Be sure to include these down-home delicious dishes when you dine at HAPAG:

Soups

Sinigang na Hipon (Php700). This classic Filipino dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a tangy tamarind broth, with vegetables like kangkong (water spinach) and radish adding a refreshing crunch. The sourness of the soup paired with the sweetness of the shrimp creates a comforting and satisfying bowl of goodness.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Sinigang na Baboy (Php650). For pork lovers, Sinigang na Baboy is a must-try. Tender pork chunks are simmered in a sour tamarind soup, along with vegetables like kangkong and eggplant. The savory and tangy flavors meld together, making it a perfect dish to warm your soul.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Vegetables

Pinakbet (Php250). This popular vegetable dish from the northern regions of the Philippines features a medley of fresh vegetables like eggplant, okra, and bitter gourd, cooked in a shrimp paste sauce. The combination of flavors and textures in Pinakbet creates a comforting and healthy dish that is perfect for vegetarians, those looking for a lighter option or as a side dish to complement other viands.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Mains

Beef Caldereta (Php550). A rich and hearty stew, Beef Caldereta is a Filipino comfort food that is perfect for meat lovers. Tender beef chunks are simmered in a slightly spicy tomato-based sauce with vegetables, potatoes, and carrots, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish that is best enjoyed with steamed rice.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Whole Fried Chicken (Php800). Crispy, juicy, and flavorful, Filipino-style Fried Chicken is a comfort food staple. HAPAG’s version is sure to satisfy your fried chicken cravings, with its golden-brown crust and succulent meat. Perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, it’s a timeless classic that will surely hit the spot.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Crispy Pata (Php1,200). This version of the classic Pinoy dish is a true delight for meat lovers, featuring perfectly deep-fried pork knuckles that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is served with a dipping sauce made with vinegar and soy sauce, which adds a tangy and savory contrast to the rich flavors of the pork.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Charcoal-grilled

Grilled Boneless Bangus (Php350). Known as the national fish of the Philippines, Bangus or milkfish is a beloved ingredient in Filipino cuisine. HAPAG’s Grilled Boneless Bangus is marinated then grilled, resulting in a moist and flavorful fish dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Grilled Liempo (Php500). A delicious way to enjoy pork belly is through HAPAG’s Grilled Liempo. Marinated in a special blend of spices and grilled to smoky juiciness, the result is a flavorful pork dish that is sure to please your taste buds. It’s a comforting and satisfying choice for meat lovers.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Chicken Inasal (Php260). This flavorful grilled chicken dish from the Visayas region of the Philippines is known for its distinct marinade made with calamansi, lemongrass, and vinegar. HAPAG’s Chicken Inasal is tender and juicy, with a tangy and savory flavor that is perfect for satisfying your chicken cravings.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Sizzling Plates

Sizzling Liempo Steak (Php500). HAPAG’s Sizzling Liempo Steak is grilled then served sizzling hot on a cast-iron plate, with a savory gravy that complements the pork. The sizzling presentation and the mouthwatering aroma make it a truly comforting and indulgent dish.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Sizzling Pork Sisig (Php450). A popular appetizer or pulutan in Filipino cuisine, Sizzling Pork Sisig is a sizzling plate of chopped pork face and ears, seasoned with spices and served with a tangy sauce. HAPAG’s version is crispy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that will surely make your taste buds dance.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Rice

Bagoong Fried Rice (Php310). Bagoong, or fermented shrimp paste, is a staple condiment in Filipino cuisine. When used to flavor fried rice, it results to a savory staple that’s sure to complement your favorite Pinoy dishes.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park
Beverage

Sago’t Gulaman (Php120). Sago’t Gulaman is a popular Filipino beverage made with tapioca pearls (sago) and agar-agar jelly (gulaman) soaked in a sweet syrup made from brown sugar, water, and vanilla. HAPAG’s Sago’t Gulaman is a refreshing and nostalgic drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst and cooling down during a hot day. The combination of the chewy tapioca pearls, slippery agar-agar jelly, and sweet syrup creates a unique and satisfying texture that is both fun to eat and drink.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

So, after a day of thrilling adventures and exciting discoveries at Manila Ocean Park, take a moment to unwind and treat yourself to the comfort of Filipino food at HAPAG. Indulge in the rich flavors, warm hospitality, and cozy ambiance that this newest restaurant has to offer, and create lasting memories of comfort and culinary delight with your family and friends.

HAPAG is located at Ground Floor, Manila Ocean Park Complex, behind the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta along Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila, open daily from 10am to 7pm. Book your Manila Ocean Park tickets via Klook or visit its website.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

To stay updated on Manila Ocean Park’s attractions and dining establishments, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant during my recent tour in Manila Ocean Park. Food items here were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

How to make the most of your visit to Manila Ocean Park

#NoticeToThePublic: Good eats abound at Public Eatery, Robinsons Magnolia

If you’re on the lookout for the what’s new and absolutely delish, The Tasteless Food Group’s got something for you.

Drop by Robinsons Magnolia to immerse yourself in a new dining concept – Public Eatery!

Taking inspiration from subway lines, this elevated foodcourt destination is marked by energy and movement, from the stylish and modern decor to the airy open dining area layout bathed in ample natural light.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery

Above all, Public Eatery brings the metro’s foodies to the express lane towards good eats by bringing together a diverse collection of dining options – covering a wide range of flavors and cuisines – in one convenient location.

Ready to go on a flavorful journey? Get all aboard and take your tastebuds for a ride with these exciting food stations at Public Eatery:

Anyhow

Our favorite ihaw-ihaw goes international! Inspired by the Pinoys’ penchant for various kinds grilled meats, Anyhow offers inihaw any way you like it! Here, your can make your own satisfying meal by combining your choice of smokey grilled meat – such as this succulent US Beef Belly – with equally flavorsome rice and sides.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Bad Bird

Famous for fully embracing umami flavors, Bad Bird goes all out in using MSG in its natural and processed forms: dashi, mushroom powder, furikake, miso, and more, all to produce that complex savory taste that tickles the taste buds. Check out Bad Bird’s Fish and Chips made with meaty white fish coated in its signature umami beer batter, and served with fries and tartare sauce.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Bookoh

Even the humble buko juice gets a make-over: at Bookoh, coconut water gets mixed with various syrups and sinkers to produce a tasty thirst quencher. This Coconut Pandan Gula Melaka Juice, for instance, combines buko juice with panda syrup, nata de coco, grass jelly and Gula Melaka, a type of palm sugar made from the sap of flower buds from the coconut palm.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
FRNK

Try out FRNK’s artisanal beverages that accentuate the natural flavor of milk through the addition of flavors from chocolates, teas, fruits and other ingredients. It also produces a variety bakery items that pair well with its milk beverages such as its plant-based Coffee Almond Doughnut that complements its Frozen Kokoa drink.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Konbini Karaage

In Japan, convenience stores are more than just places to grab some essentials at all hours. They also provide quick access to tasty munchables such as this Karaage, Japan’s crispy and yummy take on the fried chicken, served hot and fresh – quite conveniently – in a cute takeout box.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Le Chon

Chef Happy Ongpauco-Tiu celebrates savory roasted meats that define Pinoy celebrations at her newest venture, Le Chon. Aside from the hallmark lechon baboy and lechon manok, Le Chon also serves other meats, deliciously roasted lechon-style, such as this Lechon Angus Beef Belly.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Merry Moo

Our sweltering summer heat calls for some ice cream, doesn’t it? Well, chill out with some icy handcrafted confection that comes from the milk of happy cows at Merry Moo. Go for creamy and velvety scoops of Merry Moo ice cream richly flavored with Auro Milk Chocolate finished with a generous amount of roasted cacao nibs for an additional burst of cacao.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Morse

Perk up your day with a cuppa joe from the passion project of Mike Holaschke, the Austrian blogger behind “Making It Happen.” Power great conversations with your companions with The One, made with a shot of espresso topped with thick salted cream and sea salt.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
New York, Cubao

Award-winning and best-selling cookbook author Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou curates an array of much-loved, down-home, and “Simpol” Pinoy fare we all know and love, remixed for variety and rediscovery. NYC’s Tocino Ribs brings a hefty serving of salt-cured pork ribs, perfect for a very heavy breakfast with fried rice and egg.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
OK Bob

Satisfy your cravings for Middle Eastern dishes with OK Bob‘s fresh takes on classics such as kebabs, falafel, hummus and curries, with recipes and methods perfected by Chefs Decker Gokioco and Jorge Mendez. How about wowing your friends with a towering serving of Hanging Kebab comprised of a skewer of grilled beef hanging over a bed of buttered basmati rice topped with grilled tomatoes.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Samyan

Bite into Authentic Thai streetfood, curated by Chef Third “Ton” Tassanakajohn and produced by Chef Gabriel Ong, at Samyan. Named after the bustling Sam Yan Market in Bangkok, Samyan brings exotic yet comforting tastes and textures of Thai street cuisine, such as in this Khao Pad Pu, also known as Crab Fried Rice.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Seafood Oyster Bar

It’s quite shuck-ing how oysters have become a big hit in food halls. As evidenced by Seafood Oyster Bar, foodies have gone crazy over the briny taste and silky mouthfeel of oysters – whether raw with spiced vinegar, doused with garlic butter, heated with a few drops of tabasco or as an oyster shot – or even Baked and topped with Miso Custard. Because, why not?

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Thomson Road

Savor the flavors of Singapore at Thomson Road, inspired by the Lion City’s famous shophouses and hawker stands. Chef Johanne Wee dishes out fresh takes on Singapore’s much-loved street dishes, such as this spicy yet comforting Seafood Laksa.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Ten by Tsukemen

Sate your hunger with a mouthwatering bowl of ramen that scores a 10 out of 10. Chef Noel Mauricio helms the kitchen, taking his cues from the minimalist Japanese culture, to produce ramen bowls such as this Tonkotsu Premium, made with pork bone broth and ramen noodles topped with grilled chashu, aji tamago, sesame seeds and negi. Be sure to get the Richer broth, that’s the chef’s recommendation!

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
The Bev Bar

Who says you can’t make pour decisions? You can do just that at The Bev Bar which serves a wide assortment of refreshments to pair with your orders from other Public Eatery stations. Chef Patrick Go creates mouthwatering drinks such as this scrumptious Choco Chocnut Shake.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery

So let this be my Notice to the Public: Go full steam ahead on your next foodie adventure at Public Eatery. With so many cuisines to explore, you can always count on a flavorful and satisfying food trip.

Public Eatery is located at the Fourth Floor, New Wing, Robinsons Magnolia, Aurora Boulevard corner Doña Hemady Street, Barangay New Manila, Quezon City, open daily from 10am to 9pm. For inquiries, call +63 976 2810277 or email publiceatery@tasteless.ph.

For more information on Public Eatery, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery
Public Eatery

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting held at this venue. Food items mentioned here were served at no cost to facilitate this feature.

Top 5 best Papa Pairings

When searching for pizza delivery near me, you may think that pizza is the only option you have. However, you may be surprised that with Papa Pairings, you can enjoy pizza and more. You also save money, as each item is only $6.99 when you purchase more than one option. And the options are almost unlimited, although there are some favorite pairings. 

1. Garlic Knots and Chicken Wings

One of the best pairings is the tasty garlic knots and wings. The yummy knots are brushed with a garlic herb butter and baked. They are a great accompaniment to the various wing options. Stick with buffalo wings, or spread your own wings and try a unique tasty combination such as hot lemon pepper, honey chipotle, BBQ, or garlic parmesan. Each wing order also comes with your choice of a dipping sauce. 

2. Pizza and Breadsticks

It is hard to beat the mix and match pizza deals. On the Papa Pairing menu, you can choose any medium one-topping pizza. Perhaps you are a meat lover and want pepperoni, Canadian bacon, salami, sausage, or Philly steak. Or you can choose from one of the many veggie toppings available.

Pizza and breadsticks are the perfect combination. After picking your pizza, choose between the original breadsticks and the garlic breadsticks, both which come with the sauce of your choice.

3. Papadia and Cheesesticks

Maybe you are looking for a change from pizza. If so, a Papadia is the perfect option. These sandwiches are loaded with delicious combinations and served with a sauce to dip them into. Some of the yummy options include:

  • BBQ chicken bacon
  • Grilled buffalo chicken
  • Philly cheesesteak
  • Meatball pepperoni
  • Italian
  • Create your own

In select locations, you may even be able to try the Cool Ranch Doritos Papadia, which is available for a limited time.

Pair this Papadia with cheesesticks. Made with Papa John’s traditional dough and topped with gooey cheese, these come with a side of pizza sauce.

4. Pizza and Double Chocolate Chip Brownie

Pizza makes an appearance again, and this time with a sweet treat. You may also be interested to know that, along with choosing your topping, you can also choose the pizza sauce. Stick with the traditional red sauce or try something different, such as buffalo, alfredo, ranch, or BBQ.

The brownie is a chocolate lover’s dream as it is rich, gooey, and served warm. There is also enough to share, as it comes with nine squares.   

5. Poppers and Cinnamon Pull Aparts

Another sweet treat is the cinnamon pull aparts, and this time it pairs well with the chicken poppers. These are boneless and available in the same flavors as the chicken wings.

The cinnamon roll is topped with sugar, cinnamon, and cinnamon crumbles. After baking, it is drizzled with an icing made with sweet cream cheese. You can them pull them apart into bite-sized pieces.

Although these are five popular pairings, you can choose your own. You also do not have to limit it to two options, as the $6.99 price is available for two or more items.

Header photo by Mariia Shalabaieva on Unsplash

Gourmet desserts in minutes with Maya Decadence Premium Mixes

Being a busy mom with a sweet tooth, I can get frustrated when I can’t get my hands on quality desserts when my craving for sweets hit.

Granted, going to the nearest dessert shop or bakery, or having the new trendy desserts delivered to my doorstep can be easy enough but they do cost me a pretty penny.

If only there was a way to get those decadently premium desserts without breaking the bank nor tying me up all day to the kitchen, eh?

Well, there is, thanks to Maya Decadence Premium Mixes.

Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes

These comprise a line of high-quality baking mixes that are perfect for busy moms like me who love delicious, decadent desserts but don’t have the time or expertise to make them from scratch. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or just someone who loves sweets, Maya Decadence Premium Mixes are the perfect solution for your baking needs.

Each Maya Decadence Premium Mix is made with the finest ingredients, including cane sugar, wheat flour and other additives that give each mix a rich, luxurious flavor and texture that will make your taste buds sing.

All you have to do is add wet ingredients (usually eggs, oil and water) to the cake mixes then bake them according to the package instructions.

Check out how I made my delicious attempts at producing show-stopping cakes using Maya Decadence Premium Mixes.

Yellow Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Maya Decadence Yellow Cake Mix has a moist and dense texture, produces a thick batter and possesses a distinct taste makes it ideal for most cake recipes.

Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes

My cake was a dense, three-layered confection which I topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting (recipe provided at the back of the box).

Red Velvet Cake with Leftover Cream Cheese Frosting

Maya Decadence Red Velvet Cake is a richly red and velvety confection which run a gamut of flavors from milky to acidic to slightly chocolatey.

Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes

The resulting cake also goes well with cream cheese frosting. Fortunately, I had some leftover from the Yellow Cake. I saved the Whipped Cream Powder included in its box for the Devil’s Food Cake.

Devil’s Food Cake with Chocolate Ganache and Whipped Cream Frosting

Maya Decadence Devil’s Food Cake Premium Cake Mix produces cakes that are richer, darker, fluffier, and as simply delicious as you can imagine, thanks to its use of unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder.

Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes

I made this especially sinful by topping each layer with chocolate ganache, then covering the top with kisses of sweetened whipped cream made from the powder included in the Red Velvet box.

In case you’re still on the fence on whether or not Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes are for you, consider these advantages:

  1. Convenience. They save you the time and hassle of measuring and mixing individual ingredients. With Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes, you can simply follow the instructions on the package (or improvise like I do sometimes) and have your baked goods ready in no time.
  2. Consistency. Since Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes are made with standardized recipes and ingredients, you can expect consistent results every time you use them. This is especially helpful if you are new to baking and want to ensure that your baked goods turn out well.
  3. Variety. Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes come in three variants which can be baked strictly per instruction or adapted into new recipes. They allow you to experiment with different frostings, icings or toppings to truly customize your cake creations.
  4. Cost-effective. Using Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes is definitely more affordable than buying and stocking up on all the individual ingredients separately, especially if you only need a small amount of a specific ingredient. They also help reduce food waste by providing the exact amount of each ingredient needed for the recipe.
  5. Long shelf life. Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes have a long shelf life, making them a great pantry staple. This means you can always have a cake on hand for last-minute baking needs (such as gifts or potluck contributions) or unexpected guests.
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes
Maya Decadence Premium Cake Mixes

So, go ahead and try these fabulous baking hacks. Who would have thought that you can produce gourmet desserts in minutes just by using cake mixes?

Know more kitchen hacks by visiting the Maya Kitchen website or following it on Facebook and Instagram.