Culinary delights at SilverSpoon QC

Being a foodie myself, there are few pleasures in life as universal as the enjoyment of a delicious meal. From childhood memories of dinners with my family to those first kilig dates at fancy restaurants, dining on good food has the ability to bring not just satiety, but a sense of joy.

And for people like me who are passionate about food and all its delicious possibilities, there’s no better feeling than sharing their gustatory adventures with others.

That’s what I did when on the first day of our #ReturnToOffice, I took my teammates to one of my favorite places in the Tomas Morato area for our first #HappyLunch after nearly three years: SilverSpoon Kitchenette.

SilverSpoon Kapampangan
SilverSpoon Kapampangan

Located in one of the side streets off Tomas Morato Avenue, this cozy little kitchenette is a hidden gem that has been making waves in the local food scene.

The kitchenette is run by a team of passionate foodies who are dedicated to bringing dishes that are not only delicious but also made with the freshest ingredients. They source their produce from local farmers, ensuring that every dish is packed with the goodness of the season. They also instituted a quarterly showcase of classic Pinoy food from various regions to make these heritage dishes more accessible to their clientele.

However, for this particular food adventure, my coworkers and I focused on SilverSpoon’s pastas and mains, which included:

Creamy Spinach Ravioli (Php365). Handcrafted ravioli stuffed with creamy spinach filling served on a flavorful sauce bed.

SilverSpoon Regular Menu
SilverSpoon Regular Menu

Pasta al Nero (Php330). Squid ink pasta tossed with crisp vegetables and calamari.

SilverSpoon Regular Menu
SilverSpoon Regular Menu

Crispy Lechon Kawali (Php330). Deep-fried pork belly served with saffron rice with lechon sauce on the side.

SilverSpoon Regular Menu
SilverSpoon Regular Menu

Honey Garlic Liempo (Php330). Tender grilled pork belly glazed in a sweet-savory honey garlic sauce and served with garlic rice.

SilverSpoon Regular Menu
SilverSpoon Regular Menu

Gambas in Tomato Sauce (Php385). Plump tiger prawns flavored with paprika and tossed in a sauce of pureed tomatoes.

SilverSpoon Regular Menu
SilverSpoon Regular Menu

Beef Salpicao (Php495). Tender beef strips and mushrooms stir-fried in Worcestershire sauce, butter, garlic and chilis served on a bed of garlic rice.

SilverSpoon Regular Menu
SilverSpoon Regular Menu

But the food is only part of the story. SilverSpoon Kitchenette is a warm and welcoming space that’s perfect for everything from a quick lunch for office workers to a leisurely dinner with friends.

The decor is simple and minimalist but has a charming vibe that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re sitting at the bar with your coffee and a sandwich or feasting with your buddies at one of the cozy tables, you’ll be feeling quite at ease.

Silverspoon Kitchenette
Silverspoon Kitchenette

In a world where fast food and pre-packaged meals have become the norm, SilverSpoon Kitchenette is a refreshing reminder of what real food is all about. So the next time you’re in the mood for a meal that’s made with love and care, head over to SilverSpoon Kitchenette and prepare to be delighted.

Silverspoon Kitchenette is located at 81 Scout Gandia Street, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City, open daily for dine-in, takeout or delivery from 11am to 10pm. For inquiries, reservations or delivery orders, call +63 917 1603327. It also delivers via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Plus, here’s a something to make your culinary adventure even more delightful!

Scan this code and present your boarding pass when you dine in at SilverSpoon to enjoy 10% off on your bill! (Applicable to dine-in transactions only)

For updates on its latest offers, follow Silverspoon on Facebook or Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about SilverSpoon:

Treat the fam to a magical experience at ZOORI

Heading over to Tagaytay with the family?

Then bring the fam over to ZOORI for a truly enjoyable and magical time!

ZOORI (Zoo @ Residence Inn) is a delightful destination in Tagaytay City which provides visitors with unique and memorable experiences.

ZOORI
ZOORI
ZOORI
ZOORI

A special magic show

One of ZOORI’s chief highlights is a magic show performed by the zoo’s own staff, along with some of the resident animals.

In this highly entertaining skit, a fantastical story from the Granny sends kids Alice and Sebastian off to slumber, dreaming of being whisked away Tagaytay Never-Neverland where Lakan Taal and the White Rabbit regale them with various magic tricks such as making coins disappear, transforming flaming wands into spears and and pulling items out of a seemingly empty bag.

ZOORI
ZOORI

Later tricks incorporate the zoo’s animal’s such as rodents, spiders, reptiles, raptors, monkeys and even a huge St. Bernard in an amazing showcase of talents and exciting animal stunts.

Afterwards, brave volunteers among the audience can get really up close and personal with the featured creatures, ably assisted by the trainers and handlers.

ZOORI
ZOORI
ZOORI
ZOORI

The combination of the engaging magic tricks and the exciting appearances of zoo animals against the breathtaking view of Taal Lake make for a highly diverting experience.

Fun animal encounters

Aside from the magic show, the ZOORI also affords guests various areas where they can view and interact with the creatures which makes the zoo their home.

These include:

  • Zoo Grounds which hosts various wild and farm animals ranging from lions, tigers, monkeys , camels, goats and miniature horses.
  • The Aviary where they can view different colorful birds in their enclosure plus even feed them with their own hands.
  • The Serpentarium where they can check out different species of reptiles such as snakes, lizards, iguanas, turtles, and other cold-blooded creatures.
ZOORI
Sheep at the Zoo Grounds
ZOORI
Raptors at The Aviary
ZOORI
Snake at the Serpentarium
ZOORI
Colorful fish

Thrilling Rides

The zoo also offers a range of fun and exciting rides that provide a unique way to experience its beautiful natural surroundings, its diverse animal collection and its stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano.

These include:

  • Zipline: Soar through the air while taking in the awesome sights
  • Cable Car: experience the stunning views of Taal Lake and Volcano through a slower and more peaceful ride
  • Horseback Ride: enjoy a leisurely ride around the zoo
  • Camel Ride: get your picture taken against a dessert backdrop seated on top of a real life camel
  • King Kong: get lifted up into the air for a bird’s eye view of the zoo
ZOORI
Zipline
ZOORI
Cable Car
ZOORI
Camel Ride
ZOORI
King Kong

Scenic dining

Exploring the zoo will definitely work up an appetite so be sure to drop by the Gazebo Restaurant for tasty Filipino dishes or at Samgyupsalamat for all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue.

ZOORI
View from the Gazebo
ZOORI
Pinoy Merienda at the Gazebo
ZOORI
Korean BBQ at Samgyupsalamat
ZOORI
Dining at Samgyupsalamat

Both of these eateries overlook the Taal Lake and Volcano, so diners can enjoy their meals while taking in the awesome scenery.

So if ever you’re in Tagaytay, don’t forget to bring the fam over to ZOORI for a a fun and magical time with animals, great food and awesome views!

ZOORI
ZOORI

ZOORI is operated by the Zoomanity Group, a leading provider of theme parks and attractions in the Philippines, with a focus on sustainable tourism and responsible animal care.

It is located at Km. 65 Barrio Neogan, Tagaytay City, open daily from 8am to 5pm.

Here’s a tip: you can get discounted tickets to Paradizoo Theme Farm by signing up for a free YOGO customer account and ordering tickets via the YOGO PH app (download now on Google Play or the App Store).

You can also enjoy savings when you book your tickets via Klook.

For inquiries, email zoomanityonline@gmail.com or call +63 046 4131244 | +63 966 1938965. Know more about Paradizoo and other Zoomanity’s attractions at zoomanity.com.ph.

Entrance rate for adults is Php249/head while for children within 3 feet- to 4 feet in height is Php199/head. Entrance for children below 3 feet is free.

Fees for additional activities include:

  • Zip Line or Cable Car: Php150/person
  • Animal Food Basket: Php20
  • Bird Thrill Feeding: Php10
  • Zing Ride for Kids: Php50/person
  • Horse Back Riding: Php50

Check out my previous posts about Zoomanity Group’s attractions:

Disclosure: Together with fellow media personnel and fellow content creators, I was invited by the Zoomanity Group to tour and experience the attractions at the Zoo @ Residence Inn.  The tour was sponsored by the company and was not paid for by the attendees including myself.

7 reasons why Ellie Liquid Seasoning is the #BidaSaKusina

Want to jazz up your home-cooked meals or adjust the taste of your restaurant-bought meal according to your personal taste?

We Pinoys have a ready solution for it: our condiments!

Whether in the form of dipping sauces (“sawsawan”) or marinades (“pinagbabaran”), we are firm believers of further improving the flavor of our food with the addition of condiments.

Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning

One condiment that I think does not get enough credit – not being celebrated as much in the local food scene as the ubiquitous patis, toyomansi and sukang pinakurat – is the liquid seasoning. A soy-based sauce that imparts a unique blend of saltiness, sweetness and umami (savory and meaty taste), liquid seasoning imparts the flavors that appeal to the Filipino palate to various foodstuffs. It is usually sold in small bottles or containers that are easy to store and retrieve from our pantries whenever we need to add some flavor to our viands.

Add to the rub and use a extra seasoning for Baked Pork Ribs
Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning

Ellie Liquid Seasoning, marketed and distributed by Benby Group of Companies, deserves some of the limelight in the Filipino kitchen.

Here are reasons why it deserves the title of #BidaSaKusina:

  1. It’s very versatile. It can be used in a variety of dishes, whether as a marinade for meat and seafood, as a condiment for rice, noodles, and vegetables, and as a flavoring agent for soups, stews, and sauces.
  2. It has low-fat content. Ellie Liquid Seasoning is low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to other flavorings that are high in fat and sodium that can lead to risks with your heart health.
  3. It imparts that umami flavor. It is primarily characterized by that distinct umami flavor that adds depth and richness to dishes – that delicate balance between sweetness and saltiness that brings out the flavors of many of our favorite Filipino dishes.
  4. It’s an affordable and easily accessible way to enhance the flavor of food. Priced affordably at Php79 (SRP) per 280ml bottle and widely available in leading retail outlets and online stores, Ellie Liquid Seasoning is very accessible, providing Filipino households with an inexpensive way to add flavor to dishes without breaking the bank.
  5. It’s so easy to use. Need to imbue that umami flavor into your food? Just drizzle a bit of Ellie Liquid Seasoning into cooked food or pour into the marinade.
  6. It’s proudly Philippine-made. Get your Pinoy Pride on and support this locally-made product, thereby supporting the country’s economy and the growth of its food industry.
  7. It’s part of what makes the Pinoy dining experience unique. Filipino meals are usually served family style so condiments come into play to allow each family member to customize his meal according to his preferences. Ellie Liquid Seasoning is part of a long-standing tradition of being inclusive towards various personal tastes and preferences in every hapag-kainan.
Add to braising sauce for Beef Salpicao
Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning

So let’s give our very own liquid seasoning some love by exploring more ways to incorporate it into our cooking and by stocking our pantries with Ellie Liquid Seasoning.

It is available at leading retail outlets and online stores.

Ellie Liquid Seasoning
Ellie Liquid Seasoning

Know more about Ellie Liquid Seasoning and other Ellie PH products by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature story.

8 things to do at Paradizoo Theme Farm

Looking for a getaway from the metro’s worsening traffic and rising temperatures? Searching for a place to experience simple pleasures, learning and healthy living?

Look no further than Paradizoo Theme Farm, a 12-hectare theme park located in Mendez, Cavite which offers a combination of paradise and zoo which is uniquely relaxing and entertaining.

Paradizoo Theme Park
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

Now that quarantine restrictions have been mostly lifted, you can treat yourself and the family to fun, learning and relaxation here.

Here are eight things you can do at Paradizoo Theme Farm:

1. Brush up on your farming know-how.

To help address the growing problem of food security in the country, Paradizoo recently re-unfolded its Power of Three Festival which aims to promote inclusive growth in the fields of floral, vegetable and livestock agriculture. Inviting over 20,000 students, farmers and other members of the public and private sectors to free seminars on flower, vegetable and livestock care, lively discussion on farming, planting, breeding programs, as well as exhibits of various farm produce, it will provide attendees with the inspiration to start a business in agriculture.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Invitation to the Power of Three Festival
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Zoomanity Group President and CEO Robert L. Yupangco
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Ms. Lani Lopez shares the basics of flower arrangement
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Students learning about flower arrangement

You can look forward to these informative and insightful activities facilitated by well-known educators and speakers in the Agriculture sector:

  • February (Flower Festival Month): Art of Bonsai with Mr. Atish Dipankar Sarter (Feb 11), Flower Arrangement with Ms. Lani Lopez (Feb 18) and Idle Lands into Productive Agri-Ecotourism Farms with Mr. Ace Formaran (Feb 25)
  • March (Vegetable Festival Month): Successful Entrepreneur – Dragon Fruit with Ms. Eden Gutierrez Suplente (Mar 4), Let’s ONIONIZE the Philippines – Discover the Power of Onion Farming (Mar 11) and Zooper Banana Tissue Culture Technology with Mr. Rodel Anunciado (Mar 25)
  • April (Livestock / Digital Farming Festival Month): Rabbit Farming with Association of Rabbit Meat Producers (ARaMP) President Mr. Art Veneracion (Apr 8), Introduction to Honeybee Farming with Mr. Albee Marcia and Usapang Kawayan with World Bamboo Ambassador Dulce Punzalan and Digital Farming (Apr 22)

2. Get up close and personal with farm animals.

One of Paradizoo’s main attractions is Farm Frenzy, its animal farm where guests can interact with various domesticated animals from different areas in the country and all over the world such as Dorper sheep, Boer, Kalahari and Saanen dairy goats, Rusa and turkeys from Australia.

You can also participate in feeding and petting some of these critters while learning about their behavior and habits. You can even cuddle and purchase some of the lovable critters there such as rabbits, hamsters and love-birds to keep as pets.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Albino Carabao
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Bird Feeding
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Rabbit Feeding
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Bull-Tes-Five, the five-legged bull

3. Indulge your inner plant parent.

If you feel like you’re a budding plantito or plantita, then Paradizoo’s Plant Me Home area is the perfect place for you. It is the section of the park dedicated to promoting sustainable farming and educating visitors about various plants and herbs, as well as their benefits.

Here, guests can learn about buy plants and seeds as well as learn about new gardening technologies such as hydroponics (growing plants without soil). You can even participate in in tree-planting activities and contribute to the park’s efforts to promote sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

At Paradizoo’s Vegetable Garden, on the other hand, you can see a wondrous variety of fresh edible vegetables grown using the best practices in agriculture. You can also learn about sustainable agriculture through gardening workshops and even pick and buy vegetables from the garden to take home with you.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

4. Get the buzz on beekeeping.

Paradizoo is home to a Honey Bee Farm where you can learn about the importance of bees and how they contribute to the ecosystem.

Go on a guided tour of the farm where you can observe the bees up close and learn about their behavior and role in the ecosystem. The tour also includes an explanation of the beekeeping process, how honey is produced, and the benefits of honey for human health. You can also taste and buy different types of honey produced on the farm.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo’s Beekeeper Albee Marcia
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Beehive
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Honey products
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Honeycomb

5. Wonder at the grace and beauty of butterflies.

At Paradizoo’s Butterfly Garden is is a picturesque and peaceful place to visit, filled with colorful flowers, plants, and, of course, butterflies. Here, you can observe these beautiful critters in action as they fly, feed and flit from flower to flower.

You can also learn about the life cycle of butterflies – from egg to caterpillar to pupa to butterfly – as well as feed the them with nectar or fruits or witness a release of newly emerged butterflies into the garden.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

6. Feast on tasty farm-grown food.

The park also houses Paradizoo Cafe, a restaurant which serves a variety of dishes made with locally grown produce and fresh ingredients. The menu features a range of Filipino and international cuisines.

The cafe has both indoor and al fresco seating options, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a meal while enjoying the park’s beautiful surroundings. The outdoor seating area is surrounded by greenery, providing visitors with a dining experience in the midst of nature.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

The cafe specializes in farm-to-table dishes made with fresh produce grown within the park, ensuring that the ingredients are at their peak freshness and nutritional value. It also espouses sustainable dining practices through the use of eco-friendly packaging and dining utensils.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
ParadiZoup, a version of arroz caldo made with edible starchy seeds called sorghum instead of rice
DSCF3571
Zoompia, Paradizoo’s version of the Vegetable Lumpia
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Adobo sa Puti, the Bicolano version of adobo that does not include soy sauce
DSCF3569
Sinaing na Tulingan, a Batangueno braised fish dish

7. Achieve a state of Zen.

Enter a peaceful and relaxing state of mind by visiting Paradizoo’s Meditation Garden. Here you can find de-stress, recharge, and connect with nature by taking a leisurely walk, practicing yoga, reading a book and reflect and journal while surrounded by a beautifully landscaped scenery.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

8. Take a break with a relaxing farm experience stay.

A day may not be enough time to experience all that Paradizoo Theme Farm has to offer. Take advantage of the park’s peaceful and relaxing environment, fresh air and beautiful scenery by booking a stay at its comfy and nature-inspired accommodations so you will have additional time to enjoy the park’s features.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
A-Frame Exteriors
Paradizoo Theme Farm
A-Frame Living and Dining Areas
Paradizoo Theme Farm
A-Frame Sleeping Areas
Paradizoo Theme Farm
A-Frame Receiving Area
  • Log Cabin (Php6,999, good for six persons). With free entrance to ZOORI and Paradizoo plus free breakfast for four people.
  • A-Frame (Php5,990, good for six persons). With free entrance to ZOORI and Paradizoo plus free breakfast for four people.
  • Tiny House 1 (Php3,990, good for four persons). With free entrance to ZOORI and Paradizoo plus free breakfast for two people.
  • Tiny House 2 and 3 (Php1,999, good for two people). With free entrance to ZOORI and Paradizoo plus free breakfast for two people.

Extra persons are charged Php700, inclusive of free entrance to ZOORI and Paradizoo, plus free breakfast.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Row of Tiny Houses
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Tiny House 1 Bedroom
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Tiny House 2 Bedroom
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Tiny House 3 Bedroom

Now that the city life is becoming busier and more stressful, it makes a lot of sense to escape into the beauty of nature in places such as Paradizoo every once in a while.

Paradizoo Theme Farm is operated by the Zoomanity Group, a leading provider of theme parks and attractions in the Philippines, with a focus on sustainable tourism and responsible animal care.

It is located at Km. 63, Panungyan, Mendez, Cavite, open daily from 8am to 5pm.

Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm
Paradizoo Theme Farm

Book your eco-farm journey by emailing zoomanityonline@gmail.com or by calling +63 046 4131244 | +63 966 1938965. Know more about Paradizoo and other Zoomanity’s attractions at zoomanity.com.ph.

Here’s a tip: you can get discounted ticketsto Paradizoo Theme Farm by signing up for a free YOGO customer account and booking via the YOGO PH app (download now on Google Play or the App Store).

You can also book your tickets via Klook.

Entrance rate for adults is Php199/head while for children within 3 feet- to 4 feet in height is Php149/head. Entrance for children below 3 feet is free while senior citizens and PWDs are afforded 20% discount upon presentation of ID.

Additional fees for activities include:

  • Animal Feeding: Php150/set
  • Horse Back Ride: Php100/2 rounds
  • Bees & Butterfly Garden: Php30/head
  • Fish Spa: Php149/30 mins
  • Tree Planting: Php100/tree

Check out my previous posts about Zoomanity Group’s attractions:

Disclosure: Together with media personnel and fellow content creators, I was invited by the Zoomanity Group to tour and experience the attractions at the Paradizoo Theme Farm.  The tour was sponsored by the company and was not paid for by the attendees including myself.

Tanduay and Theo & Philo collaborate of tribute to Pinoy heritage with their new luscious dark chocolate

The robust and complex flavors of Tanduay Asian Rum Gold is paired with the strong and bold taste of Theo & Philo’s 65% single origin Philippine Dark Chocolate for the two brands’ latest collaboration.

Marc Ngo, Senior Brand Manager and International Business Development Manager at Tanduay, said that working with Theo & Philo gave them the opportunity to showcase their rum’s distinctness and that it can be infused in other products.

“Tanduay continues to delight our customers by coming up with new product innovations. Our first collaboration with premier Filipino chocolate brand Theo & Philo successfully achieved our targets and opened new opportunities. This time, we are releasing dark chocolate bonbons that bring out the premium flavor of the Tanduay Asian Rum Gold,” he said.

Philo Chua, founder and chocolatier behind Theo & Philo, shared that they really love using Tanduay Asian Rum Gold as it can hold its own when paired with their dark chocolate.

“Our dark chocolate is a relatively high percentage dark chocolate, so it really needs something bold to go with it. We use Philippine trinitario cacao beans for making our chocolates and it can make for a strong dark chocolate that also requires big flavors to go with it,” Chua said.

Their initial brand collaboration was a chocolate bar with rum caramel filling. It was released in limited quantities back in 2019.

“It was really amazing to learn how much it got people excited to see a Tanduay chocolate bar, mainly because Tanduay for a lot of people is very reminiscent of good times shared with friends over a drink. It really is an iconic brand in the Philippines that has stayed true to its roots, and for being the oldest rum brand in the Philippines,” Chua further said.

Chua also noted that both brands trace their roots back to the Philippines’ heritage and land. The sugarcane used in making Tanduay and the cacao beans that go into Theo & Philo’s chocolates are grown in the country. All their products are likewise made in the Philippines.

Ngo shared that they are open to more collaborations with Theo & Philo and other Philippine brands featuring Tanduay’s award-winning rum products.

The new Theo & Philo Tanduay chocolate is a limited edition product.

Image and details provided in a recent press release.

Just like old times at SGS House of Minis, Greenhills

One of my most cherished childhood memories is celebrating important occasions and milestones with a special steak dinner.

Whether it’s a significant accomplishment (a school award, a new job or promotion, etc.), a birthday or anniversary, marking the event through a multi-course meal at the House of Minis is just the ticket!

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

That was how I was introduced to this restaurant. During my childhood, important family celebrations were marked by our special meal at the local House of Minis along C5 in Pasig City, where I experienced what was to me then a markedly leveled-up way of dining. In contrast to fast food outlets where self-service was the rule, or the family-style casual dining places where all the dishes are served together, this steakhouse serves its food one course after another.

Since it’s been quite a while since we’ve dined at House of Minis, we decided to have lunch at its branch in Greenhills when we were out for some holiday shopping.

The experience starts with ordering our mains (regular-sized T-bone steaks, grilled to medium doneness), then we waited for our courses to arrive.

The meal starts with hot creamy soup served with house-baked dinner rolls accompanied by unsalted butter.

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

Next comes a light starter salad of fresh vegetables with Thousand Island dressing.

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

We ordered some starches to go with our steaks: Hubby opted for a serving of gravy mashed potatoes, while, for me, good ole’ steam rice is the way to go!

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

Then our steaks made their grand entrance.

These are slabs of perfectly grilled fork-tender T-bone cuts beef served on hot plates with some buttered vegetables on the side. When doused with the house gravy, their hissing sound and appetizing aroma sure got us salivating.

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

This is a meal that is to meant to be hurried over so we took our time in enjoying our steak meal.

Afterwards, we opted against getting coffee after our meal but instead went for servings of vanilla ice cream.

(Actually, Hubby gamely gave his ice cream serving to me! Awww!)

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

While some aspects of this steak meal (such as the restaurant location and serving sizes of some of the courses) may have changed, I’m glad to say that it feels pretty much like old times at this House of Minis.

Got a similar steakhouse childhood memory? Relive it at House of Minis in Greenhills!

House of Minis, Greenhills
House of Minis, Greenhills

SGS House of Minis is located at Lower Ground Floor, Shoppesville Arcade, Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan, open Mondays to Fridays from 11am to 8.30pm and Saturdays from 11am to 6pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 87211410 or +63 922 8640628, or Viber +63 927 8717896.

It also delivers via FoodPanda.

To know more about its updates and offers, follow SGS House of Minis on Facebook and Instagram.

Playful takes on Japanese cuisine at Saigosan, Uptown Mall BGC

Just when you thought that you’ve seen all there is to see when it comes to Japanese food, here comes Saigosan, all ready to set the local foodie scene on its ear.

This recently opened izakaya-style restaurant in Uptown Mall BGC is geared to take its diners on a fun food trip across Japanese pop culture with the enticement of delicious comfort food and classic dishes.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

The latest venture of the restaurant group that manages The Red Crab Alimango House, Blackbeard’s Seafood Island and Pier at Clawdaddy’s, Saigosan offers a uniquely colorful dining experience situated between an exciting commuter train ride and a comforting stay at a ramen shop.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

Here, Nobu-trained Chef Chris Oronse and his team whip up playful and creative takes on familiar Japanese food that will surely tickle the fancy of young and young-at-heart foodies with a predilection for Japanese pop culture. These include:

Classic Gyoza (₱225). The all-time favorite pan-fried Japanese potsticker filled with ground pork, cabbage, aromatics and seasonings, served with a soy sauce and vinegar-based dipping sauce.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

Mini Volcano (₱280). Saigosan puts a fun twist on the classic California maki roll, thanks to its topping of chopped kani (crab sticks) and bonito flakes.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

Chicken Katsudon (₱345). Tender strip of breaded chicken served with egg chahan (Japanese fried rice) and your choice between Domi and Curry sauce.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

Chasu Bacon Breakfast Ramen (₱499). Breakfast favorites such as bacon slices and fried egg served on top of firm ramen noodles in a rich pork soup.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

Chirashi Don (₱525). A variety of sashimi such as fresh salmon, tuna, tanigue, ikura (salmon roe) and tamago (rolled omelette) artfully served on a platter with a bowl of rice on the side.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

So if you want to experience your favorite Japanese food in a fresh, fun and colorful way, then get on board for a delicious ride at Saigosan.

Saigosan, BGC
Saigosan, BGC

Saigosan is located at 3rd Floor, Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, open from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 915 8126855 or email saigosan.bgc@gmail.com.

To stay updated on its promos and offers, follow Saigosan on Facebook and Instagram.

Seafood and Oyster Bar sets up more outlets in the metro

If you’re heavily into your seafood diet (“when you see food, you eat it!”), then you definitely have to include oysters in your menu, especially during this month of hearts.

Oysters (“talaba” in Tagalog) have a strong association with Valentine’s Day, owing to being considered a natural aphrodisiac for centuries.

Well, their supposed contribution to an intensified sexual drive may be a subject for debate but there is no doubt that these fruits of the sea are quite delicious and are actually good for you.

Seafood Oyster Bar
Seafood Oyster Bar
Seafood Oyster Bar
Seafood Oyster Bar

Oysters bring you a sumptuous taste of the ocean: they have a briny and creamy flavor and silky texture that will leave you wanting more.

Oysters also bring with them a myriad of health benefits that include:

  • Brain health. As they are rich in Vitamin B12, they are said to be helpful in keeping the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s at bay.
  • Bone health. They also help to prevent the onset of osteoporosis, thanks to their vitamin D, copper, zinc and manganese content.
  • Heart health. With their selenium content, they also help prevent heart disease.
Seafood Oyster Bar
Seafood Oyster Bar
Seafood Oyster Bar
Seafood Oyster Bar

Are you sold on oysters yet?

The good news is that getting them is a breeze now that Seafood and Oyster Bar (SOB) is setting up more outlets in the metro!

Aside from its oyster cart at The Grid Food Market in Powerplant Mall, this new foodie venture from the Tasteless Food Group will also set up carts at Public Eatery in Robinsons Magnolia on February 17 and at Itadaki Food Court at Mitsukoshi Mall on February 24.

There, you can get freshly shucked oysters which can be eaten raw, topping shots of liquor or baked in a variety of flavors.

Seafood and Oyster Bar
Seafood and Oyster Bar
Seafood and Oyster Bar
Seafood and Oyster Bar

So this Valentine’s Day and all the special days beyond for you and your significant other, be sure to indulge yourself with these delicacies fresh from the seas at SOB!

To stay abreast on Seafood and Oyster Bar’s updates and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous post about Seafood and Oyster Bar:

New Rice Baked Oysters at Seafood and Oyster Bar, The Grid Food Market

It’s the season of love at Manila Prince Hotel

As we near the most romantic time of the year, it’s important to get ahead and prepare to wow your significant other. Check out the Valentine’s Day specials of Manila Prince Hotel and spend a much-needed quality time with your bae! 

Be My Valentine Special Room Promo

Staycation, dinner and wine, anyone? Experience an intimate overnight stay in a Deluxe room and enjoy a buffet dinner date night with your loved one. To sweeten the evening, toast your love to each other with glass of red wine each. It also includes breakfast buffet for only P3,400 nett.

Two-gether at Marcelino Café

Indulge in a delightful dinner buffet at Marcelino Street Café specially crafted for the season of love. For only P950 nett per person, treat yourself and your loved one to a gastronomic feast paired with a glass of red wine that will make your hearts full.

In the Mood for Love

Enjoy the pleasures of a romantic weekend getaway in our Deluxe Room for only P2,023 nett per room per night. Not only will you enjoy a delightful overnight stay but this package also includes breakfast buffet for two persons. This special rate is available from February 10 to 14 only. For inquiries and reservations, for rooms, please email reservations@manilaprince.com, for restaurants, please email fnb@manilaprince.com.

For more information on hotel’s offers and updates, please visit www.manilaprince.com or follow Manila Prince Hotel on Facebook and Instagram.

Manila Prince Hotel, a subsidiary of The Manila Hotel, is situated in the heart of Manila’s business district and has close proximity to the city’s historical tourist spots as well as the main transportation hubs. With its 300 well-appointed rooms, 6 function rooms, an elegant lobby with 24-hour reception, a business center, a swimming pool, and gym access, the Manila Prince Hotel offers value for money and stylish comfort. Along with excellent service and luxurious hospitality, the hotel has exciting dining experiences for you and your family at its all-day dining restaurant Marcelino Street Café. The hotel is also connected to the UN Square mall for convenient shopping and dining. These and more, make Manila Prince Hotel a top choice for leisure and business travelers’ choice.

Book your stay at the Manila Prince Hotel via Klook.

Lots of love from Lots’A Pizza with its new Beefy Blanca!

Being the month of love, February is full of expressions of love.

That quintessential Filipino pizza – Lots’A Pizza – brings a fresh new expression of love with its latest offering: the Beefy Blanca!

Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca

This limited-edition heart-shaped pizza is the pizza chain’s first-ever cream-based pizza, a bit of a departure from Lots’A Pizza’s winning signature sauce.

But, oh, it does offer new dimensions of flavor for Lots’A Pizza fans to enjoy!

Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca

Generously topped with roast beef slices and drizzled with delicious cheese sauce on top of a crust that’s both chewy and crispy at the same time, this is an irresistible temptation to true-blue pizza lovers.

Treat yourself to this lovely pizza for just Php250! Or even better, share it with your loved ones!

Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca

This Beefy Blanca pizza is but the latest innovation from the company that established a winning formula in pizzas, namely:

  • a perfectly parbaked crust made from Lots’A Pizza’s proprietary dough blend
  • a signature pizza sauce made from the freshest tomatoes and spices
  • premium pizza toppings composed of the choicest meats and cheese
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca
Lots’A Pizza Beefy Blanca

Order your Beefy Blanca as soon as possible as this will be available for a limited time only.

This Lots’A Pizza branch is located along Maysilo Circle, Barangay Plainview, Mandaluyong City, open daily from 10.30am to 10.30pm. For orders and inquiries, call +63 2 86350825.

You may also course your orders via FoodPanda, GrabFood, Booky and Pick-A-Roo.

Stay updated on Lots’A Pizza’s promos and offers by visiting its website and following it on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube.