Eat – Page 26 – Jellybeans in the City

Celebrating different kinds of love with Red Ribbon’s limited-edition Valentine Black Forest Cake

Oh, yes, we’re right smack in the midst of the Month of Love. Can’t you just feel the all that love in the air?

The impending arrival of Valentine’s Day has got me in a more reflective mood. Lately, I’ve begun to realize that I have been blessed with different kinds of love that made my life all the richer.

And this year, I’m celebrating these varied expressions of the ultimate emotion with an exceptional confection from Red Ribbon Bakeshop: its limited-edition Valentine Black Forest Cake!

This lovely dessert creation makes a much-awaited comeback just in time for Valentine’s Day. And I must say: it surely is well-suited to the holiday!

It is made with moist liquor-moistened chocolate fudge cake layered with rich creamy icing in an occasion-appropriate heart-shaped design, topped with decadent chocolate shavings and cream cheese icing rosettes, then decorated with luscious Maraschino cherries.

I agree that it is truly a confection made with love in mind, and which calls to mind the different kinds of love that enhance and enrich my life.

Philia, the love of friends

Being an introvert, I acknowledge that my circle of friends is made up by a very few and select set of individuals. With all the intrigues and misunderstandings that I seem to attract in school and in my workplaces (I swear I’m not a drama queen), it’s a wonder that I’m able to make and keep close relationships with people who I consider my tribe. Needless to say, I’m always grateful for their gift of friendship.

Storge, the love of parents for children

Motherhood has been and continues to be one of the most defining roles that I play. I never would have thought that I would be able to love not just one, but two (!) individuals who I helped bring into the world. A poet once said that “Your children are not your children. They are sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself.” While I try to balance my role in their lives as both parent and co-traveler in their life’s journey, I’m grateful for the love and joy they bring to my existence.

Eros, the passionate love

No doubt Hubby will find this section of my post dedicated to him extremely cheesy but, to him I can say “tough luck!” After all, he did vow to accept me “for better or worse,” hehe! After more than twenty years together, our relationship continues to grow and evolve, and I’m thankful that we find things to discover about each other.

Agape, the love of mankind

This kind of love may be the most difficult of all. After all, it is kind of love that requires so much understanding and forgiveness that often goes unrequited. For me, it is the kind of love that allows me to go through life sans the bitterness from past hurts and offenses. It is also the kind of love that when given by others, allows me to redeem myself and learn from mistakes.

Who would have thought that Valentine’s Day celebrations would bring about such profound thoughts, eh?

Well, thanks to Red Ribbon’s Valentine Black Forest Cake, I have something sweet and delicious to commemorate this occasion in honor of all the loves in my life.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your loved ones, foodies! Be sure to spread the sweetness with this sweet confection from Red Ribbon Bakeshop!

It’s available only from February 13-15, so it’s best to 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 samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

Check out my previous posts about Red Ribbon Bakeshop:

Sweet Christmas celebrations with Red Ribbon’s Holiday Cakes

Red Ribbon cakes for your everyday cravings

Red Ribbon brings a taste of the divine with its new Chocolate Heaven Cake

Sweet dads deserve sweet chocolatey treats from Red Ribbon this Father’s Day

#SweetDelight: Red Ribbon’s Caramel Crunch Cake is back!

Sweet snacktimes with Red Ribbon Bakeshop

Lunch at Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant Nikkei Robata, BGC

Did you know that Japanese culinary traditions have a strong influence on Peruvian food?

As it has the second largest ethnic Japanese population in South America, brought about by Japanese immigration starting in the late 19th century, it is hardly surprising that Peruvian cuisine would feature more than just a few Japanese touches.

Hokkaido’s robotayaki (the method of charcoal-grilling meat, seafood and other ingredients to imbue them with a delicious flavor and smoky aroma) makes its influence felt in Peruvian cuisine in the recently opened Nikkei Robata branch in Uptown, Bonifacio Global City.

Whether enjoying the hustle-and-bustle of the street in its al fresco area or relaxing in its well-appointed interiors, foodies can look forward to expertly grilled top-quality meats and seafood that makes for a deliciously satisfying meal.

During our errand day in BGC, my daughter #ExhibitA and I decided to have lunch at Nikkei Robata, where we enjoyed:

Chips (Complimentary). Crispy potato chips served with a tangy cream dip.

Unagi Nigiri (₱250). Two pieces of grilled sliver of eel doused in teriyaki sauce served on top of sushi rice.

Panko (₱395/5pcs | ₱680/10pcs). Panko-covered slices of salmon, kampyo, truffled cream cheese, shiitake, cucumber and onion leeks all rolled together and served with salad sauce.

Salmon Risotto (₱680). Main dish composed of grilled salmon belly served on top of risotto with shimeji, shiitake and enoki mushrooms, as well as asparagus, then doused with spicy and cheesy huancaina sauce and sprinkled with parmesan.

Specialty Drinks (₱180 each). Sometimes, the adventure of our day comes in the form of an unusual drink that accompanies our meal. While these (thankfully!) do not contain alcohol, they added a refreshing aspect to our lunch.

Dining here might be a bit pricey but, from its upscale yet comfy surroundings to its unique menu of Japanese-Peruvian dishes, Nikkei Robata certainly promises a gastronomic adventure!

Check it out for yourself!

This Nikkei Robata branch is located at Ground Floor, Uptown Ritz, 36th corner 8th Avenue, Uptown Bonifacio, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, open Sundays to Thursdays from 11am to 10pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 11am to 11pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 975 0870428.

Another branch is located at Second Floor, Newport Mall Garden Wing, Newport World Resorts, Newport City, Pasay City. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 945 5511898.

For more details about Nikkei Robata, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Flavor Adventure Feast at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar

I admit: I do have mixed feelings about this #ReturnToOffice thing.

While it does provide a welcome change of scenery from my home office desk and an opportunity to meet up with office friends, the hassle of the long commute to and from the office can get me stress levels soaring.

One of my coping mechanisms is to treat myself to something delicious. After all, good food does have a way of lifting my spirits.

So armed with my SuperCard, I took my office teammates on a Flavor Adventure at the nearby Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar branch along Tomas Morato Avenue.

The SuperCard is the loyalty program that combines dine-in and delivery benefits from Shakey’s and Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken and Sauce Bar, and R&B Milk Tea Philippines.

This Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar branch features comfortable and airy interiors with high ceilings, ample seating and bright colors that calls back to the vibrant flavors of its signature dish.

Here, my friends and I were able to enjoy a SuperCard Exclusive: the Flavor Adventure Feast!

This delectable group meal combines the various flavors and textures of the restaurant’s dishes to cater to four to five persons and provides at least ₱475 in savings, to boot!

Dine-in patrons just need to present their SuperCard enjoy the Flavor Adventure Feast for just ₱1,499. Foodies who want to enjoy this group meal at home via takeout or delivery for ₱1,574.

Here are what my teammates and I feasted on for lunch during our #RTO day:

1 Whole Chicken

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken brings about its famed dish by marinating a whole chicken overnight in a special mixture of peri-peri chili, herbs and spices, then charcoal-grilling it to a gloriously golden hue.

This flavorful and juicy grilled chicken is best enjoyed with one or a combination of the restaurant’s eight signature sauces representing various gastronomic destinations, ranging from mildly sweet (Cajun Remoulade, Hoisin Sesame and Sweet Soy), medium spiciness (Garlic Brew, Spiced Vinegar and Mesquite BBQ) and hot (Chili Peppa and Harissa Exotica).

1 Carbonara to Share

A platter of this cream-based pasta made this meal all the more filling.

4 Hearty Soups

Bowls of hearty chicken soup warmed our tummies and got us raring for more.

4 cups Java Rice

This flavorful rice dish with its bright orange color and slight nutty flavor goes so well with grilled dishes, especially the peri-peri chicken!

4 Regular Sides

Side dishes dishes such as coleslaw, corn ‘n carrots and mashed potatoes complement the flavors and texture of the Peri-Peri chicken.

To complete the meal, the Flavor Adventure Feast also comes with 1 Liter drink.

Going back to the office after two years of working from home may be stressful, but I know I can always look forward to feasting on the wondrous flavors offered by Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar.

This Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar is located at 295 Tomas Morato Avenue, Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City, open Sudaily from 10am to 9.30pm.

Other Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar outlets are located at:

Las Pinas: Evia Lifestyle Center
Makati: Ayala North Exchange, Greenbelt 3
Mandaluyong: SM Megamall
Manila: Robinsons Place Manila
Marikina: SM City Marikina, Gil Fernando Avenue
Muntinlupa: Alabang Town Center
Paranaque: Ayala Malls Manila Bay
Pasay: Resorts World Manila
Pasig: SM City East Ortigas, Ayala Malls Feliz, Capitol Commons, Robinsons Galleria
Quezon City: Gateway Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, UP Town Center, Trinoma Mall, Banawe, Brittany Square, Eastwood Mall
San Juan: Promenade Greenhills
Taguig: Market! Market BGC, Uptown Parade, Venice Grand Mall

To enjoy this feast at home, order from Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken’s delivery website or call +63 2 73747374 for Metro Manila orders and +63 917 7747374 for provincial orders.

To know more about Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, browse through its website , or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts on Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken:

Peri Peri Chicken, SM East — Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, SM City East Ortigas

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Tomas Morato

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Capitol Commons

Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, Gil Fernando Marikina

Delish family dine-in with Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken’s Hearty Flavor Feast

Holiday Epic Feast for the fam at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, Eastwood Mall

Revenge dining with friends at Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken & Sauce Bar, BGC

Guilt-free refreshment with Chi Forest sparkling water

If you find your diet goals countered by those sugary and calorie-rich beverages, well, there’s a viable alternative to plain old water: sparkling water!

Also known as carbonated water, soda water, seltzer water, club soda and fizzy water, this refreshing drink is made by infusing water with carbon dioxide gas. Imbibing sparkling water brings the same fizzy sensation as drinking your favorite softdrinks but without the calories and sugar.

Here are some ways sparkling water is good for you:

It can help you keep your winning smile. Softdrinks are sweetened with sugar which cause breaks in tooth enamel, and which – thankfully! – is absent in sparkling water.
It can help you lose weight. Aside from having zero calories, sparkling water also makes you feel more full than when you’re drinking regular water. Studies have shown that it also contributes to food staying in your stomach for a longer duration, helping you to retain the feeling of satiety which will reduce your desire to eat.
It helps keep you more hydrated. Many people find sparkling water easier to drink and having better taste than regular water, encouraging to you to drink regularly, thereby keeping you hydrated.

And if you need more convincing to switch to sparkling water, you’d be happy to know that thanks to Chi Forest, it is now available in delicious flavors such as:

Chi Forest Calamansi Lime

A zesty and citrusy drink flavored with a combination of lemon, lime and orange with a calamansi fragrance.

Chi Forest White Peach

The mild sweetness of fresh peaches combined with a silky and full texture.

Chi Forest Lychee Fizzy

Lychee’s sweetness and floral taste accompanied by the aroma of grapes and roses.

With such deliciously invigorating true-to-fruit flavors, getting your recommended daily water intake to keep yourself at optimum levels is not just easy, but even more appealing.

So if you’re on the lookout for something new and fresh to take you to a new flavor journey while helping you stay healthy, then grab your cans of Chi Forest sparkling water today!

Stock up on Chi Forest sparkling water at Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Shopwise, LCC, Shopee Mall and LazMall and more outlets in the metro.

To stay updated on Chi Forest products and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

S’more the merrier with Cinnabon’s S’mores MiniChocobon

The holidays may be well and truly over but that doesn’t mean we can’t re-experience some of the things that made the season all the merrier.

Take the S’mores MiniChocobon from Cinnabon, for example.

This limited edition variant is still – thankfully! – available at Cinnabon outlets.

This holiday treat is made up of Cinnabon’s very own MiniChocobon, which is now tucked and topped with gooey toasted marshmallows and drizzled with white chocolate truffle.

It brings to mind marshmallows roasting, hearth fire crackling and being surrounded by family and friends at Christmas time.

What’s not to love in this cheery and merry holiday treat?

Even if this lovely dessert leaves Cinnabon’s menu after the holidays, we can still enjoy our classic faves:

Cinnabon Classic Roll. The cinnamon roll that started it all, filled with Makara cinnamon and topped with decadent cream cheese frosting.
Chocobon. Classic cinnamon roll given that delicious chocolate filling and drizzle.
Caramel Pecanbon. Classic cinnamon roll topped with caramel frosting and chopped pecans.
Chocopecanbon. Classic cinnamon roll topped with chopped pecans and drizzled with chocolate sauce

Such sweet delights is best enjoyed with their perfect match – Cinnabon’s coffee creations:

Coffee beverages (available hot or cold): Brewed Coffee, Cafe Americano, Cafe Mocha, Cafe Latte, Cafe Latte, Cappuccino, Caramel Macchiatto, Cinnamon Roll Latte
Cold brew: Classic, Creamy, Vanilla & Cream, Cinnamon

Aren’t you craving for a Cinnabon treat right about now?

Well, the good news is that it’s quite easy to get yourself your Cinnabon indulgence.

Since the mid-80s, Seattle-based bakery Cinnabon has been serving up its most delectable cinnamon bun, a product of the collaboration between father-and-son duo Rich and Greg Komen, and master baker Jerilyn Brusseau.

In 1999, Cinnabon established its foothold in Asia when it opened its first Philippine bakery at Robinsons Place Manila.

Today, Cinnabon has twenty bakeries in the country, all committed to churning out its much celebrated Cinnamon buns and more, using the finest quality ingredients and serving them, hot, irresistibly fragrant and fresh from the oven.

So do’t miss your chance to experience #TheRecipeForWonderful at Cinnabon stores located at:

SM Aura Premiere, SM Baguio, SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA and SM North EDSA North Towers, SM City Clark, SM Cagayan de Oro, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Fairview, SM Mindpro
Trinoma Mall
Festival Mall
Ayala Malls Manila Bay
Robinsons Magnolia, Robinsons Galleria
Alabang Town Center
SLEX Shell Travel Plaza – Main, SLEX Shell Travel Plaza – Deli2Go, SLEX Shell Mamplasan
Petron Travel Plaza
Caltex San Pedro Travel Plaza
NLEX Shell Travel Plaza – Deli2Go, NLEX Drive & Dine
NAIA Terminal 3, NAIA Terminal 4

Can’t go to a Cinnabon bakery? Order your Cinnabons for delivery right to your doorstep via GrabFood, FoodPanda and G-Life.

For the latest news on its products and offers, follow Cinnabon on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts on Cinnabon:

Cinnabon Cranberry Biscoff — Enjoy some #IndulgingComfort with Cinnabon’s Cranberry Biscoff Minibon

Cinnabon Toffee Minichocobon — A new way to get some #IndulgingComfort: Cinnabon’s Toffee Minichocobon!

Cinnabon Estancia — Quick and sweet escape at Cinnabon, Estancia Mall

Cinnabon Coffee — Enjoy perfect coffee breaks with this #PerfectMatch: Cinnabon rolls + Coffee

Create Your Own Meal at Cafe France, Greenhills

Hospital visits are seldom fun.

Even for consultations for minor medical complaints like my daughter #ExhibitA had, having to carve out time from her day (and mine, as I had to accompany her) can be quite a bit of a hassle.

With all the hospital protocols and procedures, one might get the feeling of being always at the mercy of outside forces.

So you can just imagine our relief when we espied a Cafe France branch hiding behind Cardinal Santos Medical Center’s steel parking lot.

Cafe France is a chain of cafes that offer coffee, food products, and breads, including bread crumbs, baguette breads, chocolate croissants, sultana rolls, butter croissants, pastries, savories, rice meals, sandwiches and beverages.

Its airy and well-appointed interiors provides a warm and welcoming haven that contrasts with the hospital’s sterile environment.

Not only did its presence assure us of something good to eat after our business with the hospital, it also offers us to take some control of our experience, thanks to its delightful offer.

Create Your Own Meal (Php349)

Our meal includes a fresh and healthy bowl of Salad which we can choose from among these choices: Fruit & Nuts, Grilled Chicken, Oriental Shrimp and Mixed Greens.

Then comes a filling half-serving of Pasta which we can select from these options: Seafood Marinara, Creamy Truffle Carbonara, Aglio Olio Shrimp, Italian Meatball and Lasagna Roll.

Another hunger buster is a half-portion Sandwich to be chosen among delectable options such as Egg Salad, Tuna Onion, Chunky Chicken, CF Premiere Clubhouse and Seafood Deluxe Clubhouse.

These items are served with the Soup of the Day and our Drink of choice between Iced Black Currant Tea and Freshly Brewed Coffee.

Since I’m quite a sweet-tooth, I opted to add a Dessert in the form of a cake slice or a piece of cream puff to my meal for Php95.

Well, we’ve enjoyed a very satisfying meal with these winning combinations!

Plus, those who are not into pastas and sandwiches may choose to partner their salad, soup and drink with a rice meal instead for the same price. They can select their meal among Roast Chicken, Beefy Mushroom, Hickory Chops, Chicken Mediterranean and Chicken Chimichurri.

Pastries

My daughter and I are both great lovers of French pastries so we simply couldn’t resist ordering some to-go.

Chocolate Croissant (Php85). Also known as pain au chocolate, this is a traditional French pastry made from layers of buttery and flaky croissant dough filled with premium chocolate.

Almond Croissant (Php115). A delightfully textured French pastry made with layers of croissant dough filled with creamy almond filling and topped with almond slices.

We seldom look forward to hospital visits but we’re sure that we’ll have a bright spot in our day the next time we go to Cardinal Santos Medical Center and dine again at Cafe France!

This Cafe France branch is located in the Steel Parking Area of Cardinal Santos Medical Center, 10 Wilson St. Brgy. Greenhills San Juan City, open Mondays to Thursdays from 7am to 8pm and Sundays from 7am to 3pm.

Other Metro Manila branches are located in the following areas:

Manila: UN Square Mall, Manila Doctors Hospital, Ongpin, Times Plaza Building
Makati: RCBC Building, Zeta II Building, Makati Medical Center
Quezon City: UERM Memorial Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital, Philippine Heart Center, Fisher Mall Supermarket
Pasig: The Medical City
Mandaluyong: VRP Medical Center, SM Megamall
Muntinlupa: Asian Hospital
Paranaque: Park & Shop

Experience the ultimate Japanese feast with Ogetsu Hime’s Oget All You Can Promo at SM Megamall

Feel up to filling up on tasty Japanese food? Well, you need to hie yourself over to Ogetsu Hime then!

Whether it’s for a special occasion or a regular family dinner, Ogetsu Hime’s exquisite dishes, excellent service, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect dining destination for families looking to bond over delicious food.

Thanks to its Oget All You Can Buffet, Japanese food lovers can fully sate their craving for just Php1,288.

This jampacked all-you-can-eat menu includes US Angus Tenderloin and US Angus Rib Eye expertly cooked by the chef on the teppanyaki grill in small batches to ensure freshness and flavor.

The buffet also includes premium sushi made using the freshest seafood and are prepared by skilled chefs right in front of the customers. The rolls come in a variety of flavors, from classic tuna and salmon to more unique combinations.

It also includes different variants of the ever-popular crunchy and flavorful tempura (buffet lovers simply could not get enough of this!), together with 130 Japanese food specialties and free-flowing drinks.

With so many food choices, it’s so easy to get overwhelmed and feel like you’re not making the most of the dishes laid out. Well, here are ways to fully enjoy Ogetsu Hime’s Oget-All-You- Can Buffet:

Come hungry. The buffet offers unlimited servings of sushi, sashimi, rolls, and other Japanese specialties. It’s best to come hungry and ready to eat to get the most out of the promo.
Come with a group. The buffetis ideal for groups, as it offers a wide variety of dishes that everyone can enjoy. The more people in your group, the more dishes you can try, and the more enjoyable the experience will be.
Try everything. The buffet includes a wide variety of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, teppanyaki, and sukiyaki. Try different combinations and flavors to fully enjoy the experience.

Order in small portions. To ensure that the food is fresh and of high quality, customers are encouraged to order only what they can consume at a time. In fact, some of the buffet items are not laid out on the buffet table and are available for ordering in small batches, especially if they are best enjoyed freshly cooked. You can always order more as you finish their dishes, ensuring that the food is always fresh.
Don’t waste food. While the buffet offers unlimited servings, it’s essential to avoid food waste. Order only what you can consume and avoid ordering more than you can eat. Be mindful of the environment and the restaurant’s efforts to reduce food waste.

Come early. The buffet offer is quite popular and the restaurant tends to get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. It’s best to come early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the food and ambiance in a more relaxed setting.
Take advantage of promos for more savings. You can save on a few bucks by taking advantage of offers such as Kids Eat FREE (for kids 4’6″ in height or below accompanied by two full-paying adults) and FREE Birthday Buffet (for birthday celebrants accompanied by two paying adults dining in on the exact day of their birthday, three days before and three days after).

With these tips, you have no reason to hesitate to take the fam on a Japanese food trip at Ogetsu Hime!

This Ogetsu Hime branch is located at Level 3, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 86377510 or +63 917 5762377.

Another branch is located at Level 5, Sky Park, SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 85199840, +63 2 85199740 or +63 917 8096585.

Stay updated on its promos and offers by following Ogetsu Hime on Facebook and Instagram.

Hanamaruken Ramen welcomes the new year with its latest flavor: Mabo Dofu Donburi

Are you a Japanese food fan? Are you game to widen your Japanese food horizons?

Well, here’s a piece of good news just for you!

Hanamaruken Ramen kicks of the year by expanding its delicious menu to include something quite special: the Mabo Dofu Donburi!

Your favorite ramen place translates the much-loved spicy Sichuan Mapo Tofu dish into a tasty Japanese rice bowl. Made of coated silky tofu cubes covered thick and spicy aromatic sauce topped with chopped spring onions, fried leeks and shredded red pepper on a bowl of steamed rice, it has a milder and slightly sweeter flavor is due to the use of distinctly Japanese ingredients such as miso and mirin.

Similar to other Sichuan dishes, the Mapo Tofu was popularized in Japan in the 1950s, where it was adapted for Japanese tastes through the use of local ingredients.

Today it is one of Japan’s most beloved dishes which has made its way to one of the metro’s top Japanese food destinations.

For a complete and filling Japanese meal, pair this rice bowl with a serving of Nanban Karaage (Php380), Hanamaruken’s take on the Japanese-style fried chicken glazed with teriyaki sauce and served with a side of prawn crackers and tartare sauce, and a glass of Peach Lemon Iced Tea (Php90) to chase the spice away and soothe the palate.

Hanamaruken Ramen was founded in 1982 by Takaku Arakawa, who drew inspiration from his family’s rich background in butchery to create a distinct marriage between meat and ramen, resulting to its Signature Happiness Ramen.

Aside from authentic ramen bowls, Hanamaruken Ramen also serves rice bowls, sushi and small plates of Japanese appetizers.

In the Philippines, this ramen store is managed by the Tasteless Food Group.

So go ahead and drop by your nearest Hanamaruken Ramen branch to welcome the new year with the fresh flavors of the Mabo Dofu Donburi!

This Hanamaruken Ramen branch is located at Ground Floor Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, open daily from 10am to 7pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 917 7043871.

Other branches are located at:

2F Garden Wing, Trinoma Mall, Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City (+63 2 77535949 | +63 917 6212130)
2F Alabang Town Center, Alabang, Muntinlupa (+63 2 88699857 | +63 917 6235931)
The Grove by Rockwell, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue, Ugong, Pasig City (+63 917 6237181)
Ground Floor Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (+63 917 7017211)
Forbes Retail, Forbes Town Center, Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (+63 917 635 6259 | +63 2 8259202)
Ground Floor Santolan Town Plaza, Santolan Road, Little Baguio, San Juan City (+63 917 7032729)

You may also order for delivery at Tasteless.ph or via GrabFood, FoodPanda and Pick*A*Roo.

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

Check out my previous posts on Hanamaruken Ramen:

Happiness Overload at Hanamaruken, Trinoma

Get your bowl of happiness at Hanamaruken

From Hong Kong to SM Megamall: Tim Ho Wan’s Delicious Dim Sum Experience

Tim Ho Wan is a renowned dim sum restaurant that originated in Hong Kong and has since expanded to several countries, including the Philippines. The restuarant’s humble beginnings can be traced all the way back to a small, nondescript restaurant in Hong Kong.

In 2009, Chef Mak Kwai Pui, who had previously worked at the Michelin-starred Lung King Heen, opened a small dim sum restaurant in Mong Kok, Hong Kong. The restaurant was named Tim Ho Wan, which means “add good luck” in Cantonese. The small eatery quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality food, with many customers willing to wait in long lines just to taste its delicious dim sum. (I’ve seen this for myself when the family failed our attempt to dine at this restaurant during our Hong Kong trip a few years ago due to the long line.)

In 2010, Tim Ho Wan was awarded a coveted Michelin star, becoming the cheapest restaurant in the world to receive the prestigious honor which soon catapulted Tim Ho Wan to fame, and the restaurant soon expanded to other locations in Hong Kong and other countries.

In 2014, it opened its first Philippine branch in SM Megamall, one of the largest shopping centers in the country, which proved to be quite a hit, generating the same long waiting lines as its Hong Kong counterpart during its early days.

Now, a few years down the line, my family was lucky enough to skip the wait when we dropped by SM Megamall and decided to have our late lunch at Tim Ho Wan.

The restaurant’s interior is elegantly designed with a modern touch, offering a cozy and comfortable dining experience. The staff are friendly and accommodating, making you feel welcome and at home. You are promptly given the menu and an order slip where your will make your selections.

As for the food, Tim Ho Wan is famous for its dim sum, which are small steamed or fried dishes that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant offers a wide variety of dim sum dishes, including siomai, barbecue pork buns, shrimp dumplings, and many more. Each dish is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked to retain their flavors and textures.

One of the most popular dishes at Tim Ho Wan is the baked barbecue pork buns (₱170/30pcs), which are definitely a must-try. The buns are soft and fluffy, with a savory and slightly sweet filling of tender pork that melts in your mouth; this dish more than lives up to being the signature offering of Tim Ho Wan.

Another favorite is the steamed prawn dumplings (₱190/4pcs), which are delicately steamed to perfection, with plump and juicy prawns and aromatics enveloped in a thin layer of translucent skin.

Of course, we can’t leave out the perennial favorite, the steamed pork and shrimp dumpling (₱170/4pcs). These plump bites of ground pork and shrimp bits encased in wonton wrappers are always a welcome addition to any dimsum meal.

Aside from the dim sum, Tim Ho Wan also serves other classic Chinese dishes like noodles, rice, and vegetable dishes.

Its jade wanton soup (₱195) is a standout, a comforting combination of pork and shrimp dumplings in a clear yet richly savory broth.

The beef brisket tendon noodle soup (₱298), on the other hand, consists of tender beef brisket and melt-in-your-mouth tendon, slow-cooked to perfection, then served together with chewy egg noodles in a rich and flavorful broth that has been simmered for hours with a variety of spices and aromatics.

Those who need to have rice with every meal shouldn’t fear because Tim Ho Wan’s spareribs rice (₱188) has them covered. This classic Cantonese dish features tender and juicy pork spareribs that are marinated in a savory sauce served on a bed of steamed white rice and garnished with a variety of fresh herbs and spices.

Prices at Tim Ho Wan are reasonable, making it an affordable dining option for groups or families. The servings are also quite generous, so you definitely get your money’s worth.

Dining at Tim Ho Wan in SM Megamall is a great experience for those looking for quality dim sum and Chinese dishes. The cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and delicious food make it a perfect place to enjoy a meal with your loved ones. So, the next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and give it a try.

This Tim Ho Wan branch is located at Ground Floor, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City, open daily from 10am to 10pm. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 84708836 or +63 956 3442605.

Other branches are located at:

Level 1, Midtown Wing, Robinsons Place Manila, Pedro Gil, Manila (Tel: +63 2 83543562 | +63 916 6689080)
Ground Floor, Glorietta 3, Parkway Drive, Ayala Center, Makati City (Tel: +63 2 77299367 | +63 917 8492111)
Upper Ground Level, City Center, SM North EDSA, Quezon City (Tel: +63 2 8 3742966 | +63 917 8492200)
Upper Ground Floor, Uptown Mall, 36th St. cor 9th Ave., BGC, Taguig City (Tel: +63 2 7764549 | +63 945 3303446)
Ground Level, North Wing, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City (Tel: +63 2 88076021 | +63 915 8226560)
Upper Ground Level, Expansion, Alabang Town Center Ayala, Alabang, Muntinlupa (Tel: +63 2 88017261 | +63 917 1087461)
Upper Ground Level, SM Seaside Cebu, South Road Properties, Antuwanga, Cebu City (Tel: +63 32 3415770 | +63 917 1186453)

Stay updated on Tim Ho Wan’s promos and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Indulge yourself in delicious treats at Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory in Mitsukoshi Mall BGC

Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory is a popular confectionery brand that originates from Japan. Founded in 2011, the company specializes in producing a range of unique and delicious cheese-based snacks and sweets, which have become popular among locals and tourists alike.

One of the brand’s most well-known products is its signature cheese cookies. These are made using a special blend of high-quality cheese, butter, and flour, resulting in a rich and flavorful cookie that is both crispy and crumbly. Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory also produces a variety of other cheese-based snacks, such as cheese wafers, cheese bars, and cheese cakes.

Over the years, Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory has expanded its reach beyond Japan and now has stores and kiosks in several countries, including Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and the United States. The company’s success has been driven by its focus on producing high-quality products and its commitment to constantly innovating and developing new and unique flavors.

Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory’s branch at Mitsukoshi Mall in BGC has become a go-to destination for those looking for a unique and tasty snack or dessert. The store offers a wide range of products, but there are a few things that I discovered that I particularly love about this establishment during a snack break with a balikbayan friend.

First on the list is the salt and camembert cookies, made with premium Hokkaido milk, French guérande sea salt, and camembert cheese filling in between. These cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a unique combination of its main ingredients that creates a distinctive flavor profile. The cookies are also light and crispy, making them the perfect snack for those like my friend who don’t want anything too heavy.

Another thing I so love about Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory is its Cow Cow soft serve ice cream. Made with Hokkaido milk and cream, this ice cream is rich, creamy, and has a uniquely smooth texture.

Finally, the convenience of the location is another factor that customers appreciate. Located in Mitsukoshi Mall in BGC, Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory in line with the central Japanese theme of the mall. It is easily accessible for those living or working in the area, or just like my friend and I, those enjoying a day out and about.

Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory’s Mitsukoshi Mall BGC branch offers an array of delicious and unique treats that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Its signature salt and camembert cookies are a must-try, offering the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Additionally, the cow cow soft serve ice cream is a heavenly treat that is sure to please even the most discerning ice cream lover.

Aside from its delicious treats, the convenience of Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory’s location in Mitsukoshi Mall BGC makes it a perfect spot to grab a quick snack or dessert while shopping or exploring the area.

So if you’re curious as to what the hype with Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory is all about, I suggest you drop by a branch nearest you to satisfy your curiosity and give it a try!

This Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory outlet is located at Basement 1 of Mitsukoshi Mall on 8th Ave. corner 36th St., Grand Central Park, North BGC, Taguig City.

Other branches are located at:

G/F Central Garden – Ring Area, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Paranaque City
G/F Estancia Mall (East Wing), Capitol Commons, Pasig City
G/F The Podium Mall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong
G/F Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong
2/F Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
3rd Floor Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City
2nd floor Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City
Level 1 Activity Center, Ayala Malls Vertis North, QC
Level 1 Robinsons Place Manila – Pedro Gil Wing, Malate, Manila
G/F Eastwood Mall, Bagumbayan, QC
Upper ground Floor, Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Paranaque
NAIA Terminal 3, Andrews Avenue, Pasay City