#ItsAnIllosThing: Buffet Weekends at Illo’s Home, Greenhills

During the past two years which saw the world reeling from the pandemic crisis, celebrations at home offered a few, much-needed bright spots for Pinoys.

These occasions modestly spent with family and a few close friends gave us a look back into what our pre-pandemic lives used to be and a promise of what we can look forward to once this crisis is behind us.

Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo’s Home

For many of us, Illo’s Party Trays were a great part of these home celebrations during quarantine. Founded by food connoisseurs Chef N and Anne Rovillos in December 2019, this venture showcased the possibilities that good food presents to people who are stuck at home for celebrations.

Guided by its principle of families dining at home as they celebrate life everyday, Illo’s Party Trays launched its “Dine at Home,” “Celebrate at Home,” and “Date at Home” concepts.

Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home

These feature great-tasting, hotel-quality food delivered by Illo’s own fleet from its cloud kitchens and commissaries to anywhere in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Antipolo, Cavite, Laguna, Tagaytay, Batangas and some parts of Pampanga and Quezon, enabling people to have the means for merry-making with their nears-and-dears in the safety of home.

Illo’s Party Trays’ novel concepts generated social media buzz which further drove this food delivery service to remarkable growth.

Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home

With the pandemic slowly but surely easing its hold on the country, and with more urbanites looking for reasons to go out for their celebrations, Illo’s now offers venues where they can enjoy a superb dine-in experience: Illo’s Home.

The first of these restaurants opened in BF Homes Paranaque in February 2022, bringing an excellent selection of local and international cuisines to its dining public.

Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home

The second outlet of Illo‘s Home opened a month later at Greenhills Elan Hotel, where diners can enjoy the same menu of scrumptious fare that Illo’s has become known for in a homey yet decidedly posh setting, which include walls with cascading water feature and displays of paintings by local artists.

To add one more reason for the metro‘s foodies to venture out of their homes and dine out, Illo’s Home hosts Weekend All-Day Buffet at its Greenhills branch.

Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo’s Home

Here, foodies can enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat spread of appetizers, entrees and desserts for just Php1,200++ per person. These include crowd favorites from Illo’s Party Trays such as: Crispy Binagoongan, Paella Valenciana, Paella Negra, Seafood Paella, Baked Penne, Baked Salmon, Beef Kare-Kare and Roast Beef.

So treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable celebration of food and life at Illo’s Home Greenhills. You will discover that the moment you spend with great food and great company, is, well, an Illo’s thing.

Illo’s Home
Illo's Home
Illo's Home
Illo’s Home

Illo‘s Home Greenhills is located at the Upper Ground Floor, Greenhills Elan Hotel, 49 Annapolis Street, Greenhills, San Juan. All-Day Buffet is served during weekends: lunch from 10am to 2pm and dinner from 5pm to 9pm.

Book your table by calling these numbers:

  • 0969 230 0735 – Dan
  • 0956 508 7588- Mau
  • 0947 594 4117 -Alex

To stay updated on Illo’s Home’s offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

To order from Illo’s Party Trays, visit its website or call 02 8522 9268. For more details, follow it on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Tiktok.

Disclosure: I attended an Influencer Event held at this restaurant. Food items mentioned here were not paid for by the attendees.

A boss-level treat for moms: #TrueBoss Gift Set

What’s your idea of a true boss?

In my career which spanned over two decades, I was lucky enough to have been managed and mentored by women who encouraged my curiosity, nurtured my drive and celebrated my achievements.

To me, they are true bosses.

At home, moms take on the same roles for their family:

  • Moms manage the family’s schedule and ensure that everyone has what they need to do well.
  • Moms optimize various resources for the family’s benefit.
  • Moms cultivate their kids’ talents and support them to achieve their full potential.

With these roles, we could say that moms are the true bosses of our families.

True Boss Gift Set
True Boss Gift Set

Well, true bosses deserve boss-level treats from time to time, right?

How about healthy and refreshing teas from True Boss?

These drinks contain fruit enzymes made from fermented fruits and vegetables and are packed with nutrients that help the body perform better by aiding digestion and giving the immune system a boost.

True Boss Gift Set
True Boss Gift Set

Instead of refined sugar, True Boss drinks make use of cane sugar which is easier for the body to process.

Lastly, fresh fruit toppings give the drinks some added taste and texture.

Here are some of True Boss’ tasty beverages that are definitely good for everyone, especially moms:

True Boss Gift Set
Peach Perfect (Php140 regular | Php155 large). Peach enzyme with double mango toppings.
True Boss Gift Set
Mango Cheese Milk Foam (Php165 regular). Cheese milk foam on Alpine Tea with mango toppings.
True Boss Gift Set
Berry Berry Good (Php140 regular | Php155 large). Cranberry enzyme with strawberry and mango toppings.
True Boss Gift Set
Strawberry Cheese Milk Foam (Php165). Cheese milk foam on green tea with strawberry toppings.

As a special treat for moms and the rest of the fam, these four drinks are available in a True Boss Gift Set for just Php599!

So give your mom a healthy and refreshing tea break, one fit for the True Boss of the family! Order online or visit or call any of these True Boss branches:

  • E. Rodriguez: +63 2 79002076 | +63 906 2945070
  • West Avenue: +63 2 77473171 | +63 916 2709916
  • Wilson: + 63 2 75271451 | +63 966 3276351
  • Mall of Asia: +63 2 77464608 | +63 967 4524087

To stay updated on its products and offers, follow True Boss on Facebook and Instagram.

True Boss Gift Set
True Boss Gift Set

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

Camille Prats’ share tips to make kids love eating veggies

“I really used to struggle kasi hate na hate talaga ng kids ko dati ang veggies – ayaw nila yung taste. Taste is so important for kids, so I ensure na dapat na-eenjoy nila mga sineserve ko.”

Camille Prats

Have you sat with your kids way past mealtime just to make sure they eat their veggies on the plate? How about resorting to bargaining more gadget time for just one more bite of that carrots? Well, you’re definitely not the only momma doing that. Even celebrities like Camille Prats have to do a bit of negotiating just to get her kids to eat their veggies.

Luckily, she shares some handy hacks with Spot.ph to do the trick without the crying, the bargaining, and the unnecessary drama that fills mealtime.

Tang Oh My Gulay
Tang Oh My Gulay

Here are 3 easy peasy ways to get your kids to eat their veggies according to Camille:

  • Oh My Gulay! May Gulay! – Instead of only serving your kids veggies, partner your kids’ meals with Tang Fruit & Veg. It comes in two flavors: Orange Carrot, which has the Vitamin C from oranges and Vitamin A from carrots, and Dalandan Malunggay, which has the Vitamin C from dalandan and the Iron of malunggay. Tang Fruit & Veg has the delicious taste of fruits AND the nutrition from veggies in a drink that kids love! Camille can vouch this – her kids love its taste so much, they actually ask her for it themselves! Yummy na, masustansya pa! Oh My Gulay! Shop the NEW Tang Fruit & Veg here.
  • SmartMom Recipes – No need to work hard, just work smart! Incorporate veggies in delectable recipes that you know your kids will surely love. Your kids won’t notice that veggies are actually the main ingredient because of its delicious taste!
  • Appearance is key – Kids are very visual so it’s really all about making their plate look fun! Focus on making veggies look appetizing by using creative shapes and brightly colored bowls to increase their appetite. You can even add in their favorite animal or cartoon character for that extra wow factor! You can go as simple as making trees out of broccoli or more complex as making pirates from cucumbers– the idea stays the same: make it fun!

Images and details provided in a recent press release.

Treat mom to Manila Ocean Park’s Under the SEAfood Buffet for an advanced Mother’s Day celebration

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, I’m sure we’re all looking for ways to make it a day to remember for our moms.

The most important women in our lives deserve nothing but the very best on their special day, right?

The traffic jams during the mad scramble for our go-to restaurant haunts on May 8 will also stress our mamas out.

So why don’t we treat our moms to a truly memorable time at Manila Ocean Park the day before Mother’s Day?

On May 7, from 4pm to 9pm, with Manila Ocean Park’s Under the SEAfood Buffet (Php2,299/adult | Php1,839/kids 11 years old or younger), our moms and our loving families can look forward to:

A Scrumptious and Sustainable Seafood Dinner.

The whole fam can feast on the sea’s bounty with a delicious buffet spread laden with classic faves and fresh takes on Philippine and Asian seafood dishes as well as local produce, all ably catered by Hotel H2O’s Makan Makan Asian Food Village.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

A Tour of the Park’s Well-Loved Attractions

Awaiting the family’s enjoyment – both the young and the young-heart – are six of the park’s educational and interactive attractions. From a trip into the watery depths at the Oceanarium and Jellies Exhibit, a sojourn to Antarctica for the Penguin Exhibit and the Christmas Village, to the playful forays into the Super Toy Collection and World of Creepy Crawlies, there’s something to catch everyone’s fancy.

Manila Ocean Park
Oceanarium
Manila Ocean Park
Jellies Exhibit
Hotel H2O
Penguin Exhibit
Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Christmas Village
MOP Summer
Super Toy Collection
MOP Summer
World of Creepy Crawlies

Meet and Greet with Manila Ocean Park’s Mermaid

Let’s make our moms’ fairytale fantasies come true with an encounter with Manila Ocean Park’s mesmerizing and magical mermaid.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Plus, our moms also get their very own special flower souvenir from Manila Ocean Park to commemorate their special day.

A pre-Mother’s Day celebration at Manila Ocean Park is a great way to trear our mamas to new and exciting experiences while showing them our love and appreciation.

So what are you waiting for?

Set up your family’s advanced Mother’s Day celebration at Manila Ocean Park today. Book your tickets here.

Manila Ocean Park
Manila Ocean Park

Do take note of these details:

  • Event will be held on May 7, 2022 from 4pm to 9pm at the Oceanarium Area.
  • Registration starts at 3pm.
  • Tour of attractions starts at 4pm and ends at 6pm.
  • Dinner buffet will be served from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
  • Children below 2 feet are free of charge.

Manila Ocean Park is located behind the Quirino Grandstand, Luneta, Roxas Boulevard, Manila. Book your tickets for your Manila Ocean Park visit via Klook.

For more news and updates on its attractions and offers, follow Manila Ocean Park on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

Photo Credits: Images of the Seafood Buffet and Mermaid were taken from Manila Ocean Park’s Facebook Page. Used with permission.

All natural sweetness from Pure Via Stevia

Sugar permeates practically all of our food stuff. Aside from being a sweetener, it also acts as a preservative, texture modifier, coloring or flavoring agent and as an aid in fermentation.

However, sugar does have its downsides, especially if its consumed excessively. Being so calorie-rich, it can lead to weight gain and accumulation of visceral fat, and can increase risk of heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes, certain forms of cancer and even depression. Its ill effects may even manifest in our outward appearance in the form of increased acne and accelerated skin aging.

Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia

Clearly, as we transition to our more mature years, we should wean ourselves away from sugar. Well that is easier said than done, considering how ubiquities it is, and, of course, how appealing sweet foods are to us.

Fortunately, we now have sugar substitutes that are all-natural, such as Pure Via Stevia.

Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia

Made from the leaves of the stevia plant, Pure Via Stevia contains no sugars, calories, cholesterol nor carbs and is 200 times sweeter than sugar. In fact, 1 small stick of Pure Via at zero calories is equivalent to two teaspoons or sugar which contains 32 calories.

You can use it to sweeten your coffee or your smoothies, so you can start your day on a sweet but healthier note.

You can also modify your favorite dessert recipes using Pure Via Stevia as a substitute for sugar, making your cakes, pastries and creams a lot better for you.

Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia
Pure Via Stevia

So stock up on this wonder ingredient by adding it to cart in time for Shopee’s 5.5 Brands Festival and take advantage of discounts up to 50% off at the Equal Official Store.

During this online sale from April 26 to May 7, you can score a wide assortment of brands at unbelievable deals with 50% off Brand Bundles, 10% off daily, and Free Shipping with ₱0 min. spend.

So get started on a healthier way of life that is just as sweet as you like it to be with Pure Via Stevia.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

A family #StaycationByTheOcean at Hotel H2O

And just like that, we’re right-smack in the middle of summer, folks!

I’m sure that the sweltering heat and humidity of the city has got your family longing for a bit of rest ‘n relaxation surrounded by the refreshing and calming waves.

Well, the good news is that you won‘t have to travel far to get your dose of #VitaminSEA, because right here in the metro is a place where you and your family can immerse yourselves in the beauty and peace of the ocean: Hotel H2O!

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

This prime destination remains to be the only marine-themed urban resort in the country. As we can gather from its name, Hotel H2O has a deep affinity for the wonders of water, and its proximity to both the Manila Bay and Manila Ocean Park provide its guests with sea-themed options for entertainment and sight-seeing.

Want to know what makes Hotel H2O your fam’s best bet for summer fun and relaxation in the metro? Take your pick from these reasons:

1. You can enjoy a unique stay in your marine-themed room

Given the hotel’s proximity to the sea, it’s only fitting that Hotel H2O’s stylish, contemporary rooms would showcase the ocean’s resplendent beauty, particularly its Premiere Classic Bay Room.

This posh accommodation opens to a receiving area furnished with a spacious desk as well as a comfy sofa (that transforms into a day bed) and a large-screen LCD TV, making the option for family members to work remotely, then transition to relaxation and entertainment quite seamless.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

The receiving room links to an opulent bedroom furnished with a king-size bed and an elegant en-suite marble bath with free-standing bath tub with a separate shower.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

Of course, the room’s piece de resistance is the wall-to-wall window showcasing the scenic Manila Bay so you can enjoy that beautiful sunset view with the fam right in the comforts of your room.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

On the other hand, Premiere Classic rooms that do not face the bay showcase an aquarium wall where guests can gain some serenity while watching the graceful dance of colorful fish against brilliant corals.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

2. You have enjoyable options for physical activity

You can take advantage of the hotel’s Fitness Center to do some yoga, cardio or strength training. A few minutes here can get your blood pumped up and energized for the day.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

Before the day’s end, you can indulge yourselves with a relaxing massage, a hot bed treatment or a mani-pedi session at Zenyu Eco Spa.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

3. Gourmet food choices are within easy reach

Even the most discriminating foodies in your family will find something to tempt their taste buds as Hotel H2O gives them easy access to sumptuous culinary creations curated and managed by Hotel H2O’s executive chef Ranuka Hettiarachchi. Be sure to check them out!

Breakfast Buffet and Chinese-Filipino cuisine at Makan Makan Asian Food Village.

Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

Handcrafted coffee and designer pastries at Garden Cafe.

MOP Food Trip
MOP Food Trip
MOP Food Trip
MOP Food Trip

Asian and Filipino dishes with a twist in an al fresco setting at Garden Dining.

Garden Dining by White Moon Bar
Garden Dining by White Moon Bar
Garden Dining by White Moon Bar
Garden Dining by White Moon Bar

Bar chows and refreshing cocktails at White Moon Bar.

MOP Food Trip
MOP Food Trip
Hotel H2O
Hotel H2O

4. You can enjoy a full day of fun at Manila Ocean Park

Since Manila Ocean Park is literally next door to the hotel, it would be a shame not to take advantage of its fun, educational and interactive attractions within easy reach.

MOP Summer
Oceanarium
Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Jellies Exhibit
Hotel H2O
Penguin Exhibit
Manila Ocean Park Reopening
Christmas Village
Manila Ocean Park
World of Creepy Crawlies
MOP Summer
Super Toy Collection
MOP Summer
All-Star Bird Show
MOP Summer
Sea Lion Show

So if the fam’s game for a lot fun in by the sea, treat them to a #StaycationByThe Ocean at Hotel H2O.

From April 29 to August 31, 2022, you can book your staycation at Hotel H2O at these promo rates:

  • Park View Room: Php3,200 nett on weekdays | Php3,700 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php12,200 nett)
  • Aqua Room: Php3,800 nett on weekdays | Php4,300 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php13,420 nett)
  • Bay View Room: Php4,000 nett on weekdays | Php4,500 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php14,640 nett)
  • Aqua Supreme: Php4,400 nett on weekdays | Php5,300 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php17,080 nett)
  • Aqua Jellies Room: Php4,400 nett on weekdays | Php5,300 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php17,080 nett)
  • Bay Deluxe: Php5,300 nett on weekdays | Php6,000 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php20,740 nett)
  • Premiere Classic Bay: Php6,200 nett on weekdays | Php6,800 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php24,400 nett)
  • Premiere Classic Aqua: Php6,200 nett on weekdays | Php6,800 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php24,400 nett)
  • Executive Suite: Php9,500 nett on weekdays | Php10,000 nett on weekends (from published rate of Php36,600 nett)

Weekday rates are applicable for check-in dates between Sunday to Thursday. Weekend rates, on the other hand, are applicable for check-in dates on Fridays, Saturdays and during public holidays.

Rates are inclusive of overnight accommodation, complimentary breakfast for two, Manila Ocean Park tickets (6-attraction package) for two and welcome drinks for two.

Hotel H20 is located at The Boardwalk Luneta, Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila.

For bookings and inquiries, you may call (+632) 7238- 6100 ext. 6172 and 6180 or send an email to reservation@hotelh2o.com. Reservations are accepted from 9am to 6pm only.

For more details about Hotel H2O, visit its website or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my previous posts about Manila Ocean Park:

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits celebrates POUR years

In heaven there is no beer, (no beer!)
That’s why we drink it here (right here!)
And when we’re gone from here,
Our friends will be drinking all our beer!

Well, I couldn’t posit on the unavailability of booze past the Pearly Gates, but I do know a place where good ales abound that it’s sheer heaven to beer lovers: Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

This nano-brewery and pub hidden away in the Quezon City suburbs is known for producing high-quality craft beers, hard ciders and hard seltzers while incorporating sugars from local fruits such as mangoes, dalandan, guava and guyabano, readily available on tap for customers thirsting for their favorite beverage and a good time with friends.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

Elias came about when owner and certified beer sommelier Raoul Masangkay brought home the wealth of knowledge on the art and science of fermented drinks that he developed in the US as well as his award-winning craft beer recipes back home to Manila.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

Here, expert and budding beer connoisseurs can enjoy artisanal beverages, brewed for six hours, fermented in small batches for four weeks, re-carbonated for four days before bottling, resulting to artisanal beers that have a a clear and sparkling appearance as well as a clean and distinct taste. These can be enjoyed by the bottle, on tap or in tasting flights.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Bright Side Very Berry
(hard seltzer)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Lost in Japan
(white ale)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Pwedeee Guava
(hard cider)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Supa Fly
(India pale ale)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Darker Vader
(stout)
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Tasting Flight: Half Full (ale), Hop Boi (IPA), Rose Rizal (hard cider), Swabe Raspberry (hard cider)

Of course, beer is best enjoyed with some chows. Fortunately, Elias offers mouth-watering pulutan with a twist that make swillin’ your booze so much more fun.

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Pulled Pork Nachos
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Honey Glazed Wings
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Pride Chicken
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Wicked Sisig
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Crispy Pata
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

Plus, in celebration of its four years in the business, Elias launched an epic three-day celebration called POUR Years. From April 22 to 24, customers can enjoy unlimited refills of over twenty types of craft beers, hard ciders and hard seltzers on tap for just Php1000, plus daily specials:

  • Apr 22 (Fri): Libis Nights Throwback with DJs Simon Castro, Jeano and Mike Tan
  • Apr 23 (Sat): Acoustic Rockeoke
  • Apr 24 (Sun): Unli Wings
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits
Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits

So now’s definitely the time to join the outpouring of fun, plus happy times with good food and great friends, and, of course, our favorite booze, while we still can, right? Just in case it’s true that in heaven, there is no beer, we should definitely drink it all here!

Elias Wicked Ales & Spirits is located at 13 Ubay Street, Santa Mesa Heights, Quezon City, open daily from 3pm to 1am. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 926 6179030 or check out its beverage at food menu at www.wickedelias.com.

Disclosure: I attended a food tasting for media held at this establishment. Food and beverage items mentioned here were served at no cost to the attendees.

Cooling down for the summer with Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Pints

Ooh, we sure are feeling that summer heat, aren’t we?

Well, it sure is lucky that we can always get our very own pint of ice cream to help us cool down, isn’t it?

Aside from giving us some respite from the heat and humidity of summer in the metro, ice cream gives us that little bit of sweetness to perk up our day.

I’m especially happy that one of the most iconic ice cream brands in the world is now available in our neck of the woods: Ben & Jerry’s!

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint

You would be hard-pressed in finding larger-sized versions of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Originally, these frozen treats in cups and cones at the Scoop Shop in Burlington, Vermont. However, it was soon decided to package the iconic ice cream in pint-sized tubs which can then be sold in grocery stores. And from there, Ben & Jerry’s global domination for ice cream began.

And who could dispute its domination, with innovatively crafted flavors, such as:

New York Super Fudge Chunk (Php420). Born out of the brand’s desire to make a name for itself in New York, they named this ice cream after the city and added in all kinds of chunky pieces – such as white and dark fudge chunks, walnuts, pecans and fudge-coated almonds to the delight ice cream lovers.

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (Php420). Did you know that Ben & Jerry’s created the first chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream back in 1984? Until today, the appeal of this vanilla ice cream with gobs of chocolate chip cookie dough has not waned.

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint

Karamel Sutra Core (Php420). A sexy combination of chocolate and caramel ice cream with a soft and luscious caramel core at the center.

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint

Half-Baked (Php420). Chocolate and vanilla ice creams are mixed together with gobs of chocolate chip cookie dough and fudge brownies, making this a power-packed dessert!

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint

Ben & Jerry’s has been among the most progressive brands due to its values-led sourcing practices:

  • Cage-free eggs. Ben & Jerry’s ensure that its eggs are sourced from farms where hens are treated humanely: given nutritious food, clean water and access to space that neable to display natural behaviors.
  • Fair-trade. The brand sources its sugar, coffee, banana, vanilla and cocoa ingredients from small farmers in developing nations, helping themhold their own in the global market place.
  • Caring Dairy. Through its Caring Dairy Program, the brand partners with farmers to support them in improving their farming practices, keeping their cow herds healthy, and preserving the environment.
  • Sustainable Packaging. Ben & Jerry’s has been working to reduce its impact to the environment by finding plant-based and/or compostable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastic packaging and developing reusable packaging options
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Pint

So you know that with each pint of ice cream you buy, you are helping a company bring good into the world. So go ahead and enjoy your Ben & Jerry’s pints!

Grab them at your nearest Shell Select store or order them from Ice Cream Lovers’ online store.

A sweet and whimsical tour of The Dessert Museum

Are you a sweet tooth? I know I am!

Since I was young, I’ve had this deep affinity for sweets and I’m also a firm believer in the adage “There’s always room for dessert!”

Imagine my delight when I discovered that there’s a special place in the metro for dessert lovers like me: The Dessert Museum!

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

This destination is 12,000 square feet of space dedicated to desserts. It features eight themed rooms focused on a particular sweet treat, each with eye-catching visual elements such as giant-sized simulations of well-known products, background info on desserts’ history printed on the walls, games that visitors can play and other bric-a-bracs that complement the theme.

In these rooms, visitors can take fun and whimsical pictures of themselves in dessert-themed fantasy environments.

To a dessert lover like me who likes to geek out about her favorite food, this place surely comes close to my version of heaven.

Is it any surprise then that I would go here? Check out my trip through this wonderland of sweets!

Raining Donuts Room

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

Ten Thousand Marshmallows Room

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

Candy Cane Groves

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

Banana Beach

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

Room of Never-ending Bubbles

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

The Bewitched Bakery

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

Pinata Party

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

Kake-Pop Kourt

The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum
The Dessert Museum

The appeal of The Dessert Museum mostly lies on the sheer number of great photo opportunities it provides. Knowing this, I had my daughter, #ExhibitA, accompany me so I have someone to take those snaps “for the ‘gram.”

During our two-hour tour throughout the museum, we were given fifteen minutes per room. The flow of people were managed by tour guides in each room to ensure that it won’t get too crowded and to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. The museum also employs official photographers who can take group pictures fort he souvenir photos which you can buy for Php250 each at the gift shop at the end of your tour.

Thanks to the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions, guests of all ages are now allowed. Adults (at least 18 years old) are required to be fully vaccinated while kids (below 18 years old) should be accompanied by fully vaccinated adults.

Tickets are priced at Php799 for walk-ins, tickets bought online through thedessertmuseum.com are priced at Php699. As our visit fell during my birthday month, my daughter and I were able to take advantage of the Birthday Babies Are Free Promo, wherein we just needed to pay for #ExhibitA’s entrance while I got in for free.

You may also book your tickets via Klook.

Our tickets entitled us to enter the themed rooms, as well as get four dessert samples each, which were mostly made up of small pastries and bite-sized candies. I suggest you have a meal or a snack prior to your visit as well as bring a tumbler of water so you won’t get hungry or thirsty during your tour.

The Dessert Museum is located at Units 124, 126, 127a, S Maison, Coral Way, Conrad Hotel Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

A great reason to dine out: House of Lasagna’s Pizza and Wings Happy Hour

After almost two years of lockdown and community quarantine restrictions, it sometimes seems as if we are just now emerging from our cocoons, relatively free to go out into the world once more.

That’s surely something worth celebrating, right?

Lucky us, House of Lasagna’s got just the thing that will make our celebrations complete: a Pizza and Wings Happy Hour!

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

From April 18 to May 7, 2022, from 2pm to 5pm, we can give our appetites for tasty and hearty food free rein for 90 minutes with unlimited refills of these irresistible selections:

Pergola Pizzeria

Composed of three best-selling variants of House of Lasagna’s line of stone-baked Neapolitan-style pizzas, these feature that irresistible combination of crunchy-chewy crust and flavorful toppings.

Pergola Special. Topped with bacon, ham, tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, onions and mozzarella.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

Pepperoni. Topped with pepperoni, mozzarella and aged cheddar.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

All Meat. Topped with premium ground beef, bacon, ham and mozzarella.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

Southern Fried Chicken Wings

These consist of three variants of chicken wings coated in batter, deep-fried to achieve that golden-brown skin and juicy meat, then shaken with flavorings to add new dimensions in taste to the dish.

Original.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

Classic Buffalo.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

Garlic Parmesan.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

House Iced Tea

House of Lasagna’s Pergola Pizzas and Southern Fried Chicken Wings are best paired with the restaurant’s refreshing house iced tea, served bottomless and available only through this Happy Hour offer.

House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

Treat yourself and your #TeamDineIn buddies to House of Lasagna’s Happy Hour Unli Pizza and Wings offer for just Php499/head.

So go ahead and celebrate our collective re-emergence from being cooped up for the past two years by dining in at these House of Lasagna branches and taking advantage of its Happy Hour treats:

  • 240 Aguirre Ave. BF Homes Paranaque, Paranaque City
  • 218 Katipunan Ave, Project 4, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Quezon City
  • 3/F Dela Rosa Carpark 2 Bldg., Dela Rosa St. , Brgy. San Lorenzo Legaspi Village Makati, Makati
  • Unit 2 l, Ground Floor, Quad 2, Plaridel, Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, Pampanga (starting Wednesday, April 20, 2022)
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour
House of Lasagna Happy Hour

To keep updated of its latest promos and offers, follow House of Lasagna on Facebook and Instagram.

You may also order House of Lasagna’s ala carte offers online through its website, which covers delivery in Metro Manila, Batangas (Lipa, Tanauan, Padre Garcia, Rosario,Cuenca, San Jose, Mataas na Kahoy, Malvar, Sto. Tomas), Cavite (Kawit, Imus, Bacoor), Laguna ( Biñan and San Pedro) and Rizal (Cainta, Taytay, Antipolo, Angono and Binangonan). It accepts payments via GCash, Visa and Mastercard.

Disclosure: I attended a food-tasting held by this restaurant wherein food items were served at no cost to the attendees.

Check out my previous posts on House of Lasagna: