Jellybeans in the City

Deliciously affordable food adventure at StrEATs in ibis Styles Manila Araneta City

Looking for a food adventure that’s deliciously varied yet affordable? Then ibis Styles Manila Araneta’s all-day dining restuarant, StrEATs, should be right up your alley.

ibis Styles Manila Araneta City is the first ibis brand of the Accor Hotels Group in the country. The economy hotel chain characterized by creativity and playfulness pays tribute to the vibrancy and energy of its location through callbacks to cultural milestones.

For instance, the newly opened hotel’s interior is peppered with photo spots that harken back to the Thrilla in Manila, the legendary fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier held at the Araneta Colisuem. Hotel guests and visitors can then take their photos for ‘gram in these themed spots.

StrEATs leads the way to awesome food adventures

StrEATs serves as a pathway towards various international culinary journeys, with a rotating menu carefully curated by Executive Chef Massimiliano Pauletto. While enjoying StrEATs’ well-appointed setting and frenetic energy, foodies can look forward to flavorful discoveries with appetizing stations that include:

Plus, you can always request for freshly made Baked Oysters and creamy gelato from Novotel’s Indulge at their respective stations.

Make the most out of your StrEATs experience!

Whether you find the prospect of an all-you-can-eat buffet daunting or you’re a seasoned buffet diner, here are a few tips to make sure that you maximize your time there:

Start small. Sample small portions of a variety of dishes. This allows you to taste everything without getting full too quickly.
Prioritize. If you’re a carnivore like me, go for the higher-cost items (like seafood, meats, and specialty dishes) if you want to get the best value.
Mix It Up. Alternate between different types of food (proteins, vegetables, carbs) to keep your palate interested and avoid flavor fatigue.
Pace Yourself. Eat slowly and take breaks. This helps with digestion and allows you to enjoy the meal longer without feeling uncomfortably full.
Post-Meal Activity. If possible, take a walk after your meal. It aids digestion and can help you feel less bloated. Fortunately, Gateway Mall is just a few steps away!

StrEATs daily serves breakfast from 6am to 10am at Php999/person, lunch from 12pm to 2pm at Php1,299/person and dinner from 6pm to 9pm at Php1,499/person.

StrEATs is located at Fifth Floor, ibis Styles Manila Araneta, General Roxas Avenue, Araneta City, Quezon City. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 2 8248 8444 or email IbisStyles.ManilaAranetaCity.Restaurants@accor.com.

Know more about ibis Styles Manila Araneta by visiting its website, or by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Check out my posts about Accor Hotels and Restaurants:

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

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

Ice cream indulgence at Indulge, Novotel Manila Araneta

5 reasons why Novotel is your family’s staycation destination

Aloha to a spectacular summer with Kenny Rogers Roasters Hawaiian Roast and Burger

Hold it!

Just because we’ve been experiencing some early onset of rains, it doesn’t mean that the summer season is over. We can still look forward to a few more days of sunshine.

There’s no better time to enjoy Kenny Rogers Roasters Hawaiian Roast and Burger, fun and festive limited-time additions to the chain’s healthy and flavorful offerings with a deliciously tropical twist, thanks to the sweet and tangy queen of fruits: the pineapple!

Want something new for the family meal? Indulge the brood with Kenny Rogers Roasters Hawaiian Roast Chicken. A whole roasted chicken marinated in pineapple juice and topped with Hawaiian glaze and pineapple bits, it’s sure to whet everyone’s appetite!

Choose from these filling group meal options:

Hawaiian Roast Ala Carte (Php845 whole | Php440 half | Php235 quarter)
Hawaiian Roast Group Meal (Php1225). 1 Whole Hawaiian Roast, 4 Side Dishes, 4 cups of rice, 4 pieces of corn muffins, and 1.5L Soda
Classic and Hawaiian Roast Group Meal (Php1225). 1 Half Hawaiian Roast, 1 Half Classic Roast, 4 Side Dishes, 4 cups of rice, 4 pieces of corn muffins, and 1.5L Soda
Hawaiian Roast and OMG Unfried Fried Chicken (Php1225). 1 Half Hawaiian Roast, 4pcs OMG Unfried Fried Chicken, 4 Side Dishes, 4 cups of rice, 4 pieces of corn muffins, and 1.5L Soda
Hawaiian Roast, OMG and Pork Baby Back Ribs (Php1375). 1 Quarter Hawaiian Roast, 2pcs OMG Unfried Fried Chicken, 1 Half Slab Pork Baby Back Ribs, 4 Side Dishes, 4 cups of rice, 4 pieces of corn muffins, and 1.5L Soda

Tired of your usual baon for your school or office lunch? Opt for a solo meal that combines the roast chicken with your favorite sides and make your lunch the envy of your officemates!

Explore your delicious lunchtime possibilities:

Hawaiian Roast Solo A (Php315). 1 quarter Hawaiian Roast, 1 cup of rice, 1 Side Dish, and a corn muffin
Hawaiian Roast Solo B (Php315). 1 quarter Hawaiian Roast, 1 cup of rice, 2 Side Dishes, and a corn muffin
Healthy Fiber – Hawaiian Roast (Php360). 1 Quarter Hawaiian Roast, 1 regular Caesar Salad, 1 regular side of corn & carrots, and 250mL bottled drink
Healthy Protein – Hawaiian Roast(Php360). 1 Quarter Hawaiian Roast, 1 regular Caesar Salad, 1 cup of rice, and 250mL bottled drink

Want something to nibble on as you explore the great outdoors? Sink your teeth into a Hawaiian Burger, made with 1/3-pound beef patty layered with sweet and savory Hawaiian Glaze, cheese, onion, tomato, and lettuce, sandwiched between slightly toasted sesame buns.

Snacking is made a lot more fun with these mouthwatering options:

Hawaiian Burger Ala Carte (Php265)
Hawaiian Burger Combo (Php300). Comes with a side of crunchy chips and a drink.

Enjoy your tropical feast at home when you order your Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Hawaiian Roast and Burger for delivery right to your doorstep at kennyrogersdelivery.com.ph or through Kenny Rogers Roasters’ delivery hotline +63 2 85559000, as well as via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Or you can drop by your nearest Kenny Rogers Roasters branch.

For more details about its offers and promos, follow Kenny Rogers Roasters on Facebook, Tiktok, Instagram, Youtube and Twitter.

Check out my previous posts about Kenny Rogers Roasters:

Eggs-perience eggs-tasy with Kenny Rogers Roasters’ new Salted Egg Chicken line

Chimichurri makes a comeback at Kenny Rogers Roasters!

Deliciously healthy meal at home with Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Roasted Chicken Group Meal

A festive feast of Kenny Rogers Roasters Smokehouse BBQ Roast & Ribs

A taste of extravagance with Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Truffle Collection

New flavor for the summer: Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Mango Habanero takes taste buds on a swicy adventure

A taste of authentic Indian cuisine at Annapoorna, Quezon City

For a long time, I thought that Indian food is not for me. Having grown up with an aversion to spicy viands, as well as a strong bias towards my mom’s Pinoy home cooking combined with Western fare courtesy of movies and TV shows, South Asian cuisine to me was as exotic and almost alien as food can get.

Thankfully, I later developed a more adventurous palate, thanks largely to my husband who, over the years, took the necessary pains to introduce me to food items that have a little more kick to them.

It just so happens that one of his favorite cuisines is Indian food.

So when Annapoorna opened its branch right across my office building, I was more than ready to give it a try.

Indian cuisine is a celebration of diversity, with each region boasting its own unique culinary traditions and signature dishes. Fortunately, when Annapoorna serves up these diverse options, it makes them fresh upon order so that spice levels can be customized. This way, aside from bringing an authentic taste of home to its loyal clientele of Indian nationals residing nearby, it also allows us Pinoys who are unfamiliar with Indian food to easily expand our culinary horizons with its offerings.

Curious on delicious dishes that await at Annapoorna? Check these out:

viber_image_2024-04-26_22-05-30-557 — A sumptuous array of flavors at your fingertips at Annapoorna!

From personal experience, exploring new and unfamiliar cuisines may seem daunting at first, but, if my foray into Indian cuisine at Annapoorna is anything to go by, the delicious discoveries you’re bound to make are definitely well worth the effort!

Here are some tips to prime you up for this extraordinary gustatory experience and make your dining journey at Annapoorna even more memorable:

Start mild. Indian food may be known for its myriad of spices but it does include milder dishes like Butter Chicken and Malai Chicken tikka to get you started. Ask the staff for recommendations or request for milder versions of the spicier dishes.
Use your hands. Annapoorna’s naans are great for scooping up meats and dipping into flavorful sauces.
Enjoy the accompaniments. You’ll notice that most of the dishes are accompanied by dips and sauces that add a whole new dimension of flavors to the dishes.
Bring your friends and fam along. Most of Annapoorna’s dishes are good for two to three people so go ahead and share the experience with your loved ones.

Head over to Annapoorna’s branches for a taste of delicious and authentic Indian cooking, open for dine-in and orders from 11am to 1am:

Unit 4, Gateway Regency, Robinsons Pioneer, Mandaluyong (Tel: +63 966 1443154; Follow on Facebook and Instagram)
Mother Ignacia Avenue across ELJ Communication Center, Quezon City (Tel: +63 977 0642263; Follow on Facebook and Instagram)

Photo Credit: Selected individual food shots courtesy of Glenn of The Adventures of Jogpen.

Ben&Ben Lights Up Fans’ Hearts with the Launch of Liwanag House and New Single ‘COMETS’

Ben&Ben, the beloved Filipino folk-pop band, once again captured the hearts of their fans with a series of exciting events. Known for their soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the band recently launched the Liwanag House, a creative and communal hub that promised to be a beacon of inspiration and connection for fans and artists alike.

Liwanag House: A Beacon of Creativity and Connection

The Liwanag House, located in the heart of Metro Manila, was more than just a physical space; it embodied the band’s mission to foster a sense of community and shared creativity. This new concept store was designed to serve as a home base for exclusive releases, limited-edition merch, and community-driven gatherings. The band wanted to create a place where everyone felt heard, valued, and welcomed.

On May 18, 2024, Ben&Ben performed at the atrium of Robinsons Galleria to mark the official launch of the Liwanag House. The nine-piece band played some of their biggest and most acclaimed hits, including the viral smash “Sa Susunod Na Habang Buhay” and their new single “COMETS.” The event drew a large crowd of enthusiastic fans who had the chance to score exclusive passes through a series of engaging activities at Robinsons Galleria.

The grand opening at Level 4, ADB Wing of Robinsons Galleria, offered fans an up-close and personal experience with the band. They could purchase exclusive merchandise, take selfies with the band’s memorabilia, and even catch a glimpse of the band rehearsing and manning the store right before the concert.

The Launch of ‘COMETS’: A Celestial New Single

Coinciding with the opening of Liwanag House, Ben&Ben released their latest single, “COMETS.” This emotionally captivating track, penned by Paolo Benjamin and Miguel Benjamin and co-produced by Indonesia’s Petra Sihombing, explored the ephemeral nature of relationship fallouts and disconnections. The song, which had gone through several iterations since 2021, conveyed mixed feelings of loss and hope, ending with a message of gratitude and acceptance.

“Though mostly dwelling on that feeling of loss, the song ends with the hopeful realization of gratitude—being thankful for ever having experienced any of it at all,” Ben&Ben explained. The single resonated deeply with fans, who praised its hauntingly beautiful melody and emotional depth. “COMETS” aimed to help listeners navigate through the realities of life’s fleeting moments, offering a sense of understanding and hope.

A Heartwarming Video Campaign with Robinsons Malls

In addition to these exciting announcements, Ben&Ben partnered with Robinsons Malls for a heartwarming video campaign set to their hit song “Araw-Araw.” The video followed the band members as they explored the various corners of the mall, experiencing love, joy, and happiness. The campaign highlighted the diverse offerings of Robinsons Malls, making it the perfect place to create memorable everyday moments.

Robinsons Galleria, the home base of Liwanag House, became a hub of special activities and personalized experiences for the band’s fanbase. The video campaign celebrated the opening of Liwanag House and reinforced the band’s message of connection and community.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Ben&Ben and Their Fans

With the launch of Liwanag House, the release of “COMETS,” and their inspiring partnership with Robinsons Malls, Ben&Ben continued to lead with their hearts and creativity. These initiatives highlighted the band’s musical prowess and their unwavering commitment to their community.

As fans eagerly embraced these new developments, it was clear that Ben&Ben’s journey was far from over. With every new song, project, and collaboration, the band reaffirmed their place as one of the most cherished and influential acts in the Filipino music scene.

For those who had followed Ben&Ben from the beginning, the recent flurry of activity was a reminder of why they fell in love with the band in the first place. For new fans, it was an invitation to join a community where music, art, and heartfelt connection thrived.

In the words of Ben&Ben, “Liwanag sa Liwanag”—light to light. This was just the beginning of a brighter, more connected future for everyone who shared in their musical journey.

Details provided in recent press releases.

Unlock Exclusive Shopping and Dining Perks with your beep™ card at One Ayala Mall

Prepare to indulge in a shopping and dining extravaganza like no other, all thanks to your trusty beep™ card. Unlock a treasure trove of exclusive deals and discounts at One Ayala Mall, right in the heart of Makati City. Whether you’re in the mood for a delectable meal or craving a retail therapy session, your beep™ card is your ticket to savings and satisfaction.

Irresistible Offers Await

Let’s dive into the mouthwatering deals awaiting you at select outlets within One Ayala Mall:

Auntie Anne’s (Level 2) – Treat yourself to any 3 stixs and enjoy the least expensive one on the house!
Pancake House (Upper Ground) – Quench your thirst with a refreshing buy 1 get 1 free offer on iced tea.
Manduca Taberna (Upper Ground) – Indulge in a complimentary iced tea or a slice of their decadent Manchego cheesecake.
Tiger Sugar (Second Level) – Purchase any meal or beverage at regular price and receive a FREE wintermelon boba or pearl/wintermelon passion with jelly ball.
Alberto (Third Level) – Enjoy a sweet 10% discount on all regular items.
Innovator (Third Level) – Spruce up your wardrobe with a generous 40% off on selected items.
AMEN (Third Level) – Elevate your style with a fabulous 25% discount on any item.
Kenny Rogers (Lower Ground) – Save 10% on orders ranging from P350 to P1,500.
Cinnabon (Second Level) – Treat yourself to a P1 minibon or take P100 off for every purchase of Cinnapack 9’s.

Promo Details and Duration

The excitement doesn’t end there! The “One Card, Endless Perks” promotion runs until June 10, 2024, welcoming you daily from 10 AM to 9 PM. Make sure to check with the stores for specific terms and conditions.

Important Reminders for beep™ Card Holders

Remember, merchants will validate your beep™ card at the point of sale, granting you a single chance to avail of the discounts per single receipt, claimable on the day of purchase only. Enjoy one discount per day, with more opportunities for other offers on subsequent visits. Please note that this exclusive promotion cannot be combined with other ongoing offers or promotions, including PWD or Senior Citizen discounts.

Stay Connected

Stay in the loop by following beep™ on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Merchants interested in partnering with beep™ are encouraged to visit the website for more information.

Embark on a Journey of Savings

Embark on a journey of delightful savings and exclusive offers with your beep™ card at One Ayala Mall. Let your beep™ card be your key to endless perks and unforgettable experiences.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-188238 Series of 2024

Are you ready to unlock exclusive perks and make the most of your shopping and dining adventures? Grab your beep™ card and head to One Ayala Mall today!

Details provided in a recent press release.

Fabulous Asian feasts for fam and friends at Manila Ocean Park

The summer season brings with it awesome opportunities to explore the metro’s sights with your nearest and dearest while taking advantage of the myriad of delectable food choices that Manila has to offer.

Take Manila Ocean Park, for example. Not only is it the Philippines’ first world-class marine theme park and premiere educational entertainment destination, it also serves up a lot of great dining selections for a fabulous foodie adventure for fam and friends.

You won’t have to worry if you work up an appetite while visiting the park’s eight exciting attractions; you can easily and deliciously sate your appetite with these in-park restaurants.

Makan-Makan Asian Food Village

The park’s famous Asian fusion restaurant seeks to bring back authentic Asian flavors that Pinoys love, thanks to its recently revamped menu, carefully crafted to satisfy diverse palates while keeping to the spirit and culture behind every dish.

Whether you’re keen to fill the tummies of an entire family or just want to explore fresh tastes and textures of Asian cuisine, Makan Makan Asian Food Village should be right up your alley!

Makan Makan — **Laksa**. A spicy noodle dish prepared with a rich and spicy coconut curry soup that beautifully melds traditional spices with contemporary culinary techniques.

As if that array of mouthwatering dishes is not reason enough to hie yourself over to Makan Makan, the restaurant ups the ante with these irresistible promo offers!

Makan Makan Asian Food Village is located at the 2nd Floor, Hotel H2O, Manila Ocean Park Complex, Luneta, Ermita, Manila. For more details on its menu and offers, follow it on Facebook and Instagram.

Shanghai Noodle & Porridge

At Shanghai Noodle & Porridge, innovation meets tradition as time-honored recipes combine with the freshest ingredients, crafting an tasty yet affordable culinary experience that transcends boundaries. And talk about fresh: noodles are here are made from scratch and pulled upon order in just 10 seconds, thanks to its noodle-making machine. At Php180/bowl, you’re all set for a dining escapade that’s quick, filling and flavorful.

Shanghai Noodle & Porridge is located at Ground Floor, Manila Ocean Park Complex (beside Taiwan Eating House), Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

Taiwan Eating House

Taiwan Eating House beckons you into a world of Taiwanese culinary delights, featuring beloved classics. Here, you can savor the rich tapestry of flavors that define the island’s culinary heritage as traditional recipes intertwine with contemporary twists.

Taiwan Eating House is located at Ground Floor, Manila Ocean Park Complex (beside Shanghai Noodle & Porridge), Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

Twist Treats

Nothing rounds off a summer adventure than some frozen sweets! Fortunately, Twist Treats’s signature Egg Waffle Overload (Php120 each), a marriage of crispy egg waffles with velvety ice cream topped with marshamallows, candy sprinkles and chocolate chips, hit the spot perfectly. Each loaded waffle is meticulously prepared to order, ensuring freshness.

Twist Treats is located at the entry of Manila Ocean Park Complex (beside the ticket booth), Luneta, Ermita, Manila.

So go ahead and take the time to go on summer outing with your kith and kin at Manila Ocean Park: enjoy itsfun and educational attractions, and be sure to treat your companions to tasty culinary delights while you’re there!

Know more about Manila Ocean Park’s attractions and food selections by following it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. Book your tickets now through its website.

Disclosure: I attended food tasting events held at the restaurants mentioned here. Food items were served at no cost in exchange for honest feedback and this feature.

Check out my previous posts about great eats at Manila Ocean Park:

Gourmet Food Trippin’ at Manila Ocean Park

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

Refresh your spaces for the summer at Our Home’s 3-Day Sale

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, summer brings with it a perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your living spaces. The bright sun shining and a warmer feel to the air necessitate some changes to the rooms we inhabit, whether to create a serene oasis for relaxation or inject a burst of vibrant energy into your interiors.

Since Our Home opened its doors in 1997, it has been offering well-designed and affordable contemporary furniture, home decor, and accessories, to excite and inspire creativity in designing your home’s interiors.

If you’re of a mind for a change of scenery at your abode, do keep these tips in mind:

Lighten Up with Summer Colors. Embrace the season’s brightness by incorporating lighter, brighter colors into your decor palette. Opt for pastels, whites, and soft blues to create a fresh and airy atmosphere that reflects the essence of summer.

Bring in Fresh Flowers and Indoor Plants. Add a touch of nature to your indoor spaces with fresh flowers and indoor plants. Not only do they enhance aesthetics, but they also purify the air and infuse your home with vitality and beauty.

Update Soft Furnishings. Swap out heavy fabrics and dark hues for lighter, breezier textiles and summery patterns. Refresh your cushions, throws, and rugs with breathable materials like cotton and linen to create a comfortable and inviting environment.

Declutter and Simplify. Clear out the clutter and create a sense of space and serenity in your home. Streamline your belongings and organize your living areas to foster a calm and relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for summer.

Maximize Natural Light. Open up your curtains and let the sunshine in! Maximize natural light by removing heavy window treatments and trimming any foliage that obstructs sunlight. Brighten up your interiors and create a warm, welcoming ambiance that celebrates the beauty of summer.

Add Decorative Accents. Infuse your home with summer-inspired decorative accents that evoke a coastal vibe. Think beach-inspired artwork, seashell decor, and woven baskets to bring a touch of the seaside indoors and elevate your decor scheme.

Introduce Cooling Elements. Beat the city’s sweltering summer heat by incorporating cooling elements into your home decor. Invest in tabletop fans, lightweight curtains, and breathable fabrics to create a cool and comfortable environment that’s perfect for lounging and relaxation.

Now that you’re all set to spruce up your home for the summer, don’t miss Our Home SM Marikina’s 3-Day Sale from April 19-21! As you explore a wide selection of home furniture, decor, and accessories, you can enjoy savings of up to 80% off on great finds for your living room, bedroom, and dining room.

As an added bonus, SMAC and SMAC Prestige cardholders can enjoy an extra 10% off, while BDO Credit cardholders can avail of special installment offers with a minimum purchase requirement. With free assembly and complimentary interior design advice, Our Home SM Marikina has everything you need to create the home of your dreams this summer.

Be sure to head over to Our Home Marikina at the Ground Level of SM City Marikina or visit www.ourhome.ph to take advantage of these exclusive offers and give your home a welcome glowup for the season. Feel free to call Our Home’s personal shopper at +63 917 8208665 for personalized assistance.

Stay updated about Our Home’s offers and promos by following it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Sale details provided in a recent press release.

Score big savings at SM City Marikina’s 3-Day Sale!

On the lookout for the best deals and exciting bargains, mommies?

Mark your calendars because SM City Marikina is hosting the ultimate shopping extravaganza on April 19 to 21. With jaw-dropping discounts of up to 70% off, this is one shopping event you definitely don’t want to miss!

Summer is in full swing, and what better way to celebrate than by updating your wardrobe with the hottest trends? From stylish outfits to must-have accessories, SM City Marikina has got you covered with whopping price cuts so you can finally snag that summer wardrobe you’ve been eyeing at a fraction of the price!

Be sure to check out the summer items for sale from participating brands such as the SM Store, SM Markets, Watsons, Ace Hardware, Uniqlo, Surplus, Miniso and The Body Shop.

But wait, there’s more! As if the incredible discounts weren’t enticing enough, shoppers also have the chance to drive away in a brand-new Suzuki Dzire GL MT car. Yes, you read that right! Simply by indulging in some retail therapy at SM City Marikina during the 3-day sale, you could be cruising around town in style.

Here’s why you need to clear your schedule and head to SM City Marikina:

Massive Discounts: With discounts of up to 70% off on over 100 brands, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re stocking up on summer essentials, refreshing your home decor, or treating yourself to some new gadgets, you’ll find unbeatable deals at every turn.
Drive Away a Brand-New Car: Every P1,000 purchase earns you an e-raffle entry to win a Suzuki Dzire GL MT car. And here’s a pro tip: shop on Saturdays and Sundays for double entries, and create an SM Malls Online Account for 5 additional entries. The more you shop, the higher your chances of winning!
Exclusive Discounts for Cardholders: SM Prestige cardholders get an extra 10% off on all purchases on April 19th, while SM Advantage cardholders can enjoy a 10% discount on April 20th and 21st, from 3-7 PM only. Talk about even more savings on top of already amazing deals!

Are you ready to score big savings and maybe even drive away in a new car? Then make sure to head to SM City Marikina this April 19th-21st. Whether you’re in the mood for a shopping spree or just looking to snag some incredible bargains, SM City Marikina’s 3-Day Sale’s got it all for you. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to shop till you drop and win big – see you there!

SM City Marikina is located along Marcos Highway, Barangay Calumpang, Marikina.

Stay updated on its exciting events and promotions by following it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Details provided in a recent press release.

4 reasons to enjoy a Japanese feast at Uma Uma, S Maison

Ah, Metro Manila in the summer!

With the rising temperatures and the ever-present traffic jams, what could possibly make this homebody venture out to Pasay City?

A delicious foodie adventure, of course!

The hassles of travel and traffic jams are worth it when gastronomic delights await you at your destination.

Such was my experience when Hubby and I braved the city’s streets – our first outing sans the little ones – to sample the delights of Uma Uma.

Formerly known as Wu Maru, this Japanese restaurant originated from Fukuoka as a ramen joint-izikaya back in 1953. In 1994, its owner changed its name to Uma Uma and brought its delicious offerings to Singapore, Bangkok and more, recently, the Philippines, being among the first establishments to open at the S Maison in Pasay.

If you’ve never heard of Uma Uma before, let me give you four reasons why you should get more acquainted with it.

1. Ramen eatery leads to a cocktail bar

Don’t be fooled by the fuss-free, open kitchen with a ramen bar and simple seating near the store’s opening; we just took a few more steps to the back and entered a luxurious yet cozy cocktail bar. Here. we ordered some drinks to relax and unwind with as we enjoyed the view of Manila Bay from its floor-to-ceiling windows.

It’s like being in two places at once: stay out front for quick eats or head on to the back for a more leisurely meal.

2.You can take comfort in hot umami-rich ramen

Sure, summer’s bringing in the heat but we definitely won’t say no to Uma Uma’s much lauded Hakata-style MSG-free ramen. Each bowl of goodness is assembled upon order using fresh ingredients, deliciously chewy noodles based on a family recipe and a flavorful pork bone broth that’s been boiled for at least ten hours.

Uma Uma Ramen (Php390). I opted for the classic combination of chasiu, spring onions, black fungus, tamago and just a bit of kick with some spicy miso that made for an umami-filled bowl.

Spicy Chasiu (Php390). Ever so adventurous, Hubby opted for a bowl of spice-marinated chasiu, spring onions, black fungus, leeks, tamago and quite a bit of spicy kick from chili oil.

3. You can mix up your Japanese feast with some delicious bites

Hubby and I were sure glad to see that our options are not limited to Uma Uma’s celebrated ramen bowls. We were able to indulge our craving for other Japanese food faves to complement our ramen bowls. (They can also be enjoyed on their own!)

4. It livens up the city’s food scene

Pasay City is known for its amazing nightlife and vibrant food scene. Uma Uma’s fresh and affordable options surely adds to the myriad of gastronomic possibilities in the area.

After this foodie adventure, I can confidently claim that Uma Uma has made the trek to Pasay worth it!

As you look for ways to make summer in the city more bearable, do check out the outstanding food possibilities that Uma Uma has to offer!

Uma Uma is located at Level 2, S Maison, Marina Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Barangay 76, Zone 10, CBP-IA, Pasay City, open daily for dine-in, take-out and delivery from 10am to 10pm.

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

Disclosure: Menu items were served at no charge in exchange for honest feedback and to facilitate this feature story.

Stay Cool, Save Cash: Your Guide to Budget-Friendly Summer Living from Home Credit

As the scorching summer sun makes its presence known, it seems we can only brace ourselves for rising temperatures and, unfortunately, rising expenses. However, with a little ingenuity and some strategic planning, summer doesn’t have to burn a hole in our pockets. Home Credit, a trusted name in consumer finance, is here to guide us through the season with savvy tips and hacks to keep our cool without breaking the bank.

Create a Summer Budget

Keep Spending in Check. Summer is synonymous with relaxation and fun, but that doesn’t mean you should throw your budget out the window. Craft a detailed summer budget that covers everything from entertainment to utilities. By prioritizing your spending and accounting for potential surprises, you’ll breeze through the season without financial stress.

Take Advantage of Summer Discounts

Shop Smart. Alongside the rising mercury, summer brings sizzling discounts on appliances and gadgets. Dive into deals to align your purchases with your summer needs while keeping your finances in check. Remember, smart shopping isn’t about buying less; it’s about buying better.

Utilize Energy-Efficient Appliances

Stay Cool, Save Money. With the summer heat in full swing, energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners become your best friends. Opt for inverter technology to keep your home cool without sending your electricity bill through the roof. It’s a win-win for your comfort and your wallet.

Plan Summer Travels Wisely

Travel Savvy. If a summer getaway is on your agenda, plan strategically to make the most of your budget. Explore budget-friendly destinations, travel during off-peak times, and book in advance to snag discounted prices. With a little foresight, you can enjoy a memorable vacation without draining your savings.

Find Alternative Summer Activities on a Budget

Fun Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune. Who says summer fun has to break the bank? Discover affordable activities like picnics in the park, mall outings, or family game nights at home. With a bit of creativity, you can create lasting memories without overspending.

Keep Your Cool with Home Credit’s Hottest Deals

Stretch Your Summer Spending. Home Credit understands that summer should be about enjoyment, not financial strain. Take advantage of their sizzling deals, including quick cash loans through the My Home Credit App and 0% interest offers on cooling appliances available at Shoppingmall.ph. Don’t miss out on these exciting deals from March 15th to May 31st!

Summer may bring rising temperatures, but it doesn’t have to bring rising expenses. With Home Credit’s expert tips and budget-friendly deals, you can navigate the season with ease. Stay cool, stay thrifty, and make this summer one to remember without breaking the bank. For more information, visit Home Credit Philippines’ official website and follow it on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Header image by pressfoto on Freepik